21 Best & Fun Things To Do In Columbus, GA (2025)
1. Columbus Aquatics Center
Summers in Georgia can be quite warm.
The good news is that you can quickly cool off in locations like the Columbus Aquatics Center!
The Columbus Aquatics Center is a spotless, modern facility that revolves around two pools: an Olympic-sized professional pool with clearly marked lanes for lap swimming, and a small, freestyle “open swim” pool for individuals to just splash around in.
There are three diving boards available at different heights.
Classes for exercise and lessons are held at regular intervals.
After using the water, there are locker rooms, bathrooms, and a tiny snack bar available.
If you’re a parent letting your kids run off some steam while you use the free Wi-Fi in the building to read your phone, there’s even stadium seating!
The Columbus Aquatics Center is one of the best places to go on vacation in the city when the sun is shining brightly.
When the temperature rises and you’re not sure what to do, put on your swimsuit and splash around in the pool.
Address: 1603 Midtown Dr, Columbus, GA 31906, United States
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2. Peachtree Mall
Are you prepared to bite into a peach from Georgia?
Being the biggest of its sort in the whole Tri-Ciry area, the Peachtree Mall can provide entertainment even in bad weather.
There are all sorts of stores, from posh boutiques to oddball kiosks.
All of the newest blockbusters are available at the movie theater.
With its diverse menu featuring dishes from around the world including Mexican, Thai, Japanese, Caribbean, and more, the food court would make the Food Network jealous.
If you go to any local special events, you can also find yourself at the mall.
It’s a gathering spot that might entice you even if you’re not the shopaholic kind because it holds everything from pet adoption activities to book signings by well-known writers.
Avoid letting bad weather spoil your trip.
In case you’re searching for things to do in Columbus, regardless of the weather, you might choose to indulge in some retail therapy at the Peachtree Mall.
Address: 3131 Manchester Expy, Columbus, GA 31909, United States
3. Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari
One of the best locations to go for wildlife viewing is the Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari, which is also a fantastic destination for animal enthusiasts.
It’s near Pine Mountain, Georgia, a little bit outside of Columbus, but it’s worth the additional petrol because it takes less than an hour to get there.
The safari, sometimes known as “the drive-thru zoo,” is a 3.5-mile path that passes close to and through areas used by wild animals.
Numerous species are visible, such as zebras, giraffes, and deer.
A few of the more amiable creatures will approach your car directly!
If you prefer not to drool on your own hood, you may rent a van from the business or go on a safari bus excursion with their guide.
The Walkabout Adventure Zoo at the safari is another interesting feature.
It offers you the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of creatures, including barn animals that you can feed with your hands, and is home to more than 150 species.
When visiting Columbus, the Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari may offer an incredibly unique experience, regardless of your preference for large giraffes or small baby goats.
After refueling, set off!
Address: 1300 Oak Grove Rd, Pine Mountain, GA 31822, United States
4. Coca-Cola Space Science Center
Despite the name, the Coca-Cola Space Science Center has nothing to do with the soda brand.
Just the people who are paying for this amazing, multimillion-dollar building for the stars.
The fun things to do at the science center are way better than Buzz Lightyear.
There are many things to do, from showing movies to using flight simulators, some of which are based on things astronauts actually do, like a launch model for the Space Shuttle Odyssey.
There are things on show from the Apollo missions and different NASA space shuttles.
People can take “sky tours” at the planetarium theater that will take them out of Georgia and into space.
It’s not just a hands-off experience, though.
The space center has a lot of fun things that you can do together, especially for kids.
Your kids can play with the flight controls, use IR gear, and other things.
What would you like to do this weekend in Columbus? How about going to space?
Everyone in the family can go.
Go to the Coca-Cola Space Science Center to have fun with infinity and beyond!
Address: 701 Front Ave, Columbus, GA 31901, United States
5. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
Columbus may be known for its simple, country charm, but it’s also no stranger to the better things in life.
Just take a look at the RiverCenter for the Arts.
There are more than 2,500 seats in the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, which is a huge and fancy building with red velvet ropes and soft balcony seats all around the symphony stage.
It’s one of the most expensive things to do in Columbus, and you can tell by how it looks and sounds.
You can choose from Broadway shows and beauty pageants as events.
The building has been the site of musicals, ballets, orchestras, choirs, comedy shows, plays, and more.
See what’s going on at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts in Columbus, Georgia, if you want to see some art and culture.
Check out what you can listen to while you’re away!
Address: 900 Broadway, Columbus, GA 31901, United States
6. Market Days on Broadway
Can you smell the bread that was just baked?
Do you hear the soft clink of wooden wind chimes in the wind?
These are just a few of the feelings you might have during Market Days on Broadway.
Market Days happen at a big outdoor farmer’s market every Saturday from April to November.
