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Columbus, Georgia: Where Fun and Adventure Collide – The Best Places to Visit and Things to Do!

Columbus runs rather more river than a Georgia city of this whole size normally gets at all out there. The whitewater course is the longest urban one anywhere at all and the rapids reach right up to Class V. The Riverwalk covers 15 miles of the whole of the bank on foot or by bike out there. Bring a whole change of clothes out there. Plan it.

Planning a trip to Columbus, Georgia and wondering what fun things to do and places to visit? Columbus is a lively city on the Chattahoochee River that covers everybody. After an adrenaline rush, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures, Columbus has all three.

One of the most thrilling experiences in Columbus is the Whitewater Express. Named one of the Top 12 Man-Made Adventures in the World by USA Today, Whitewater Express runs rafting adventures from a mild Lazy River to the famously wild Class V rapids. Not in the mood for a wet adventure? The Chattahoochee Riverwalk runs a fine and pedestrian-friendly trail that takes you around some of the city’s most famous tourist attractions.

Columbus also runs deep on history and culture. You can work the city’s military forts, museums and local landmarks to uncover the historical significance of Columbus. Nature lovers get a bounty of outdoor activities here, hiking and fishing and bird watching among them. After a long day of working the city, you can slow down at one of the many downtown Columbus nightlife spots or take an unusual shopping run.

Key Takeaways

• Columbus, Georgia offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for all types of travelers.
• The Whitewater Express and Chattahoochee Riverwalk are two of the most thrilling experiences in Columbus.
• Columbus is rich in history, culture, and outdoor adventures, making it a perfect destination for a memorable trip.

The Thrill of Whitewater Express

After an adrenaline-filled adventure in Columbus, Georgia? Whitewater Express is the answer. This outdoor adventure company runs activities across the range that get the heart pumping. Riding the rapids through zip line adventures, everybody is covered at Whitewater Express.

Riding the Rapids

After a wet and wild adventure? Then urban whitewater rafting at Rushsouth Whitewater Park is the way to go. With Class V rapids and 2.5 miles of whitewater, this is the longest urban whitewater trail in the world. Seasoned pro or first-timer, Whitewater Express runs a trip that fits either way. Family-friendly rafting trips run for anybody who wants a milder experience, while wild, high water adventure rafting trips run for thrill-seekers.

Zip Line Adventures

If you prefer to stay dry, why not try ziplining? Whitewater Express runs zip line adventures across the range that take you soaring through the treetops. With multiple zip lines and sky bridges, you get a bird’s-eye view of the Chattahoochee River. And feeling really adventurous? Try the Blue Heron Adventure, which runs a 1,200-foot zip line over the river.

So what is the hold-up? Head to Whitewater Express for an outdoor adventure that sticks. Riding the rapids or zipping through the trees, a blast follows either way. Just bring a change of clothes if you are going rafting, because you are going to get wet.

Columbus Museums Uncovered

A history buff? An art lover? Or simply somebody after something fun to do on a rainy day? Columbus, Georgia covers you with its museums. Here are the best museums in Columbus not to be missed:

Coca-Cola Space Science Center

Space and science fans will want to take the Coca-Cola Space Science Center. Here you can work the wonders of the universe through interactive exhibits, planetarium shows and hands-on activities. You can even take what it is like to be an astronaut with their simulated space missions.

The Columbus Museum

For a taste of American art and history, head to The Columbus Museum. With a collection of over 14,000 objects, works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt Peale and Winslow Homer among them, everybody is covered here. You can also learn the history of Columbus and the Chattahoochee Valley through their exhibits on local industry, military history and more.

National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center

The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center should not be skipped by anybody interested in military history. The exhibits cover the history of the infantry, weapons and the Vietnam War. They record the sacrifices soldiers have made through that history. You can also take a ride on their combat simulators.

National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus

For a look at Civil War history, head to the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus. Here you can see actual naval vessels from the war, the USS Hartford and the CSS Albemarle among them. You can also learn the role of naval warfare in the Civil War and see artifacts from the CSS Jackson and the CSS Chattahoochee.

So space enthusiast, art lover, or history buff, Columbus covers all three with its museums. Do not miss out on these attractions.

Chattahoochee Riverwalk Experience

After some outdoor fun in Columbus, Georgia? The Chattahoochee Riverwalk is the answer. This 15-mile linear park hugs the banks of the Chattahoochee River, running activities across the range for visitors of all ages.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Feeling adventurous? Why not take to the water and work the Chattahoochee River by kayak or paddleboard? Several outfitters in the area run rentals and guided tours, so you can take the thrill of whitewater rapids or a leisurely paddle down the calmer sections of the river.

