7 Fun Things to Do in Columbus, GA
There are so many fun things to do in Columbus, GA, to enjoy all that the city has to offer. Here’s a list of some local favorites to get you started.
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1) Seek Thrills
Adventure seekers can head on over to Whitewater Express, the outfitter for RushSouth – the longest urban whitewater rafting course in the world. There, you can take a guided rafting trip along 2.5 miles of whitewater on the Chattahoochee River with class II-IV rapids.
And if you’d rather take to the sky than stay on the water, Blue Heron Adventure Park offers an exhilarating 12-story-high zipline that sends you soaring across state lines into Alabama. As you glide over the river, you’ll also encounter exciting ropes course elements that add an extra thrill to the journey.
2) Cheer on the Home Team
No matter the time of year, it’s easy to find a sports game to attend in Columbus. Don your jersey and join the cheering crowds for any of the four pro sports teams that are headquartered here.
There’s the Columbus Lions, an indoor football team that plays at the Columbus Civic Center March through June. Making their debut in 2025, the Columbus Clingstones play in the Southern League as the AA affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. The season runs from April through September at Synovus Park.
If soccer is more your jam, check out Columbus United FC, which plays in May and June at AJ McClung Memorial Stadium. Finally, during the colder months, cheer on the Columbus River Dragons hockey team from November through April at Columbus Civic Center.
3) Explore Art Exhibits
Tap into your inner art enthusiast at The Bo Bartlett Center, a former textile warehouse that has been converted into an impressive art gallery that features rotating exhibits and hosts numerous events for the public.
With over 18,000 square feet of gallery space, The Bo Bartlett Center typically rotates through six to eight exhibits over the year, welcoming local, national and international art. The center is located in downtown Columbus at the RiverPark campus of Columbus State University. It frequently hosts “artist talks” and public receptions, all with the goal of enriching the community through art and education.
4) See a Show
Allow yourself to be transported by talent and the magic of performing arts at the Springer Opera House and RiverCenter for the Performing Arts.
Springer Opera House is a historical theater packed with personality that only 150-plus years of performance can provide. This is the place to go in Columbus to see high-caliber, locally produced musical theater performances.
The RiverCenter is a much newer venue with state-of-the-art equipment and a packed calendar filled with a variety of performance types, from orchestras to theater to dance and beyond.
5) Mosey Around a Museum
Columbus offers a full slate of museums, suiting all sorts of specialized interests. For general art and history, you can’t go wrong with the Columbus Museum (COMU) – and its free admission, riveting history displays and a gorgeous garden.
Step back in time at the National Infantry Museum and the National Civil War Naval Museum, where history buffs can dive into the past. For those with their eyes on the stars, the Coca-Cola Space Science Center offers a chance to geek out and launch into a universe of knowledge and fun.
6) Go Uptown for Dinner and Drinks
Whether it’s a special occasion or you’re simply craving a night out, dinner and drinks Uptown will make for an excellent evening. For drinks, Super Regular offers a fun, casual vibe complete with darts and pool tables.
Feeling fancy? Try Stirrup Trouble, a craft cocktail lounge where the drinks are delicious. For drinks and dinner all at the same spot, head over to 11th & Bay for fresh Southern cuisine or to Nonic Restaurant and Rooftop Bar at Highside Market for shareable pub plates. Can’t decide on a type of food? Banks Food Hall has options galore, complete with indoor and outdoor seating.
7) Get Outside
Columbus is gorgeous through all four seasons, so take advantage of the natural beauty available to you! The Columbus Botanical Garden spans acres of gorgeous green space with fountains and water features, paved paths and breathtaking backdrops for photography or special events.
Another fun thing to do in Columbus is the Chattahoochee RiverWalk, a 15-mile paved trail that runs along the scenic river. It’s perfect for a casual stroll, run or bike ride.
Get to Know Columbus, GA
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