Over 100 sellers set up shop over three square blocks. They sell things like jewelry, soap, candles, art prints, and more.
Even better, there is a wide range of food to choose from, from the normal veggies and jams to more unusual dishes like tamales.
Someone can paint your face or give you a medical massage.
There are lots of things going on and lots of chances to do them.
If you want to find the best places to visit this weekend, think about going to Market Days on Broadway.
This is a great way to support Georgia’s small businesses and bring home unique gifts for family and friends. It’s a win-win situation for everyone!
Address: 1000 Broadway, Columbus, GA 31901, United States
7. Brushes and Beverages
There are lots of great places to go on a date night in Columbus, Georgia. You could take a walk by the river late at night or share a table at one of the city’s many fine eating restaurants.
But if you want something a little different, you might want to check out Brunch and Drinks.
Brushes and Beverages looks like an art class, but it’s really a social event with art as a background.
You will not only learn how to make a pretty picture, but you will also enjoy music, talk with other artists, and drink whatever you want.
With this kind of vibe, it’s perfect for a fun and memorable date with that special someone.
Are you going to Columbus and want to find fun things to do with your partner?
Get in touch with Brushes and Beverages to see if their next painting class has any openings.
Address: 1102 Broadway, Columbus, GA 31901, United States
8. The Black Cow
This one is for people who like food.
People love The Black Cow so much that it’s considered an attraction in Columbus, just like museums and military sites.
For sure, you should stop by if you’re in the area.
What’s so great about the Black Cow?
To begin, the menu is full of southern classics.
You can get chicken and waffles or chicken and grits.
You can get meatloaf that tastes just like mom used to make, and you can get it with either fresh collard greens or creamy mashed potatoes.
You can get fried green tomatoes, okra, or green beans if you like food that is deep-fried.
You can order a fun and different food like pineapple casserole if you want to try something new.
The Black Cow’s atmosphere is something else that stands out.
It looks a bit like a bar because the wood goes from floor to ceiling. It’s a great spot to relax with a hearty meal and a cold beer!
Stop by the Black Cow if you’re on vacation and want to find the best place to eat southern food.
If you go all the way to Georgia, you should definitely try some of its real food!
Address: 115 12th St, Columbus, GA 31901, United States
9. Callaway Resort & Gardens
Go to the Callaway Resort & Gardens and get ready to be surprised!
They’re more than just a garden here and there.
They are actually a huge group of places that host a wide range of events and activities for people from all walks of life.
The Butterfly Center and the MegaBugs show are great for kids.
There are lots of fun things for teens to do outside at Robin Lake Beach, from swimming to fishing.
The Azalea Bowl, the Hydrangea Garden, and the Pioneer Life Cabin are all beautiful places for adults to visit.
This amphitheater has shows that everyone will enjoy.
As for the resort itself, you can rent a room right in the middle of everything, and you can use its many guest services, such as its gym and golf course.
Plan to visit the Callaway Resort and Gardens if you’re going to Columbus this weekend and need something to do.
They will give you such a great holiday that you might want to stay there the whole time you are there!
Address: 17617 US-27, Pine Mountain, GA 31822, United States
10. The Touring Dead Walking Tour
There are many interesting things to see in Georgia, but the most famous ones have to do with The Walking Dead.
The third and fourth seasons of the popular TV show were shot near Columbus, Georgia, in the Senoia area.
You can make up stories about killing zombies on The Touring Dead, but it’s not the only fun way to do it.
It will show you some of the most famous places where the show was filmed, like Woodbury, the Alexandria Safe Zone, and the Governor’s home.
It’s also hosted by knowledgeable fans and pop culture buffs, some of whom worked as extras on The Walking Dead.
It’s not just Rick Grimes who can look good in Georgia’s plants.
Join the Touring Dead Walking Tour to get a taste of what it’s like to live through the zombie apocalypse.
Address: 53 Main St, Senoia, GA 30276, United States
11. Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center
Even though Columbus doesn’t have a zoo, animal lovers can still have a great time at the Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center.
In this area, you can find alligators, lizards, snakes, snapping turtles, and more.
The learning center is run by Columbus State University and is all about teaching people about and protecting Georgia’s wildlife and forests.
There are a lot of other things to see besides the animals. For example, there are dinosaur fossils, beekeeping tools, and activity sites for kids.
And the animals are always moving. You can see them in their natural environments or at shows and performances put on by handlers.
Did we say there’s no charge to get in?
There is no cover charge, but donations are welcome.
Because of this, the Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center is one of the best free things to do in Columbus, especially if you have kids.
Address: 3535 S Lumpkin Rd, Columbus, GA 31903, United States
12. National Civil War Naval Museum
There are a lot of important sites to see in Columbus. One of them is the site of the Battle of Columbus in 1865.
