Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Monday, July 3, 2017

3 Must-See Museums

In addition to fantastic local restaurants, boutiques and outdoor adventures, Columbus, Georgia is home to some of the most engaging and well-curated museums in the country. With activities suitable for all age groups, we’ve rounded out the top 3 must-see museums for your Columbus itinerary.

The Columbus Museum

One of the largest cultural centers in the Southeast, The Columbus Museum is unique for its dual concentration on American art and regional history. With interactive exhibits and displays suitable for the whole family, the 13-acre site allows visitors to relive times past and experience the history of the Lower Chattahoochee River Valley.

As you wander the halls on your guided or self-led tour, be sure to visit the Chattahoochee Legacy Gallery for a chance to examine archeological marvels that include a turn of the century schoolhouse, an urban slave cabin, a 20th century army tent, and a true-to-size diorama of an ancient Native American dwelling. After that, step back in time with Albert Bierstadt’s romantic paintings of sweeping western landscapes, and listen as his brush strokes tell you the story of the 19th century Westward Expansion.

Once you’ve taken in the beauty of Bierstadt’s towering mountains and wind-swept prairies, take some time to enjoy the neoclassical style of the most fashionable portrait painter of the middle colonies, Charles Wilken Peale - known for portraits that include George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams.

Or perhaps you prefer abstract expressionists of the 20th century? If so, then you don’t want to miss Leonore “Lee” Krasner’s contribution to The Columbus Museum’s collection of notable American artwork. One of the few female artists to have had a retrospective show at the Museum of Modern Art, Lee Krasner is known not only for her paintings, but also for her charcoal drawings and occasional mosaics.

Round out your tour of paintings, sculptures and decorative arts from the colonial period to the present by enjoying the jazz-influenced, proto pop art of Stuart Davis and the wooden wall pieces and outdoor sculptures masterfully designed by Louise Nevelson.

And once you’ve returned to the present, there’s nothing more relaxing than unwinding in the beauty of the Bradley Olmstead Garden with your friends and family. More details

National Infantry Museum

National Infantry MuseumNext on our list of must-see museums is Columbus’ National Infantry Museum (NIM). Honoring the legacy and valor of the U.S. Army Infantrymen, the NIM is home to more than 70,000 unique artifacts, the WWII Company Street and Vietnam Memorial Plaza. Each gallery offers up a unique and truly emotional experience as you become acquainted with the lives and sacrifices of ordinary American citizens who gave up everything to defend the nation that they loved. The museum staff is passionate about the history they safeguard, and combined with their knowledge, the detailed and emotionally-charged exhibits will leave you with a deep appreciation for the individuals and events that made the America we cherish possible. The sacrifices made by our soldiers throughout the centuries are captured here and celebrated to perfection, going so far as to ensure that every soldier figure throughout the museum is modeled after actual men who served in the Civil War.

The NIM places great value on education. In addition to the interactive kiosks and exhibits placed throughout the galleries, the NIM hosts annual day camps each summer designed for children interested in learning more about our nation’s history. And nearly every Thursday and Friday, children’s author Kathy Maggart can be found in the museum lobby with her memorable book, The 1947 Freedom Train.

And don’t forget to visit the Giant Screen Theatre to take a 3D adventure through our country’s national parks! The National Infantry Museum offers all of this, and more. Allow yourself to be transported to the years preceding the Revolutionary War, and travel through time with numerous artifacts, exhibits and interactive displays that are sure to engage seasoned historians and inquisitive children alike. This nationally-recognized, state-of-the-art museum experience is not to be missed. More details

National Civil War Naval Museum

Rounding out our top three is another one for the history buffs. The National Civil War Naval Museum is home to the largest surviving Confederate warship, the CSS Jackson, as well as the wreckage of the CSS Chattahoochee. Among the many artifacts on display, you will find the largest collection of Civil War Naval-related flags in the country, as well as exhibits that will take you through the war’s most notable naval events.

With a range of events hosted throughout the year including museum theatre and historic character interpretation, living history events, tours, cannon firings, weapons demonstrations, and local history projects, there is something to peak the interest of every visitor.

So whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art critic or simply interested in learning more about local and national history, Columbus’ museums offer activities, exhibits and interactive displays sure to engage the whole family. More details

Categories: Arts, Family-friendly, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | 5 Museums You’ve GOT to See in Columbus, GA

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

5 Museums You’ve GOT to See in Columbus, GA

Visiting museums is one of the easiest ways to add some culture to your routine – and to our good fortune, Columbus, Georgia is home to some of the most excellent (and popular) museums in the Southeast!

This guide is intended to encourage you to visit each location, explore their fascinating collections, and discover even more about what makes Columbus, Georgia a true cultural treasure. It’s time to #GoAllOut!

 

 

 

Images of The Columbus Musuem by Morgan Duke.

The Columbus Museum

The Columbus Museum just reopened to the public after a multi-million dollar renovation that both completely reimagined their galleries, and increased accessibility throughout for visitors of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

One of the biggest things to know? Admission to the Columbus Museum is always free. So trust us when we tell you this museum offers an incredible opportunity to see the work of world-renown artists year-round at no cost.

The Museum's collection focuses on American art and regional history presented through an educational approach that engages visitors, stimulates creativity, inspires critical thinking, sparks conversations, and brings art and history to life. It also has the unique additional asset of the Bradley Olmsted Garden which was designed by the Olmsted Firm in the 1920s. The Bradley Olmsted Garden is part of the Wynn’s Hill-Overlook Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

*Insider tip: Upon arrival, check in at the information desk and ask about their self-guided tour cards. This fun and interactive way to explore the collection will take you on a scavenger hunt of a lifetime. Can you find works by famous Columbus artists Alma Thomas, Amy Sherald and Bo Bartlett?

 

The National Infantry Museum

The National Infantry Museum has won USA Today's award for the Best Free Museum in the United States more times than we can count. This state-of-the-art museum showcases the history and power of the United States Infantry. The immersive exhibits take visitors through the last 240 years of U.S. military history. The "NIM" (as it's known locally) houses more than 70,000 artifacts that tell the story of what it means to be a U.S. infantryman. Admission is free and tours are self-guided.

*Insider Tip: Don't miss the NIM's virtual reality simulators. These experiences ($7-$25) put you in the boots of a soldier as you experience a simulated Non-Combative Evacuation Operation (NEO). They truly are one of a kind, and a hit for kids of all ages!

 

Images by Columbus Collective Museum

Columbus Collective Museum

The Columbus Collective Museums have been featured in Smithsonian Magazine for being the home of the world's largest Lunchbox Museum. In addition to its collection of thousands of lunchboxes, the property also houses a total of seven themed museums ranging from vintage soda artifacts to the new Folk Art Junction which features folk art from around the Chattahoochee Valley.

*Insider Tip: Don't miss the chance to get a photo with the Columbus Collective Museum’s trademark dinosaur on the top of the building. It’s a fun extra item that makes a quirky backdrop for capturing a memory of the day.

 

 

The National Civil War Naval Museum

The National Civil War Naval Museum houses the largest surviving Confederate warship, the CSS Jackson, and boasts the largest collection of Civil War Naval-related flags on display in the U.S.

When you visit, ask the front desk about the Timeline Exhibit. This specially-designed experience takes visitors month-by-month through the war showing important naval events and their significance. It also includes most of the museum's rarest artifacts all in one section.

*Insider Tip: The National Civil War Naval Museum presents educational programming throughout the year that focuses particularly on museum theatre and historic character interpretation. Check the Columbus Event Calendar for any events during your visit, and try to catch a show if you can. Our favorite? Their reenactment days, which often feature live cannon firings across the Chattahoochee River!

 

The Gertrude "MA" Rainey House & Blues Museum

If you aren't familiar with jazz legend MA Rainey, it's time to spend a morning at this museum in her former home. The house was restored into the beautiful MA Rainey House & Blues Museum which exists to preserve the singer's legacy. Expect to hear live recordings of her music, and see a plethora of artifacts collected throughout Rainey's life both on stage and off.

*Insider Tip: You'll need to plan ahead to visit this museum because hours and tour sizes are limited. At the time of publication, the hours were Tuesday 9AM- 3PM and Saturdays 10 AM – 3PM. It's helpful to know tours are limited to four visitors at a time. Calling ahead is encouraged.

 

Get ready to #GoAllOut as you’re inspired, educated, and entertained by the vibrant world of Columbus, Georgia's top museums. We hope your visit will keep you coming back for more!

Looking for more trip ideas? Click here.

Categories: Arts, Film, Film, Film, Family-friendly, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | 5 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Meeting Venue

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Monday, March 6, 2023

5 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Meeting Venue

Looking to plan your next meeting in Columbus, GA? Great! Not sure which of our destination's venues would be the best fit for your group's size, interests, and budget? No worries, we've got you covered! Here are five helpful tips to consider when choosing the perfect event space in Georgia's second-largest city.

 

1. Consider Convenience. Look For the Right Location.

With a variety of meeting facilities within a short distance of each other, Columbus' four unique districts offer flexible event spaces to accommodate groups—putting your attendees in close proximity to hotels, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Uptown District

The walkable Uptown Entertainment District is the place to meet, stay and play for your group. This historic area boasts over 500 hotel rooms, restaurants, breweries, shops, arts and entertainment venues, attractions, and more.

Northlake District

Situated north of Uptown, the Northlake District is a meeting planner's dream come true. It offers over 1,300 hotel rooms, upscale shops and boutiques, fine dining restaurants, and easy access to I-185 and two major highway systems.

Midtown District

Conveniently placed in the middle of all that Columbus has to offer, Midtown District is where groups can fly into the Columbus Airport, features 1,600 quality hotel rooms and state-of-the-art meeting venues, plus restaurants, top attractions, and more.

Victory District

Located south of Uptown Columbus, the Victory District is a great destination for military reunions and groups with its affordable hotels, over 750 rooms, and more.

 

2. Select a Venue with Enough Space

Choosing a meeting venue or convention facility in Columbus that is large enough to accommodate your attendees comfortably is essential to pulling off a successful event. Once you know or have an idea of how many attendees are participating, Columbus' variety of spacious venues makes it easy to narrow down the perfect place to plan your event—big or small. Acting as a liaison between meeting planners and our partners, our VisitColumbusGA team can assist you throughout the site selection process, as well.

 

3. Ask About Amenities & Services

You want your meeting to be memorable, and one important way to do that is to ensure you and your attendees have all the right tools to keep handy when you need them. Take advantage of the outstanding convention services available to you when planning a meeting in Columbus.

  • Site inspection arrangements
  • Itinerary Assistance
  • Off-Site Banquet/Special Event Coordination
  • Hi-Res Image Database
  • Press Kits
  • Local Media
  • AV Presentations on Attractions
  • Spouse Programs Assistance
  • Tour Guides

And More!

 

4. Choose Staff & Vendors You Can Trust

No meeting is ever the same. Each one has its own needs and certain specifications—which means finding staff and vendors (local or outsourced) you can count on to assist with various duties is important. Columbus also has welcoming, friendly and experienced professionals available to help planners with everything from room setup and food service to technical support and accessibility.

Plus, our VisitColumbusGA staff is dedicated to your meeting's success throughout the planning process—from choosing the right vendors to staying within budget and everything in between.

 

5. Stay Within the Budget (Luckily, Columbus Makes That Easy)

While all the factors we've listed above play into choosing the best meeting space for your event, cost is a make-or-break deciding component for many planners. Columbus is not only known for its accommodations and accessibility, but its affordability is unmatched—providing a diverse array of budget-friendly venues that could be the perfect fit for your group and event.

More Topic Tips

  • Consider planning a meeting outside of the peak season when there are less crowds, less demand for venues, and typically lower rates.
  • Utilize VisitColumbusGA as a resource to help you find discounts with our venue partners.
  • Read the fine print. Make sure you know what is and is not included when booking a venue space for your meeting or event.

Dreaming of Meeting in Columbus? Let's Make It a Reality.

Are you ready to plan your next meeting in one of the best convention destinations in Georgia? Reach out to our team or submit your RFP to get started today!

Categories: Meetings

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Fort Benning | 6 Post-Meeting Options

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Thursday, April 6, 2023

6 Post-Meeting Options

From state parks and historic sites to out-of-the-box adventures and beautiful botanicals, Columbus, GA is near a variety of unique, hidden gems that provide the ultimate attractions and offsite outings for groups to do after their meeting or event. Here are the six best spots to add to your itinerary.

 

1. Andersonville National Historic Site

If your group loves learning more about history, make a visit to the Andersonville National Historic Site. This commemorative park honors the experiences of all American Prisoners of War. Featuring Camp Sumter (Andersonville Prison), Andersonville National Cemetery, and the National Prisoners of War Museum, the site takes visitors on a journey back to Civil War times with tours and self-guided exploration of the grounds.

 

2. FDR’s Little White House Historic Site

The Little White House was built in 1932 by Former President Franklin Delano Roosevelt while he was the governor of New York. He used the home as a second residence while swimming in the waters of Warm Springs hoping to find a cure for polio disease.

FDR’s second home is now a nationally recognized historic landmark that has been preserved just as he left it. Groups can explore the building, as well as tour the grounds, the nearby FDR Memorial Museum, and more.

 

3. Florence Marina State Park

Does your group love water sports? Plan a fun- and sun-filled day at Florence Marina State Park. Situated at the northern end of 45,000-acre Lake Walter F. George—the park features picturesque views of the lake and surrounding terrain. Attendees will enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation both on land and in the water—including deep-water fishing, boating, and bird watching. 

 

4. Jimmy Carter National Historic Site

Columbus is not only near one historic landmark commemorating one former president, but two. The Jimmy Carter National Historic Site in Plains, GA, features the boyhood home, campaign headquarters, and more of the 39th leader of our great nation. Give your attendees a glimpse into the early life of Jimmy Carter to see where he grew up and managed his presidential run to become the notable figure he is today.

 

5. Wild Animal Safari at Pine Mountain

Take your group on a wildlife safari right here in the Peach State! A one-of-a-kind excursion, the Wild Animal Safari at Pine Mountain takes adventurers through a 500-acre park to see various species of exotic animals from five different continents—including giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and more.

After the safari, your attendees can take a stroll through the Walkabout Adventure Zoo™ or experience animal encounters at exhibits. Groups are sure to have an amazing time interacting and learning about beautiful creatures in the wild.

 

6. Warm Springs Vineyard and Winery

If you have wine aficionados in your group, they’ll love touring or attending a tasting at the Warm Springs Vineyard and Winery. The location specializes in creating sophisticated muscadine wines from locally grown grapes, vinted and bottled onsite. Your attendees are welcome to try and buy different wines at the establishment, and we know they’ll enjoy themselves. 

Need help putting together a post-meeting travel plan for your group’s visit to Columbus? Draw inspiration from our 72-hour sample itinerary to show them what our welcoming city is all about.

Let’s Get Your Group to Columbus

Are you ready to take your attendees to our must-visit spots in Georgia’s second-largest city? Reach out to our team of experts or submit your RFP to get started on planning your next meeting or convention in Columbus.

Categories: Groups, Meetings, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | 72 Hour Sample Itinerary for Groups

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Thursday, July 6, 2023

72 Hour Sample Itinerary for Groups

Planners, you have the opportunity to get to know Columbus, GA before you go with this 72-hour sample itinerary that’s chock full of inspiration to plan your next meeting or event. See all that "Georgia's Cool Cat City" has to offer your group.

 

Day 1

Afternoon Arrival & Check-In

Thanks to Columbus’ central location, getting here is easy. Whether you’re flying in at Columbus Airport (CSG)—serviced by Delta, just four minutes away from the heart of downtown and with new flight paths increasing accessibility—or driving, the destination is a suitable distance from many major cities in the Southeast. The ease of accessibility to Columbus is ideal for your attendees. 

Once your group arrives in the afternoon, they'll check-in at the new Hotel Indigo Columbus at Riverfront Place, a 107 room, seven-story, $30 million hotel overlooking the Chattahoochee River and just minutes away from the Columbus Georgia Convention & Trade Center. The hotel features nearly 2,500 sq. ft. of meeting space for up to 100 attendees,  a ‘farm-to-table’ restaurant, Denim & Oak Restaurant and a rooftop bar, Eighteen 85 Rooftop Bar.

Other hotel options close to the Convention Center include the newly renovated, 178-room Columbus Marriott and the new, 125-room AC Hotel by Marriott Uptown Columbus.

 

Settle in with Dinner and a Show

After bags are unpacked and your group is settled into the hotel, it’s time to enjoy a night out on the town. 

Located within the heart of Uptown Columbus, EPIC Restaurant is a 4-diamond restaurant that offers a top dining experience in a warm and elegant space available to rent out for private events, making it ideal for a group dinner or small reception. Groups can also take advantage of EPIC’s event management and catering services to provide food and beverage during meetings and events.

Another great option, The Loft, is a restaurant, bar and venue dedicated to quality entertainment, food and fun for groups to enjoy. The venue also offers a private upstairs event space ideal for small welcome receptions, happy hours and networking. Over 60 restaurant options are in close proximity to the Columbus Georgia Convention & Trade Center and offer ample space to accommodate small or large-sized group dining experiences.

After dinner, take in a Broadway show at one of Columbus’ seven performance theaters, including the Springer Opera House, and the lavish RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, one of the crown jewels in Columbus' Entertainment District — both within walking distance of the hotel.

 

Day 2

Start Your Morning Off the Columbus Way

Grab some coffee or breakfast at your hotel then head outside to take a leisurely stroll in the cool morning air along a 22-mile linear park, the Chattahoochee RiverWalk. 

If your attendees want something sweet to start off their morning meeting, they can check out the tasty and always fresh treats made at Veri Best Donuts, less than an easy 10-minute walk from the Convention Center.

 

 

Breakout Sessions: "Only In Columbus” Experiences

Once your group has participated in some productive morning meeting sessions, plan to get them outside for some "only in Columbus, GA” experiences. 

The flight directors at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center invite your group to participate in a simulated NASA space program. You’ll also have an opportunity to view some amazing artifacts from NASA as well as out-of-this-world productions shown in the planetarium.

For the thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies of the group, adventure awaits on the longest urban whitewater course in the world, Rush South Whitewater Park. It’s been described as “wild as the Colorado River, and warm as Costa Rica!” Intrigued yet?

 

 

Let’s Not Forget About All of the Unique Lunch Options

It’s time to regroup and recharge! Columbus offers numerous dining options for groups, from casual to upscale.

Located on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, Banks Food Hall is a great option for dining outdoors with larger groups. There’s a little something for everyone thanks to a variety of vendors serving up versatile cuisine. Banks Food Hall is a collective eatery offering visitors food and drink options, a bar, and live music in more than 12,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor dining space.

Another tasty option is Cannon Brew Pub, a microbrewery known for its beers, burgers, white sauce pizzas and more. Meals are perhaps best enjoyed from the restaurant’s sidewalk tables or its balcony overlooking Broadway.

 

 

Afternoon Activities From Trails to Treating Yourself 

Now that attendees have some time to themselves, they can explore the area via the multi-use bike and pedestrian Dragonfly Trail that weaves its way through the city.

Other fun free time options include visiting Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center, self-guided heritage tours, antique excursions, viewing art galleries, or playing 18 holes at Bull Creek golf course.

Lastly, if you're needing a break from the long day that comes with some meetings and events, treat yourself to a relaxing session at Uptown Float. Their upscale sensory deprivation rooms can help you clear your mind, fight sensory overload and relax your muscles.

 

 

Wine Down for Dinner  

After a busy day, your group can dine-in with convenience at your hotels’ on-site restaurant.

The Denim & Oak Restaurant is a farm-to-table riverfront restaurant located in Hotel Indigo Columbus at Riverfront Place. Your group can unwind and relax as they dine riverside overlooking the beautiful Chattahoochee River. And before or after dinner, they can enjoy a locally inspired craft cocktail upstairs at Eighteen 85 Rooftop Bar, perfect for a small group dinner or outdoor cocktails. 

Other convenient, on-site hotel restaurants include Houlihan’s at the Columbus Marriott hotel and AC Kitchen and AC Lounge at the AC Hotel by Marriott Columbus Downtown.

 

Day 3

A Farewell Brunch On the Final Day

Once your group checks out of the hotel, get together for a farewell brunch at My Boulange & Tower Pizza, a French-style cafe serving sandwiches and pastries all prepared in-house. This charming dining spot located in the heart of Uptown Columbus offers many different options for those looking to have a leisurely group brunch or host an event.

 

 

One Last Afternoon Attraction

If your group has the time, one last, worthwhile Columbus outing is a tour through renowned museums of historical, artistic and military importance like the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center, Columbus Museum, or the Lunchbox Museum.

 

Plan Your Itinerary With the Experts at VisitColumbusGA

Columbus’ convention package is perfectly well-rounded and offers meeting experiences with walkability and authenticity. With expansive meeting spaces and venues, modern hotels, diverse cultural experiences, crave-worthy restaurants and an abundance of outdoor adventures, Columbus is your under-the-radar, world-class meeting destination.

The VisitColumbusGA sales and services team is ready to provide you with guided expertise, planning tools and helpful resources for booking that are sure to enhance your group’s meeting, event or reunion.

Reach Out to VisitColumbusGA

Categories: Groups, Itineraries

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Fort Benning | A Local’s Guide to a Romantic Weekend in Columbus, Georgia

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Tuesday, February 4, 2020

A Local’s Guide to a Romantic Weekend in Columbus, Georgia

Columbus, Georgia is one of the South’s best kept secrets. Nestled on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, the once-quiet river city has become a bustling hotspot for adventurous foodies with a passion for culture. While the city still possesses the quaint feel of a small town, its amenities and infrastructure make it the perfect destination for couples looking to explore someplace new.

Whether your ideal romantic getaway involves dining at a four-diamond restaurant and walking through world class art galleries, or you’re seeking whitewater rafting and barbecue, Columbus, Georgia has something for every couple looking to get away.

Adventure

Columbus is home to one of the top urban whitewater courses in America and is also the only place you can zipline across a state line and back. The area is also a haven for cyclists and boasts incredible trails sprinkled all throughout the Chattahoochee Valley. 

For those who love hiking, a visit to Providence Canyon is a must do. Recently voted one of the top ten hikes in Georgia, Providence Canyon sits just a short drive away from Columbus and offers accessible hiking options for all ages.

We’d be remiss not to mention the popularity of our local bike shop, Ride On Bikes, which offers daily rentals of everything from California cruisers to mountain bikes. Cycle along the Riverwalk between Columbus and Fort Benning, or test out the newly developed Dragonfly Trail which connects Columbus’ Midtown area to Uptown and back.

Arts & Culture

High adventure isn’t all there is to do here, though. Just steps from the river are art galleries, theatres, breweries, and restaurants that offer an unexpected dose of culture like nowhere else.

The city’s thriving creative community boasts 7 theatres and 5 art galleries all within just a few city blocks of the recently-developed Uptown area. Depending on the weekend, it’s likely you’ll be able to catch a theatre production at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts or the Springer Opera House, Georgia’s Historic State Theatre.

Fine art enthusiasts simply cannot miss the opportunity to visit the internationally-acclaimed Bo Bartlett Center located in Columbus State University’s Corn Center for the Arts. Opened as an educational and rotating gallery focused on the work of living artist and Columbus native Bo Bartlett, the center boasts an incredible collection of Bartlett’s work held there year-round as well as a second gallery of rotating exhibits from around the world. 

Another romantic cultural gem is The Columbus Museum, which houses work focused on American artists. Contained in the collection are pieces by famous Columbus artists like Amy Sherald, Alma Thomas, Anna Betbeze, and more. The Columbus Museum also offers a wide variety of unique classes—including a couples’ glass blowing class—that has become a hit as a romantic date night for local couples across the city. Check out their schedule here!

Military history fans will enjoy trips through the National Infantry Museum (rated the top free museum in the nation) and the National Civil War Naval Museum. Both museums feature interactive galleries, artifacts, and films.

Food

Columbus, Georgia's food scene has grown with the city’s exponential development and continues to be a driving force behind the rising popularity of the town as a Southern destination. 

For the top dining experience in the city, head to EPIC, only one of two four-diamond restaurants in Georgia located outside of Atlanta. Chef Jaime Keating and his team have received award after award for their imaginative spin on American cuisine that continues to push the envelope with every season. As an added bonus, the restaurant features art by Columbus native Teil Duncan Henley throughout its warm and intimate space. Keating also offers a unique dining experience called “The Chef’s Table” in which guests sit at a private table in the kitchen and witness Keating at work with his team throughout the evening. It’s truly an experience unlike any other.

