Things to do in Columbus

Activities, attractions and tours

Columbus, Georgia, USA downtown skyline., Shutterstock ID 417078832, Purchase Order: SP-1891 Wave 0, Client/Licensee: Hotels.com
Columbus, Georgia, USA downtown skyline., Shutterstock ID 417078832, Purchase Order: SP-1891 Wave 0, Client/Licensee: Hotels.com
Visited my family in Columbus, GA.  This was the view from some of the adjacent buildings.
Some flooding but massive rapids.
Beautiful churches all over south.

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What to do in Columbus


Popular places to visit

Areas of Columbus

The Wynn House was built in 1839 when the city of Columbus was 11 years old. Greek Revival in style, the house has doric columns on three sides and is topped with a cupolo. Originally named “Oakview,” the house was built by Colonel William Wynn, for whom the Wynnton area of Columbus is named.

In 1852 Henry Hurt purchased the home from Colonel Wynn, but sold it in 1855 having never lived in it.  The next owner, Mr. Hines Holt, was a prominent Georgia congressman and attorney.  During the Civil War, his ownership saved the home from the Union Army captain sent to burn the homes in this area.  The home remained in the Holt family for 50 years. 

In 1905, Mr. J. T.

MidTown

While visiting MidTown, you might make a stop by sights like Columbus Museum and Smith-McCullers House.

MidTown
Columbus, Georgia, riverfront and downtown

Downtown Columbus

While visiting Downtown Columbus, you might make a stop by sights like RiverCenter for the Performing Arts and Coca-Cola Space Science Center.

Downtown Columbus
A shaft of white marble erected in 1879 by the Ladies Memorial Association is dedicated to the Columbus soldiers who fought in the War Between the States. It differs from most monuments of the period in that it is topped with a simple Grecian urn rather that the usual statuary. Originally it had a fence with a turnstile around it to keep the cattle out. The park area surrounding it, known as Salisbury Park, was named for Major William Salisbury whose home formerly faced the park.

The monument holds special significance because the last major land battle of the War Between the States took place in Columbus. Union soldiers led by General James Wilson managed crossing the Chattahoochee River by bridge into Columbus. General Wilson was only 28 years old and was often referred to as “the boy wonder.” After arriving in Columbus, Union troops were ordered to burn any industry that could contribute to the war effort. In actuality, Lee had surrendered to Grant two weeks prior, but the news had not yet reached this far south.

Downtown Historic District

If you're spending some time in Downtown Historic District, Coca-Cola Space Science Center and Columbus Historic District are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Historic District
Historic buildings in Columbus - Ohio, United States

Weracoba-St. Elmo Historic District

While Weracoba-St. Elmo Historic District may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Smith-McCullers House and Columbus Museum.

Weracoba-St. Elmo Historic District
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Wynnton Village Historic District

While there might not be top attractions in Wynnton Village Historic District, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Columbus Museum and Smith-McCullers House.

Wynnton Village Historic District
a stunning aerial panoramic shot of the Chattahoochee river surrounded by lush green and autumn colored trees with blue sky and clouds at Cochran Shoals Trail in Marietta USA

East Highlands

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in East Highlands and surrounding area, you can visit Columbus Museum and Springer Opera House.

East Highlands

Frequently asked questions

Is Columbus worth visiting?
Renowned for its walking trails and hiking, discovering awesome things to do in Columbus is a cinch. Don't forget to add RiverCenter for the Performing Arts to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Columbus?
Begin your day with a visit to National Civil War Naval Museum and Columbus Museum. Then, explore other areas of Columbus for a bite to eat and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Columbus?
The top tourist attraction in Columbus is RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, so be sure to include it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Columbus?
Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off the leading city highlights, such as RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus Museum and National Civil War Naval Museum. The average stay in Columbus is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your adventure, Auburn isn't far away.
Is Columbus a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Columbus, such as RiverCenter for the Performing Arts and Columbus Museum, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Only 0.48 kilometres from the city centre of Columbus is Downtown Historic District and Downtown Columbus is 0.48 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Columbus with kids?
Deciding what to do in Columbus with kids has never been so easy. Whether you have little ones or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly sights to keep them entertained here.
What to do in Columbus for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Columbus, with activities for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Columbus Civic Centre or Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Centre.
Are there free things to do in Columbus?
From enjoying parks to strolling around hip neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Columbus. If you need inspiration, get some tips from a local tour guide. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts is a must for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing adventures.