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

Fort Benning sits on the Georgia side of the Chattahoochee River, next to Columbus, and it is large enough that a visit needs planning. The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center is the headline, with over 190,000 square feet of exhibits. The river, the trails and the ranges take the rest of a stay.

Fort Benning, Georgia is an unusual destination and a rewarding one. The military base carries attractions and activities enough to fill a long visit, from outdoor country to historical landmarks, and it sits beside a city that supplies everything the post does not.

The outdoor side of Fort Benning runs to hiking, fishing and hunting, with shooting ranges and golf courses for anyone wanting to practise something specific. Indoors there are museums and galleries, movie theaters and shopping. The eating is better than a base town usually manages.

Key Takeaways

• Fort Benning, Georgia offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests.
• Outdoor enthusiasts will love the hiking, fishing, and hunting opportunities in the area, as well as the shooting ranges and golf courses.
• The area is also home to several museums, galleries, and shopping centers, as well as a variety of dining options.

The Thrill of Outdoor Activities

Fort Benning is built for people who would rather be outside. Fishing and hunting, river trips and golf all run from the installation. The best of them:

Fishing and Hunting

Fort Benning runs a serious hunting and fishing programme, covering deer, turkey and quail on land, and bass, catfish and bream on the water. Boats, kayaks and canoes are available to rent, which opens up the lakes and rivers without needing your own trailer.

Trails and Parks

The trails at Fort Benning are genuinely good. The Chattahoochee RiverWalk runs 22 miles and the Pine Mountain Trail 10, which covers hiking, biking and running at any distance you want. Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center and Providence Canyon State Park are the two parks worth building a day around.

River Adventures

The Chattahoochee River is where most of the water activity in Fort Benning happens. Tubing, kayaking, canoeing and whitewater rafting all run on it. For a slower version, there are scenic riverboat tours and the fishing is good from the bank.

Golfing at Fort Benning Golf Course

The Fort Benning Golf Course runs 18 holes with long views over the country around it and enough difficulty to hold your attention. Rates are reasonable and the atmosphere is unpretentious, which is the combination most courses miss.

So, whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for a fun way to spend a day outdoors, Fort Benning has got you covered. Get out there and explore all that this beautiful area has to offer.

Exploring the Museums

Fort Benning has more museum space than most cities its size. The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center and the National Civil War Naval Museum are the two to prioritise. The full list:

National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center

The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center is the reason many people come here at all. Over 190,000 square feet of exhibit space covers the American Revolution, World War I and the Vietnam War, alongside the history of the infantry itself, a special exhibits collection and the flag collection.

National Civil War Naval Museum

The National Civil War Naval Museum takes the war from the water, which is a perspective the land museums cannot offer. Historic ships, naval artifacts and guided tours make up the visit.

Columbus Museum

The Columbus Museum covers the history of Columbus, Georgia and the country around it, including the Civil War and the American Revolution. It also holds a strong collection of American art, with works by Georgia O’Keeffe and Thomas Hart Benton among them.

So, whether you are interested in infantry history, maritime history, or just want to learn more about the history of Columbus, Georgia, there is a museum for you. So, grab your friends or family and head out to explore the museums of Fort Benning.

Entertainment and Leisure

For evenings, Fort Benning has more range than expected, from live performances to planetarium shows. The places to check first:

RiverCenter for the Performing Arts

The RiverCenter for the Performing Arts is the venue for a night out, hosting Broadway shows and symphony concerts. The architecture is worth arriving early for, and the acoustics justify the ticket.

Coca-Cola Space Science Center

The Coca-Cola Space Science Center runs a planetarium, an observatory and interactive exhibits. It works for someone who follows space closely and for someone who has simply never looked through a telescope.

Carmike Wynnsong 10

The Carmike Wynnsong 10 handles the films, with comfortable seating and a sound system that earns the price of a seat. Action, comedy or drama, the Carmike Wynnsong 10 will have something on.

So whether you’re looking for live performances, planetarium shows, or the latest movies, Fort Benning has plenty to offer. Get out there and enjoy all the entertainment and leisure options this vibrant city has to offer.

Food and Dining

Fort Benning eats better than its reputation suggests, across sit-down restaurants and food trucks alike. The best of them:

Local Restaurants

For a proper sit-down meal, Fort Benning runs from Southern comfort cooking through to international kitchens, which is more than most installations manage.

• The Smoke Pit: If you’re a fan of barbecue, this is the place for you. Their brisket is so tender, it practically melts in your mouth. Plus, their mac and cheese is the stuff of legends.
• The Black Cow: This restaurant serves up classic American fare with a twist. Their burgers are juicy and flavorful, and their sweet potato fries are a must-try.
• The Lazy Peach: This cozy cafe offers breakfast and lunch options that are both delicious and Instagram-worthy. Their avocado toast is a fan favorite, and their baked goods are always fresh.