If casual dining is more your speed, Columbus has a variety of restaurants to choose from. A local favorite is Mabella’s Italian Steakhouse which offers stellar cocktails, steaks, and desserts.

For seafood, head to Salt Cellar, a Mediterranean restaurant with a killer bar and the same pastry chef as Mabella’s. Known for its modern and streamlined atmosphere, Salt Cellar is the perfect stop for fancy, flavorful, accessible fare.

If Latin food is your jam, check out Vertigo Fusion Kitchen. The fusion-style restaurant opened in 2019 and wowed locals with its imaginative dishes, unique appetizers, and extensive specialty cocktail selections.

Other local stars include 11th & Bay, 7th Street Provisions, Stock Market, and Bare Roots that each, in their own way, provide delicious spins on the farm-to-table movement that’s swept the nation in recent years.

One last culinary destination to mention is Columbus’ only speakeasy, 18th Amendment. As it’s a speakeasy, we can’t tell you how to find it, but what we can suggest is to ask for directions to the only cigar shop on Broadway. We’re sure you’ll find your way from there.

Not sure where to stay or what else to do while you’re here? We put together an ideal itinerary designed specifically for a weekend in Columbus, Georgia. Below, you’ll find links and more local recommendations to assist you as your plan your romantic getaway for two!

Friday

  • Dinner: MaBella’s Italian Steakhouse
  • A Night of Arts & Culture: Attend a show at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Springer Opera House, CSU Riverside Theatre, a concert by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, or catch live music at The Loft.
  • After Hours: Music & drinks at The Loft (Insider Tip: order the Buffalo Chicken Dip!)

Saturday

  • Morning: Visit the Market on Broadway
  • Brunch: Bare Roots (Insider Tip: order the Eggs Benedict or the Avocado Toast!)
  • Morning Adventure: Hike Providence Canyon OR Rush South with a Whitewater Rafting Trip
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic from the market if you’re headed to Providence Canyon! Or, check out Country’s BBQ or Vertigo Fusion Kitchen—you can't go wrong with either one!
  • Afternoon: Visit the Bo Bartlett Center or The Columbus Museum to see the latest exhibits. Or, rent bikes and ride to the National Infantry Museum (Accessed via an 18 mile trail along the Riverwalk.)
  • Dinner: EPIC  (Reservations highly suggested! Check to see if the Chef’s Table experience is available during your stay.)
  • After Hours: 18th Amendment Speakeasy

Sunday

  • Breakfast: Visit My Boulange for a leisurely breakfast, or grab French pastries to go if you’re in a hurry!
  • Before You Go: Stretch your legs on the RiverWalk, or hit an art exhibit or two on your way out of town at one of our many local galleries.

Questions about what to do or where to stay? Call our Visitor’s Center at 800-999-1613 for more information.

In collaboration with: The Columbusite

Categories: Arts, Dining, Events, Itineraries, River Fun, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | An Accessible, Affordable, & Walkable Meeting Destination

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Saturday, May 6, 2023

An Accessible, Affordable, & Walkable Meeting Destination

Choosing a host city for your next meeting can be a challenge, especially when the destination has to check all of the boxes that best suit your group’s needs. 

☑ Choosing a location within reasonable travel distance

☑ Selecting lodging accommodations and meeting venues

☑ Finding dining and entertainment options, and more throughout the
    planning process


While all the above are important, there are three key factors to almost always consider when choosing a destination fit for your group — accessibility, affordability, and walkability. Columbus, GA boasts them all. Find out why these components make Georgia’s second largest city the ideal place to plan your meeting or event.

 

In the Center of Accessibility

Traveling to and from Columbus is easier than you think. Our West-Central Georgia location is a suitable driving distance from major cities in the Southeast — such as Atlanta, GA, Jacksonville, FL, Charlotte, NC, or Nashville, TN — making it an easy drive-to destination for meetings and conventions.

Now with three new nonstop flight routes at Columbus Airport (CSG), flying into your Columbus meeting is a breeze. The airport offers daily service to cities served by Delta Air Lines — and is ideally located just minutes from the heart of Uptown.

Columbus’ Groome Transportation offers shuttle services that make multiple round trips daily between the city and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), adding a convenient transportation option for your group to meet in Columbus, GA.

 

Affordability to Experience It All

Whether you're planning a large corporate event or an intimate reunion, Columbus is an affordable destination for meetings of all sizes — especially at the Columbus Georgia Convention & Trade Center. To help you stay within your budget, you can choose from three starter convention packages. And to ensure the package you like best suits your group, it can be customized based on your needs.

Additionally, having fun outside of your event won’t break the bank. Columbus has all sorts of cool group activities that are cost-effective. 

Looking to try local cuisine or enjoy your all-time favorite dishes for breakfast, lunch, or dinner? Your group is in luck. Columbus has 500+ affordable restaurants to satisfy your hunger.

 

Pedestrian-Friendly Uptown District? Yes, Please.

In Uptown Columbus, you’ll find that many hotels, venues, activities and dining options are a short walk away from each other. Attendees now have access to more than 500 rooms within walking distance of the Convention Center, over 24 downtown restaurants, shopping, a 22-mile riverfront linear park and a vibrant arts and entertainment district.

 

Want More for Your Meetings? Columbus Has You Covered!

If you’re ready for your group to enjoy the flair, culture, and fun of Georgia’s second largest city, we’re ready to assist you. Reach out to our team to start the planning process.

Categories: Meetings

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Fort Benning | Chattahoochee River Rafting – Adventure For Every Generation

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Tuesday, July 18, 2017

Chattahoochee River Rafting – Adventure For Every Generation

Did you know that off the banks of the Chattahoochee River in Columbus, GA, there’s one of the Top 12 Man-Made Adventures in the World?

That adventure is called Whitewater Columbus, GA, and it’s the longest urban whitewater rafting course in the world. It’s been described as “wild as the Colorado River, and warm as Costa Rica!” Intrigued yet?

Walk one block west of Broadway, the street that runs through Uptown Columbus and houses award-winning local restaurants, pubs, coffee shops, and so much more, and you’ll find yourself breath-taken by the Chattahoochee River flowing vivaciously down the Georgia/Alabama state line.

I say vivaciously, because in the afternoon, the dam-controlled release that has been built into the river to make this whitewater adventure possible is sending rapids of water with rafts of families and friends southbound down the current.

All those aboard a raft or kayak earlier in the day when the water was a bit calmer, are standing ashore drying off in the sun and anxiously awaiting another go-round as they watch adventure seekers make their way down.

Overhead, children and parents alike are lined up in gear waiting their turn to zip-line from the Georgia shore across the river to Alabama. And when you’ve conquered the Blue Heron Aerial Course on the Alabama side, get ready to zip back across the Chattahoochee River for your return trip to Georgia!

Whitewater Columbus sits right on the edge of Uptown facing the river and is the hub for everyone to check-in and get whatever supplies or gear you’ll need for your adventure. Beyond rafting the Chattahoochee or zip-lining across it, they offer kayaking, SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) and the option to pretend the Chattahoochee is a lazy river for you to just float down. So, Grandpa and the kids can go take the “Classic” route early in the day, while Dad gears up for the late afternoon rapids, better known as the “Challenge.”  And mom can float her way down, while Grandma hangs out on the RiverWalk cheering on the family - now you see why Whitewater Columbus is an adventure your entire family will love!

Regardless of your whitewater thrill level or the number of people in your group, a certified guide (who may or may not be showing off by surfing the rapids) will accompany every group to ensure a great time and safe travels for all.

And if I still haven’t sold you on some of the most exciting whitewater rafting in the U.S. right here in Columbus, GA, then maybe these adventurers will: Reviews on Whitewater or Reviews on the RiverWalk.

After you’ve taken a ride on the Chattahoochee, be prepared to have a growling stomach – all the excitement really takes it out of you! Luckily, one block’s walk and your back in the heart of Uptown for a delicious meal at one of our many restaurants, enjoying the night life and all that Columbus has to offer!

Categories: Family-friendly, Outdoors, River Fun, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | Columbus, Georgia: A Foodie’s Dream Destination

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Tuesday, October 29, 2024

Columbus, Georgia: A Foodie’s Dream Destination

Columbus, Georgia: A Foodie’s Dream Destination
If you're a passionate foodie looking for your next culinary adventure, Columbus, Georgia, should be on your radar. Known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene, this Southern city has made a name for itself as a must-visit destination for anyone who loves great food.
From local comfort food to global flavors, Columbus offers a diverse dining landscape that will give your taste buds the opportunity to #GoAllOut! Need some suggestions? Here’s why Columbus is the perfect spot for food lovers!

 

Southern Comfort: A Taste of Tradition
You can’t visit Columbus without indulging in some classic Southern fare. The city is home to a variety of local eateries where comfort food reigns supreme. Whether you're in the mood for slow-cooked BBQ, crispy fried chicken, or buttery biscuits and gravy, you’ll find plenty of options that showcase the best of Southern hospitality and flavor. These family-owned restaurants and hidden gems are perfect for getting a true taste of Georgia's culinary heritage.
Staff picks:

Minnie’s Uptown Restaurant

Ezell’s Catfish

The Flying Biscuit

Millhouse Kitchen & Bar

Denim & Oak Restaurant

Country Life Food Store (Vegetarian)

Country’s BBQ

Charred Oak Kitchen

Ruth Ann's Restaurant

 

Global Flavors: A World of Cuisine
Columbus is not just about Southern staples; it’s also a melting pot of international cuisine. For those craving something beyond traditional Southern cooking, the city offers an impressive array of global fare. From fresh sushi rolls to hearty Italian pastas, you can take a trip around the world without ever leaving the city limits. With authentic flavors from Asia, Europe, Latin America, and more, Columbus’ global food scene is vibrant and growing, making it an exciting place for adventurous eaters.

Staff picks:

Dishoom Bistro

Koreana

Xin Kee BBQ (Inside Asian Supermarket)

Chili Thai

Uptown Vietnam Cuisine

It’s Tamale Time!

Tuesday’s Tacos

El Primo Taqueria

Wasabi Sushi

Taste of India

 

Sweet Tooth Heaven: Dessert Delights
No food adventure is complete without something sweet, and Columbus doesn’t disappoint. From old-fashioned ice cream parlors to gourmet bakeries, the city is full of delightful dessert spots. Whether you're craving a hand-dipped cone, a slice of decadent cake, or some artisanal chocolates, you’ll find it all here. These sweet spots are the perfect way to cap off a delicious meal, and they offer a little something for every dessert lover.
Staff picks:

Mabella Italian Steakhouse/Salt Cellar/The Loft/Mix Market (cheesecake!)

Freeze Frame Frozen Yogurt

Cinnaholic

Parlour Doughnuts

Whit’s Custard

Paleteria Los Reyes

How Sweet it Is Cake Studio

My Boulange

Columbus Corner Bakery

Uptown Sweets & Treats

Unique Food Experiences
Columbus isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a place to experience food. The city offers a variety of food tours that allow visitors to sample the best local flavors while learning about the history and culture behind them. For those interested in the farm-to-table movement, many local restaurants feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients, giving diners a true taste of the region. Plus, seasonal food festivals and farmers markets give visitors even more opportunities to discover the culinary heart of the city.
Staff picks:

EPIC

The Animal Farm’s Themed Dinners

Fall/Spring Uptown Food Truck Festivals

Columbus Georgia Restaurant Week (July!)

Market Days on Broadway-Saturdays, April-November. 


Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or just a day trip, Columbus, Georgia, should be on your travel list if you're a food lover. With its mix of Southern charm, diverse culinary options, and welcoming dining scene, the city offers something for every palate. Come hungry, explore the flavors, and leave with unforgettable food memories.
Ready to taste what Columbus has to offer? Pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to savor the best food in the South.

Categories: Dining

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Fort Benning | Columbus, Georgia is a Camera Ready Community. What does that mean?

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Columbus, Georgia is a Camera Ready Community. What does that mean?

Georgia’s Camera Ready program connects film and TV productions with skilled county liaisons throughout the state to provide local expertise and support. The Georgia Governor’s office launched the Camera Ready Communities program in 2010 to train and certify Georgia counties to work effectively with production companies and provide local, one-on-one assistance in every aspect of production, from location scouting and film permits to traffic control, catering and lodging, and more. The Georgia Film Office actively fields inquiries and assists in making those points of contact and relationships work between the industry and the communities.

Columbus, one of the first Camera Ready Communities in 2010, realized the importance and economic impact film and television could bring to the city and surrounding area. The certification was presented to Columbus by Governor Nathan Deal in 2010 as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to bolster Georgia’s growing film and television industry. With this certification, VisitColumbusGA and its Film Office  acts as the Camera Ready liaison, meaning it is a primary point of contact when production crews, film scouts, and the Georgia Film Office are considering locations, venues, and destinations for filming.

Columbus Film Commissioner Joel Slocumb works closely to provide and facilitate the benefits a Camera Ready Community offers to productions. Some of those benefits include: access to the Georgia Film & TV Sourcebook, the Help Wanted Hotline, information on Georgia Film and TV Facts, a list of available Locations, assistance with Film Permits, and a place to share Film and TV Casting/Crew Jobs, etc.

Questions? Contact the Columbus Film Commissioner, Joel Slocumb at jslocumb@visitcolumbusga.com or visit the Film Office website at www.filmcolumbusga.com. For more on VisitColumbusGA call (706) 322.1613 (800) 999.1613 or visit www.visitcolumbusga.com. 

To learn more about Georgia’s Camera Ready Community Program, please visit www.georgia.org/cameraready.

Categories: Film

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Fort Benning | Top Three Places to Find Craft Beer in Columbus, Georgia

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Saturday, October 1, 2022

Top Three Places to Find Craft Beer in Columbus, Georgia

There's nothing like a good cold brew on a hot day - especially on vacation! Make plans to #VisitColumbusGA and come #GoAllOut with your crew in this adventurous, delicious, and dog-friendly city. 

Need some local tips for where to find the best brews? Here are our top three places to find craft beer in Columbus, Georgia! Travel safely.

 

Maltitude

Maltitude is a Craft Beer Bottle Shop & Tasting Room in Columbus, GA. Their offerings include a tasting room with 20 crowler taps, and they rotate favorites in and out. In addition to serving pints, the shop also boasts a large packaged beer section. Visit like a local and get a pint while you shop!


Don't miss their other local small businesses. The Maltitudes own several local restaurants including Jarfly Midtown, Nōnic Beer Bar & Ktichen and a new second bar location inside of Banks Food Hall. Bonus tip: Each location is dog-friendly, so pack up your pup and plan to arrive early to get an outside table. 

 

Chattabrewchee Southern Brewhouse

#VisitColumbusGA and grab a beer at America’s only active-duty female-veteran owned brewery! Chattabrewchee hosts a rotation of events and activities for guests to enjoy. Depending on the time of year, you could land yourself in the middle of a beer & yoga class, a trivia night, a food truck day, etc. It's all in good fun, and the beer list is AMAZING.

 

The Cannon Brew Pub

This beloved local staple combines unique old-world charm with by signature made on-site brews, classic American cuisine, and brick-fired oven pizzas. Sidewalk cafe seating is also available and dog-friendly! We love their beer flights. It's a perfect way to sample their most popular flavors with your crew. Find a brew you love? Get a Growler to-go!

 

Looking for some other things to do while you're here? Download our digital Visitors Guide! It's packed FULL of amazing things to do in Columbus. 

If you're bringing your pup, check out this list of dog-friendly adventures in the area. We also have this full roundup of outdoor activities in the area!

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Fort Benning | “Do the Right Things, the Right Ways, with the Right People”

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

“Do the Right Things, the Right Ways, with the Right People”

As VisitColumbusGA prepares to bid farewell to our leader of 29 years, Peter Bowden, 23 of those years as CEO, we’d like to take time to reflect on his incredible time of service to the hospitality industry in Columbus, Georgia. 

 

In Bowden’s tenure at VisitColumbusGA, the organization responsible for promoting Columbus as a tourism destination, the city has hosted more than 30 million visitors creating an economic impact of $6.5 billion dollars. Originally hired as VisitColumbusGA’s Olympic Coordinator, he was re-assigned as Deputy Director shortly afterward and oversaw numerous marketing and sales activities until he was appointed President/CEO in May 2003. In this role, he oversees the destination marketing efforts, including promoting conventions, trade shows, and tourism. 

 

 

Bowden’s career has spanned an immense period of growth and economic development for the city. Over the past several months, industry leaders have reached out to congratulate Bowden and  share their thoughts about his remarkable servant leadership, his undeniable impact across the tourism industry, and his successful career at VisitColumbusGA.

 

Among the first to speak at the celebration of Bowden’s legacy was Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. “Service is the rent we pay for the space we occupy here on this earth,” said Bishop. “You have paid your rent, and have paid it well. Retirement will give you opportunity to embark on new and exciting adventures, but I know you will continue to serve others because of your servant’s heart. During your time at VisitColumbusGA, you have helped to improve the quality of life for people in Columbus, and have made an immense impact on the economic vitality of the entire Chattahoochee Valley region.” 

 

Bishop went on to discuss Bowden’s excellent leadership during the most challenging period of his career, “Your work to help keep Columbus and the region afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic required great skill and intellect,” Bishop said. “During your career, you demanded excellence of yourself and others, and you are leaving VisitColumbusGA in good hands because of your leadership.”

 

Bowden was also honored with remarks by Mark Jaronski, a former marketing executive at Disney who is now Chief Marketing Officer of Explore Georgia, the state’s tourism office. “I have been moved by Peter’s consistent leadership, his actions, and most importantly, the values he has demonstrated through his long career in this role. There is no doubt he has helped transform Columbus into a vibrant, multi-faceted destination with universal appeal with significant economic growth and high quality of life.”

 

Jaronski mentioned his first trip to Columbus, where he was personally escorted around town by Bowden and shown all of the city’s attractions and largest assets. “Peter showed me every inch of this destination. I saw the culture, the history, and all of the outdoor experiences, but none of it could rival his enthusiasm for showing off his hometown.” 

 

Jaronski said his initial impression of Bowden made a lasting impact on him. "No matter how much money a place spends on attractions, it is the people who deliver the brand promise. Peter has been a relentless champion for Columbus, and a leader in every aspect in Georgia’s tourism industry. When talking with leaders in our industry, there is absolutely no doubt that Peter has brought immeasurable value for this destination and this city.”

 

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp also took time to celebrate Bowden’s contribution to the tourism industry. “In his 29 years at VisitColumbusGA, Peter has played a prominent role in the transformation into a destination on so many traveler’s must see list,”Governor Kemp wrote. “Tourism continues to grow in importance for so many communities around our state. In 2023, Georgia welcomed 171 million visitors who spent $43.6 billion dollars while they were here. That success would not be possible without the diligent efforts of Peter Bowden and many others working around the state to deliver memorable experiences for visitors and telling the stories of communities in this state worth seeing. Peter, please accept my deepest thanks for all you have done to make tourism in Columbus and the state of Georgia a success.”

 

Bowden has been a highlight in the life of his colleague and friend Jay Markwalter, Statewide Tourism Director for the Georgia Department of Economic Development. “For most of us in the industry, it’s hard to remember when exactly we met Peter,” said Markwalter. “No one even really uses his last name, because for many of us, it’s always just been ‘Peter.’ When I started in the industry, Peter was so highly-regarded as a leader that I kept hearing his name over and over. ‘What does Peter think?’ or ‘Where does Peter stand on this issue?” Or “What’s going on with Peter and his team?” When I got to know him, I certainly understood why there was just Peter. Across the industry, everyone knows that in Columbus tourism, in Georgia tourism, in Southeast tourism, it’s just Peter. He has kept the visitor economy at the economic development table. Period. And for that, our industry cannot thank him enough.”

 

Markwalter continued, “Peter and his team’s passion for this community is unparalleled,” In 2021, I got to host an event for the Georgia Association of Convention & Visitor’s Bureau with Peter and his team. Putting on that event was truly one of the best produced events our state-wide industry has ever seen. It was off-the-charts on the surveys of everyone’s experience here.”

 

“Peter is also a steward beyond belief of the visitor tax dollar,” offered Markwalter. “He is strategic in all that he does, every goal he sets with his team, and the purpose of everything he and his team do is to be good steward of the guest dollar. He is one of those leaders that strives to the right things, the right ways, with the right people. That is Peter Bowden to me.”

 

On February 4th, Bowden was honored with a Lifetime Member Award by the Georgia Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus. During his career, Bowden has won countless tourism awards from leading organizations across the Southeast, and is a two-time recipient of Georgia Trend’s 100 Most Influential Georgians Award. 

 

Bowden, however, would tell you the most important and rewarding thing about his career has been his relationship with his staff. “I’ve got some great people that I work with and I’ve been fortunate enough to lead,” said Bowden in a recent interview. “After the COVID-19 pandemic, I wanted to ensure my team was set and equipped for the future, and that the financial security of our organization had plenty of time to rebound post-pandemic before I retired. My team is an exceptional group of leaders, and the market has bounced back much, much quicker than any of us projected. So, having achieved both those goals, I feel it is the right time to step back and let new leadership take this organization to the next level.” 

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Fort Benning | Exploring the Arts in Columbus, Georgia:  #GoAllOut with an Artistic Getaway

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Tuesday, October 29, 2024

Exploring the Arts in Columbus, Georgia:  #GoAllOut with an Artistic Getaway

Exploring the Arts in Columbus, Georgia:  #GoAllOut with an Artistic Getaway
Columbus, Georgia, is a vibrant destination for art lovers. From contemporary galleries to historic theaters, the city is brimming with artistic treasures waiting to be explored. Whether you're a fan of visual arts, live performances, or cultural history, Columbus offers a rich and diverse arts scene to #GoAllOut!
Here are some must-see stops for anyone looking to experience the best cultural attractions of this artsy Southern getaway destination!


The Columbus Museum COMU: A Blend of Art and History
Start your artistic adventure at The Columbus Museum COMU, one of the largest museums in the Southeast. Here, you’ll find an impressive collection of American art, ranging from paintings and sculptures to decorative arts. The museum also focuses on the regional history of the Chattahoochee River Valley, blending art and history to provide a unique perspective on the area’s cultural development. With rotating exhibits and educational programs, there’s always something new to discover.

 


RiverCenter for the Performing Arts: World-Class Performances
For live performances, the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts is located in the heart of Columbus’ Uptown area. This state-of-the-art facility hosts a variety of shows, including Broadway productions, classical music concerts, ballet performances, and more. Whether you’re catching a performance by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, the second oldest symphony in the nation,  or enjoying a Broadway musical, the RiverCenter promises an unforgettable night of world-class entertainment.

 


The Springer Opera House: A Historic Landmark
No arts tour of Columbus would be complete without a visit to the historic Springer Opera House. Known as the State Theatre of Georgia, this beautifully restored venue has been showcasing performances since 1871. The Springer offers a mix of high-caliber plays, musicals, and new works, all set within a beautifully preserved 19th-century building. Whether you're seeing a modern production or a timeless classic, the Springer’s charm and atmosphere will transport you back in time.

 


Columbus State University's Art Galleries: Contemporary Creations
For a more contemporary art experience, head to the Columbus State University (CSU) Art Galleries. CSU’s galleries feature works by local and regional artists, as well as student exhibitions that showcase the next generation of talent. The Corn Center for the Visual Arts is a particular highlight, offering rotating exhibits that range from painting and photography to cutting-edge multimedia installations.. Local tip: Don’t miss The Bo Bartlett Center, located on the second floor of the Corn Center! This transformational space houses the work of famous American Realism painter and Columbus native Bo Bartlett. In addition to a robust permanent collection, the Bartlett Center hosts traveling exhibitions each year. Past examples include annual installments of the South Arts Southern Prize and State Fellows for Visual Arts Exhibition, as well as The 2024 Bennett Prize Exhibition.

 


Uptown Concert Series: Music Under the Stars
If live music is your thing, don't miss the Uptown Concert Series. Held in the heart of downtown Columbus, this free outdoor concert series runs throughout the warmer months and offers a wide range of musical genres, from jazz and blues to rock and country. It’s the perfect way to spend an evening soaking in the local music scene, all while enjoying the lively atmosphere of Uptown Columbus. Check the Event Calendar for concert dates as this series runs seasonally.

 


Carson McCullers Center: A Literary Stop on the International Scene
For literary enthusiasts, a visit to the Carson McCullers Center for Writers and Musicians is a must while exploring the arts in Columbus. Located in the childhood home of renowned Southern author Carson McCullers, the Center is dedicated to fostering the arts through residencies, workshops, and events. McCullers, famous for works like The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter and The Member of the Wedding, drew much of her inspiration from her Georgia roots. The Center not only preserves her legacy but also serves as a creative hub where writers and musicians can collaborate and develop their craft. A stop here offers a deep dive into the literary culture of Columbus and honors one of the city's most celebrated figures.