The National Civil War Naval Museum isn’t just a museum of the past, though.
It is still there as a reminder of the lives lost and the sacrifices made by those who fought in one of America’s toughest wars.
The museum has a lot of different kinds of exhibits, from collections of old flags to life-sized models of military battleships.
There are activities like guided trips of the museum, some of which are done by living history interpreters in full costume.
You can also pay to see real gun fire!
That being said, the museum is also a good place to have fun.
Mystery dinner theater events and holiday ghost tours are both things you can sign up for.
One of those tourist spots that’s always thinking of new ways to keep people interested.
The National Civil War Naval Museum’s main strength, though, is that it keeps history alive.
You will not want to miss this place if you are interested in Georgia’s history, especially the part it played in the Civil War.
Address: 1002 Victory Dr, Columbus, GA 31901, United States
13. Columbus Dragonfly Trail
One of the most beautiful places in the area is the Columbus Dragonfly Trail.
It was built on the remains of an old train track and goes through the city for 33 miles, making it easy for people to enjoy the outdoors on foot, jog, skate, or bike.
It doesn’t take people into the Georgian woods, though; it just gives them a clean, well-kept asphalt track that they can use.
There are many beautiful sights to see along the trail, from the Chattahoochee River’s clear water to the green fields of Columbus State University.
In some places, you may drive on roads that go by hills, rock mines, pedestrian bridges, and other things.
The Chattahoochee RiverWalk and the Columbus Fall Line Trace are two of the other trails that have been added to the main road, so you can choose where to start.
One more good thing about the trail is that it’s only half done!
It will keep getting bigger because the city’s Rails-to-Trails project wants to make it go for more than 60 miles.
You could check out the Columbus Dragonfly Trail if you want to find fun and free things to do in the “Tri-City” area of Georgia.
It won’t cost you anything, but the beautiful views will help you make memories that will last a lifetime.
Address: 10th Ave, Columbus, GA 31901, United States
14. Columbus Civic Center
The Columbus Civic Center is where the city’s big events take place.
There are events here that are meant to draw 10,000 people, like a Kelly Clarkson show or the Chattahoochee Valley Motorcycle Rally every year.
The public center was built so that sports events could happen there.
In fact, it still holds all sorts of games. The Columbus Lions play football there, and the Columbus River Dragons play ice hockey there.
But these days, there’s a lot more going on here than just scrimmages and finals.
There is always something fun going on, like concerts, expos, festivals, and WWE smackdowns. Anyone who is interested and has time can usually get their hands on tickets.
You won’t know what to do at the Columbus Civic Center because there are so many shows to choose from.
Take a dart and throw it at the event registry. Come back and see where it goes.
It’s going to be really cool!
Address: 400 4th St, Columbus, GA 31901, United States
15. MidTown Columbus
MidTown Columbus isn’t the most impressive thing to see in Columbus.
It’s so small that you might not even notice it as you drive through it.
If you pay attention, though, you’ll find that it’s a cute and fun place with lots of old-fashioned charm.
A lot of the houses have old styles that are hundreds of years old.
The areas with lots of trees are charming in a very southern way.
People are nice, and if you go to the diner more than once, the owners will remember you.
MidTown is also where many local celebrations happen, so if you go there on the weekend, you can take part in a wide range of community-run events.
You can meet new people at events like the MidTown Mingle.
The MidTown Bike Around is a four-mile bike ride that families can enjoy at their own pace.
You can’t go to Georgia without taking in the quiet, picture-perfect streets that give the state its unique small-town feel.
In that way, MidTown Columbus is one of the best spots in the whole state!
Address: Midtown Dr, Columbus, GA 31906, United States
16. Heritage Park
When you’re sick of the noise and chaos of the city, Heritage Park might be a nice place to spend the afternoon.
Not only will the peaceful atmosphere calm you down, but there are also memorials to Columbus’s life there, so you can learn about the history of your travel spot while you’re there.
The water features are meant to make you think of how amazing and powerful the Chattahoochee River is.
The old-fashioned water mill shows how people can use nature’s power for good. As the educational signs will explain, this was a big part of Columbus’s industrial revolution in the 18th century.
Heritage Park is one of the best things to do in Columbus, even if you’re not interested in history.
You can take a walk there in the sunshine and enjoy the beautiful scenery, statues, and water features.
Here’s where you can get away from the daily work for a while.
Address: 700 Front Ave, Columbus, GA 31901, United States
17. National Infantry Museum
In Columbus, the National Infantry Museum is among the most interesting sites to explore.
Not only does it have all the information you could ever desire on infantry, but it’s situated right outside of Fort Benning, one of the most important military installations in the country.
The museum has a vast collection that spans historical periods from the American Revolution to the aftermath of 9/11.
