From rambling the rapids of the Chattahoochee River’s urban whitewater course to reaching new heights through sky-high adventures at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center, Columbus, Georgia, about an hour and a half south of Atlanta via I-85 and I-185, invites guests to think outside of the traditional getaway and embark on a memory-making adventure. Plan an outdoor urban escape where options like geocaching, whitewater rafting, birding and biking coexist with city pleasures like fine dining and cultural events. The urban core of Columbus affords big city amenities while its waterfront location keeps nature’s finest at your fingertips. Souvenir shopping takes on new meaning with several retail meccas tucked away in the heart of the city featuring something for everyone from boutiques, to convenient chains, antiques to outdoor outfitters. Culture is tangible through exhibits at the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus, the RiverCenter for Performing Arts and the Springer Opera House–The State Theatre of Georgia, to name only a few of the opportunities for enrichment that abound in this charming Southern city. Fuel the fun with flavors that unfold at Columbus eateries where menu offerings span the globe from brews and barbecue to eclectic Southern cuisine. After dinner, meander the RiverWalk before resting easy in one of more than 4,600 hotel rooms, located throughout the city and ideal for preparing for your next adventure. www.VisitColumbusGA.com
Fast Facts and Trivia
- Once Georgia’s last frontier outpost, Columbus is now Georgia’s second largest city with about 200,000 residents.
- Columbus is THE place to explore the nation’s military history, from neighboring Fort Moore to the new National Infantry Museum, to the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus.
- Port Columbus is the only museum in the world dedicated to telling the complete Naval story of the American Civil War.
- Outdoor lovers can walk, jog, or bike the beautiful Chattahoochee RiverWalk, an outdoor, 22-mile linear park, all year round.
- Columbus is home to the world’s longest urban whitewater run. The 2.5-mile stretch of the Chattahoochee River is located in the heart of Uptown Columbus and was named one of the Top 12 Man-Made Adventures in the World by USA Today.
- One of the premier farmer’s markets and craft fairs in the South happens every week in Uptown in Columbus, GA. Every Saturday morning between 9am and noon, the 900-1100 blocks of Broadway are jam packed with over 200 different vendors selling local produce, baked goods and more to eat, along with handcrafted goods for you and your home.
- The city is home to more than 500 restaurants spanning cuisines from around the globe.
- The National Infantry Museum in Columbus is a 190,000 square foot facility that offers exhibits and attractions covering the 240 year history of the United States Army Infantryman.
- Columbus’ dual zip line over the Chattahoochee River is the only zip line in America that connects two states. It is 1,200 feet long and riders experience speeds up to 40 mph as they glide around 125 feet over the river from Georgia to Alabama.
- The city’s Springer Opera House is the State Theatre of Georgia and a leading Southern cultural institution for the past 144 years.
- As part of the Rails-to-Trails project constructed by Columbus Consolidated Government, the paved trail follows former rail lines that wind through the city. Pedal the 11-mile pathway that formed the backbone of the former rail system that connected Columbus to the U.S. and see a different side of the city, with rest stops along the way.
- Playboaters along the Columbus, GA, Whitewater Course have the chance to hit big water with flows up to 13,000cfs, and river runners will be able to paddle over eight rapids on our 2.5-mile whitewater course.
- The city’s Blue Heron Adventure zipline course offers a treetop experience with 10 obstacles for all ages.
- The Columbus Museum, the 2nd largest art museum in the state, has a rich collection of artifacts showcasing the history and heritage of the area and admission is always free.
- The Audubon Society’s Bird Garden at Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center is specially designed to attract birds and is a great place to watch feathered friends.
- Nearby, Wild Animal Safari offers an opportunity to get up close with over 65 animal species from around the world.
- RiverMarket antiques features 16 acres of antiques, flea markets and specialty cars and claims the largest collection of antique metal lunchboxes at the Lunchbox Museum.
- Columbus features 26 sites of African Amercan importance to history and heritage. The Columbus Black History Museum expands even more on social and cultural significance.
- Columbus State University’s Coca-Cola Space Science Center lets guests control a mini Mars Rover or simulate a flight through outerspace.
- The Walker-Peters-Langdon House is the oldest house in Columbus and is open for tours (By Appointment Only).
- Known as “The Mother of the Blues,” Gertrude “Ma Rainey” Pridgett is a key figure in music history and was recognized as the first great professional blues vocalist. During her lifetime, Ma Rainey recorded over 100 records and inspired musicians ranging from Bessie Smith to Janis Joplin. Her house still stands and is now a museum dedicated to her and her life’s work.
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