Plan Your Artistic Getaway
Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or simply looking for a creative escape, Columbus, Georgia, has something to inspire everyone. From its historical venues to contemporary galleries and live performances, the city’s arts scene is both diverse and dynamic. Come and experience the creativity that makes Columbus a Southern cultural hub!

Categories: Arts, Events, Family-friendly, Music, Nightlife, Outdoors, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | Folk Art Junction: 5 Reasons to #GoAllOut in this Kaleidoscope of Creativity in Columbus, GA

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Friday, December 6, 2024

Folk Art Junction: 5 Reasons to #GoAllOut in this Kaleidoscope of Creativity in Columbus, GA

Written by Carrie Beth Wallace
Images courtesy of Columbus Collective Museums

 

If you’re the type to seek out the quirks and character of a city, Folk Art Junction is your spot to #GoAllOut in Columbus, Georgia! Tucked away inside of Columbus Collective Museums on Hamilton Road, this colorful haven is where imagination runs wild and the ordinary becomes extraordinary. Here, you’ll find bold paintings, quirky sculptures, and one-of-a-kind creations that blend storytelling with a heavy dose of Southern flair.

This is not your typical white-wall gallery—Folk Art Junction hums with personality, celebrating the raw, unfiltered energy of local and regional artists. This isn’t just a stop; it’s an experience that will leave you inspired and awestruck by the sheer kaleidoscope of creativity that makes Columbus, Georgia a place we’re proud to call home.

Sound like something you’d like? Here are our top 5 reasons to visit Folk Art Junction!

1) The Owner, His Family, and the Hospitality You’ll Receive

Columbus Collective Museums, home of Folk Art Junction, was founded by Allen M. Woodall, Jr. In 1987, Woodall purchased two vintage lunchboxes at an antique show in Atlanta, and the rest is history!

Fast forward nearly 40 years, and Woodall’s collection has developed into the Columbus Collective Museums. The site is still owned and operated by Woodall and several members of his family – including some of his grandchildren. In fact, the curator of Folk Art Junction is Columbus artist Kaitlynn Etheridge, Woodall’s granddaughter.

Known as “Grandpae” to those he loves, Woodall’s passion for his collection and hometown shines from the moment you meet him. Upon entry to the Columbus Collective Museums, it’s not uncommon for at least one member of the family to greet you with open arms. It’s clear Woodall’s love of history and good old fashioned Southern hospitality has been passed down to his family. Trust us. You may enter as a visitor, but you’ll leave as family!


2) Folk Art Junction has TONS of Original Art at Accessible Prices.

 

Folk Art Junction houses a large collection of original work made by artists from across the Chattahoochee Valley. Inside the eclectic gallery space, you’ll find pieces of all sizes, mediums, and price ranges. This is an intentional effort, as accessibility to lots of different kinds of art is important to Folk Art Junction’s curator Kaitlynn Etheridge. She works tirelessly to ensure the space is full of art at all times, and that the collection rotates in and out depending on what’s available from each of the numerous artists in the gallery. This ensures a constant variety in sizes, prices, and mediums for visitors to see and shop.


3) The Artists

One of our favorite things about Folk Art Junction is their eclectic & impressive roster of artists. Kaitlynn Etheridge curates the gallery and works with the following artists year-round.

Ned Berry
Jarrod Turner
Kaitlynn Etheridge
Edwin Roberts
Jacqueline Grant Brown
Ken Newsome
and more!

Artists deliver work and exchange pieces from within the Folk Art Junction often, so you never know which artist you’ll run into while you’re there! When we visited, ceramic artist Ned Berry was restocking his wall of sculptures and jewelry and made time to have a visit with us. That same day, curator Kaitlynn Etheridge was restocking some of her paintings and rearranging the space. Walking into Folk Art Junction an adventure every time!

4) Their Mission to Make Folk Art Accessible to All.

“We’re working hard to bring folk art to the forefront of Columbus, Georgia and our region,” said Kaitlynn Etheridge. “Folk Art Junction is really helping to make that happen, and it’s very exciting to see.” Etheridge is passionate about artists and their work, and it shows. Though her grandfather founded Columbus Collective Museums, Folk Art Junction is a space she’s been encouraged to develop and curate herself. Now, after nearly a year, Folk Art Junction has become a welcoming gallery for artists of all ages and experience levels. It’s also a perfect place to encounter top folk art whether you’re an experienced buyer or it’s your first time seeing folk art in person.

Etheridge is both a gracious and knowledgable guide to the space. As an artist herself, Etheridge shows a passion for increasing public access to folk art, and makes the time to stop and answer questions about artists and their work. This dedication and sharing of the genre as a whole is what makes Folk Art Junction a perfect place for visitors and locals to experience folk art of all kinds from across the Chattahoochee Valley. (Have we mentioned the prices are great, too?!)

 

5) Getting to Experience the Rest of Columbus Collective Museums.

Folk Art Junction sits inside of Columbus Collective Museums. The property, located at the intersection of River Rd. and Hamilton Rd encompasses 8 world-class museums housed in a former tile and marble company warehouse and showroom, originally built in 1946. The museums focus on highlighting local legends, parts of local history,  a vast collection of artifacts ranging in everything from vintage cars to spools of thread, and everything in-between.
Columbus Collective Museums has been compared to House on the Rock in Wisconsin and appeared in Smithsonian Magazine for being home to the world’s largest Lunchbox Museum.


This ever-growing attraction is an essential must-do for visitors to the region. Its unique, fun, and educational every time you go, because it’s never the same twice. Artifacts are always changing, and Grandpae is always collecting, so make sure to stop by often and #GoAllOut!


Columbus Collective Museums
3218 Hamilton Rd.Columbus, Georgia 31904
https://www.columbuscollectivemuseums.com/


This article was originally published by our partners at The Columbusite and has been shared with permission.

Categories: Family-friendly, History, Shopping

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Fort Benning | Frank’s Faves (Dog Adventures in Columbus, GA)

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Thursday, August 27, 2020

Frank’s Faves (Dog Adventures in Columbus, GA)

Meet Frank. Frank luvs Columbus, GA. Frank luvs furry friends. Frank wants YOU to take YOUR furry friend to his five favorite furry-friendly places in town. His Hooman put his Frank's Faves here for you, so here's the plan: Read Hooman's blog thing below. Load up furry friend. Explore Frank's Faves. Don't forget treats and your mask! 

 

ONE: Columbus RiverWalk

 

Take your furry friend for an adventure on the Chattahoochee Riverwalk. Skirt the cityscape, examine historic monuments and markers, and take in the wild beauty of the rolling river and native wildlife. This 15-mile linear park spans the riverfront from the Lake Oliver city marina south to the National Infantry Museum. 

 

*Local tip! Free parking is available at the following locations:

RiverCenter Garage (919 Broadway)

Front Avenue Garage (1028 Front Avenue)

Rotary Park (1300 Victory Drive, near the National Civil War Naval Museum.)


TWO: Fetch Park 

 

Columbus is home to a new dog park, and it's AMAZING for Hoomans too! Grab your furry friend (or two!) and head there for a day of off-leash fun. Read more about it here.

 

*Local tip! There's a BAR, and you don't have to have a dog to get in. 

 

THREE: Dragonfly Trail

 

Columbus’ Dragonfly Trail is a multi-use bike and pedestrian trail that weaves its way through the city. The 11-mile trail follows former rail lines that wind through Columbus where you can see a different side of the city, with rest stops along the way. While you’ll see cyclists, it’s very common to see furry friends enjoying the trail with their owners as well. 

 

There are several places along the trail which are great locations to use as your starting point. Not sure where to begin? Check out this awesome map!


 

*Local tip! Here are the best parking locations for this trail: 

Fall Line Trace Park & Rides:

7324 Psalmond Rd

3358 Manchester Expressway

 

RiverWalk Park & Rides:

Oxbow Meadows: 3535 S Lumpkin Rd

Uptown Columbus: 1000 Bay Ave

Lake Oliver Marina: 5501 River Rd

 

Follow Me Trail Park & Rides:

2050 Torch Hill Rd

4034 Cusseta Rd

 

MLK Trail Park & Ride:

2951 MLK Jr Blvd


FOUR: Providence Canyon 

8930 Canyon Rd, Lumpkin GA 31815

 

If you’re looking for a bigger adventure, consider a day at Providence Canyon State Park. Just a quick drive from Columbus, “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon” makes the perfect day trip to take with a furry friend. 

 

The park is notably quiet and features some of the most beautiful scenery in the region. With over 1,000 acres, Providence Canyon offers plenty to explore whether you’re on four legs or two. 

 

*Local tip! Dogs are allowed on all trails in the park, but they must remain on a 6-foot leash at all times. 


 

 

FIVE: Columbus Historic District

 

Experience the old, and the new, as you stroll along brick-laden streets in the Columbus Historic District. Take your furry friend for a stroll to see the homes of John Pemberton, the inventor of the world's most famous soda, and Ma Rainey, the "Mother of the Blues", plus other features of local and national prominence. 

 

*Local tip! Do some more research here before you go! Or, take a tour. Just don’t forget your Coke! 

 

 

Looking for current travel information about Columbus, GA? Click here!


 

Categories: Family-friendly, Outdoors, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | #GoAllOut for Breakfast with the Best Biscuits in Columbus, GA

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Friday, February 28, 2025

#GoAllOut for Breakfast with the Best Biscuits in Columbus, GA

If there's one thing we take seriously in Columbus, GA, it's our Southern comfort food—especially biscuits. Whether you like them flaky and buttery, topped with fried chicken, or smothered in gravy, Columbus has plenty of biscuit delights to satisfy your cravings. Check out these must-try biscuit dishes from some of our favorite local spots and get ready to #GoAllOut!

 

The Flying Biscuit

Start your biscuit adventure at The Flying Biscuit, where they take Southern staples to the next level. Their Freebird is a can't-miss masterpiece— a split biscuit topped with crispy buttermilk chicken tenders, cheesy scrambled eggs, and homemade honey butter. Pair it with their famous dreamy, creamy grits for the ultimate breakfast indulgence.

 

Hudson’s on Main

Looking for variety? Hudson’s on Main has you covered with their Biscuit Board— a spread of perfectly baked biscuits served with an assortment of jams, jellies, and spreads. It's a great way to sample a little bit of everything and find your perfect flavor pairing.

 

Parker’s Pantry

Parker’s Pantry is known for seasonal treats, and their Seasonal Biscuits are always worth checking out. From a classic Pimento Cheese Biscuit to the savory Sausage & Cheese Biscuit and the ever-popular Ham & Cheese Biscuit, there's a lot of goodness to explore. Stop by and try them all!

 

Nonic (Weekend Brunch)

For those who love a little heat, Nonic’s Nashville Hot Southern Chicken Biscuit is a must-try. A southern-fried chicken thigh gets a spicy Nashville hot rub treatment and is served over a fresh biscuit with seasoned potatoes on the side. This dish brings the perfect balance of spice, crunch, and buttery goodness.

The Animal Farm (Weekend Brunch)

Brunch lovers, rejoice! The Animal Farm’s Buttermilk Chicken Biscuit with Gravy is a true Southern classic. Buttery, flaky biscuits meet crispy fried chicken, all topped with a rich, savory gravy that will have you planning your next visit before you’ve even finished your meal.

 

Plucked Up Chicken & Biscuits

At Plucked Up Chicken & Biscuits, they don’t hold back. The Chicken Coop is an open-faced biscuit piled high with fried or grilled chopped chicken, sausage gravy, cheddar cheese, bacon, and two over-easy eggs. It's hearty, flavorful, and downright delicious—perfect for fueling your Columbus adventures.

No matter what kind of biscuit experience you're looking for, Columbus, GA has a spot for you. Grab a fork (or just use your hands!) and get ready to enjoy some of the best biscuits in the South. Where will you start your biscuit tour? #GoAllOut!

Categories: Dining

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Fort Benning | #GoAllOut in Columbus, Georgia!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

#GoAllOut in Columbus, Georgia!

Under the radar and over the top, Columbus, Georgia blends a vibrant artsy energy with unique local history and a thriving food scene. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors, listen to local bands, see a musical (or two!), and enjoy some finely-crafted cocktails. Recently named one of the Best Trips of the Year by Explore Georgia, we’ve got world-class experiences without the world-class ego. (You can thank us later.)

Ready to plan your trip? Here's a list of our top tips for an unforgettable stay. 

For ALL OUT FUN, pay a visit to any of these outstanding arts & entertainment attractions. 

The Bo Bartlett Center The Bo Bartlett Center is an interactive gallery space housed on the River Park campus of Columbus State University in Uptown Columbus, GA. The red brick, former textile warehouse holds a vast collection of work by famous artist and Columbus native, Bo Bartlett. At any given time, visitors can expect to see large scale exhibitions showcasing Bartlett paintings as well the work of artists from across the Southeast and beyond. Past exhibtions include the SouthArts Annual Southern Prize and State Fellows Exhibitions, The Bennett Prize Exhibition, Works from the Black Art in America Collection and various featured pieces by Amy Sherald, Najee Dorsey, Kate Capshaw, Juan Logan, Alma Thomas, and more! 


RiverCenter for the Performing Arts Located in the heart of historic Uptown Columbus, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts is the centerpiece of the city’s popular arts and Entertainment District. A presenting theatre, RiverCenter boasts robust seasons of Broadway National Tours, tour launches, educational programming, solo acts, concerts, etc. Past featured Broadway productions have included Spamalot, Jesus Christ Superstar, Annie, Harispray!, and My Fair Lady. They also have hosted concerts by Dionne Warwick, St. Martin of the Fields, Dame Kiri TeKanawa, and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. 


Springer Opera House  When the Springer opened in 1871, it was the grandest theatre between New York and New Orleans, so it served as a venue where shows traveling from the Big Apple to the Big Easy could perform and recoup some of their travel expense. As a result, such noteworthy performers as Edwin Booth, Buffalo Bill, John Phillip Sousa, Ma Rainey, Ethel Barrymore, Tom Thumb, Burt Reynolds, Oscar Wilde, Garrison Keillor, Hal Holbrook, Chet Atkins and W.C. Fields have trod the Springer boards. Today, visitors can expect to see dynamic productions of shows such as White Christmas, The Bodyguard, The Play that Went Wrong, Steel Magnolias, Chicago, and more. Have some time before a show? Book a tour of the historic theatre before you take your seats! 

 


National Infantry Museum  The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center, voted USA Today’s Best Free Museum and one of CNN Travel’s 12 best military museums in the world, pays homage to American Soldiers in a world-class museum just outside the gates of Fort Benning. It is the only major museum in the country dedicated to the American Infantryman, and preserves one of the greatest collections of military artifacts. Its message – that freedom is not free – has been delivered to nearly three million visitors since its opening in June 2009.

Port Columbus Come aboard and get the little known Navy view of the Civil War. The 40,000 ft facility houses the largest surviving Confederate warship, the CSS Jackson, as well as the wreckage of the CSS Chattahoochee. Other exhibits include a recreation of the USS Hartford with its berth deck, wardroom and captain’s cabin, a full-scale replica of the USS Monitor’s famous turret and an exterior/interior view of the CSS Albermarle. The museum hosts a range of events throughout the year including living history, museum theatre, tours, cannon firings, weapons demonstrations, local history projects and more.


Lunchbox Museum There are thousands of museums and galleries around the world, so to be recognized in any fashion is indeed quite an honor.  A Columbus-based Lunchbox Museum, was named by ListVerse.com as “One of the 10 Most Unique Museums in the World.”  Only three museums in the US were highlighted on this list, with all of the others dotted across the globe.


*Bonus: Check out The Columbus Museum: On Tour! Columbus is home to the second largest museum in the state of Georgia, and it's currently undergoing a massive renovation. Their programming and exhibits, however, are still happening thanks to multiple collaborations with local organizations around the city. Not only does this allow visitors and locals to continue viewing the collection, it offers a unique opportunity for everyone to engage with many other places at the same time. 

 

Feeling like you want some ALL OUT YUM?! One of the best parts of exploring Columbus is the food! Our local chefs are insistent about quality, innovation, and flavor. (We're home to one of only two 4 Diamond restaurants outside of Atlanta!) So, pack your appetite and tackle this “must eat” list of our favorite Columbus restaurants that are sure to keep you coming back for more!

Dinglewood Pharmacy - Established in 1918, Dinglewood Pharmacy has served Columbus families faithfully since that time. The last pharmacy with its original soda fountain, it is the oldest eating establishment in town and is home to the World-Famous Scrambled Hot Dog!


Charred Oak Kitchen and Bar - Nestled in Old Town Columbus, this contemporary and classic takes on your favorite southern cuisine also boasts an impressive list of exclusive bourbons and cocktails. We hear the shrimp & grits are excellent and that you should never skip dessert!

EPIC - Columbus is home to one of only two 4 Diamond Award restaurants outside of Atlanta in the state. EPIC is tucked away right on the Chattahoochee River in vibrant Uptown Columbus. Celebrating a special occasion? Book a seat at The Chef’s Table where Chef Jamie Keating and his team will serve an exclusive multi-course dinner right in the kitchen. 

Eighteen 85 Bar & Kitchen at Hotel Indigo - Perched on the top floor of the Hotel Indigo Columbus at Riverfront Place, Eighteen85 Rooftop Bar & Kitchen by Hotel Indigo features locally-inspired crafted cocktails and small plates set against a remarkable view of the Chattahoochee River.

Country’s BBQ - Country's offers barbecue pork, chicken, ribs, beef smoked over a fire of oak and hickory wood. It also has a full menu of southern cooking including fried chicken, vegetables, and homemade pies. Their three locations around town ensure you’re always only just a short drive from some GREAT local ‘cue! 


For more ideas on where to eat in Columbus, check out The Columbusite’s Good Food Guide for where to go & what to order. 

If you’re ready for some ALL OUT ADVENTURE, Columbus is an ideal place to vacation. With the longest urban whitewater course in the world, Columbus has everything you need for an amazing weekend of rafting, kayaking and enjoying the water in a whole new way. Check out the myriad of options for river fun like zip lining, biking, strolling along the RiverWalk and other great outdoor adventures…

The RiverWalk - The RiverWalk is an outdoor 15-mile linear park that hugs the banks of the Chattahoochee River. Walk, bike, rollerblade, or run… the choice is up to you! Need some gear? Visit Ride on Bikes or Big Dog Running Company in Uptown. 

Whitewater Express - Come raft with this crew on the longest urban whitewater course in the world! Columbus’ Chattahoochee River course has been described to be “wild as Colorado and as warm as Costa Rica.” When you’re done with your rafting trip, why not try a ropes course or get a ticket to zip line across state lines? This is a place where you can really #GoAllOut!

Providence Canyon - Love to hike? Plan a day trip to “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon” at Providence Canyon State Park. Visitors are amazed at the breathtaking colors present in the canyon, and the well-maintained trails that weave through it all. If you go, don’t miss the chance to also visit Pasaquan, a world famous folk art site renovated by the Kohler Foundation. 


Dragonfly Trail - The Dragonfly Trails are Columbus’ network of multipurpose trails that promote recreation, transportation, & connectivity. With 32-miles of interconnected trails, the Dragonfly Trail is the perfect place to explore the sights and sounds of Columbus, Georgia on two wheels. Click here to view a map!

SUP Paddleboard Yoga - Challenge and connect with your mind and body for a 75-minute paddleboard yoga practice on the water with the sun shining above, the sound of rapids and birds chirping in the background. 


Fetch Park- Columbus is home to a new dog park at MidCity Yards, and it's AMAZING for Hoomans too! Grab your furry friend (or two!) and head there for a day of off-leash fun. Hungry? Visit Moe’s BBQ and grab an order of pork nachos to-go. Just don’t forget the Midland Ghost Pepper Sauce on top! 

For ALL OUT COMFORT when booking your accommodations, look no further than Columbus’ incredible selection of hotels. We’ve included top picks from around town, but click here for a full directory of local spots to rest your head between adventures.

Uptown: Hotel Indigo Columbus at Riverfront Place - This IHG hotel celebrates the spirit of Columbus in the Uptown, overlooking the Chattahoochee River. Hotel Indigo offers top-notch service and accommodations. Don’t miss their roof top bar which offers an inviting setting for twilight craft cocktails and regionally-influenced local beers while overlooking the Chattahoochee River.


Bibb: City Mills Steps from the historic Chattahoochee River, an electrifying symbol of our city's urban renewal, is Columbus' first luxury boutique hotel. Filled with custom furniture, original artwork and potters, state-of-the-art technology, and preserved pieces from the Mill's historic past, City Mills revels in the details. 


Midtown: Courtyard Marriott  Check in for a refreshing stay in a premier location at Courtyard Columbus. Located just minutes from Fort Benning, it is in the perfect spot to make visiting loved ones easy. 


North Columbus: Home2Suites by Hilton Located in the heart of Bradley Park’s shopping district, Home2 is within safe walking to some of the area’s best shops, restaurants, entertainment and just minutes away from downtown, Fort Benning and the Columbus Metro Airport.  Whether you’re here on corporate business, working as a government contractor, serving in the military or on vacation, this hotel is perfectly suited to meet your needs.


South Columbus: Hampton Inn Columbus South Fort Benning This two-year-running winner of the Connie Award, the highest achievement award in the Hilton brand, appreciates the troops and their families.  Supporting the military is not something they take lightly, so you can believe they’ll definitely put in the extra work to ensure that your stay is as comfortable as possible. Military rates available for soldiers and Graduation rates are available for families!

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Fort Benning | #GoAllOut on the Columbus, GA Coffee Trail

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Friday, July 12, 2024

#GoAllOut on the Columbus, GA Coffee Trail

Columbus, Georgia, is not just known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene, but also for its coffee culture. Whether you're a dedicated coffee connoisseur or simply in search of a cozy spot to relax, the coffee houses in Columbus offer a diverse array of experiences and flavors. Let's take a tour of some of the best coffee spots the city has to offer!

 

Fountain City Coffee, image by Morgan Duke via the restaurant.

Fountain City Coffee - Uptown

Nestled in the heart of Uptown Columbus, Fountain City Coffee is a beloved staple for locals and visitors alike. This cozy café is known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly baristas who are always ready to whip up your favorite coffee concoction. The menu features a variety of expertly crafted espresso drinks, brewed coffees, and teas, alongside a selection of delicious pastries and light bites. With its comfy seating and local art adorning the walls, Fountain City Coffee is the perfect place to unwind, catch up on work, or meet with friends.

 

Iron Bank Coffee. Image via the restaurant.

Iron Bank Coffee Company - Uptown

Housed in a historic bank building on Broadway, Iron Bank Coffee Company combines rich history with modern coffee culture. The café's unique setting, complete with original vaults and stunning architecture, creates an unforgettable ambiance. Iron Bank offers a wide range of coffee drinks, from classic lattes to inventive seasonal specials, all made with high-quality beans roasted to perfection. Their commitment to excellence is evident in every cup. Additionally, the café frequently hosts live music and community events, making it a lively hub of activity in Uptown Columbus.

 

Midtown Coffee House. Image via the restaurant.

Midtown Coffee House - Midtown

For those seeking a more intimate and homey vibe, Midtown Coffee House is a hidden gem worth discovering. Located in the Midtown area, this charming café prides itself on its cozy atmosphere and personalized service. The baristas at Midtown Coffee House are passionate about their craft, offering a curated selection of specialty coffees and teas. Whether you prefer a simple drip coffee or a meticulously crafted pour-over, you'll find something to savor here. The café also offers a range of delectable baked goods and light meals, making it a great spot for breakfast or lunch.

 

The Brick and Mortar Cafe. Image via the restaurant.

The Brick and Mortar Cafe - Old Town

The Brick and Mortar Café stands out as a trendy and sophisticated spot for coffee lovers looking to spend a morning exploring the appeal of Old Town. This vibrant and picturesque neighborhood beautifully blends historic charm with modern amenities. In addition to great coffee, lattes, and smoothies, the cafe’s menu also features everything from house baked pastries and cinnamon rolls to wraps, soups, sandwiches, and salads. Make time for a morning in Old Town and visit this cozy little coffeehouse for brunch. You can thank us later!