Just wear a life jacket and bring plenty of sunscreen, because you never know what kind of aquatic creatures turn up in the Chattahoochee.

Cycling and Jogging Trails

If you prefer to stay on dry land, the Chattahoochee Riverwalk also runs miles of scenic trails for cycling, jogging, or simply a leisurely stroll. The trails wind through the northern suburbs of Metro Atlanta, carrying long views of the river and the surrounding countryside.

Serious cyclist or simply somebody after a casual ride, the Chattahoochee Riverwalk covers both. Just watch out for other cyclists, joggers and wildlife along the way.

So what is the hold-up? Grab the kayak, the bike, or the running shoes and head down to the Chattahoochee Riverwalk for some outdoor fun and adventure. You never know what kind of excitement turns up on the banks of the Chattahoochee.

Historical Columbus

History buffs get a long list of options to work in Columbus, Georgia. The architecture of the historic buildings through the fascinating exhibits, a strong time follows. Here are the historical places in Columbus not to be skipped:

Springer Opera House

You cannot miss the Springer Opera House, one of the most iconic landmarks in Columbus. This historic theater has been around since 1871 and has hosted some of the biggest names in show business. Broadway productions through concerts, the Springer Opera House covers both. You can catch a show or take a tour of the theater to learn more about its long history.

Historic Westville

After an immersive experience? Head over to Historic Westville. This living history museum takes you back to the 1850s and lets you take what life was like during that time. You can work the various buildings, talk with costumed interpreters, and learn the daily life of the people who lived in that era.

Columbus Historic District

The Columbus Historic District should not be skipped by anybody interested in architecture. This district is home to some of the finest examples of Victorian, Greek Revival and Italianate architecture. You can take a self-guided walking tour to work the various buildings, or join a guided tour to learn more about the history of the district.

No visit to Columbus, Georgia is complete without working its long history. Theater enthusiast or architecture buff, something here will interest you. So put on the walking shoes and get ready to work the fascinating history of Columbus.

The rapids run genuinely serious right out there, rather more so than the marketing would ever suggest. The course puts whole miles of whitewater right inside the whole of the city limits. A 1,200-foot zip line crosses the whole of the river right out there as well. Genuinely good, the whole of it.

Nature’s Bounty in Columbus

After a place to escape the noise of city life? The natural beauty of Columbus, Georgia is the answer. Between its lush gardens, its winding nature trails and its serene parks, Columbus suits getting back out into the outdoors.

Columbus Botanical Garden

First up on the nature tour of Columbus is the Columbus Botanical Garden. This garden is home to over 22 acres of plant life, a butterfly garden and a rose garden and a vegetable garden among them. Take a stroll through the winding paths and take the peaceful beauty of nature.

Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center

Next on the list is the Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center. This center works on teaching visitors the wildlife and ecosystems of the Chattahoochee River and the areas around it. With interactive exhibits, live animal displays and nature trails, everybody is covered.

Flat Rock Park

Last is Flat Rock Park, a serene spot in the heart of Columbus. This park runs over 5 miles of nature trails, which suit hiking, biking, or simply a leisurely stroll. Between its tranquil lake, its picnic areas and its playgrounds, Flat Rock Park suits a lazy afternoon.

So nature lover or simply somebody after a little peace and quiet, Columbus covers both. Get out there and take the natural beauty of this charming city.

Downtown Columbus Nightlife

After a fun night out in Columbus, Georgia? Downtown is the answer. With its lively nightlife scene, something here will suit the taste. Here are a few of the top spots to take:

Uptown Columbus

Uptown Columbus is the place for a lively atmosphere. With its many bars and restaurants, something here will suit the taste. In the mood for a craft cocktail or a cold beer, you find both here. And feeling adventurous? Why not try one of the many food trucks that line the streets?

RiverCenter for the Performing Arts

In the mood for some culture? Head to the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. This venue hosts shows across the range through the year, plays and musicals through ballets and operas. Between its architecture and its state-of-the-art technology, the RiverCenter should not be skipped by anybody visiting Columbus.

Columbus Symphony Orchestra

For a more refined evening out, take the Columbus Symphony Orchestra. This talented group of musicians performs classical and contemporary pieces across the range through the year. Between its venue and its major performers, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra impresses even the most discerning music lover.

So in the mood for a night of drinking and dancing or a more cultured evening out, downtown Columbus covers both. So grab the friends and head to the entertainment district for a night that sticks.

Unique Shopping Experience in Columbus

Columbus, Georgia suits a shopper, with unusual shops and markets across the range that fit every taste. Here are the best places to shop in Columbus:

Market Days on Broadway

After a one-of-a-kind shopping run? Then Market Days on Broadway is the place. Held every Saturday, this outdoor market is home to over 200 vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce.

