This was my first (and only to-date) Marathon! Does that make me bias? Maybe, but I've since run the half and its just as good. If you love Columbus you will love this race. You run past all the great spots in the city, inlcuding Ohio State. Crowd support for the first half is amazing, it does go down some on the second half, but still a fair amount to keep you moving, especially mile 20. This course is pretty flat which is great for a first or going for a PR.
The expo is fun, the race shirts are high quality and good fit.
Like any big city, parking isn't great but if you plan accordingly it is managable.