The coffee houses of Columbus, Georgia, are more than just places to grab a caffeine fix—they’re vibrant community hubs where people come together to relax and connect. Each café brings its own unique flair to the city's coffee scene, contributing to the rich tapestry of flavors and experiences that make Columbus a special place. So, whether you're a local resident or just passing through, be sure to explore Columbus, Georgia’s Coffee Trail! You’re sure to find a favorite spot (or two) where you can savor a delicious cup of coffee and soak in the welcoming atmosphere of this charming Southern city.

Categories: Dining, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | #GoAllOut with Our Top 5 Arts + Culture Adventures for Families this Spring

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

#GoAllOut with Our Top 5 Arts + Culture Adventures for Families this Spring

Looking for a fun and creative way to explore Columbus, Georgia with the whole family? You’re in luck! Our city is bursting with arts and culture experiences perfect for all ages—from hands-on activities to inspiring performances. Whether your crew loves live theater, interactive museums, or colorful murals that tell a story, there’s something here to spark imagination and curiosity.

Get ready to dive into Columbus, GA’s vibrant arts scene with this guide to the best family-friendly cultural adventures in town!

1. The Columbus Museum

When you visit The Columbus Museum, you and your crew will spend an afternoon at USA Today’s Best New Museum of 2025. This gorgeous, newly-reimagined museum has an incredible collection that focuses on American Art and boasts some big name artists like Dale Chihuly, Amy Sherald, Alma Thomas, Najee Dorsey, and Bo Bartlett. For families, we can’t recommend their new Children’s Gallery and outdoor play space enough. Favorite activities include their Mini Museum, water painting wall, and indoor playground for kids. #GoAllOut!

2. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts

We hear all of the time… people just can’t get enough of the incredible venues inside RiverCenter for the Performing Arts! Their full season of Broadway shows, concerts, ballet productions, and children’s shows keep audiences coming back for more every year. In addition to their regular programming, multiple Broadway companies vie for the chance to come produce their tour launches in this state-of-the-art facility each season.

If you’re traveling to Columbus, Georgia there’s a high likelihood there’s a show happening at RiverCenter. Check the Columbus Event Calendar and get tickets to see a Broadway tour or children’s production with your family!

3. National Infantry Museum

Voted Best Free Museum by USA Today readers every year since 2016, this one-of-a-kind attraction is a must-see. The museum features multiple interactive exhibitions that tell the history of the U.S. Infantry from its inception during the American Revolution through modern day warfare.

If you’re looking for something spectacular to share as a family, book a ride in one of the National Infantry Museum’s simulators. These realistic virtual journeys put you right into the action of the U.S. Infantry. There’s nothing else like it, so #GoAllOut!

4. Springer Opera House (Children’s Shows)

We bet you didn’t know Columbus is home to the State Theatre of Georgia! This beloved cultural gem has a robust season of productions including a multi-faceted children’s theatre series all year long. Check the Columbus Event Calendar for upcoming productions and catch a show while you’re here.

5. Bo Bartlett Center + Corn Center for the Arts

The Bo Bartlett Center is a massive art gallery and educational space created for artists and art appreciators of all backgrounds. The museum is located on the second floor of Columbus State University’s Corn Center for the Arts, and houses a permanent collection of paintings by Columbus native Bo Bartlett. In addition, the gallery serves as a home to traveling exhibitions from across the nation.

Also in the same building, you’ll find the Illges Gallery which houses both student exhibitions and professionally-curated exhibitions across all mediums. Check the Columbus Event Calendar to see what’s on display at the Corn Center when you’re in town, and #GoAllOut!

*Bonus: Take this Self-Guided Tour of Public Art Murals

Columbus, Georgia, is a city where art and culture come alive for the whole family. Whether you’re exploring world-class museums, experiencing the thrill of live performances, or immersing yourself in hands-on creative spaces, you’ll find activities for all to enjoy. From the inspiring collections at The Columbus Museum to the excitement of a Broadway show at RiverCenter, the rich history at the National Infantry Museum, the magic of the Springer Opera House, and the contemporary masterpieces at the Bo Bartlett Center—each adventure offers a unique way to #GoAllOut!

And don’t forget to take a stroll through the city’s colorful public art scene, where every mural tells a story waiting to be discovered. No matter how you choose to experience Columbus, one thing’s for sure—you’ll leave feeling inspired and ready for your next arts and culture adventure!

Categories: Arts, Family-friendly, Groups

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Fort Benning | #GoAllOut with Our Top Free Things To Do in Columbus, GA!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Tuesday, April 2, 2024

#GoAllOut with Our Top Free Things To Do in Columbus, GA!

Looking to book a vacation where you can really #GoAllOut together?! Columbus, Georgia is an ideal destination for families, and with a TON of free things to do, it’s a place you can enjoy especially if you’re watching your budget. From outdoor adventures to outstanding art experiences, this is a city with something free for everyone to explore!

 

Here are some of our favorite budget-friendly adventures.

 

 

Explore the Dragonfly Trail

 

Who doesn’t like getting to know a new placeon two wheels? Bring your bikes and ride The Dragonfly Trail! This  beautifully, well-maintained trail system offers the perfect way to make memories that will last a lifetime. Pack a lunch and be sure to keep an eye out for the public art murals located along the Trail. How many can you spot?!

 

 

Attend the Free Friday Night Concert Series in Uptown Columbus

 

Join Uptown Columbus for its free Friday Night Concert Series, where you’ll hear everything from jazz, rock, reggae, gospel, and more. This popular seasonal weekly series draws quite a crowd, and dancing is highly encouraged.

Pull up table at one of any of the locally owned and operated restaurants or grab a lawn chair and blanket to make it a night your whole family will enjoy. All concerts run from 7PM-11PM and are free and open to all ages. Coolers, tents, outside alcoholic beverages and glass containers are not allowed, but you can visit one of the Uptown restaurants to purchase food and beverages.

Visiting in Spring 2024? The Friday Night Concert Series runs every week from April 5th- May 3rd. See all upcoming dates here.

 

 

Take a Self-Guided Tour of Public Art

 

Columbus is home to a vast array of public art located throughout the city. Pack up the kids and go on a one-of-a-kind scavenger hunt together. Our friends at The Columbusite created a free interactive Google map of public art murals. Access it here and get ready to #GoAllOut for an artsy afternoon together!

 

 

Visit The Bo Bartlett Center

 

Speaking of art… Columbus is home to the world-renown Bo Bartlett Center, and it is FREE to visit! The Bo Bartlett Center at Columbus State University is a dynamic, creative learning laboratory that is part gallery/museum, part experimental arts incubator, and part community center. Based on the belief that art can change lives, the Center has a two-fold mission: community outreach programs that help facilitate an inclusive environment by encouraging participation from diverse voices, and a national mission to partner with other institutions to provide innovative exhibitions that deepens our understanding of art through publications and public programming.

As a gallery, the Center houses The Scarborough Collection: 14 monumental paintings by Columbus native Bo Bartlett. Known as one of the most influential American Realism painters of the last century, Bartlett’s work will keep you coming back for more.

Depending on when you visit, you’ll also see visiting exhibitions from top art galleries around the nation featuring famous artists of all mediums and backgrounds. Monthly events feature live jazz, a figure painting workshop for local artists, and more. For more information on upcoming events and exhibitions currently on view at The Bartlett Center, visit the Columbus Event Calendar.

 

 

Enjoy a Weekend of Schwob School of Music Concerts

 

Did you know a famous music conservatory calls Columbus, Georgia home? Often referred to as the Juilliard of the South, the Schwob School of Music at Columbus State University draws top young musicians and educators from across the world. A little known fact is that 99% of their concerts are free to attend!

Why not #GoAllOut with a free evening of world-class music together? Check the Columbus Event Calendar for information on all of their upcoming concerts.

 

 

Spend an Afternoon in Lakebottom Park

 

No trip to Columbus is complete without an afternoon in MidTown. Visitors love Lakebottom Park for its walking trail and the beautiful neighborhood that surrounds it. Expect to see lots of activity year round, and even some free concerts sprinkled throughout the year. For families, this is a great place to bring a picnic or a ball and let the kids burn off some energy.

Know your travel dates? Check here for information about upcoming concerts and events in MidTown’s Lakebottom Park.

 

 

Explore the Columbus Soft Drink Heritage Trail!

 

It’s true. Columbus has major connections to Coca-Cola, RC Cola, and Nehi. How? Discover the fascinating history of each drink and find out how their founders are tied to Columbus through this self-guided walking tour. 

This fun and family-friendly adventure will take you through several popular areas of town that are known for their beautiful historic buildings and walkability. Each stop is clearly noted by a historical marker, so you’ll easily find your way.

 

 

Take a Walk Through Old Town Columbus

 

Love Southern Living? Us, too. Columbus is home to one of the first Southern Living communities in the South. Old Town is a development in North Columbus that centers around a beautiful Town Hall that’s complimented by gorgeous neighborhoods and a quaint main street featuring several popular local restaurants and small businesses.

There’s no gate to this community, so your visit is free. If the weather is nice, take a walk through the development and let the kids play on the green behind Town Hall. Depending on the season, you may want to explore the new camellia garden and don’t forget to check the Columbus Event Calendar for events!

 

 

Tour Columbus’ Black Heritage Trail

 

This driving tour of the Black Heritage Trail features important landmarks like the Liberty Heritage Historic District, Ma Rainey House, Liberty Theatre, St. James AME, Royal Cafe, Horace King Bridge, Claflin School, William Spencer House, Spencer High School, Mildred Terry Library, Porterdale Cemetery, and more. Take the tour on your own here.

 

 

Take Time Saturday Mornings for Market Days on Broadway

 

It’s no secret that Columbus is home to a large community of artists and small businesses in the creative industries. The best free place to find them? Market Days on Broadway Saturday mornings in Uptown Columbus.

Every Saturday from April-November, four blocks along Broadway host over 200 local vendors. There, you’ll find everything from farm stands to fine art. Admission is free. Traveling with a four-legged friend? This is a perfect place to pack up your pooch and #GoAllOut together. Dogs are welcome and you’ll find various pet-friendly stops along the way.

In 2024, Market Days on Broadway runs April 6 - November 30.

 

 

For more ideas on how to #GoAllOut when you #VisitColumbusGA, click here!

Need a place to stay? Here’s a list of all available accommodations in the area.

Categories: Arts, Film, Film, Film, Family-friendly, History, Itineraries, Outdoors, River Fun, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | #GoAllOut with Our Top Free Things To Do with Kids in Columbus, GA!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

#GoAllOut with Our Top Free Things To Do with Kids in Columbus, GA!

It’s time to plan a vacation where you can really #GoAllOut as a family! Columbus, Georgia is an ideal destination with little ones, with a TON of free things to do, it’s a place you can enjoy on a budget. From outdoor adventures to fun art experiences, here are our favorite FREE things to do with kids in Columbus, GA!

Visit The Columbus Museum

The newly reimagined Columbus Museum multi-million dollar renovation is drawing visitors from across the Southeast. Exhibitions include works by Andy Warhol, Dave Chihuly, Amy Sherald, Alma Thomas, Bo Bartlett, Zelda Fitzgerald, Butch Anthony and more. What’s more? Admission is always free.

The highlight for kids of all ages will undoubtedly be the new Children’s Gallery designed to encourage early exploration of the arts through a multi-sensory approach. Each area is aimed at one of the five senses, and highlights selections from the Museum’s collection throughout each exhibit. In addition to interactive displays, the Children’s Gallery features a two-story playground designed to resemble a treehouse. This Gallery was designed for children of all abilities.

While you’re there, don’t miss the outdoor children’s garden where kids can paint, read, perform, or work together to build structures. Shaded benches and tables are available for parents to hang out while the kids explore.

 

Ride the Dragonfly Trail

If you’ve got bikes, take a morning and explore The Dragonfly Trail. This beautifully, well-maintained trail system offers the perfect way to make memories that will last a lifetime. Pack a lunch and be sure to keep an eye out for the public art murals located along the Trail. How many can you spot?!

 

Take a Self-Guided Tour of Public Art

Columbus is home to a vast array of public art located throughout the city. Pack up the kids and go on a one-of-a-kind scavenger hunt together. Our friends at The Columbusite created a free interactive Google map of public art murals. Access it here and get ready to #GoAllOut for an artsy afternoon together!

 

Splash Pad in Uptown Columbus

Columbus is home to an excellent splash pad for children. Located in Woodruff Park at the corner of 10th and Bay Avenue, this large splash pad is accompanied by a neighboring playground suited for all ages. Admission is always free!

 

Visit the Columbus Public Library

Columbus is home to an award-winning library system that hosts outstanding children’s programming and events year-round.

Our favorite branch for children is located at 3000 Macon Road. Take a free music class, explore their extensive children’s library, let the kids run around their outdoor Children’s Garden, or take photos with their popular public art mural based on the book Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak. Check the Columbus Event Calendar for information on all of their upcoming events.

Extra tip! Behind the Columbus Public Library on Macon Road is a dinosaur-themed public playground. Accessible for all ages and ability levels, this area includes large dinosaur fossil replicas for children to explore. Admission is free.

 

Spend an Afternoon in Lakebottom Park

No trip to Columbus is complete without an afternoon in MidTown. Visitors love Lakebottom Park for its walking trail and the beautiful neighborhood that surrounds it. Expect to see lots of activity year-round, and even some free concerts sprinkled throughout the year. For families, this is a great place to bring a picnic or a ball and let the kids burn off some energy. Head to the west end of the park to find one of the best playgrounds in town!

Know your travel dates? Check here for information about upcoming concerts and events in MidTown’s Lakebottom Park.

 

Explore the Columbus Soft Drink Heritage Trail!

Columbus has major connections to Coca-Cola, RC Cola, and Nehi. How? Discover the fascinating history of each drink and find out how their founders are tied to Columbus through this self-guided walking tour. 

This fun and family-friendly adventure will take you through several popular areas of town that are known for their beautiful historic buildings and walkability. Each stop is clearly noted by a historical marker, so you’ll easily find your way.

 

Take Time Saturday Mornings for Market Days on Broadway

It’s no secret that Columbus is home to a large community of artists and small businesses in the creative industries. The best free place to find them? Market Days on Broadway Saturday mornings in Uptown Columbus.

Every Saturday from April-November, four blocks along Broadway host over 200 local vendors. There, you’ll find everything from farm stands to fine art and activities for children. Admission is free. Traveling with a four-legged friend? This is a perfect place to pack up your pooch and #GoAllOut together. Dogs are welcome and you’ll find various pet-friendly stops along the way.

In 2024, Market Days on Broadway runs April 6 - November 30.

 

 

For more ideas on how to #GoAllOut when you #VisitColumbusGA, click here!

 

Traveling with a multi-generational crowd? Take a look at our larger list of free things to do in Columbus!

 

Need a place to stay? Here’s a list of all available accommodations in the area.

Categories: Arts, Family-friendly, Itineraries, Outdoors, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | #GoAllOut with Outdoor Adventure in Columbus, Georgia!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Saturday, October 1, 2022

#GoAllOut with Outdoor Adventure in Columbus, Georgia!

Columbus, Georgia is overflowing with all the right ingredients for a world-class outdoor city. Home to the longest urban whitewater course in the world, Columbus has developed into a hub for adventurous travelers and their loved ones of all ages. 
 

On any morning in Spring and Summer, expect to see a picturesque river city bustling with visitors enjoying a myriad of outdoor activities at all levels of intensity. From high water rafting tips to geocaching, there’s something for every generation in Columbus, Georgia!

 

Ready to plan a trip but not entirely sure what activities will be the best fit for your crew? Dive into all our most popular options in the list below, and get ready to #GoAllOut!

 

Whitewater Rafting

Columbus’ urban whitewater course was named one of the Top 12 Man-Made Adventures in the World. Described as “wild as the Colorado River, and warm as Costa Rica” this is a trip you’ll never forget! 

 

Kayaking

We get it. You love being on the water, but like to be the captain of your own ship. Strap your kayak to the roof (or rent one here!) and let Whitewater Express transport you to the top of the course. Trust us. You’ve never had a run like this one! 

 

Flat Water

If Class Five rapids aren’t really your thing, come to Columbus and enjoy the river at a slower pace. Catch a paddle board yoga class or take a fly fishing course. You can’t go wrong with a day on the water.

Zip Line

What’s cooler than straddling a state line? Zip lining across one! The only place in the US you can do this? Right here in Columbus, Georgia.
 

 

Birding

The restoration of the Chattahoochee River has led to the return of many different varieties of native birds and other ecological treasures. Join the many nature lovers flocking to Columbus, and get here quick!

Biking

Columbus is home to the Dragonfly Trail, a multi-use bike and pedestrian trail that weaves its way through the city. Bring your bike (or rent one here!) and explore our 

Fishing

When you #VisitColumbusGA, you'll have the opportunity to catch Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Shoal Bass, Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass, Chain Pickerel, Bream & Catfish. No experience is necessary, but patience is an added benefit for just the right catch!

 

No matter how you choose to #GoAllOut while you're here, we'd love to see the fun you're having. Tag us on social media for a chance to be featured all year round! 

Spending some time in Uptown Columbus? Check out this local guide to Uptown complete with food, activities, and amazing attractions located in the area.

One last thing before you pack up and head this way... download our digital Visitors Guide! It's FULL of information on exciting things to do when you #VisitColumbusGA!

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Fort Benning | #GoAllOut with the 4 Most Blitzed-Out Burgers in Columbus, GA!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Friday, February 9, 2024

#GoAllOut with the 4 Most Blitzed-Out Burgers in Columbus, GA!

Columbus, Georgia is a foodie's paradise that takes burgers to the max! If you're ready to #VisitColumbusGA, make sure to try at least one of the city's most famous burgers while you're here. 

Sound like something you could dig into? Here are the 4 Most Blitzed-Out Burgers in Columbus, GA!

 

The Turning Blue Burger from The Cannon Brew Pub

The Cannon Brew Pub is a Columbus staple that provides a unique old-world charm complemented by signature made on-site brews, bites, and some of the best burgers in the area. It's also a hot spot for soldiers stationed at Fort Benning, so the restaurant's decor and menu are both nods to the Army. The Turning Blue Burger is no excpetion. Though the burger's on the menu all the time, it's part of a challenge specially designed to honor anyone who can finish it. If you're a visitor looking for a memorable meal, this one is sure to deliver.

Here's the deal: The burger includes 3 of The Cannon's legendary 10oz. burger patties, with 3 slices of cheddar cheese, 3 slices of Swiss cheese, 8 slices of applewood-smoked bacon, jalapenos, sauteed mushrooms, beer fried onions, chipotle sauce, lettuce, tomato, and onions. It comes with a side of chili cheese fries. If you finish the challenge within 30 minutes, the entire meal is complimentary and you will receive one of their signature Turning Blue T-Shirts as an award. Let us know if you win! 


 

The Bacon Pimento Cheeseburger from The Black Cow

This burger became famous when it was voted one of the Best Burgers in the South by Garden & Gun readers! The Bacon Pimento Cheeseburger is so popular that last year they sold more than 10,000 of them. Why? It's incredible! The burger is topped with pimento cheese made in-house, that is then topped with bacon and jalepeno pepper jelly. Trust us. This one will have you coming back to #VisitColumbusGA for more.

 

 

The Loaded Smash Burger from Jarfly

Jarfly is a fun tikibar turned Midtown hit! They're popular for their electic menu that boasts everything from burgers to poke bowls. What keeps us going? The Smash Burger. It's made from house ground beef, topped with American cheese, dill pickles, and Duke's mayo. If you order it all the way, it also comes with bacon, avocado, and an egg. Talk about a way to let your appetite #GoAllOut. Add one of their frozen Jack & Coke cocktails and enjoy a meal you'll never forget. 

 

The Harlot Burger from The Animal Farm

The Animal Farm prides itself on being a Columbus favorite that locally sources as many of its ingredients as possible. You can bet that this burger came from beef grown and processed in the area, and that all of the toppings did too! The Harlot Burger consists of double patties of ground brisket, chuck, and short rib, a brioche bun, and is topped with red onion, yellow mustard, American cheese, Duke's mayo and pickles. Get the deviled eggs for an appetizer and definitely order your burger with tots. You won't believe how good this place is!

 

Ready to book a trip to #VisitColumbusGA? Click here for a list of local accommodations.

Once you have your travel dates, check out the Event Calendar for a comprehensive list of everything happening while you're here.

Categories: Arts, Film, Film, Film, Dining, Family-friendly, Itineraries, Nightlife, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | #GoAllOut with the Columbus Clingstones!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

#GoAllOut with the Columbus Clingstones!

There’s a new buzz in town, and it’s all about baseball! Columbus, GA is stepping up to the plate with its newest sports sensation—the Columbus Clingstones. This fresh addition to Columbus, Georgia’s sports scene is bringing exciting baseball action, top prospects for the Atlanta Braves to town, a bunch of family-friendly entertainment, and a whole lot of hometown pride to the diamond. Whether you’re a baseball fan or not, the Clingstones will have you ready to #VisitColumbusGA and #GoAllOut!

A Team Rooted in Minor League Tradition

The Clingstones are the Atlanta Braves’ new AA Minor Team, which means Braves fans from across the Southeast can travel to Columbus, GA to see top major league prospects play ball. With a roster of talented athletes and a coaching staff of seasoned professionals from across the industry, the Clingstones are going to be a TON of fun to watch! Additionally, because the Clingstones will be the nearest Braves affiliate team to Truist Park, there’s always a chance it’s where Braves players will be sent to rehab an injury and work their way back up to the Majors. Last year, this applied to several players on the Braves’ roster, including fan favorite Ronald Acuña, Jr.

Where to Catch the Action

Home games are played at the newly-renovated Synovus Park. Previously called Golden Park, this historic stadium has been a cornerstone of Columbus, Georgia baseball for decades. With upgraded seating, modern amenities, and an electric atmosphere, Synovus Park is the perfect place to cheer on the Clingstones while enjoying a classic, family-friendly ballpark experience.

More Than Just Baseball

A Columbus Clingstones game isn’t just about home runs and strikeouts—it’s a full-blown entertainment experience! Fans can look forward to:

Themed game nights, including Military Appreciation nights, themes highlighting local organizations, Fuzzy’s Kids Club Games, and more!

Delicious local eats, including peach-infused ballpark snacks and refreshing craft beverages from Columbus, Georgia breweries.

Family-friendly fun, with interactive activities, giveaways, and the team’s lovable Fuzzy the Peach mascot keeping the crowd engaged.

Join the Clingstone Craze

Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun night out, the Columbus Clingstones offer something for everyone. Season tickets and single-game passes are available now, so grab your gear, gather your crew, and get ready to root for the newest team in town.

The Columbus Clingstones are here to bring energy, excitement, and community spirit to the city. Make sure to be part of the action this season—you won’t want to miss a single pitch. Get ready to #GoAllOut and purchase your tickets here! 

Categories: Events, Family-friendly, Groups

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Fort Benning | #GoAllOut with The Columbusite’s Guide to Soup Season in Columbus, GA!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Monday, November 27, 2023

#GoAllOut with The Columbusite’s Guide to Soup Season in Columbus, GA!

The leaves are changing, the weather is definitely showing signs of the season, and we’ve started pulling our sweatshirts out of storage. That means it’s time to start shifting into soup mode. We rounded up some of Columbus’ favorite soup serving establishments into one handy little guide to see you through spring!

 

Get ready to #GoAllOut with our guide to Soup Season in Columbus, GA!

 

 

Golden Chopsticks

The Korean restaurant is located on St. Mary’s Road and has been open since the 70’s. It’s always an excellent choice. They have 17 soups on the menu but our favorites are the Duk Mandu Guk, Yuke Jang, and the Kalbi Uge Gi Tang. Duk Mandu Guk is a cozy concoction of rice cake, dumpling, vegetable, and egg in a rich beef broth. Yuke Jang is a spicy beef soup with vegetables, egg, and clear noodles. Kalbi Uge Gi Tang is a bean paste soup with cabbage and short rib.

 

 

 

 

Jarfly

The Chicken Tortilla soup at Jarfly is a midtown favorite. It’s both flavorful and bright. It’s served with tortilla strips, jalapeños, avocados and lime.

 

Nonic

On Thursday evenings you can stop by Nonic for a delicious bowl of tonkotsu ramen. Throughout the fall and winter you can expect more seasonal soup specials like She-crab soup en croute and gumbo!

 

Parkers Pantry

Stop by for lunch Monday through Fridays for a different soup every day! You can pick up a copy of their monthly soup calendar so you know what to expect. Some favorites are the Country Captain, Hungarian Mushroom, and Pancetta and White Bean.