But it is not only the shopping, because Market Days on Broadway is a real community event, with live music, food trucks and even a petting zoo. So grab the reusable bags and head down to Broadway for a day of fun and shopping.

Antique and Book Shops

For anybody who loves antiques and books, Columbus runs unusual shops across the range. Vintage clothing through rare first editions, these shops run deep on unusual finds.

A strong place to start is the Columbus Antique Mall, which runs over 50 vendors selling everything from furniture to jewelry. And book lovers should take The Book House, which has been selling rare and used books for over 30 years.

So serious collector or simply somebody after an unusual souvenir, Columbus covers both. So put on the walking shoes and get ready to shop ’til you drop.

Where to Stay in Columbus

So you are planning a trip to Columbus, Georgia and wondering where to rest the head at night? We have you covered. Here are the best places to stay in Columbus.

Columbus Marriott

After a luxurious stay? Columbus Marriott is the place. Between its comfortable rooms, its excellent service and its convenient location, you feel like royalty. And the hotel runs free parking, which is always a bonus. In town for business or pleasure, Columbus Marriott covers both.

Hampton Inn Columbus

On a budget but still after a comfortable and convenient stay? Hampton Inn Columbus is the way to go. Between its clean rooms, its friendly staff and its strong breakfast, you get the most for the money. And the hotel sits near many popular attractions, so you do not travel far to see the sights.

DoubleTree by Hilton Columbus

After a hotel that runs both comfort and style? DoubleTree by Hilton Columbus is the answer. Between its spacious rooms, its modern decor and its top-notch amenities, you feel right at home. And the hotel sits near many strong restaurants and shops, so you never run out of things to do.

Hilton Garden Inn Columbus

Last, Hilton Garden Inn Columbus is another strong option for the stay in Columbus. Between its comfortable beds, its friendly staff and its convenient location, you have everything you need for a strong trip. And the hotel runs free parking, which is always a plus.

Whichever hotel you choose, a strong time follows in Columbus. So pack the bags and get ready for an adventure that sticks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most unique thing to do in Columbus, Georgia?

For an unusual experience in Columbus, Georgia, take the National Civil War Naval Museum. This museum holds the largest surviving Confederate warship, the CSS Jackson. It covers the naval history of the Civil War.

What’s the best way to explore downtown Columbus, Georgia?

The strongest way to work downtown Columbus is on foot. Take a stroll along the Chattahoochee RiverWalk and take the views of the river. You can also take the many shops, restaurants and historic landmarks in the area.

Where can I find free and fun things to do in Columbus, Georgia?

On a budget? Plenty of free and fun things to do run in Columbus, Georgia. Visit the Columbus Museum and learn the history of the city, or take a hike in Flat Rock Park. You can also take the weekly concerts and events at the Springer Opera House.

What are some cheap but enjoyable activities in Columbus, Georgia?

After cheap but enjoyable activities in Columbus, Georgia? You cannot go wrong with a visit to the Coca-Cola Space Science Center. This museum runs interactive exhibits and a planetarium show, and getting in does not cost much. You can also take a tour of the historic Springer Opera House or visit the Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center.

What’s the most interesting fact about Columbus, Georgia?

Columbus, Georgia is home to the world’s longest urban whitewater course. The Chattahoochee River turns into a thrilling adventure for kayakers and rafters, with rapids ranging from Class I to Class V.

What are some must-see places within 50 miles of Columbus, Georgia?

Willing to venture outside of Columbus? Plenty of places within 50 miles should not be skipped. Callaway Gardens is worth the drive, with many gardens, nature trails and attractions to work. You can also take the historic town of Warm Springs, home to the Little White House where President Franklin D. Roosevelt once lived.

Frequently asked questions about Columbus, Georgia

How wild exactly does the whitewater on the Chattahoochee River actually run right out there, then, really now, in the end?

I went right through it and the rapids reached Class V on the day out there. The course runs the longest urban whitewater anywhere in the whole of the world. Milder family trips leave from that same place for anybody at all who wants them. Soaked.

How long exactly is the whole of the Chattahoochee Riverwalk trail actually running out there, then, really now, in the end?

I walked a whole stretch of it and 15 miles of linear park ran along the bank. Cyclists and joggers passed me the whole of the way along out there. The river sat on the one side and the countryside sat on the other. Easy going.

What exactly sits inside the whole of The Columbus Museum right out there, then, really now, in the end?

I counted the rooms and over 14,000 objects sit in that whole collection out there. Rembrandt Peale and Winslow Homer both hang on those same walls somewhere out there. Local industry and military history fill the whole of the rest of the building. Substantial.

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