Downtown Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA)

Sip, stroll, and soak up the scene in Columbus’s DORA District!

Here in downtown Columbus, we’ve made it easier than ever to turn an ordinary night out into an adventure. Thanks to our Downtown Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), you can now grab your favorite to-go drink — whether it’s a craft beer, a hand-mixed cocktail, or a glass of wine — and take it with you as you explore the heart of the city.

Picture this: you and your friends grab drinks from a participating DORA bar or restaurant, step outside with your official DORA cup, and explore downtown Columbus your way.

Open daily from 10 a.m. to midnight, the DORA District makes it easy to sip and stroll, past public art, modernist landmarks, local shops, cozy alleys, live music, and bustling patios. Just look for participating businesses, stay within the district boundaries, and remember that outside drinks aren’t allowed.

Gather your crew, raise a glass, and let Columbus surprise you. The DORA District turns downtown into a walkable, social, choose-your-own-adventure experience.

FAQ's

What is a DORA?

A DORA lets guests 21 and older purchase alcoholic beverages from approved businesses and carry them outdoors within the designated DORA boundaries.

Is the DORA open every day?

Yes. The DORA operates daily, year-round, from 10:00 a.m. to midnight.

Can I walk around downtown with a DORA drink?

Yes, within the DORA boundaries, as long as the drink was purchased from an approved DORA business or vendor and is in the required DORA cup.

Can I take a DORA drink into a shop or business?

Some businesses may allow it, while others may not. Participating businesses are required to post signage, and non-participating businesses may also post signs indicating whether DORA beverages are allowed.

Can I bring my own alcoholic drink into the DORA?

No. Alcohol consumed in public DORA areas cannot be purchased outside the DORA.

Can I leave a participating business with a drink?

Yes, if the participating permittee or vendor allows it. Guests may exit into the DORA with no more than two open alcoholic beverages.

Drink Size Limits

Beer or flavored malt beverage - Up to 16 oz.
Wine, cider, or premixed cocktail - Up to 12 oz.
Liquor or liquor-based cocktail - Up to 10 oz., including up to 2 oz. liquor

What kind of cup do I need?

DORA beverages must be served in a clear plastic cup with the designated DORA sticker/logo.

Can a business refuse DORA beverages?

Yes. A business located in the DORA may refuse to allow alcoholic beverages inside, as long as it does so on a nondiscriminatory basis.

Participating DORA Permittees

Enjoy downtown Columbus with a DORA drink. Adults 21 and older can purchase alcoholic beverages from these participating DORA businesses and enjoy them outdoors within the designated downtown boundaries. Look for the official DORA cup and posted signage at participating businesses.