Food Trucks

If you’re on the go and looking for a quick bite, Fort Benning has plenty of food trucks to choose from. Here are some of the best:

• The Wandering Greek: This food truck serves up authentic Greek cuisine, from gyros to spanakopita. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.
• The Grub Hub: This food truck offers a variety of options, from tacos to burgers. Their loaded fries are a must-try, and their portions are big enough to share.
• The Sweetest Thing: If you have a sweet tooth, this is the food truck for you. They offer a variety of desserts, from cupcakes to brownies. Their red velvet cake is a crowd favorite.

No matter what your taste buds are craving, Fort Benning has something to offer. So, grab a friend (or two) and explore the local food scene. Your stomach will thank you.

Shopping in Fort Benning

You may not expect Fort Benning to be a shopping paradise, but you’ll be surprised to find some great shops around the area. Whether you’re looking for military gear, fashion, or souvenirs, Fort Benning has got you covered.

Peachtree Mall covers fashion, with current brands and enough sales through the year that it does not have to be expensive.

Ranger Joe’s International is the one for military gear, stocking everything from name tapes to badges, with stitching done while you shop. You pay a little for the convenience and it is generally worth it.

The Fort Benning Museum Gift Shop handles souvenirs, from t-shirts to keychains, and it is the sensible stop for taking something home.

The Columbus Farmers Market is the more interesting option, with handmade crafts and local goods that do not turn up anywhere else, and the money stays with the people who made them.

Overall, shopping in Fort Benning may not be the main attraction, but it’s definitely worth checking out. From fashion to military gear to souvenirs, you’ll find everything you need and more.

Historical Landmarks

Fort Benning carries a set of historical landmarks that reward an unhurried morning. The ones to see:

Chattahoochee Indian Heritage Center

The Chattahoochee Indian Heritage Center covers the Native American history of this ground, with exhibits on the Creek and Cherokee tribes and artifacts from the prehistoric era. The outdoor interpretive trail runs through a recreated Creek village, and it does more than the indoor displays.

Heritage Park

Heritage Park is open ground suited to a picnic or a slow walk. It holds several historic buildings, including the 1850s-era Post Chapel and the 1903 Infantry Barracks. The Vietnam Memorial stands here. It honours the soldiers who fought and died in the Vietnam War.

Heritage Corner

Heritage Corner is small and covers the history of Fort Benning itself: how soldiers were trained, the role of women in the military, and the effect of the Civil War on this area. It occupies a restored 1940s-era building, which suits the subject.

Pemberton House

Pemberton House belonged to Dr. John Pemberton, who invented Coca-Cola. The house has been restored and is open for tours covering his life and legacy alongside the history of the drink itself.

Whether you’re interested in local history, landscape architecture, or geography, Fort Benning has plenty of historical landmarks to explore. So grab your camera and get ready to step back in time.

Unique Attractions

Fort Benning has two attractions that fit no category at all. Both are worth the detour:

Kadie the Cow

Kadie the Cow is a giant cow sculpture near the entrance to Fort Benning, standing 23 feet tall and weighing 20,000 pounds. The reason is genuine: this was once a large dairy farm, and Kadie is the tribute to it. Photographs are compulsory.

Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center

The Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center covers 225 acres of nature preserve holding alligators, turtles, snakes and birds. Guided tours run, or you can walk it yourself, and there are interactive exhibits and educational programs for every age. Kayaking on the Chattahoochee River is available from here too. Bring binoculars.

So, whether you’re in the mood for a giant cow or a nature adventure, Fort Benning has got you covered.

Two practical facts shape any visit. There is no public transport on the installation and it is too large to walk, so a car is not optional. Entry needs valid ID and proof of vehicle insurance. Once past that, the museums cluster together, the outdoor recreation runs along the Chattahoochee, and Columbus itself is close enough that the two work as one trip.

Fun for Kids

Fort Benning is well set up for children, with more to do than most installations offer. The best of it:

Playgrounds

The playgrounds are scattered across Fort Benning and each is different. The one at McGinnis-Wickam Hall has a giant spider web structure to climb, and the playground at Smith Fitness Center has a zip line.

Bowling

For bowling there are two options. The Fort Benning Bowling & Entertainment Center (BEC) runs 24 lanes with pool tables and an arcade, which suits family and team events. The bowling alley at the Benning Club is smaller, at eight lanes with a pool table, and better for a quiet family evening.

So, whether your kids want to climb on a spider web or bowl a perfect game, Fort Benning has something for everyone.

Festivals and Events

When it comes to festivals and events, Fort Benning has got you covered. There are plenty of exciting events throughout the year that are sure to keep you entertained.

The Fort Benning Oktoberfest is the big one, held annually in October as a celebration of German culture, with traditional food, music and beer. It is the weekend the base feels most like a town.

The Columbus Fair runs every summer with rides, games and attractions, from carnival games through to live music.

The Chattahoochee Valley Pride Festival celebrates the LGBTQ+ community, with vendors, live performances and educational activities.

No matter what time of year you visit Fort Benning, there’s sure to be something going on. From traditional festivals to unique events, there’s always something fun to do. So grab your friends and family, and get ready to have a great time.

Sports and Fitness

You do not have to be Michael Jordan or Serena Williams to get something out of sport and fitness in Fort Benning. The options:

Recreational Shooting

The Recreational Shooting Complex runs rifle, pistol and trap and skeet ranges. It is a proper facility rather than a novelty, and the safety rules are enforced as you would expect on an active installation.