The Ranger Hall of Fame, memorial walks, film theater, and battle simulators are among the interactive exhibitions and multimedia displays that are available.
One of the largest fields on the property is covered in dirt from Yorktown, Normandy, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
The National Infantry Museum has exhibits that are not available elsewhere.
Visit the National Infantry Museum if you’re interested in learning more about Fort Benning, the history of American infantry, or the overall idea that infantry may change the course of a conflict.
Address: 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus, GA 31903, United States
18. Columbus Botanical Garden
Are you trying to find outdoor activities for you and the kids to do in Georgia?
The Columbus Botanical Garden could appeal to you.
You don’t have to go stomping through marshlands to enjoy it because it’s a tidy, well-kept location, but it still exudes a wild beauty that speaks to the wildness beyond.
You can explore a number of gardens, such as the rose garden, the camellia garden, the shade garden with ginkgo, and the perennial garden with native species of Georgia.
There are also vegetable terraces and cottage herb collections to visit.
If you want to get away from it all, there’s a mile-long walking trail, and if you want to participate in the center’s special events, there’s an event center.
“Pollinater Palooza” and “Summer Sounds in the Garden” are two past events.
The grandeur of the Columbus Botanical Garden may be appreciated by anybody, regardless of gardening expertise.
Come and smell the roses—all are welcome!
Address: 3603 Weems Rd, Columbus, GA 31909, United States
19. Springer Opera House
The Springer Opera House is a towering reminder of a bygone era that was first constructed in 1871.
Even though it is on the National Register of Historic Places, it still hosts plays, concerts, and other entertaining events for large audiences.
It’s one of Columbus’ top attractions because of its blend of the old and the new.
Those who are interested in history can visit the venue and get a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most well-known acts.
Tickets for everything from The Rocky Horror Picture Show to The Cat in the Hat are available to more contemporary audiences.
There are also acting laboratories, improv classes, and seminars centered around musical theater and sketch writing.
Simply look at their schedule to see what events are scheduled for when you will be in Columbus.
You will adore the Springer Opera House if “the play’s the thing” for you!
Address: 103 E 10th St, Columbus, GA 31901, United States
20. Chattahoochee RiverWalk
The Chattahoochee RiverWalk is a beautiful, easy-to-walk trail that goes around some of the city’s most popular tourist spots. It’s more than 15 miles long.
Along the way, you’ll see museums, sports parks, military forts, and more.
You’ll even go by well-known historical sites, like the spot where the Battle of Columbus took place in 1865.
The Chattahoochee River runs along the trail, as you might guess from the name. Every step of the way, you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful views.
The path is completely paved, so people walking, jogging, and riding bikes can all use it.
Dog walkers, triathlon coaches, and moms with strollers all hang out together.
Families and people traveling alone are both welcome.
To sum up, the Chattahoochee RiverWalk is one of the best things to see in Columbus.
It’s also a fun way to see the sights at the start of your trip.
Take a short walk around the city to see what looks interesting. Then, plan the rest of your trip around those things!
Address: Bay Avenue and 11th Street, Columbus, GA 39701, United States
21. Whitewater Express
If you’re tired of taking peaceful walks along the river, why not jump right into its Class IV rapids?
You would never think that a quiet Georgia town like Chattahoochee would have urban whitewater boating!
You can go kayaking in Columbus with more than one company, but Whitewater Express is the most fun for the money.
For instance, it has a range of action packages, from “The Classic Trip” to “The Carnage Trip,” so you can choose one that fits your level of experience.
Along the river, there are other fun things to do besides rafting.
The Blue Heron Adventure Park is close to Whitewater Express. At the park, you can enjoy zip lines, treetop walks, and aerial obstacle courses.
You can say that you’ve jumped through the air in two different states because one zipline goes across the border between Georgia and Alabama!
One of the most exciting things to do in Columbus is to spend the day with Whitewater Express.
This action company can get your heart racing and blood pumping whether you like rafting, ziplining, or other types of fun and dangerous activities.
Address: 1000 Bay Ave, Columbus, GA 31901, United States
22. The Columbus Museum
The Columbus Museum is too important to miss.
On its front yard is a huge dinosaur sculpture made from driftwood. That’s just the beginning of its fun and interesting take on history.
There are more than 14,000 things in the museum. They are watercolor drawings, priceless antiques like furniture, weapons, clothes, and books, and other things.
Strange art collections and serious films about the native people of the Chattahoochee River are just a few of the types of exhibitions that are available.
There is even a “Transformations Discovery Gallery” for kids that lets them play!
However, the best thing about the museum is that you can visit and park for free.
You don’t have to pay anything to spend an educational time with your family.
There are lots of free things to do in Columbus while on vacation. Don’t miss The Columbus Museum.
Address: 1251 Wynnton Rd, Columbus, GA 31906, United States