 

 

 

 

Uptown Vietnam

Pho is the perfect dish to warm your bones on a cold day. It’s a traditional beef based broth served over fresh rice noodles, topped with your choice of meat(s). The soup is garnished with chopped scallions, cilantro, and sliced white onions. Served with a plate of bean sprouts, fresh basil, cilantro, sliced jalapeño peppers and limes. Their Hu Tieu Mi is a pork based broth over your choice of rice noodles or egg noodles dressed with green lettuce, chives and sprinkled with scallions. If you’re not near Uptown you can always swing by their Big Mamma Vietnam Kitchen location in The Landings.

 

Chilli Thai Uptown

This excitement surrounding the reopening of this Uptown staple is completely warranted. Stop by this old favorite for the best bowl of Tom Kha, a coconut milk soup with galangal, lemon grass, mushroom and green onion. If you're feeling a bit under the weather, call in for some Tom Yum, a lemongrass soup with galangal, lemon grass, mushroom and green onion.

 

La Nacional Mexican Buffet

When we asked folks about their favorite soups in town, the Caldo de Pollo from La Nacional repeatedly came up. It’s a simple but richly flavored chicken soup that's packed with vegetables.

 

Bodega 1205

Stop by the beautiful Bodega for some Chicken Pio Pio, a traditional chicken soup made with celery, carrots, potatoes, and chicken paired with cuban toast.

 

 

 

 

Mizu Ramen Bar

Located on the north end of Veterans Parkway, this is more accessible to our readers on the north end of town. Stop by for lots of tasty ramen offerings like the Tonkotsu Black Ramen which is a pork broth with pork chashu, green onion, bamboo shoots, black garlic oil, garlic chips, nori, half seasoned egg , served with thin noodles. They also have vegan options!

 

Columbus has so many fantastic options for Soup Season outings and we want to try them all!

 

Looking for other ideas for your trip to #VisitColumbusGA? Checkout more trip ideas here.

 

*Presented in partnership with The Columbusite.

Categories: Dining, Family-friendly, Itineraries, Nightlife, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | #GoAllOut with The Ultimate Raft & Craft Vacation in Columbus, GA!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Wednesday, July 17, 2024

#GoAllOut with The Ultimate Raft & Craft Vacation in Columbus, GA!

Whitewater rafting in Columbus, Georgia, offers an exhilarating adventure for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Situated along the Chattahoochee River, Columbus boasts the longest urban whitewater course in the world, providing an unforgettable experience for both novice and experienced rafters of all ages. Stack this onto a world-class food scene complete with several popular craft breweries, and you’ve got yourself an ideal destination to #GoAllOut for a weekend!

 

 

Book your trip with Whitewater Express to enjoy a guided ride with a dynamic mix of challenging rapids and serene stretches of the Chattahoochee River. Whether you choose a low-water or high-water run for your crew, you’ll be guaranteed a one-of-a-kind opportunity to enjoy the rush while also taking in the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Up for the ultimate ride? Book “The Challenge Trip” for a high-intensity adventure complete with Class III, IV, and V rapids. Low-water trips are also available and a great option for families. Safety is a top priority with professional guides leading every trip, so all participants can fully enjoy the ride.

 

A spread of food from BANKS Food Hall. Image courtesy of BANKS.

 

Once you’re off the water, chances are you’ll be ready to eat. Columbus is full of great restaurants and breweries located within just a few steps of the river. Consider BANKS Food Hall for a variety of local food vendors. Located next door to Whitewater Express, this renovated historic building offers everything from poke bowls to gourmet hot dogs and frozen yogurt to frosé (frozen rosé wine). Our favorite thing to do? Grab a craft beer at Maltitude’s Bar, tacos from El Primo Taqueria, and enjoy spending the evening on the patio with friends.

 

The Flying Biscuit Cafe at Highside Market has something for everyone! Image courtesy of Highside Market.

 

Our next suggestion is Highside Market! This new development has a plethora of dining and shopping options as well as an outdoor park that’s ideal for chilling out. Locals love Ray’s Quick Stop which offers a retro feel and a full bar with craft beer on tap. Highside also houses several food vendors, so definitely plan to eat on-site! Favorites include It’s Tamale Time for authentic tamales, The Flying Biscuit Cafe for brunch and lunch (get the grits!), and Whit’s Frozen Custard for dessert. 

 

The Banana Bread Trifle from Nonic Restaurant & Rooftop Bar is a crowd-pleaser. Image via The Columbusite.

 

Highside is also home to Nonic, which has a full-service restaurant and a rooftop bar. This local hotspot is known for its fabulous menu, comprehensive beer list and creative cocktails that always ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t skip the banana bread trifle for dessert!

 

Pack up your pup and enjoy an evening at MidCity Yards. Image via Fetch Park.

 

MidCity Yards is located a few city blocks from Uptown and boasts one of the best breweries in town. Head there for a craft brew or a sparkling cider from Scofflaw Brewery before walking next door for some Moe’s BBQ. Traveling with your dog? MidCity Yards is home to Columbus’ Fetch Dog Park which offers a large fenced play area for pups.

So, whether you're a food connoisseur or are simply looking to enjoy a fun rafting weekend with friends, Columbus has everything you need for a perfect backdrop for making memories together. Cheers to discovering the best of what this vibrant city has to offer – trust us, this will be a delicious and FUN adventure you won’t soon forget!

Want to see more trip ideas? Click here!

Categories: Arts, Dining, Family-friendly, Outdoors, River Fun, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | #GoAllOut with these Top Art Exhibitions in Columbus, Georgia this Spring!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Thursday, January 30, 2025

#GoAllOut with these Top Art Exhibitions in Columbus, Georgia this Spring!

2025 is here, and with it comes an exciting lineup of art exhibitions in Columbus, Georgia! Whether you're a long-time art lover or just looking to explore something new, Columbus’ vibrant arts scene has something for everyone. From newly-created works to timeless classics on loan from the MoMA, here are four must-see exhibitions this Spring. It’s time to #GoAllOut!

 

One: Women of the Pacific Northwest at The Bo Bartlett Center,  January 18 - April 26

 

This exhibition highlights female artists whose work is rooted in material exploration within the tradition of Northwest influences and how environment shapes visual vocabularies and concepts. The exhibition, curated by Betsy Eby, challenges the way the viewer sees and experiences art by featuring works rooted by fellow female artists from Eby's native region of the Pacific Northwest. The artist panel discussion for this exhibition will take place on February 5th at 5:30PM with a public opening reception following immediately at 6:30PM.

 

Two: Infinite Poem: Jewish Placemaking in the Deep South | Photographs by Emily Williams at The Do Good Fund Gallery

 

This exhibition of photographs and oral histories is an exploration of identity and place - both literal and metaphorical - in small Jewish communities in the Deep South. Faced simultaneously with antisemitism and both pressure and opportunity to assimilate into whiteness, this work seeks to understand how Jewish communities have preserved traditions while forging their own unique identity in places that are often perceived differently.

Emily Williams is a Pennsylvania-based artist investigating communal and individual memory, identity and placemaking through photography and oral history interviews. She holds a BA in fine arts and history from Haverford College and an MFA in photography from Louisiana State University. Her work has been supported by the Southern Jewish Historical Society, Texas Jewish Historical Society and Alabama Folklife Association. 

 

Three: *Art Bridges Partner Network: American Art from the 1920s and 1930s at The Columbus Museum, Now through September 14, 2025

*Generously lent by The Museum of Modern Art, New York as part of the Art Bridges Collection Loan Partnership.

 

The Columbus Museum was selected as a participant in the Art Bridges Partner Loan Network program with seven unique loans of American art from the 1920s and 1930s. The sculpture and six paintings are owned by the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. Art Bridges, based in Bentonville, Arkansas, exists to expand access to American art and to inspire institutions to open their vaults and share important works. The organization covers costs for packing and shipping as well as for educational programs centered around the borrowed objects.

For this generous year-long loan, The Columbus Museum has incorporated the pieces on loan from MoMA into the permanent collection galleries. Visitors have the opportunity to discover new works by familiar artists like Milton Avery and Stuart Davis. Fresh visual juxtapositions with “conversation partners” in the galleries have been designed to offer new insights and interpretations for old favorites at the Museum. Want more? Another group of loans from MoMA and Art Bridges will debut at the Museum this summer! Stay tuned for more information and in the meantime, don't miss an opportunity to see these rare pieces from MoMA in person.

 

Four: Eye of the Blackbird at The Bo Bartlett Center,  January 18 - April 26

 

Inspired by the Wallace Stevens poem, Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird, this exhibition is dedicated to artists for whom looking is inseparable from thinking. In each case, the eye is an agile organ capable of enabling both intellectual depth and emotional precision. The public opening reception will occur on February 5th at 6:30pm.

 

Five: Didi Dunphy: Trip the Light Fantastic Exhibition

 

 

This exhibition features Athens-based artist Didi Dunphy's newest works. Rooted in minimalism, yet brimming with color and whimsy, Dunphy's art bridges the conceptual and the tangible.

No matter your artistic tastes, Columbus offers a rich and diverse array of exhibitions this spring that are sure to inspire and captivate. So, grab your calendar, plan your visit, and come experience the creative energy that makes Columbus a must-visit destination for art lovers this season!

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Fort Benning | Group Hotels in the Heart of Columbus, GA

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Thursday, May 30, 2024

Group Hotels in the Heart of Columbus, GA

Imagine your attendees stepping out of their hotel and being just minutes from an extraordinary meeting. In Columbus, GA, that’s not a dream; it’s a reality. The city’s Uptown District along the scenic Chattahoochee River is home to more than 500 hotel rooms and the 182,000-square-foot Columbus Georgia Convention & Trade Center, and it’s only minutes from Columbus Airport (CSG). No matter your event's type, size, or budget, your group can conveniently get to their meeting and the District’s entertainment options and stay in style when you book one of these historic and hip hotels. 

 

 

Columbus Marriott 

Treat your attendees to the perfect fusion of history and luxury by booking a stay at the Columbus Marriott. Renovated in 2020, this expansive hotel is a repurposed 19th-century mill located across the street from the Trade Center, making it a great lodging option your group can walk to.

Accommodations:

  • 178 rooms
  • 3,666 square feet of total event space
  • 5 adaptable meeting venues
  • On-site restaurant: Houlihan's
  • Fitness center
  • Complimentary shuttle to and from CSG

 

 

Hampton Inn

Attendees can experience the buzz of Uptown and the adjacent Entertainment District by staying at the Hampton Inn. This new five-story hotel is near it all, including major attractions like the Coca-Cola Space Science Center, the RiverWalk, a 15-mile linear park, and more. And with the Trade Center just 4 minutes away, everyone can go from meeting to relaxing in no time.

Accommodations:

  • 100+ rooms
  • Meeting room
  • Special event spaces
  • 24-hour business center

 

"Between the Riverwalk, new developments, and Uptown retail growth, Columbus perceptions over time have shifted more towards outdoor adventures and hospitality."

Source: Gray Research Solution (GRS) Destination Assessment & Tourism Research Findings

 

 

 

AC Hotel by Marriott Uptown Columbus

If you want to accommodate your attendees in a hotel with a sleek urban vibe infused with classic touches, book the AC Hotel by Marriott Uptown Columbus. This $20 million boutique property built in 2021 stands six stories tall and offers plenty of rooms for guests and a variety of amenities to enjoy. Just 4 minutes from the Trade Center and close to the Entertainment District, meeting groups are in for an unforgettable stay here.

Accommodations:

  • 125 rooms
  • 441 square feet of total event space
  • AC Kitchen & AC Lounge

 

 

Hotel Indigo Columbus at Riverfront Place

Want to treat your group to a comfortable stay and stunning water views? Book Hotel Indigo Columbus at Riverfront Place. This $30 million property, built in 2020, overlooks the Chattahoochee River, giving guests a tranquil setting to unwind before and after meeting. Plus, with the Trade Center just 5 minutes away, your group can maximize their time together with minimal travel.

Accommodations:

  • 107 rooms
  • 2.500 square feet of event space (up to 100 attendees)
  • Farm-to-table restaurant: Denim & Oak
  • Rooftop bar: Eighteen 85 with 180-degree views in an open-air space
  • 24-hour fitness center

 

"Meeting planners feel like they get special treatment in Columbus—better than other Georgia markets they meet in." 

"They often choose Columbus based on accessibility and affordability, but come back because of the service they receive." 

"The CVB, Trade Center, and several hotels went "above and beyond." 

 

Source: Gray Research Solution (GRS) Destination Assessment & Tourism Research Findings

 

 

City Mills Hotel 

Your attendees can step back in time while staying in modern comfort when you book City Mills Hotel. This 1800s grist mill has been retransformed into a four-story riverfront hotel with original brick walls, hand-crafted metalworks, preserved artifacts, and local artwork boasts inviting guestrooms and several fantastic amenities. The Trade Center is also just 8 minutes away.

Accommodations:

  • 64 rooms
  • Event space available
  • Onsite restaurant: Millhouse Kitchen & Bar
  • In-house wellness center: River Flow Yoga and Wellness

 

 

 

Stay and Meet in Columbus

The VisitColumbusGA team offers VIP treatment for planners like you and can help secure hotel blocks for an All Out convention or event. Reach out or submit your RFP to work with us.

Categories: Meetings

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Fort Benning | Incorporate Wellness Into Meetings

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Thursday, December 7, 2023

Incorporate Wellness Into Meetings

Explore the outdoors, connect with nature, and rejuvenate while meeting in Columbus, GA. Our destination is filled with fresh-air locales and wellness activities for planners to incorporate into their meetings or attendees to explore in their downtime. Experience the refreshing side of Georgia’s second-largest city.

 

 

Explore Inspiring Outdoor Areas

A great and easy way to give your attendees an immersive wellness experience in our river city is to get them outside. You’ve probably heard that nature is linked to many benefits, including better mood, lower stress, and improved cooperation, empathy, and attention. But did you know that just looking at water—like our riverfront on the Chattahoochee River that winds through the Uptown District—can also positively affect mental health? Studies show that gazing at bodies of water can increase feelings of relaxation and lower heart rate and blood pressure.

The Chattahoochee River and the RiverWalk, a scenic 15-mile linear park, are just samplings of Mother Nature’s beauties in Columbus. There are all sorts of additional appealing trails, parks, and nature reserves that are must-visits where your group can discover the destination’s natural wonders.

You can also incorporate the outdoors into your meeting by planning one of Columbus’ venues, like the Bibb Mill Event Center, which offers beautiful outdoor gathering space. You can even plan a workout class on a balcony overlooking the river! Multiple hotels also have outdoor spaces throughout, so your group can take in Mother Nature and get a restful good night’s sleep.  

 

 

Get Active

Get your attendees up and moving. Columbus’ outdoor spaces give attendees room to move and breathe, and recreational activities double as team-building opportunities—like experiencing rafting on the Chattahoochee River, the longest urban whitewater course in the world. You can effortlessly build an itinerary that allows attendees to exercise and have fun while forming an experience they won’t forget. And don’t forget the pedestrian-friendly Uptown District and its adjacent Entertainment District!

 

Authentic Outdoor Recreational Activities in Columbus, GA

Whitewater Rafting Hiking
Kayaking Biking
Zip Lining Bird Watching
  And More

 

 

Relax and Unwind

Moving around isn’t the only way to improve your wellness—so is relaxation. Columbus is an excellent place to help your group rediscover their vitality.

Encourage your attendees to develop physical and mental strength by practicing yoga at RiverFlow Yoga and Wellness or Pop Yoga Studio. 

You can also indulge your attendees in serene tranquility with customized spa experiences at Sundays Day Spa, holistic wellness opportunities at Aglow Apothecary, or a totally immersive experience at Uptown Float. This increasingly popular activity can relieve stress and ease muscle tension. 

 

 

Meet With Room to Breathe

Ready to plan a meeting, event or reunion in our world-class outdoor city that restores mind, body, and spirit? Submit your RFP or reach out to the VisitColumbusGA team to get started.

Categories: Meetings

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Fort Benning | Inexpensive Family Activities For Every Season

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Friday, July 28, 2017

Inexpensive Family Activities For Every Season

Coca Cola-Space Science Center

From my own experience as a Columbus native, as well as numerous TripAdvisor reviews, this is a Columbus gem and every member of your family – young or old – will love this adventure. Ever wanted to experience first-hand what it’s like to fly to the moon? Or land on Mars? The Coca-Cola Space Science Center is a place that you will step into and forget where you are – geographically speaking. The Center is conveniently located near Uptown Columbus, but once you’re inside, it’s out of this world (pun intended).

They have a huge, dome theater, exhibits where you’ll see real astronaut space suits and simulators that will show you what it’s like to fly a space shuttle yourself! There’s all kinds of artifacts and footage of planets, stars and more that you will get to see and learn about. And for a really unusual taste sensation, grab a bag of astronaut food – maybe ice cream or fruit – to snack on while you’re there for the experience!

Tip from a local: Go at night to learn about using telescopes and get extra help from staff on locating stars, viewing the moon or other planets that are potentially visible!

Columbus Museum

The tagline for The Columbus Museum is always changing, always free, which makes this spot always a good choice for a family activity. It’s one of the largest cultural centers in the southeast and is known for its unique concentration on both American art and regional history. There are interactive exhibits and displays that your whole family will enjoy as you learn more about the history of the Lower Chattahoochee River Valley region through spectacular pieces of art. You can take a guided or self-led tour, but I recommend a guided tour if it’s your first time! As you walk through the museum you will find archeological marvels in art, romantic paintings of Albert Bierstadt, one of the most fashionable portraits painters of the middle colonies – Charles Wilken Peale – who is known for portraits on many famous presidents, as well as sculptures and decorative arts from the colonial period and so much more. This activity is a MUST for any family interested in the arts who are visiting Columbus!

Tip from a local: Unwind and relax in the Bradley Olmsted Garden right outside the museum, which was donated to the City of Columbus in 1947 by the Bradley family. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and one of the most beautiful gardens in the Southeast.

These are just a few of our faves for enjoying the Indoors! Find out what to do outdoors with the family below.

Oxbow Meadows

At the southern tip of the Columbus RiverWalk, the 15-mile trail that hugs the Chattahoochee River, you’ll find a fascinating place that is home to hundreds of plants and animals native to Central Georgia and the Chattahoochee Valley – Owbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center. When you arrive to the location, you may think you’ve just stepped onto the set of a National Geographic photo shoot, only with more children around. With incredible wildlife, literally at your fingertips, this place will excite every member of your family. You’ll find exhibits, displays, hands-on learning, trails, and many different types of formal and informal ways to experience and learn about the plants and animals living at Oxbow Meadows. For instance, within the first 15 minutes after arriving, I spotted the cutest group of fluffy owls I have ever seen, as well as a family gathered around a child grinning ear to ear proudly holding up a snake in his hands. (I preferred to watch from a safe distance in fear of being too close to the snake!) By the time I left, I had been up and close and personal with so many different animals – birds and snakes of all kinds, deer, turtles, frogs, bees, and butterflies. I learned about several different species of mushrooms that grow in the area too, in addition to seeing so many beautiful flowers. The best part about Oxbow is that you will get a different experience no matter what season you go in, and luckily for us southerners, we get mild winters so there’s still plenty to do and see all year round. Admission is free, but donations are suggested to help feed, protect and house all the living creatures at Oxbow. Give your kids a little cash to make them feel special about donating to Oxbow after they spend a few hours learning about the incredible nature living there.

Tip from a local: Bring a picnic with you and have a snack with your family or significant other while you’re out there. They have plenty of space in their park or along the trail for you to throw down a blanket and enjoy your meal over nature.

RiverWalk Splash Pad

Okay, this one isn’t exactly for every season, but since the South is known for it’s oh-so-hot weather, there’s at least six good months out of the year where it’s acceptable to bring the kids to the splash pad! This one sits right along the Chattahoochee River by Whitewater Express, and it’s an open pad with mini-fountains of water bursting through the ground. On any given warm day, you can expect to see several other parents along the pad, either sitting on a bench, a large rock, the open space of grass or possibly even a hammock set up outside Whitewater Express, while their kids run through the jets and sprays of water laughing and playing with each other. It’s an easy, free entertainer for small children and perfect for an afternoon cool-off.

Tip from a local: Bring a book and a blanket and set yourself up a relaxing spot to read while your kid(s) play in the pad!

What are you waiting for? Plan your trip today!

Categories: Family-friendly, Outdoors, River Fun, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | Introducing VisitColumbusGA’s New PopUp Visitor’s Center!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Tuesday, February 15, 2022

Introducing VisitColumbusGA’s New PopUp Visitor’s Center!

Travel is moving at a high rate of speed again, and we're moving right along with it!

Visitors are more mobile than ever these days. Digital resources are plentiful, and the majority of travelers prefer on-the-go access to everything they need in a new city.

So how can we best serve visitors in our community? 

Instead of waiting on visitors to find us, we're taking the show on the road!

Announcing our new PopUp Visitors Center. Every week, the VisitColumbus team will be parking our van at a new location around town. In addition to visitors guides, we'll have QR codes to other digital assets, social media content, and blogs ready and waiting to help you plan the best vacation possible. 

Look for our van and come see us for immediate access to the best attractions, food, and things to do in Columbus, Georgia! *For hints on where to find us, follow along on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. We'll be dropping hints on where we'll be each week!

Get ready to #GoAllOut in a whole new way. 

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Fort Benning | It’s Time for a Girls’ Getaway to Columbus, GA!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

It’s Time for a Girls’ Getaway to Columbus, GA!

In a world filled with hustle and bustle, there's nothing quite like a girls' getaway to refresh the soul and strengthen the bonds of friendship. If you're looking for the perfect destination for your next escapade, look no further than Columbus, Georgia!

 

This charming city, located along the banks of the Chattahoochee River, offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventures that will make your trip unforgettable. Need some ideas for how to #GoAllOut on your trip? Here’s an itinerary for the ultimate girls’ getaway.

 

Day 1: Exploring Uptown Columbus

 

Your adventure begins in the heart of Columbus, where you’ll check into one of our incredible local accommodations. If you prefer a boutique hotel, try a stay at Hotel Indigo Columbus at Riverfront Place or book rooms at the beautiful new City Mills Hotel. Looking for something different? Try the Rothschild Pound House Inn — our favorite bed and breakfast in the Historic District. Click here to see a complete list of accommodations.

 

If you arrive before dinner, consider exploring Uptown! There are more than 35 restaurants, bars and eateries, plus dozens of shops, boutiques, galleries and more all within a few walkable blocks.

 

When you’re ready for dinner, choose from any of the following highly-rated, local places depending on what sounds good to your group. Most do not require a reservation, but it’s always a good idea to call ahead and make one – especially on a Friday or Saturday night!

 

Mabella Italian Steakhouse

Salt Cellar

The Loft

Nonic

The Cannon Brew Pub

11th & Bay

 

Local tip: Splurge for a slice of Mama Kay’s Cheesecake at Salt Cellar. This local dessert is so popular they sell merchandise featuring it and even have a mural outside dedicated to it as well!

 

Day 2: Arts and Culture

 

Columbus has a thriving arts and cultural scene that you simply can’t pass up the opportunity to explore with the girls! Start your day with a walk to and through The Bo Bartlett Center. This dynamic, creative learning laboratory is part gallery/museum, part experimental arts incubator, and part community center. This gallery’s diverse range of art and historical artifacts offers something for everyone.

 

Local Tip: Don't miss the view from the two-story outdoor terrace behind the main gallery. It's one of the best views in town.

 

If you’re up for a short drive, the newly-renovated Columbus Museum or the world’s largest Lunchbox Museum, one of six interesting and quirky collections at the Columbus Collective Museums located at The River Market Antiques, would be a great adventure for your group.

 

For lunch, visit Dinglewood Pharmacy for one of their famous Scrambled Dogs or try the Bacon Pimento Cheese Burger that was voted one of the Best Burgers in the South by Garden & Gun readers from The Black Cow.

 

After lunch, take a stroll around Uptown to check out Columbus’s impressive collection of public art murals and sculptures.

 

In the evening, plan to attend a show at one of Columbus’ incredible performing arts venues! The Springer Opera House is the State Theatre of Georgia and boasts stunning architecture and a rich history of hosting captivating performances. Another option is the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts which, in addition to presenting a full season of Broadway productions, also serves as the launch location for multiple national tours a year.


For a full list of upcoming events in Columbus, click here for a look at the Community Calendar.

 

 

Day 3: Chattahoochee River Adventures

 

Indulge at one of our favorite brunch spots in town! Denim & Oak has an incredible menu and views that will not disappoint! This is a restaurant that prioritizes offering diverse selections to illustrate Georgia's culinary heritage. Denim & Oak has become a local favorite for its dedication to delivering delicious meals in a welcoming environment, making it a must-visit for both residents and visitors alike.

