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Columbus, Georgia

by ShanaCorbin

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 90-minutes 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 whitewater rafting, birding and biking and geocaching 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 Infantry Museum, The Columbus Museum, National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus, 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 Chattahoochee RiverWalk before resting easy in one of more than 4,800 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 206,000 residents.
  • Columbus is THE place to explore the nation’s military history—ranging from neighboring Fort Moore and the National Infantry Museum to the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus.
  • The National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus is the only museum in the world dedicated to the complete naval story of the American Civil War.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the Chattahoochee RiverWalk, a 22-mile linear park perfect for walking, jogging, or biking year-round.
  • Columbus features the world’s longest urban whitewater run, a 2.5-mile stretch of the Chattahoochee River in Uptown Columbus, named one of USA Today’s “Top 12 Man-Made Adventures in the World.”
  • Uptown Columbus hosts one of the South’s premier farmers’ markets and craft fairs every Saturday morning from April to November, featuring more than 200 vendors along Broadway selling local produce, baked goods and more to eat, along with handcrafted goods.
  • Food lovers will find more than 500 restaurants in Columbus offering global cuisines.
  • The National Infantry Museum spans 190,000 square feet, detailing the 240-year history of the United States Army Infantryman with exhibits and attractions.
  • Columbus boasts a unique zip line experience over the Chattahoochee River. The Blue Heron zip line spans the 1,200 feet that separates Georgia and Alabama. Riders glide to 40 mph.
  • The Springer Opera House, Georgia’s State Theatre, has been a cultural institution since its opening on Feb. 21, 1871.
  • 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 approximately 20-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 within RushSouth Whitewater Park 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 Blue Heron Adventure zipline course offers a treetop experience with 10 challenging obstacles for all ages.
  • Completely renovated in 2024, the Columbus Museum, the second-largest art museum in Georgia, showcases local history and heritage with free admission.
  • Birdwatchers will love the Audubon Society’s Bird Garden at Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center, designed to attract a variety of feathered friends.
  • Nearby Wild Animal Safari lets visitors interact with more than 65 species from around the globe.
  • At the Columbus Collective Museums, visitors can explore artifacts from companies that helped shape Industrial Columbus and take a walk down memory lane. The collection includes the Lunch Box Museum, the Royal Crown Cola Museum, the Chero-Cola Museum, the Nehi Museum, the Georgia Radio Museum and Hall of Fame, the Tom Huston Peanuts Museum as well as antiques, a flea market, collectible automobiles, and a folk-art museum among the 16 acres.
  • Columbus State University’s Coca-Cola Space Science Center allows guests to control a mini Mars Rover or simulate a flight through outer space.
  • The Walker-Peters-Langdon House, the oldest home in Columbus, is available for tours by appointment.
  • 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.
  • The city is home to a variety of art galleries, both large and small. Visitors can now explore them all with a convenient, interactive Google map. Click here to start a self-guided tour and discover a whole new world of art in Columbus, GA.

Annual Events

Click for VisitColumbusGA’s current calendar of events.

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