History

For centuries, the Chattahoochee River has flowed from the mountains of North Georgia to the oyster beds of the Florida Panhandle. At times a quiet trickle, at other moments angrily slapping against the rocks, the river has always told the story of Georgia’s history—and that of Columbus.

The relationship between Columbus and the Chattahoochee predates written history. Spanish explorers documented the falls nearby, and one of the region’s most extensive Indigenous American trading centers thrived along its banks. In 1828, state legislation set aside 1,200 acres for the town that would become Columbus, Georgia. As Columbus grew, the Chattahoochee River fostered its commercial growth for generations, providing hydroelectric power and riverside access to local industries like cotton and textiles.

Today, the Chattahoochee RiverWalk brings people to the banks of the river that brought Columbus to life. What started in 1987 as a local government response to federally mandated sewage and water upgrades resulted in one of Columbus' premier outdoor attractions. The RiverWalk's 22-mile linear walking path is an accessible urban trail that stretches from the Victory District through Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center, past the South Commons Softball Complex, through Uptown Columbus, and up to Lake Oliver. A leisurely stroll down the RiverWalk is a journey through the city’s heritage that reminds all who visit of what was, what is, and what will be.

Access, Attractions, and Amenities

The Chattahoochee RiverWalk spans 22 miles and serves as a scenic pathway that winds past Uptown Columbus, epic outdoor adventure, local restaurants and bars, historical monuments and sites, museums, and more. Benches, restrooms, and ADA accessibility make the RiverWalk suitable for anyone looking to spend some time riverside. Offering year-round fun, the RiverWalk combines the beauty of nature with some stellar riverside attractions – perfect for exploring with your family or four-legged friends!

‌Soak in the history and ambiance of this authentic Columbus destination on foot, by bike, on rollerblades, or on a scooter. And you won't have to venture far off the path to find something to entertain everyone in the family.

Access Points

Parking is available near each of the access points to the RiverWalk listed below.

• Bay Avenue and 11th Street
• Front Avenue and 8th Street (stairs behind Space Center)
• Front Avenue and Sixth Street (sidewalk)
• Golden Park (stairs and sidewalk)
• Civic Center (stairs)
• Rotary Park (on)
• Rigdon Park (sidewalk)
• 23rd Street sidewalk)
• Bibb Mill (sidewalk)
• Hemlock Park (sidewalk)
• Lake Oliver (on)

Within an easy 5-minute walk from the RiverWalk in Uptown, you can find:

Outdoor Adventure

Come raft the longest urban whitewater course in the world, featuring the biggest rapids east of the Mississippi. If you’re not a thrill‑seeker, you can watch others brave the rapids from the RiverWalk or WaveShaper Island. Milder river adventures like tubing, paddleboarding, or the lazy river are perfect for families and those looking to relax on the water.

When you get off the river, take time to explore RushSouth Whitewater Park, which includes a playground, splash pad, hammock park, and more. Columbus, Georgia, is also the only place where visitors can zip line across state lines, offering a unique aerial view of the RiverWalk, the Spirit of the Chattahoochee mural, and Uptown Columbus.

Food & Drink

From food halls with options for every appetite to authentic Southern cuisine, upscale dining, can’t‑miss breakfast spots, coffee houses, trendy cafés, and rooftop bars, you’ll have dozens of options to choose from.

Arts & Culture

Columbus features amazing theaters and art galleries all within a few blocks of the RiverWalk. The RiverCenter for the Performing Arts is home to the Columbus Symphony Orchestra and regularly hosts touring Broadway shows. The Springer Opera House is Georgia’s State Theatre and annually produces over a dozen shows featuring talent from Los Angeles to New York. The impressive Bo Bartlett Center is an award‑winning gallery and museum that’s not to be missed. There are also local art galleries and an impressive collection of public art and murals throughout Uptown Columbus.

Shopping

You’ll find dozens of shops, boutiques, merchant markets, and specialty food stores right off the RiverWalk. In the warm months, Market Days on Broadway is a Saturday morning market with more than 200 vendors selling artwork, crafts, local produce, baked goods, and countless cool local finds.

Science & History

Just steps from the RiverWalk, you’ll find Columbus State University’s Coca‑Cola Space Science Center, which features simulators, film screenings, and observation events for all ages. Nearby are historic homes, monuments, and museums, including the National Civil War Naval Museum and the immersive National Infantry Museum.

Come catch a sunset, take a stroll, and experience the beauty of the Chattahoochee RiverWalk as you relax, play, and connect with Columbus.