 

Local tip: Don’t miss a chance to take a photo on the patio overlooking the Chattahoochee River because these are the kinds of trips that make memories all the more precious. Plus, you may spot whitewater rafters or kayakers heading down the Chattahoochee!

 

Columbus is renowned for its outdoor activities, so at least part of your trip should be dedicated to exploring the scenic Chattahoochee River! Consider a whitewater trip to tackle the famous Cutbait rapid as a team or zipline across the stateline (and back!) for something a little less ambitious.

 

When you finish your adventuring at RushSouth, chances are you’ll be ready for lunch. For this, we recommend walking next door to BANKS Food Hall. This popular spot boasts several restaurants that serve a wide variety of cuisines, so it’s almost certain they’ll be something for everyone. (We love Poke Sun’s healthy bowls, and the delicious sandwiches made in-house by Fountain City Coffee. Vegan options included!)

 

Ready to get back to adventuring? After lunch, explore the Columbus RiverWalk by biking The Dragonfly Trail. This well-maintained Trail offers beautiful views of the river and many other attractions in town.

 

For your last dinner in Columbus, here are two upscale dining favorites:

 

Walk to EPIC, one of only two 4 Diamond Award restaurants in Georgia outside of Atlanta. With a cozy atmosphere and attentive service, it has become a local favorite and a must-visit destination for those seeking a remarkable gastronomic journey in Columbus.

 

Or head over to the new Millhouse Kitchen + Bar, located adjacent to the City Mills Hotel. Millhouse has quickly become popular for its inviting ambiance and farm-to-table approach to dining. With a focus on using locally sourced ingredients, the menu is filled with creative dishes that showcase the flavors of the region.

 

There are so many experiences in Columbus to enjoy— our vibrant artsy energy, our rich local history, our epic outdoor adventures, and our thriving food scene. It’s no wonder we were named “Georgia’s Cool Cat City” by Forbes and one of the Best Trips of the Year by Explore Georgia. Start planning your one-of-a-kind getaway!

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Fort Benning | Let Your New Year’s Resolution #GoAllOut in Columbus, Georgia!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Monday, January 6, 2025

Let Your New Year’s Resolution #GoAllOut in Columbus, Georgia!

Whether you're in need of a peaceful retreat or craving new culinary experiences, Columbus, Georgia, is a place where wellness and good food go hand-in-hand. From serene gardens and outdoor adventures to flavorful bites at local eateries, Columbus offers a refreshing blend of rejuvenation for both body and soul. Read on to explore wellness activities and restaurant gems that will help you recharge and refuel during your visit this year!

 

Revitalize Your Mind and Body

 

1.  Embrace Nature at the Columbus Botanical Garden

Discover a serene oasis in the heart of the city at the Columbus Botanical Garden, where nature’s beauty comes alive in every season. This 36-acre gem invites you to stroll through vibrant flower gardens, explore peaceful walking trails, and immerse yourself in newly-renovated areas boasting water features and a unique collection of Southern flora.

Whether you're seeking a quiet escape, a stunning backdrop for family photos, or inspiration for your own green thumb, the Garden offers something for everyone. With special events, workshops, and activities year-round, the Columbus Botanical Garden is a must-visit destination that showcases the natural charm and welcoming spirit of Columbus, GA.

 

2.  Ride the Dragonfly Trail!

Experience Columbus from a unique perspective on The Dragonfly Trail, a vibrant network of walking, running, and cycling paths connecting the city's most beloved spots. This trail spans a variety of landscapes to include scenic riverfront stretches, bustling urban areas, and quiet wooded retreats. The trail system is perfect for adventurers of all ages and fitness levels.

The Dragonfly Trail offers endless possibilities whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, take in stunning views of the Chattahoochee River, or explore local landmarks along the way. With its thoughtfully designed routes and commitment to outdoor fun, it's a true testament to the city's active and friendly vibe. Lace up your shoes, grab your bike, and let The Dragonfly Trail lead you to your next Columbus adventure! “No bike?  No problem!  Bike Rentals available at Ride on Bikes and Whitewater Express!”

 

3. #GoAllOut with a Hiking Adventure at Providence Canyon State Park

Step into the "Little Grand Canyon" of Georgia and experience the natural wonder of Providence Canyon State Park, just a short drive from Columbus. This gem offers breathtaking hiking trails that wind through colorful sandstone canyons, where shades of red, orange, pink, and white create a painter's palette of geological beauty. Whether you're an avid hiker or a casual explorer, the park’s trails cater to all skill levels, leading you to jaw-dropping overlooks and serene forest paths. Perfect for photography, picnicking, or simply marveling at nature’s artistry, Providence Canyon is a must-see destination that captures the adventure of the region. Don’t miss the chance to uncover this incredible natural treasure during your visit to Columbus, GA!

 

4. Spend a morning at the Second Largest Art Museum in Georgia

The Columbus Museum was just voted Best New Museum in the Nation by USA Today Travel. Why? Their incredible renovation last year boosted the Museum’s accessibility features, collection, and ability to offer expanded indoor and outdoor programming.

For a morning you won’t soon forget, catch one of their monthly Yoga at the Museum classes. These rejuvenating classes take place among the Museum’s collection in the Winter, but move outdoor to their award-winning Bradley-Olmsted Garden as soon as it’s warm enough to enjoy. #GoAllOut and find your zen in the country’s best new museum as you pursue mindfulness to the next level!

 

Nourish Your Body at Local Eateries

 

Columbus has become a hub for delicious dining, offering an array of healthy, flavorful, and locally-inspired options. Here are some top spots to savor every bite while maintaining a wellness-focused lifestyle.

 

1. The Loft (Downtown Columbus)

For those seeking a nice dinner with reliable and healthy options, The Loft serves up fresh, locally sourced dishes with a Southern twist. Featuring organic greens, locally-raised meats, and regionally-produced cheeses, this chic eatery emphasizes clean, nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty salad or a protein-packed entree, The Loft is a standout for sustainable dining that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

A favorite among our staff is The Tanya Salad. This popular dish features mixed baby lettuces topped with white cheddar cheese, grape tomatoes, pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, and fresh red bell peppers. Adding a freshly-grilled protein is always an option, but either way, get it with the house-made balsamic dressing. YUM!

 

2. Country Life Vegetarian Restaurant

Savor the flavors of wholesome, plant-based dining at Country Life Vegetarian Restaurant. This charming spot offers a variety of delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes, all crafted with fresh, natural ingredients that nourish the body and soul.

From hearty soups and salads to satisfying entrees and homemade desserts, the menu is a celebration of healthy living without compromising on taste. With its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to sustainability, Country Life is a perfect destination for visitors seeking a refreshing, guilt-free meal that aligns with whatever health goals you may have.

 

3. The Juice Bar

While you’re out exploring the city, consider a stop by The Juice Bar for a quick and healthy treat. Offering a refreshing selection of freshly pressed juices, nutrient-packed smoothies, and wellness shots, this local spot is perfect for those on the go or anyone seeking a flavorful boost.

Each drink is crafted with care, blending fresh fruits, vegetables, and superfoods to deliver both taste and nutrition in every sip. So whether you're recharging after that hike, fueling up for a day of exploring The Dragonfly Trail, or simply indulging for the fun of it, the Juice Bar is a must-visit for health-conscious travelers. Come discover why it’s a favorite stop for locals and visitors looking to sip their way to wellness!

 

4. The 11th & Bay Southern Table & Bar

If you’re celebrating a special occasion on vacation, and are looking for a vibrant dining experience with healthy options, head to 11th & Bay Southern Table. While they do offer delicious Southern comfort foods, they also focus on using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create lighter, healthier versions of traditional dishes. Think refreshing seafood options like grilled shrimp and fresh salads, paired with locally sourced produce. Their craft cocktails are the perfect complement to your wellness-focused meal!

Our staff loves the Pan Seared Salmon with forbidden black rice, soy butter bok choy, trumpet mushrooms, lemon aioli, and house gari. It’s consistently been one of their most popular dishes on the menu since the restaurant opened in 2014!

 

Plan Your Trip

 

Columbus, Georgia, is the perfect destination for those seeking balance in life. Whether you're looking to focus on wellness with invigorating outdoor activities or nourish your body with fresh, local fare, Columbus provides the ideal setting for rejuvenation. So, next time you're in the area, embrace the harmony of wellness and flavor, and leave feeling revitalized in body and mind.

Ready to experience Columbus' best wellness activities and dining spots? From outdoor adventures to delightful eateries, Columbus offers everything you need for a healthy, balanced getaway. For more information on where to stay and what to do, be sure to visit VisitColumbusGA.com, your ultimate guide to all things Columbus!

Categories: Family-friendly, Itineraries, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | Meet the Columbus Artists Behind ‘The Spirit of the Chattahoochee Mural’ on the Columbus RiverWalk

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Tuesday, September 19, 2023

Meet the Columbus Artists Behind ‘The Spirit of the Chattahoochee Mural’ on the Columbus RiverWalk

Updated: Sep 2

A new public mural entitled 'The Spirit of the Chattahoochee' will be dedicated on Friday morning, August 18 at 9:30 a.m. on the RiverWalk. The mural was commissioned through Dragonfly Trails and made possible by a grant from the Community Foundation of the Chattahoochee Valley. The grant, comprised entirely of non taxpayer dollars, allowed for sufficient funding to commission several local artists, the usage of high-quality, durable materials, and the ability to cover future maintenance needs.

 

The use of Columbus artists as the featured collaborators for the mural was incredibly important to Dragonfly Trails. "The goal with this project was to create opportunities for artists who choose to live, work, and/or raise a family in Columbus," said Executive Director Becca Zajac. "We wanted to showcase their work on a larger scale, allow them to collaborate to produce an iconic mural for our community, fairly compensate the artists for their work, and grow their skill sets and networks in the process."

The Spirit of the Chattahoochee mural.

Image by Number 1 Digital, via Dragonfly Trails.

 

Zajac worked with Mike Jones, a local designer and co-founder of Creative South Conference, to build a team of diverse, local artists to collaboratively create a design for the mural. First, they named local, professional muralist and Professor of Art at Andrew College, Chris Johnson, to lead the installation of the mural. Then, they named the rest of the artists who would participate in the project:

  • Harrison Mills – Senior Art Director at Outfront Media & Professional Graphic Designer
  • Joseph Melancon - Artist and Designer Working Under the Name Lost Rest
  • Mike Jones – Senior Brand Designer at Heyo & Co-Founder of Creative South Conference
  • Raven Henderson – Professional Illustrator & Volunteer Art Teacher at Clement Arts
  • Samantha Yoo – Award-Winning Designer & Assistant Professor of Art at Columbus State University
  • Vinh Huynh – Interdisciplinary Student Artist at Columbus State University

 

So, who are these local artists, and what was this experience like for them? What do they each hope this new mural will offer? *We corresponded with the artists to share a unique glimpse into each of their backgrounds, professions, and roles as artists in our community. Most importantly, we wanted to know how to continue supporting their work.

 

Read on to meet the artists behind 'The Spirit of the Chattahoochee' and where you can find more of their work throughout Columbus, Georgia!

 

Harrison Mills

Q: How did you get involved in this project? What work did you submit for consideration? A: I was invited by Mike Jones to be a part of the design team in coming up with ideas for the mural. I didn't submit any work for consideration, but Mike asked me to be a part of the team due to my work in the Out Of Home advertising industry. I work at OUTFRONT Media designing out of home advertisements, (billboards, bus shelters, wallscapes, etc) thus having some experience in working on large format displays and designs.

Q: What is your primary medium? What's your favorite independent work or project you've completed within the last year?

A: I work primarily in Photoshop for my day to job, so I guess digital is mostly the medium I work in. I'd have to say helping my daughter develop a cartoon character she created called, G.C. Grumpy Frog, has been about my favorite project I've worked on this past year.

Q: What does it mean to you to be a Columbus artist?

A: To be honest, I really can't consider myself as a Columbus artist. Most of my work has been within the graphic design field and photo-illustration. But, speaking as a Columbus, designer, I think we have a lot of great talent here that is underutilized and looked over. Perhaps even taken for granted at times. Personally, I would love to see that talent tapped into more.

Q: What has the process of working together on 'The Spirit of the Chattahoochee' mural been like for you?

A: The process for this mural design has been such a positive collaboration. Everyone wanted to focus on the goal of what would look best to fill that space, and everyone's contributions are evident in the final design. The team was certainly a very cohesive one that created an encouraging work environment. Personally, I think the finalized mural speaks to that.

Q: What do you hope this mural achieves?

A: I hope the mural is a redoubt of beauty for those that pass by it on the riverwalk or river. I hope it is a place where you can enjoy the story of the artwork and catch glimpses of how it represents this city. There are many photo ops in there as well that I know people are already having fun with.

Q: How can our audience best support you as a local artist? What are your social media handles and/or website?

A: You can find me on Instagram at @mills_of_thrills and head to @gcgrumpyfrog to see my daughter's illustrations. Some of my work is also up on behance.net/HarrisonMills.

Q: What else would you like for our audience to know about you or this project specifically?

A: The frog in the mural was inspired by a pet toad of my daughter's.

 

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Vinh Huynh

Q: How did you get involved in this project? What work did you submit for consideration?

A: I am glad to get involved in this project. I was reached by Becca Zajac, the Executive Director of the Dragonfly Trail Network. She gathered local artists who were interested in this project and I was lucky to be one of them. I have worked with Dragonfly Trail before. I designed a mural on the 11th Street Underpass commissioned by Dragonfly Trail. It was painted Trudy Tran. Maybe because of previous experience working together, Becca trusted me to be involved in this massive project.

Q:What is your primary medium? What's your favorite independent work or project you've completed within the last year?

A: I consider myself an interdisciplinary artist. I bounce between mediums such as painting, printmaking, photography, collage, and creative writing. Currently, my most favorite medium is collaging because I love to curating imaging and combining different materials to recreate something new and interesting. Within last year, my most favorite independent work is a series of printmaking collage that still in process. The series is about queer identity, self-exploration, and transition into adulthood.

Q: What does it mean to you to be a Columbus artist?

I think that Columbus is a very good environment for artists to develop. I feel welcomed and empowered being an artist in Columbus. We have a great artistic community who support each other and I really enjoy it.

Q: What has the process of working together on the Spirit of the Chattahoochee Mural been like for you?

A: It has been a great experience working together for sure. Being the youngest among other experienced talents and creative, I feel honored to be involved. I have learned a lot about professionalism in the process which would benefit me in future career. People are so nice and empowering to each other. We are also open to feedbacks and willing to achieve better of this project, and it turned out successfully. This is the biggest project that I have ever involved and I am proud of everyone.

Q: What do you hope this mural achieves?

A: I hope this mural will spread good vibes to people in the community. I hope this mural can become a favorite location of people to come out, gather, and connect. Especially, after the years of pandemic, people were distant and disconnected. I hope this mural can reconnect people and promote wellness and health of our community.

Q: How can our audience best support you as a local artist? What are your social media handles and/or website?

A: During the process of painting, a lot of people walked by and praised us artists. That was really empowering and motivating for us. It would be nice if audience can follow us on social media and connect with us to show your support. That would mean a lot to us. My artist Instagram is @mr.vinh.art

Q: What else would you like for our audience to know about you or this project specifically?

A: This project means a lot to me. I am an immigrant and have lived in Columbus for 6 years. I struggled to fit in the beginning. Being able to contribute to beautify the community and leaving a permanent mark on this public wall, it makes me feel welcomed and feel like I am home.

 

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Joseph Melancon

Q: How did you get involved in this project? What work did you submit for consideration?

A: The creative team for the mural design was assembled by Mike Jones, who has been and friend and mentor to me over the years. From what I gather, Mike was approached to handle the design for the mural and opted to gather a diverse group of local designers to collaborate on the project. I was fortunate to be one of those designers drafted to the team.

Mike is quite familiar with the works and capabilities of everyone he selected for the team, including my illustration and art practice. I believe the team was formed based on our diverse perspectives, design knowledge, and varying skill sets in the creative industry.

Q: What is your primary medium? What's your favorite independent work or project you've completed within the last year?

A: I'm an artist, illustrator, and designer and split my time doing freelance work, commissions, and personal work including fine art, consumer products (prints, apparel, and other merch), and narrative works. But, no matter what type of work I'm doing, drawing is my home base. Whether I'm developing a story, designing a logo, or working on a gallery piece, I'm always drawing. I use traditional drawing tools such as ink and brush, pencil, and other dry mediums, as well as digital art applications.

Recently, I self-published my first long form book: a non-traditional, wordless graphic novel titled The Lightkeeper. It's an early exploration in developing the world of a character I've been drawing for years—a nomadic, mystical character who uses a magic lantern to find his way through difficult situations, kind of like a "guiding light", I suppose. The story is somewhat enigmatic and open to interpretations, which have been fascinating to hear from readers. It's definitely the first of many books, as I have plans for other narrative works in the future, further building my own little multiverse of sorts, piece by piece.

Q: What does it mean to you to be a Columbus artist?

A: Being an artist in Columbus, to me, is inspiring. The community is brimming with talent and history and beauty, and there seem to be ever-increasing paths to gain support, to grow as an artist, and to feel connected to the people and places.

And, on the other hand, it also feels like a kind of frontier. There is a great deal of culture to experience, but it's not to an overwhelming degree like some cities might have. In my view, there a sense of freedom in that void, rather than a long-established "scene" that might steer an artist in a particular direction. So, opportunities often need to be created rather than taken, which makes room for one to truly carve their own path.

I love seeing how other creatives are approaching that circumstance, and forging their paths by collaborating with one another, starting businesses to help artists thrive, seeking new platforms to showcase work, getting together to improve their practices, and inventing all sorts of creative ways to combine art and community. The more I put myself out there as an artist, the more I see this kind of innovation, and this, too, inspires me.

Q: What has the process of working together on the Spirit of the Chattahoochee Mural been like for you?

A: I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to collaborate with these people, and am honored to be a part of such a significant work of art to pay tribute to our home. Not only have I learned a great deal from everyone involved, but I have gotten to know some really great folks who I now consider my comrades.

The process, to me, was very open, comfortable, and fulfilling. Everyone on the team was determined to put our heads together and make this project the best it could possibly be. I feel that everyone had equal shares of creative input, and everyone's ideas seemed to greatly improve one another's. By the end of the project, we created something that could not have been done without all of us, which I love.

And I learned a great deal more when it came to the installation lead by Chris Johnson. We are incredibly fortunate to have an artist of his caliber working on projects like this in our region, and learning about the process of installing a mural was eye-opening and encouraging. After this experience, I hope to seek more large scale and/or public art projects in the future!

Q: What do you hope this mural achieves?

A: I hope this mural provides this region with a sense of wonder, pride, and fun. There are many ways to engage with the piece: you can view it from a distance and see how it all connects, you can explore up close and try to find all the hidden images, you can simply enjoy the colors and forms, you can notice all the subtle and not-so-subtle references to our community's history and landscape, or you can simply spend some time in the space enjoying the view. I hope people from near and far will get a chance to enjoy the work in their own ways for a long time to come.

Q: How can our audience best support you as a local artist? What are your social media handles and/or website?

A: There are a lot of ways readers can support if they're so inclined, all of which are hugely appreciated! The simplest way is to follow and engage with me on my Instagram, @lostrest. There, I make announcements for events, products, artwork and other things. It's a good way to stay in the loop.

I also do sell products such as art prints, originals, stickers, patches, apparel, books, and other merch. I can sometimes be found at various markets, and I also have many of my items available on my website: lostrest.com. I also make and sell some of my wares at The Peach Shoppe & Co, a boutique store in downtown Columbus, at 900 Front Ave, Suite 212. I also design exclusive merch for that store which can only be found there, so it's a great place to check out in the city.

And the other main way to support would be to reach out with any art or design opportunities. If my work seems to be a good fit for a certain project, or for commission inquiries, please contact me at contact@lostrest.com.

Q: What else would you like for our audience to know about you or this project specifically?

A: I would just like to illustrate how grateful I am for the opportunity to make my living as an independent creative, and to be surrounded by such a welcoming community. This city and the people in it have been a wonderful support system for me, and I hope that this project serves them well.

 

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Samantha Yoo

Q: How did you get involved in this project? What work did you submit for consideration?

A: Becca Zajac, the Executive Director of Dragonfly Trails Network, reached out to me directly for this project. I feel privileged to have been invited and am excited to contribute.

Q: What is your primary medium? What's your favorite independent work or project you've completed within the last year?

A: I have been working as a designer for 20 years. During my career, I spent over 15 years working for a shoe company and graphic design firm based in NYC. My work has covered various areas of design, including publication and print design, as well as motion and advertising for major events like UGG, Timberland, Shoe Village, and non-profit organizations.

Q: What does it mean to you to be a Columbus artist?

A: I've been residing in Columbus for two years now, and it holds a special place in my heart. These past two years have been amazing as I've had the opportunity to connect with and become a member of the local community. Through this project, I have been able to display my artistic abilities and happily identify as a Columbus artist.

Q: What has the process of working together on the Spirit of the Chattahoochee Mural been like for you?

A: This group has been amazing since the beginning. We all share ideas, make intentional thumbnail sketches, discuss, and refine our project together. Their dedication to this project and community truly inspired me. I was inspired by their passion for this project and community.

Q: What do you hope this mural achieves?

A: It is my hope that this project will bring the Columbus community closer together and allow its residents to further embrace the essence and relaxing atmosphere of the Chattahoochee.

Q: How can our audience best support you as a local artist? What are your social media handles and/or website?

A: As a faculty member at Columbus State University, my goal is to enhance our graphic design program by seeking support and collaboration from the community to help our students grow in this field. (Learn more here: https://www.columbusstate.edu/art/)

As an educator, I aim to inspire my students to prioritize art and graphic design concepts that advocate for social responsibility. I encourage them to broaden their perspectives beyond their national and cultural backgrounds, and design works that cater to diverse audiences of the present-day. By undertaking such projects, my students are able to raise awareness and provide social commentary on various issues such as culture, race, poverty, and crime. It is my sincere hope that through working with the Columbus community, my students will acquire these valuable skills.

The best ways to connect with my personal work are via my website (www.samanthayoo.com) or on Instagram @samanthayoodesign.

Q: What else would you like for our audience to know about you or this project specifically?

A: I warmly welcome you to come and enjoy this experience!

 

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Christopher Johnson

Q: How did you get involved in this project? What work did you submit for consideration?

A: I was contacted by Becca Zajac with Dragonfly Trail Network in October 2022 about coordinating and painting the riverwalk mural. The image had been already created by a team of designers and they needed someone who had experience painting large scale public art to bring the idea to life. The people at Dragonfly Trails were familiar with some of my other large murals in Columbus and reached out to see if I was interested in partnering with them. Although I typically work alone, I was very excited at the chance to paint and coordinate with other local artists.

Q: What is your primary medium? What's your favorite independent work or project you've completed within the last year?

I have an MFA in Printmaking and I still consider wood carving and relief printing as my favorite art medium. I recently got the opportunity to host a steamroller print event at the Albany Museum of Art. At the event participants got to ink and print woodblocks onto t-shirts using a steamroller. It was rad! However, over the past seven years I have focussed primarily on painting murals. My favorite mural from this past year has got to be Backyard Birds at Highside Market. It is big, bold, colorful, playful, and is located in one of the coolest spots in Columbus.

Q: What does it mean to you to be a Columbus artist?

A: Columbus is a cool city with a lot of opportunities for artists. For me, Columbus is inspiring. I am inspired by the public and private groups who want to participate in the upswing of the arts. Columbus has a tremendously diverse population with diverse perspectives but everyone supports revitalization through the arts, community uplift, beautification efforts, etc. As an artist, many of these groups contact me to ask how I can help their community through my art. It is deeply meaningful to help in that regard. There is still so much more to do in Columbus--which helps me stay inspired.

Q: What has the process of working together on the Spirit of the Chattahoochee Mural been like for you?

A: It was great working with so many other Columbus artists. Many of the designers have an interest in pursuing mural paintings in the future. I had the opportunity to impart some of my mural wisdom on them. I typically do not work with other painters so it was a nice change to have some other folks on the wall with me.

Q: What do you hope this mural achieves?

A: I love that the mural is painted on terraces and that people can walk through the painting. I hope that people think of the painting as theirs and are inspired by the artistic interpretation of the river. I hope it inspires them to create, appreciate the natural beauty of the river, or to just enjoy looking at the art.

