Columbus, Ohio, is a city that blends its historic charm with modern innovation, making it an exciting place to drive. As the state capital and one of the largest cities in the Midwest, it features diverse neighborhoods and open spaces that are perfect for learning how to drive a manual vehicle. The Greater Columbus area offers numerous quiet parking lots and open spaces where you can practice shifting gears without the hassle of busy traffic. Below are eight ideal locations around Columbus where you can refine your manual driving skills.
1. Easton Town Center
160 Easton Town Center, Columbus, OH 43219
Easton’s expansive parking lots are ideal for practice, especially on weekdays when the area is quieter. You’ll have plenty of space to work on clutch control and parking.
2. Polaris Fashion Place
1500 Polaris Pkwy, Columbus, OH 43240
The parking areas at Polaris are perfect for practicing manual driving in a relatively low-traffic setting. You can visit during off-peak hours for an even calmer experience.
3. Schottenstein Center
555 Borror Dr, Columbus, OH 43210
Located near Ohio State University, the Schottenstein Center has a large, open parking lot that tends to be quieter outside of event times. It’s a great place to practice without distractions.
4. Westland Mall Parking Lot
4411 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43228
Though the mall is no longer operational, the parking lot remains accessible and is usually empty. This wide-open space is ideal for perfecting your manual driving techniques.
5. Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds
717 E 17th Ave, Columbus, OH 43211
On non-event days, the fairgrounds provide ample parking areas that are perfect for driving practice. The open space allows you to focus on shifting gears and clutch control without interruption.
6. Hollywood Casino Columbus
200 Georgesville Rd, Columbus, OH 43228
The parking lots around the casino tend to be quieter during the daytime on weekdays. It’s a convenient spot to practice in a calm environment.
7. Walnut Woods Metro Park
6723 Lithopolis Rd, Groveport, OH 43125
Located just outside of Columbus, this park offers large parking areas that are typically uncrowded. It’s a peaceful place to practice manual driving with scenic surroundings.
8. Tuttle Crossing Mall
5043 Tuttle Crossing Blvd, Dublin, OH 43016
Tuttle Mall’s parking lots are spacious and ideal for beginners practicing stick shifts. It’s usually less busy on weekdays, offering a stress-free environment.
Conclusion
Columbus, with its mix of urban and suburban environments, provides excellent spaces for manual driving practice. Whether you’re working on smooth gear transitions or perfecting parking techniques, these eight locations will give you the room and peace you need. Ready to master manual driving? You can book a lesson in Columbus with Manual Driving Academy and take your skills to the next level.