Bowling

The Fort Benning Bowling & Entertainment Center (BEC) takes bowling at any standard, and it also runs pool, darts and arcade games for anyone who tires of the lanes.

Swimming

When the Georgia sun is doing its worst, the MWR Custer Road Pool is where service members and their families go. Serious swimming or lying on a float both work. Take sunscreen.

Running

For running, the trails around Fort Benning cover distance and scenery in the same outing, and there are running groups and events if motivation is the problem rather than fitness.

Sports Leagues

The sports leagues are the social option, covering basketball, softball and ultimate frisbee. They are the fastest way to meet people if you have just arrived.

No matter what your fitness level or interests, Fort Benning has plenty of options to keep you active and entertained. So get out there, break a sweat, and have some fun.

Military Base Explorations

Fort Benning is an active installation, which makes it a rare chance to see how the United States Army actually works. The places to look:

Maneuver Center of Excellence

The Maneuver Center of Excellence is where the United States Army trains its soldiers. It covers the tactics and techniques the American infantry uses now, and how soldiers are prepared for different environments, from urban ground to jungle.

Infantry School

The Infantry School is where soldiers learn the trade: marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat and the rest of the essential skills. It also covers the history of the American infantry and how the role has changed.

Visiting these places will give you a unique insight into how the United States Army operates. You’ll learn about the latest tactics and techniques used by the American infantry and see how soldiers are trained to operate in different environments. So, go ahead and explore the military base to your heart’s content.

Accommodation and Resorts

Fort Benning has more accommodation than most bases, from budget hotels to full resorts. The options worth knowing:

The Uchee Creek Army Campground and Marina takes cabins, RV sites and tent sites, with a marina, swimming pool and playground. It sits on the Chattahoochee River, so fishing, boating and kayaking start at the door.

The Callaway Resort & Gardens is the full resort, covering 2,500 acres with rooms, suites, cottages and villas. Golf courses, a spa, a butterfly center and several dining options are on site, and the Wild Animal Safari and the National Infantry Museum are both nearby.

For a smaller budget, the Hampton Inn Columbus/South-Fort Benning has comfortable rooms, free breakfast and a fitness center. The Candlewood Suites Columbus-Fort Benning offers suites with full kitchens, a 24-hour fitness center and free laundry.

No matter where you choose to stay, you’ll find plenty of options to fit your budget and your needs. So go ahead and book your accommodations – you’re in for a great time in Fort Benning.

Transportation and Getting Around

Getting around Fort Benning needs a car. The base is large enough that walking it is not realistic, and planning on foot is how people end up with sore feet and a missed afternoon.

With a car it is straightforward. Fort Benning connects to the major highways and parking is plentiful, so the driving is the easy part of the visit.

Biking works too, and Fort Benning has several bike trails through good scenery. Wear a helmet.

There is no public transportation on Fort Benning, which is the single most useful thing to know before arriving. Plan the transport first.

Overall, getting around Fort Benning is easy as long as you have a car. If you don’t, you might want to start working on your calf muscles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the scoop on Fort Benning’s must-see attractions?

The National Infantry Museum is the answer for attractions in Fort Benning, and it holds tanks, helicopters and a giant screen theater. The Warrior Obstacle Course is the option for anyone who would rather do than look.

Where can I find the best grub near Fort Benning?

Country’s Barbecue handles the classic southern cooking properly. Epic Restaurant is the smarter option, running steak, seafood and pasta.

What are some free activities near Fort Benning?

The Columbus Riverwalk is the best free thing here, a trail running along the Chattahoochee River. The Columbus Historic District is the other, and both cost nothing but the walking.

What’s the deal with visiting Fort Benning?

Visiting Fort Benning takes a little process and is worth it. Bring valid ID and proof of insurance for your vehicle, and if you are staying overnight, book lodging well in advance.

What are the top-rated things to do in Columbus, GA?

Outside Fort Benning, the Columbus Museum covers art, history and science in one building. The RiverCenter for the Performing Arts is the other stop, and it handles the evening.

Are there any thrilling amusement parks near Fort Benning?

Wild Adventures Theme Park is about an hour and a half from Fort Benning, and it earns the drive. Roller coasters, water rides and a petting zoo cover most ages in one place.

Frequently asked questions about Fort Benning, Georgia

What do you need to visit the Fort Benning base?

Valid ID and proof of insurance for your vehicle. It is worth allowing time for the process rather than arriving against a deadline, and if you are staying overnight, book lodging well in advance because the on-post options fill.

How big is the National Infantry Museum at Fort Benning?

Over 190,000 square feet of exhibit space. It covers the American Revolution through World War I to the Vietnam War, holding the infantry history, a special exhibits collection and a flag collection. There are tanks, helicopters and a giant screen theater too. Allow longer than you think.

What free things are there to do near the Fort Benning riverwalk?

The Columbus Riverwalk runs along the Chattahoochee River and costs nothing to walk. The Columbus Historic District is the other free option. Both sit close enough to the installation to fill an afternoon without any planning at all.

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