Q: How can our audience best support you as a local artist? What are your social media handles and/or website?

A: There are plenty of local designers, artists, bakers, painters, ceramicists, videographers, mc's, musicians, artisans, etc. living throughout Columbus. Support local artists by supporting local businesses and contacting local creatives. Market Days and Midland Market are spots to find local artists. There are also a number of other craft festivals around as well. Check them out! My handle is @chrisjmfa

Q: What else would you like for our audience to know about you or this project specifically?

A: This project was created over the course of three and a half weeks. During that time, I met a ton of people from Columbus (and beyond) who shared their thoughts on the project, their memories of the riverwalk, and their life stories with me. That was so special to me. People are eager to share and talk and be a part of our collective Columbus. Go out to the mural and meet someone. Believe me, someone wants to talk to you. I hope this mural becomes a place where people will come and share with one another.

 

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The Spirit of the Chattahoochee mural.

Image by Number 1 Digital, via Dragonfly Trails.

 

Want to donate to Dragonfly Trails' fund to bring more public art to Columbus, Georgia?

Make your contribution here or mail a check to Dragonfly Trails, P.O. Box 2666, Columbus, GA 31902.

 

*Not all artists were available for comment at the time of publication. We'll continue to update this feature to include as many as possible.

**Posted in partnership with The Columbusite. 

Categories: Arts, Family-friendly, Outdoors, River Fun

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Fort Benning | New Year, New You! #GoAllOut with These Top 5 Wellness Brands in Columbus, Georgia

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Wednesday, December 28, 2022

New Year, New You! #GoAllOut with These Top 5 Wellness Brands in Columbus, Georgia

Columbus is an ideal place for active and health-conscious travelers. Adventure awaits around every corner, and the city is home to a plethora of wellness establishments just waiting to help you #GoAllOut while you're here. Need a jumpstart? Here's a list of our top 5 favorite local places to relax, unwind, and restore in Columbus, Georgia. (Spoiler: We've included a few more bonus recommendations for you, too!)

RiverFlow Yoga & Wellness

 

RiverFlow Yoga and Wellness was established to bring connectivity, open-mindedness, and whole body wellness to Columbus, Georgia. All teachers and the staff provide a personal experience that makes guests feel safe, cared for and calm. Classes are created to be welcoming for all levels of experience, and private lessons are also offered. Not looking for a class? Try their sauna or book a massage with one of their specialists. When you're finished, head across the street for a meal at Millhouse Kitchen and Bar. Then, book a night at the beautiful City Mills boutique hotel to extend your stay!

 

Aglow Apothecary

Aglow Apothecary is Old Town's newest wellness hotspot. Located just up the road from Clean Eatz, this new apothecary has made Old Town a perfect destination for health-conscious travelers. Need a plan? Enjoy a healthy customized lunch from Clean Eatz (customizable for any dietary restriction!) and then head to Aglow Apothecary to browse their robust selection of wellness products. Services include custom herbal therapy consultations and personalized treatment blends, therapeutic massage, sound and energy therapies, and classes in all levels of yoga, meditation, and breathwork. In addition to our daily offerings, we will also host weekly classes and workshops that focus on a wide array of topics and interests.

 

Uptown Float

 

Let your body #GoAlLOut at Uptown Float to expereince the benefits of floating! Each session leaves guests suspended effortlessly in a super-saturated solution of epsom salt and water within a light and sound-controlled environment. This experience reduces sensory stimulation and effectively suspends the effects of gravity on the central nervous system. Backed by more than thirty years of medical research, this unique form of relaxation is the ultimate self care treat. Try it out! 

 

Pop Yoga Studio

Pop Yoga is a yoga studio built in a renovated bar! Expect a relaxed and laid-back environment with some of the most welcoming locals you'll meet. Classes range from traditional yoga to sessions that incorporate pilates, weight training and more. When you book a class through their website, it's helpful to know your class fees also go toward something bigger! This studio is unique because of its relationship with local non-profits who work together to provide improved access to healthcare, nutritious food and exercise programs for underserved parts of Columbus' population. Thanks to the success of their studio through class fees and memberships, Pop Yoga is able to donate free classes to many throughout the community who otherwise would not be able to access the benefits of yoga. What a way to #GoAllOut for others!

 

Just Breathe for Kids

If you're traveling with your family, Just Breathe for Kids is a wonderful option for children! The studio is a safe space for children to come exactly as they are and offers clasess that incorporate yoga, breathing techniques, mindfulness games, songs and activities. Sessions are available for children ages 5 and up. Each class lasts about an hour, and they tend to fill up! Reservations are recommended but not required. 

Can't get enough? Check out these other local wellness brands we love...

The Well: A Lifestyle Boutique
Ride on Smoothie and Juice Bar
Novo Fitness Studio
Pure Barre Columbus
The Matcha Garden
Sunday's Ultimate Day Spa

Categories:

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Fort Benning | Plan an Arts & Culture Getaway to Columbus, Georgia!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Friday, February 24, 2023

Plan an Arts & Culture Getaway to Columbus, Georgia!

Columbus, Georgia is an ideal place to let your inner-culture buff #GoAllOut. Nestled on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, the once-quiet river city has become a bustling hotspot for adventurous foodies with a passion for the arts.

While the city still possesses the quaint feel of a small town, its amenities and infrastructure will surprise you. Expect to find award-winning museums with work by internationally-renown names, a host of state-of-the-art theaters presenting everything from Broadway tours to chamber concerts, and a thriving community of artists whose work is shown proudly (and often) in the city’s collection of local galleries.

This year, plan an arts & culture getaway to Columbus, Georgia! 

To get you started, we’ve put together an ideal itinerary for an immersive arts getaway complete with top local arts attractions, fantastic local restaurants, and gorgeous places to stay while you’re here. Have questions? Let us know. We’re here to help you #GoAllOut in this incredible place!!

Ready for your itinerary? Let's go!

A plein air painting by Columbus artist Julianna Wells. 

 

Day One (Friday) | Dinner & A Show in Uptown!

When you arrive, be sure to check in to one of our local hotels. Then, get ready to enjoy a night on the town! 

Columbus boasts seven theaters all within just a few city blocks of the Uptown area. Depending on the weekend, it’s likely you’ll be able to catch a Broadway tour at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts or a show at Springer Opera House, Georgia’s Historic State Theatre. Between the two venues, expect to pick from a selection of popular titles like Spamalot, My Fair Lady, Jesus Christ Superstar, White Christmas, The Bodyguard, Steel Magnolias, Chicago, and more. RiverCenter is also home to the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, so if you’re into orchestral music that’s another great option to look into. 

The Columbus Symphony Orchestra warms up before a live performance at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts.

See a show at Springer Opera House, Georgia’s Historic State Theatre. 

Striking out? Look at Columbus State University’s (CSU) College of the Arts programming as well. People come from all over the world to see concerts at the Schwob School of Music, and CSU’s Theatre and Art programs also draw large crowds regularly throughout the year. 

 

You can find information on upcoming events in Columbus, Georgia via our Community Calendar here. It’s got everything in one convenient place for you.

Found tickets to a show?! Great. Now, it’s time to decide where to eat before you take your seats…

In the kitchen at EPIC, one of only two 4 Diamond Award restaurants outside of Atlanta in the state!

 

Columbus is home to an incredible food scene. We can’t possibly choose one place to send you to, so here’s a list of our top recommendations.

 

EPIC 

11th & Bay

Animal Farm

Eighteen 85 Rooftop Bar & Kitchen at Hotel Indigo

Millhouse Kitchen & Bar 

Dinner at 11th & Bay is always a treat.

*Bonus idea: Want to grab a drink after the show? Head to Houlihans at the Columbus Marriott or walk to Salt.Cellar to finish out your evening. 

Day Two (Saturday) | Museums & More!

Start your morning with breakfast at Ruth Ann’s Restaurant and get ready for a jam-packed day of exploring Columbus’ diverse and impressive art attractions.

We recommend a walk through the Bo Bartlett Center, an interactive gallery housed on the River Park campus of Columbus State University in Uptown Columbus, GA. The repurposed red brick former textile warehouse holds a vast collection of work by artist and Columbus native, Bo Bartlett. At any given time, visitors can expect to see large scale exhibitions showcasing Bartlett paintings as well the work of artists from across the Southeast and beyond. (Past exhibitions include the SouthArts Annual Southern Prize and State Fellows Exhibitions, The Bennett Prize Exhibition, Works from the Black Art in America Collection and various featured pieces by Amy Sherald, Najee Dorsey, Kate Capshaw, Juan Logan, Alma Thomas, and more!) 

When you’re finished making your way through the Bartlett Center, head downstairs to the Illges Gallery for exhibits featuring items from the permanent collection of The Columbus Museum and/or the work of top students at Columbus State University.

Then, head to Midtown for a walk through the Carson McCullers Center. The renowned writer was born and raised in Columbus, Georgia and her childhood home now serves as headquarters for the McCullers Center. Dedicated to preserving the legacy of Carson McCullers, the Center works to continue nurturing writers and musicians, educating young people; and fostering literary, musical, artistic, and intellectual culture in the United States and abroad. 

Ready to keep moving? Grab lunch at Dinglewood Pharmacy (try a scrambledog!) and head to the Shops at St. Elmo in Midtown Columbus for a walk through the art gallery of Gloria Mani. A second-generation Columbus artist, Mani has been in business in Midtown for more than 40 years. Her work focuses on paintings of captivating landscapes and figures. She also specializes in art restoration, and has an impressive lineup of regular clients from across the Southeast. 

Need a snack? Check out Parker’s Pantry, located next door to Gloria Mani Fine Art. We love their little cupcakes and cookies, but don’t miss an opportunity to try their famous pimento cheese! 

When you’re ready, head out to nearby Buena Vista to end the afternoon at Pasaquan. An internationally recognized Visionary Art Environment, Pasaquan is truly a one-of-a-kind hidden gem that will offer an art experience like no other! Make sure to check for current hours via their website before you go!

For dinner, why dine in Old Town Columbus on your way back to your hotel? We love Morten’s for their imaginative menu and atmosphere. Stay late, and definitely don’t skip dessert!

Enjoy dinner and drinks together at The Loft before catching a concert.

Need an after dinner spot to land? Check out The Loft. A beloved Columbus hotspot, the venue has a restaurant downstairs and a bar upstairs that showcases musicians and comedians from across the South. Check their website for a list of upcoming events and hours, and go have some fun!

'Air View of A Spring Nursery' by Columbus native Alma Thomas. 

*Bonus idea: Check out The Columbus Museum: On Tour! While the Museum is currently undergoing a massive renovation, their programming and exhibits, are still happening thanks to multiple collaborations with local organizations around the city. Not only does this allow visitors and locals to continue viewing the collection, it offers a unique opportunity to engage with many other places at the same time. Check their website for what’s currently on exhibit and where!

We hope your immersive arts getaway to Columbus is a memory you’ll cherish for a long time! If there’s anything we can do to help you #GoAllOut even more while you’re here, let us know. We’re more than happy to do anything we can to make your choice to #VisitColumbusGA something you can’t WAIT to do again!

Categories: Arts, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | Plan An EPIC Couple’s Getaway to Columbus, Georgia

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Tuesday, January 25, 2022

Plan An EPIC Couple’s Getaway to Columbus, Georgia

Columbus, Georgia is the perfect place for couples to #GoAllOut together this year! The city has become a hot destination for foodies and culture buffs of all ages. Its location along the Chattahoochee River also makes it home to some of the best outdoor adventuring in the region, and just upriver within walking distance are world class art galleries and a space center. It's true! Broadway tours, bourbon tastings, whitewater rafting, world class art galleries, four diamond dining, museums, and more... they're all waiting here for you and your loved one to discover together.

Need some inspiration for your trip? We've put together our top local picks for planning an EPIC Couple's Getaway to Columbus, Georgia? (Spoiler: We've included a bonus itinerary for those with limited time!)


Happy planning and thanks for traveling!

 

Where to Stay...

1870 Rothschild-Pound House Inn
AC Marriott
City Mills
Columbus Marriott
Hotel Indigo
View more hotel options here!

 

Where to Eat



Dinner:
EPIC
The Animal Farm
Mabella's
Denim & Oak
11th & Bay
Morten's at Old Town
Stock Market Dueling Kitchens
Salt Cellar
The Loft 
Nonic Beer Bar & Kitchen
Trevioli's 

Lunch:
The Food Mill
Poke Sun at BANKS Food Hall
Jarfly Midtown
Parkers Pantry
Tuesday's Tacos
The Speakeasy
Bodega 1205

Breakfast:
The Bakeshop at BANKS Food Hall
Iron Bank Coffee
My Boulange
Fountain City Coffee
Ruth Ann's Restaurant
Midtown Coffee


Just for Cocktails:
Eighteen 85 Rooftop Bar at Hotel Indigo
Jarfly Midtown
AC Marriott Downtown
Mabella's 
Houlihan's at Columbus Marriott

What to do

The Columbus Museum
The National Infantry Museum
The Bo Bartlett Center
RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
Springer Opera House
Columbus Symphony Orchestra
The Columbus Ballet
Columbus Civic Center
Whitewater Express (Rafting and Zip lining)
Ma Rainey House
Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center
National Civil War Naval Museum


Bringing a Four-Legged Friend? Check out Frank's Faves (Dog Adventures in Columbus, GA) or head down to Fetch Park!

 

Only have 48 Hours? Here's an itinerary of must-do's!

Friday

Dinner: EPIC Chef's Table Experience (Advance reservations required!)

A Night of Arts & Culture: Attend a show at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Springer Opera House, CSU Riverside Theatre, a concert by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, or catch live music at The Loft. Visit our event calendar to make your pick and get tickets!

After Hours: Cocktails at Eighteen 85 Rooftop Bar

Saturday

Morning: Visit the Market on Broadway

Breakfast: The Bakeshop at BANKS Food Hall (Try the cinnamon rolls!)

Morning Adventure: Hike Providence Canyon OR take a Whitewater Rafting Trip

Lunch: Pack a picnic from the market if you’re headed to Providence Canyon OR grab lunch at Nōnic Beer Bar & Kitchen.

Afternoon: Visit the Bo Bartlett Center or The Columbus Museum to see the latest exhibits OR rent bikes and ride to the National Infantry Museum (Accessed via an 18 mile trail along the Riverwalk.)

Dinner: Mabella's Italian Steakhouse (Reservations recommended)

After Hours: 18th Amendment Speakeasy

Sunday

Breakfast: Get brunch at The Animal Farm and order the chef's favorite dish of the week.

Before You Go: Stretch your legs on the RiverWalk, OR hit an art exhibit or two on your way out of town.

 

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Questions about what to do or where to stay? Call our Visitor’s Center at 800-999-1613 for more information. 

Developed in collaboration with: The Columbusite

Categories: Stay, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | So, What’s a Scrambled Dog?

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Wednesday, September 28, 2022

So, What’s a Scrambled Dog?

Love food? Us, too! Columbus, Georgia is a foodie’s paradise, and one of the most popular reasons why is Dinglewood Pharmacy’s World Famous Scrambled Dog. Visitors from all over the world have sampled this beloved local favorite, making it quite the attraction for foodies who #VisitColumbusGA.

So, what is a Scrambled Dog?

This Columbus creation begins with an empty banana split bowl. Then, they add a hotdog bun and a red Dinglewood hotdog - sliced into rounds, of course. This is quickly smothered with a heaping helping of hot chili. Next up? Lots of shredded cheese. Diced onion. Pickles. And finally, a big ‘ole handful of oyster crackers.

You’ll want some extra napkins and a fountain Cherry Coke, too.

Maybe you’d also like one of their milkshakes made with Blue Bell Ice Cream? We recommend the vanilla with whipped cream and a cherry on top, but chocolate is never a bad choice either.

Now, take a deep breath and dig in to one of the most incredible things you’ll ever eat. We’ll call ahead and ask the hotel to have your room ready for your afternoon nap. 😊 Enjoy. We look forward to seeing you (again) soon!

Looking for more things to do in Columbus, Georgia? Click here

Check out these other places to EAT while you’re here.

Categories: Dining, Family-friendly, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | Take a Family Trip to ColumbusGA!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Saturday, October 1, 2022

Take a Family Trip to ColumbusGA!

Columbus, Georgia is a perfect destination for families! With an abundance of attractions for every age to enjoy, this is place you can #GoAllOut together.

Here are our top ten things for families to do in ColumbusGA in 2022.

1) Stay at one of our AMAZING hotels!

The 1870 Rothschild-Pound House Inn.

An ideal accomodation for your family is waiting for you in ColumbusGA. Two new hotels have opened in 2021, adding to the extensive list of amazing local options for your stay. Click here for a complete list of local places to stay, and get ready to make yourself at home!

2) Eat some really, REALLY good local food!

ColumbusGA is home to a bustling virbant food scene. From fried chicken to four diamond cuisine, it's easy to let your inner foodie #GoAllOut while you're here. We've linked a few of our favorite local hotspots for you to enjoy!

Minnie's Uptown Restaurant

11th and Bay Southern Table

Dinglewood Pharmacy

Mabella's Italian Steakhouse

The Black Cow

BANKS Food Hall

 

Got folks craving something beyond the chicken fingers phase? Head to EPIC for the ultimate fine dining experience! 

3) Explore our award-winning museums.

Columbus is home to award-winning museums. Take the kids to the Coca-Cola Space Science Center for a trip to the moon, or head to the Columbus Museum for a morning at one of the largest museums in the Southeast. If you're looking for something a little different, the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus hosts historic reenactments and they sometimes include firing a Civil War era cannon! Check out the event calendar to see what's happening while you're here. 

4) Maybe #GoAllOut on the Longest Urban Whitewater Course in the World!

Columbus is the home of the longest urban whitewater course in the world. Book a trip with local outfitter Whitewater Express. High or low water trips are available, so you can pick the level of intensity and find something to suit everyone's needs. When you get off the river, take some time to explore RushSouth Whitewater Park which includes a playground, spashpad, cycling paths, a hammock park, and more. 

5) Get in some outdoor fun at Oxbow Meadows or nearby Wild Animal Safari.

Interested in adding some outdoor edu-tainment into your trip? Visit Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center and experience everything from live animal encounters to classes on beekeeping. 

For those willing to make the short drive, the nearby Wild Animal Safari offers a drive-thru safari experience unlike anything else in the region. We recommend riding the Zebra bus or renting a vehicle for your party. Oh, and say hello to the giraffe for us! 

6) Bike the Dragonfly Trail.

With over 40 miles of trails, there's no better place than the Dragonfly Trail to #GoAllOut as a family this year. Need to rent bikes? Head to our friends at Ride on Bikes and they'll get you set up with everything you need for a day on two wheels. 

7) See a show at Springer Opera House.

Springer Opera House, Georgia's State Theatre, is home to a vibrant 2022-23 season. Why not add a little arts & culture into your stay?!

8) Spend a morning at Pasaquan, one of the nation's leading folk art sites.

If you're looking for something totally different, consider a visit to Pasaquan. The psychedelic wonderland of brightly colored totems, curved and angled walls and walkways and wildly ornamented structures was built by Buena Vista artist Eddie Owens Martin who believed it to be a utopia for a future generation. Pasaquan underwent a major renovation through a partnership between Columbus State University and the Kohler Foundation to preserve and restore St. EOM's work. Check it out! 

9) Zip line across state lines!

Columbus GA is the only place you can zip line across state lines. Book a trip for the Whitewater Express Blue Heron Adventure and you'll be flying together in no time! It's the perfect place to get an aerial view of everything RushSouth Whitewater Park has to offer.

10) Take a day trip to Providence Canyon.

If your family likes to hike, consider spending a day at nearby Providence Canyon. Called "Georgia's Little Grand Canyon", the state park is a must see and do adventure. You'll be surprised at the views!

 

Need assistance planning your trip? Contact us. We'd love to help you build a family vacation so you can #GoAllOut in ColumbusGA! Click here for more ideas on inexpensive activities for families in every season.

Categories: Arts, Dining, Family-friendly, History, Itineraries, Outdoors, River Fun, Stay, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | The Columbusite’s Guide to Public Art Murals

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Tuesday, September 19, 2023

The Columbusite’s Guide to Public Art Murals

Columbus, Georgia boasts an impressive collection of public art murals, and now you can explore them all with our convenient, interactive Google map! 

Know of a mural we missed? Contact us to let us know. We'll update this map regularly to ensure this is your top resource for where to find public art in Columbus, GA!

In partnership with The Columbusite.

Categories: Arts, Outdoors

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Fort Benning | The Columbusite’s Guide to Uptown Columbus!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Wednesday, March 2, 2022

The Columbusite’s Guide to Uptown Columbus!

Originally published on The Columbusite. Click here to learn more about their work to promote arts & culture in Columbus, Georgia!

 

Uptown Columbus, Georgia has put our city on the map as a destination for many, many reasons. The incredible transformation that has transpired in the area over the past decade and a half has led to Uptown becoming a major draw for tourists and residents alike. 

 

We've put together the following resource for out-of-towners and new residents to our area. Our hope is that a concisely compiled resource of Uptown's attractions, amenities, and lifestyle will assist in helping visitors and new Columbusites to feel more at home in our city. Welcome, we're glad you're here!

 

Uptown Columbus - Attractions & Amenities

A curated look at everything Uptown has to offer...

 

 

Resources for Visitors

VisitColumbusGA 

 

Top Arts & Culture Attractions

RiverCenter for the Performing Arts

         Legacy Hall 

        Heard Theatre

The Columbus Ballet

Columbus Symphony Orchestra

Columbus State University - RiverPark Campus

Schwob School of Music

Corn Center for the Visual Arts

The Bo Bartlett Center

Riverside Theatre

Springer Opera House

The Liberty Theatre

Gallery on 10th 

Columbus Cultural Arts Alliance

Historic Columbus

 

Outdoor Adventures 

Chattahoochee RiverWalk 

Historic District

Dragonfly Trail

Whitewater Express

Blue Heron Adventures

Woodruff Park, Splashpad, & Playground

Ride on Bikes

Heritage Park

SUP Paddleboard Yoga

Vicinity Tours

 

Special Attractions

Coca Cola Space Science Center

Port Columbus Civil War Naval Center

Columbus Civic Center

The Market on Broadway 

 

 

Uptown Columbus - Eat It Up!

11th & Bay Southern Table

Agave Bar & Grill

Barberitos

BANKS Food Hall

The Cannon Brew Pub

Country's Barbeque

EPIC

Fountain City Coffee

Freeze Frame Yogurt Shoppe

Houlihan's

Iron Bank Coffee

Kilwins

Mabella's Italian Steakhouse

Mario's Mediterranean

Minnie's Uptown Restaurant

Momma Goldberg's Deli

My Boulánge & Tower Pizza

Nonic Bar & Kitchen

Picasso's Pizzeria

Plucked Up Chicken & Biscuits

Ruth Ann's Restaurant 

The Simple Greek

Samurai Japanese Cuisine and Sushi Bar

Scruffy Murphy's Irish Pub & Eatery

Smoke Bourbon & BBQ

The Black Cow

The Loft

Uptown Vietnam Cuisine

Vertigo Fusion Kitchen

Your Pie

 

Check back in for future installments of this series including guides to MidTown, Bibb City, North Columbus, and Fort Benning. 

 

Looking for upcoming events? Click here!

Categories: Arts, Dining, Family-friendly

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Fort Benning | The Ease of Getting to Columbus, GA for Meetings

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

The Ease of Getting to Columbus, GA for Meetings

Plan for convenience when your group gathers in Columbus, GA. Whether your attendees are hitting the road or taking to the skies, they can easily get to Georgia’s second-largest city for their meeting, conference, reunion, or event. 

 

Near Multiple Major Cities

It doesn’t matter where your attendees are coming from—Columbus’ doors are always open. Because of our West-Central Georgia location, our part of the Peach State is a suitable driving distance from multiple major cities in the Southeast.

 

 

Drive Times to Columbus, GA

Albany, GA: 90 minutes Jacksonville, FL: 4.5 hours
Atlanta, GA: 90 minutes Nashville, TN: 5 hours
Macon, GA: 90 minutes Jackson, MS: 5.5 hours
Montgomery, AL: 90 minutes Charlotte, NC: 5.5 hours
Greenville, SC: 4 hours Roanoke, VA: 8 hours


Driving to Columbus also comes with an additional bonus for attendees: Public garage parking is entirely free!

 

 

Accessible Airport

For attendees flying in, Columbus is effortlessly accessible via air travel, thanks to Columbus Airport (CSG). With a new terminal modernization and infrastructure improvements, CSG is the fourth largest airport in the state of Georgia, servicing thousands of passengers annually. Delta Air Lines offers daily service to and from our destination. For travelers making a connection, CSG makes it quick and easy.

Another plus: CSG is only minutes from Columbus’ Uptown Meeting District. This prominent area is home to the Columbus Georgia Convention & Trade Center, a historic landmark featuring 182,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space for groups to gather in style. Adjacent to the Trade Center is the 15-mile Chattahoochee RiverWalk, where attendees can take scenic strolls. And with over 500 hotel rooms within minutes of the Convention Center—many of which are new or renovated—your group can relax and recharge in comfort.

 

 

Convenient Shuttle Services

For attendees flying into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Columbus’ Groome Transportation offers shuttle services that make multiple round trips between Columbus and ATL daily. This addition presents a convenient transportation option for groups gathering in Columbus.

 

"Accessibility/proximity to CSG and ATL bring meetings to Columbus, with the availability of flights and easy drive from metro Atlanta."

Source: Gray Research Solution (GRS) Destination Assessment & Tourism Research Findings

 

 

Meet With Ease

Ready to plan a meeting or reunion with convenience in Columbus?
Submit your RFP or reach out to get started.
 

Categories: Meetings

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Fort Benning | Top 12 Things To Do in Columbus, Georgia

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Wednesday, January 15, 2020

Top 12 Things To Do in Columbus, Georgia

Columbus, Georgia has evolved into one of the emerging cultural gems of the South. Nestled in a valley along the Chattahoochee River, the scenic and historic mill city boasts more than its fair share of attractions. It's home to the longest urban whitewater course in the world, year-round performances spanning seven theatres in six blocks, and an explosive culinary scene that's garnered recent attention from Garden & Gun, Forbes, and 365 Atlanta Traveler.

Columbus, Georgia has quickly become a hot spot for adventurous culture buffs, and it's easy to see why. On any given week, visitors can expect to encounter the city differently as festivals, concerts, gallery openings, Broadway shows, and brewery tours are constantly in rotation depending on the weekend.

So, how do you know what to do when you get here? We've been asked that question by more than a few visitors, so we've put together a list of the Top 12 Things To Do in Columbus, Georgia.

☐ View the current exhibits and world class architecture at The Bo Bartlett Center

☐ Take a whitewater trip down the Chattahoochee River at Rush South Whitewater Park

☐ See a new exhibit or take a class at The Columbus Museum

☐ Attend a show or a free concert at Columbus State University

☐ Meet some friends for Jazz at The Loft

☐ Dine at Epic

☐ Attend a concert by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra

☐ Visit the Columbus Botanical Garden

☐ See a RiverCenter Broadway show

☐ Rent bikes and take the Columbus RiverWalk all the way to Fort Benning

☐ Spend a day at the National Infantry Museum

☐ Purchase a piece of art from a local artist

1. View the current exhibits and world class architecture at The Bo Bartlett Center.

This world renown gallery was desinged by Tom Kundig as a unique gallery for the work of living artist and Columbus native Bo Bartlett. In addition to a revolving exhibit of Bartlett's wall-sized paintings, The Bo Bartlett Center also hosts the work of international artists in their other galleries year-round. Check their schedule here to learn if there's an event happening while you're in Columbus. The Bo Bartlett Center hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Our favorites? Exhibit openings, yoga classes, and regular concerts performed in the main gallery on the Bartlett Steinway. Anything you can experience here is a win.

Local Tip: Don't miss the view from the two-story outdoor terrace behind the main gallery. It's one of the best views in town.

2. Take a whitewater trip down the Chattahoochee River at Rush South Whitewater Park.

We're firm believers that every visitor to Columbus should take at least one trip down the river on our hometown whitewater course. Additionally, there are other adventure options such as zip lining, fly fishing, and even stand up paddle board yoga. Or spend an afternoon on RiverWalk Island watching a kayaking competion or two.

3. See a new exhibit at The Columbus Musuem.

Any time is a good time to check out the current exhibits at the Columbus Museum, which is one of the largest museums in the Southeast and is unique for its dual concentration on American art and regional history, displayed in its permanent collection, temporary exhibitions, and educational programs.  Click here for a closer look at exhibits currently on display.

4. Attend a show or free concert at Columbus State University.

Support higher arts education by attending one of the many theatre performances and at least one concert at Columbus State University. Theatre productions are held at Riverside Theatre. As for concerts, we recommend seeing anything (and everything!) you can in Legacy Hall. Concerts through CSU's Schwob School of Music are free and open to the public. Just check their concert schedule before you go!

5. Meet some friends for Jazz at The Loft.

This is our editor's favorite thing in town. Check the schedule and head to The Loft for some Jazz. The talent caliber is world-class, and they're right here in Columbus, GA. Don't miss it.

6. Dine at Epic.

Rated one of the Top 40 restaurants in America by Gavot, Epic is a local must for dining. If the Chef's Table experience isn't in your budget, consider meeting for drinks or dessert with some friends. There's something on the menu for everyone.

7. Go to the Symphony.

Columbus is home to the second oldest symphony in the country, and though historic, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra is anything but an old-fashioned time. The symphony has made tremendous efforts to modernize its experiences — offering everything from a mobile app you can use during concerts to hip events and outreach programs for children.  And here's a tip, check out Know the Score, a pre-concert discussion led by Maestro George Del Gobbo and offers really interesting insight into the music of upcoming concerts.

8. Visit the Columbus Botanical Garden.

The Columbus Botanical Garden is free to visit any day of the year, and there's always something new in bloom. Headed that way soon? No matter the season, they have an annual calendar full of special events.  There is something for everyone to attend at the Garden throughout the year. From the Nankipooh Music Series to Lovely Luncheons, Plant Sales and Festivals celebrating Flowers to our the light show at Christmas in the Garden. Public programs at the Garden are a time of discovery, learning, enjoyment, transformation, and excitement.

9. See a RiverCenter Broadway Show.

The RiverCenter for the Performing Arts brings some of the finest talent in the world to town with their TSYS on Broadway Series. Check their calendar for upcoming shows. We're especially looking forward to seeing CATS in February and Waitress this summer!

10. Rent bikes and take the Columbus RiverWalk all the way to Fort Benning.

If you've done any research on Columbus, Georgia, you know that the Chattahoochee River is one of the main attractions that brings people to our city. What we'd bet you might not know is that the RiverWalk connects Uptown Columbus to Fort Benning. Rent bikes from our favorite local bike shop and explore the 34-mile trip through some of the most beautiful landscapes in our region. Not sure where to start? Just ask our friends at Ride on Bikes for a map, or head to the Visitors Center for more information. They'll get you on the right track.

11. Spend a day at the National Infantry Museum.

It's a privilege to live in a military town, but have you taken the time to learn as much as possible about our country's brave soldiers? Just a few miles from Uptown Columbus is one of the nation's top resources for U.S. Army history. Spend a day at the National Infantry Museum immersed in the incredible and informative exhibits on display there. It's something everyone should do at least once.

12. Purchase a piece of art from a local artist.

This one, we'll leave entirely up to you. Columbus is exploding with creative talent in a variety of mediums. Looking for something or someone in particular? Head to The Columusite's Art Directory for a listing of local artists and where to find them. Or, check out one of the many local galleries in town. Just don't forget to share a photo of what you find!

Enjoy anything on this list? Let us know! Tag us on social media @visitcolumbusga for a chance to be featured online! We'll pick our favorites and share them with our audience throughout the year.

Categories: Arts, Dining, Events, Family-friendly, Festivals, History, Itineraries, Military, Music, Outdoors, River Fun, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | Top 4 Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Columbus, Georgia

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Saturday, August 5, 2023

Top 4 Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Columbus, Georgia

Pack up your pooch and #VisitColumbusGA to discover a place you can #GoAllOut together!

Columbus is known for its incredible food scene which now boasts several dog-friendly restaurants. Looking for some great local recommendations? Here’s a roundup of our favorite spots to eat with four-legged friends in tow.

 

 

Moe’s Barbecue at MidCity Yards

Columbus is home to a new Moe’s Barbecue and it’s located in the most dog-friendly development in town. Grab dinner at Moe’s and then go next door to Fetch Dog Park to let your pup play while you eat. Fetch has a great bar, but there’s also a Scofflaw Brewery located in the development if you prefer craft brews.

Local tip: Never been to a Moe’s? Try the BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos, the macaroni & cheese, and the banana pudding!

 

 

Jarfly

This local gem in Midtown has the best dog-friendly patio in town. Expect to find incredible cocktails and fantastic food served year round outside. These small business owners are dog-loving people, so everything about their patio was created with people and pups in mind.

Local tip: This restaurant has misters on their patio in the summer - making it a perfect place to stay cool with your pup while eating outside. Water bowls are available for dogs at all times, and they’ve got really good frozen cocktails for humans! Try a frozen Midtown Vice and one of their famous Smash Burgers.

 

 

Banks Food Hall

Though dogs are only allowed on the patio of this establishment, this is a wonderful place to grab dinner, drinks, and dessert with your pup. Traveling solo and don’t want to leave your dog? Not to worry. Several of the vendors have walk up windows to serve customers with dogs who can’t come inside. We happen to know some of them also have water bowls out and there’s even a puppaccino or two available on site.

Local tip: If you’re at BANKS for lunch, try the artisan sandwiches from Fountain City. The Waveshaper is a great vegan option, but the Linwood is another popular choice! For dinner, try the authentic Filipino food at Filberto’s. Their lumpia is divine!

 

 

Iron Bank Coffee

This popular local spot has a great dog-friendly patio and water bowls out year round. Dogs aren’t allowed inside, but it’s common to see multiple pups and their owners set up outside throughout the day.

Local tip: Across the street is another great dog-friendly spot called Freeze Frame Yogurt. They have a patio, treats for pups and water bowls out all of the time. Both of these spots can get fairly full on the weekends, so head there early to snag a prime spot for you and your pooch.

Categories: Dining, Family-friendly, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | Top 4 Best Brunch Spots in Columbus, Georgia!

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Saturday, October 1, 2022

Top 4 Best Brunch Spots in Columbus, Georgia!

There's nothing like sitting down for brunch on vacation! Here are our Top 4 Best Brunch Spots in Columbus, Georgia.

 

 

 

The Animal Farm - This new local spot has become an instant favorite thanks to their chef who's a James Beard semifinalist! The rotating Sunday Brunch menu has everything from french toast to pigs in a blanket and deviled eggs. The chef works closely with their beverage manager to ensure each dish can be paired with a delectable cocktail. Yes, please!

Image via Denim & Oak Restaurant.

Denim & Oak - Head to Columbus' new Hotel Indigo and sip endless mimosas right next to the Chattahoochee River. We love to order their Brunch Tacos, but hear the Brioche French Toast is something special, too!

 

Image via The Columbusite.

The Bakeshop by Fountain City Coffee - This local favorite at BANKS Food Hall offers a variety of pastries and baked goods like the beautiful fruit tarts shown above. The traditional cinnamon roll is their most popular seller, but take it from our Sales Team who have declared the blueberry rolls are where it’s at! Whatever you choose, don’t skip the chance to order a cup of freshly brewed, locally-roasted coffee from Fountain City Coffee. Get it to go and enjoy a delicious walk on the RiverWalk. Brunch on the go?! Oh, absolutely.

 

Image via Smoke Bourbon and Barbecue.

Smoke Bourbon and Barbecue - Brisket & Sweet Potato Stuffed Waffles, need we say more? Order them. Thank us later. Not into brisket? The Pimento Cheese Won Tons are a popular and delicious choice as well. 

Looking for other things to do in Columbus? Click here for more trip ideas!
 

*Cover photo via Animal Farm Columbus. 

Categories: Dining

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Fort Benning | Top Four Reasons to #GoAllOut at The Columbus Museum

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Top Four Reasons to #GoAllOut at The Columbus Museum

The Columbus Museum is currently under a major renovation, scheduled for completion this Spring.

 

The renovation showcases a complete “reimagining” of the way guests of all ages can interact with the Museum’s collection.

 

Ready to #GoAllOut?!

 

Here’s our list of the top four reasons to visit the Museum!

 

 

1) Special Reopening Exhibitions & New Acquisitions

The Museum’s staff has worked to secure exciting exhibitions and loaned works for the reopening. Expect to see works by Andy Warhol, Amy Sherald, Elaine de Kooning, Alma Thomas, John Singer Sargent, and more!

 

In addition, the Museum’s collection has grown during the renovation. Among the new additions are works by Nick Cave, John Singleton Copley, Jacob Lawrence, and Charles Bird King. Many of these of which will be on display for guests to enjoy throughout the reopening celebrations.

 

 

2) The New Children’s Interactive Gallery & Garden

 

The reimagined Museum will feature new and expansive Children’s Gallery with an adjoining Children’s Garden adjacent to the Museum’s main entrance. This experience will be convenient for families due to its prominent spot near the Museum's entrance. The design serves as a playground for the senses – check it out year-round.

 

Littles ones will be able to climb to new heights in the treehouse and accompanying slide. Expect to explore interactive elements intended to foster a love for art and storytelling from an early age.

 

One of our favorites is a new interactive component that allow guests to project themselves into masterpieces while exploring art in a whole new dimension. And don’t overlook a new "mini museum" which offers children the chance to create and curate exhibitions!

 

 

3) The Newly Restored Bradley Olmsted Garden & Garden Terrace

 

The Columbus Museum’s Bradley Olmsted Garden was designed in the 1920s by the Olmsted Brothers, perhaps better known for its design of New York City’s Central Park. The firm is celebrated for its naturalistic style and is evident in the Garden’s once known as Sunset Terrace. Of the thirteen residential projects the Olmsted firm worked on in Georgia, including others in Columbus, the Bradley Garden is widely recognized as the most significant. 

 

So what’s new and a must see? Several essential features of the Garden have been restored. These include the historic grotto, the natural spring ravine, and the original stone steps dating back to the 1920s. Enhancements have also been made to the Garden Terrace to seamlessly connect it to the galleries with a picturesque view of this now restored one of a kind green space.

 

For horticulture fans, it's important to know the Bradley Olmsted Garden features a diverse array of trees and blooms. This local gem showcases many indigenous species of the South and is an ideal place for a quiet walk in any season.

 

 

4) It was literally designed for YOU!

 

As one of the largest museums in the Southeast, outside of Atlanta, The Columbus Museum has always been a must do for travelers, and there are more reasons than ever before! This multi-million dollar “reimagining” has taken the Museum to new heights with experiences and activities perfect for making memories that will last a lifetime.

 

The highly expansive floor plan and green spaces creates an environment guests can truly enjoy at their leisure. You’ll find the new layout to be extremely user-friendly, and the open floor plan provides plenty of space to get a world class experience without the crowds.

 

Whether your crew is 0-99 years of age, there is a space at The Columbus Museum that has been designed for them. Additionally, the Museum’s renewed commitment to offering rotating exhibitions ensures there’s always something for everyone to enjoy.

 

Looking for more tips for planning a trip to Columbus, Georgia? Click here. 

 

For more on the arts in Columbus, check out our partners at The Columbusite. 

 

*Renderings and renovation details courtesy of The Columbus Museum.

Categories: Arts, Film, Film, Film, Events, Family-friendly, Groups, Itineraries, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | Top Local Farms in Columbus, Georgia

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Saturday, October 1, 2022

Top Local Farms in Columbus, Georgia

Top Local Farms in Columbus, Georgia

 

Love agritourism? Columbus, Georgia is an ideal place to #GoAllOut with a tour of these top local farms!

MercyMed Farm

3820 2nd Ave.

Located at 3702 2nd Avenue next to the MercyMed clinic this farm has gained a lot of traction since it opened in 2018 because of its visibility from the road and the support they are providing to the local community.

Check out their Friday market from 9-11am until the end of July. Beginning in August, crops will be available for purchase daily at The Food Mill Food Farmacy. The Food Mill currently uses MercyMed vegetables in its lunch items, plus delivers meals to Fox Elementary where the school has started its own small garden for the students. The restaurant also has partnerships with Jenny Jack Farm, Turntime Farm, Elijah’s Farm, and Dew Point Farm so customers can pick up their orders in Columbus. They also offer a healthy mixture of breakfast and lunch items along with a section of wellness products, coffee, and pastries. Visit their website to view their menu and to learn more.

 

 

 

Jenny Jack Farm

603 White Cemetery Road

Pine Mountain, GA 31822

Jenny Jack Farm has been in business since 2007. The owners Chris and Jenny Jackson met at UGA where Jenny graduated with a degree in horticulture and Chris graduated as an education major. They both weren’t too fond of their jobs after college, so they decided to try out WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) to see if farming was their next step. After working on a farm in Hawaii for 6 months, an Atlanta farm, and doing their own reading and research, they decided to open Jenny Jack Farm on the land where Jenny grew up.

Through Jenny’s horticulture education, their WWOOF experience, and trial and error, Chris and Jenny have sustained a profitable business with an 85% customer retention rate. Check out their market every Wednesday from 9-12 or to pick up your CSA (what is CSA). Or you can pick up your order from the Food Mill on Thursdays and Fridays. Visit their website to place an order.

 

 

 

TurnTime Farms

150 Mayo Rd, Ellerslie, Georgia

Owners Joey and Ramona Loudermilk opened TurnTime in 2014 and named it after a nearby creek. After an internship with a man named Joel Salatin, the godfather of sustainable agriculture, the farm has been following Salatin’s methods ever since. Their system of keeping the animals and land healthy is to move them to different lots every day

Click here to shop at TurnTime. Visit the farm on Wednesdays from 12-5 or pick up your order from the Food Mill on the 1st Thursday of every month. They also have a small store of locally made pottery for sell.

 

 

 

Fields of Grace Flower Farm

Ashmore Road, Shiloh, GA 31826

Brianne Womack began Fields of Grace Flower Farm two years ago because she loves to watch things grow and imagined a place of peace, healing, and serenity for her visitors.

Fields of Grace Flower Farm offers a “You Pick” your own flowers, yoga, glamping, an event space for weddings, birthday parties, date nights with fancy charcuterie boards and drinks, and educational field trips. Besides flowers, you can also see a few pigs, geese, chickens, fainting goats, and a butterfly garden.

 

 

 

The Farm House

469 Farmhouse Rd Ellerslie GA

The Farm House opened in 1981 when the owner and a few of her friends decided to open it as a craft store. They originally focused on selling crafts and furniture with just two tables for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays. When they continued to have a line of lunch customers waiting out the door, they decided to expand into a larger restaurant.

Besides its southern style buffet, the Farm House is known for its delicious cakes, specifically caramel, chocolate, and coconut. Becky mentions that their original cakes came out of a box until a friend taught her Mom how to bake cakes. Mississippi Mud was the first dessert they ever sold.

A lunch buffet is served on Sundays from 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM and breakfast the first Saturday of every month from 9:00 AM -12.:00 PM. The eggs and sausage come from TurnTime Farms, and they grow their own okra, tomatoes, and lettuce.

Other services offered are catered weddings at an outdoor venue, a yearly Spring Tea and Christmas Tea in which they serve family-owned Piper and Leaf Tea from Huntsville, AL, outdoor movies at the barn, painting and cooking classes, and tons of fall events. Visit this page to learn more.

Categories: Dining, Family-friendly, Outdoors, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | Top Team-Building Activities in Columbus, GA

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Top Team-Building Activities in Columbus, GA

In the heart of Columbus, GA, a haven of camaraderie awaits your group. There’s an array of outside-the-box things to do to help your attendees form a closer bond, boost morale, and have some fun!

Here are the top, only-in-Columbus team-building activities while meeting or gathering in Georgia’s second-largest city.

 

Coca-Cola Space Science Center

Experience the stellar side of Columbus when you bring your group together for an out-of-this-world team-building activity at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center (CCSSC), Georgia’s only science center and museum facility dedicated to providing experiences in astronomy and space science for visitors. The Center offers engaging hands-on activities for groups that foster teamwork, including the most popular: learning, building, launching, and testing a paper air rocket. Or your attendees can work together to complete a fun scavenger hunt around the exhibit gallery to learn the history behind the more than $20 million-worth of artifacts at the CCSSC. Another option for groups is taking part in the Mars Communication Challenge! 

 

Brushes & Beverages

If your attendees are feeling inspired after experiencing the sophisticated side of Columbus while taking in the art or meeting at one of our renowned museums, bring them together and bring out their creativity with a kick by taking an adult painting class at Brushes & Beverages. Whether your group includes first-time or seasoned artists, everyone can create their own masterpieces with the help of a skilled instructor and each other! As your attendees swirl their paintbrushes and embark on an art adventure filled with colors and canvases, they can enjoy refreshing sips of their favorite beverages.

 

Whitewater Express

Does your group want to experience the wild side of Columbus? Plan a rafting excursion with Whitewater Express. Located in the Uptown Meeting District, this premier river rafting outfitter offers thrilling trips down the Chattahoochee River, the longest urban whitewater course in the world! There are different rafting trips to choose from, so you can plan the right one for your group’s endurance level. During the adventure, your team will learn how to work as a unit, get wet, and enjoy a lot of laughs on the rushing waters of the course, described as being as “wild as Colorado and as warm as Costa Rica.” 

 

Leadership Institute

Help your group foster a stronger bond and leadership skills at the Leadership Institute at Columbus State University. Located on campus, this university-based consulting group offers customized team-building programs to inspire leaders to reach their fullest potential. Your attendees can develop confidence and hone their problem-solving abilities via collaboration activities such as solving a “whodunit” case during Mystery Masters or learning to navigate aerial obstacles together as part of Leadership on the (Zip)Line. These programs combine fun and challenge, ensuring attendees leave with lasting memories and enhanced teamwork skills.

 

Build a Stronger Team in Columbus

If you’re ready to form lasting connections between your attendees with team-building activities, Columbus, GA, is the place to do it. Reach out to the VisitColumbusGA team or submit your RFP to start planning a memorable meeting, event or reunion in our one-of-a-kind destination.

Categories: Meetings

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Fort Benning | Top Ten Adventures for a Weekend in Columbus, Georgia

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Monday, November 28, 2022

Top Ten Adventures for a Weekend in Columbus, Georgia

When it comes to travel, more and more visitors are seeking ways to #GoAllOut. Columbus, Georgia is an ideal spot for active travelers. Don’t believe us? Check out our top ten list of adventures to discover on a long weekend spent here this year…

 

ONE

Bike the Dragonfly Trail. 

 

 

 

TWO 

Spend a day at Oxbow Meadows.

 

THREE

Take a tour of Pasaquan.

 


FOUR 

Explore the outdoor exhibits at the National Infantry Museum. Expect to see a World War II Company Street, the Global War on Terrorism Memorial and more!

 

FIVE  

Stroll through the beautiful Columbus Botanical Garden.

 

SIX 

Go off-road with a ride or hike at Standing Boy Trails.

 

 

SEVEN

Enjoy a morning at Historic Westville.

 

EIGHT 

Take a walk on the RiverWalk from WaveShaper Island to the National Civil War Naval Museum.

 

NINE 

 

Take a fly fishing class from Whitewater Express.

 

TEN

Pack up your pup and spend an evening at Fetch Park! 

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Fort Benning | Memories from a Plain(s) and Simple Childhood by Carter Flynn

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Memories from a Plain(s) and Simple Childhood by Carter Flynn

If you're looking to plan a trip this summer that's both driveable and family-friendly, Columbus, Georgia is the perfect place to ease back into travel again. The city's location makes Columbus an ideal destination for families looking to explore West Central Georgia's most popular attractions. One of the most famous nearby attractions is President Jimmy Carter's hometown of Plains.  

Known for its hospitality and rich history, Plains has captured the hearts of visitors for generations. But what is it exactly about Plains that keeps people coming back for more? Read the following personal essay from one of our staff members, Carter Flynn, to discover why and how Plains captured her heart one summer as a child. 

 

Memories from a Plain(s) and Simple Childhood 

An essay by Carter Flynn

“I’m not going.” I said to my mother as I watched her pack my monogrammed duffel bag with the entire contents of my summer wardrobe. “Yes, you are.” She responded, “Your father and I both have to work, so your Aunt Kim kindly offered to let you stay with her for a month.” While all my friends had excitedly boasted over their impending vacations, I rolled my eyes at the thought of spending my own fourth-grade summer in Plains, Georgia – the ghost town with a population of less than 700 and average age of 62.  

 

I continued to pout the duration of the 45-minute car ride from Albany, intermittently begging my mother to turn around and take me home. Although my family had lived in Plains for countless generations, this peanut-producing mecca was a foreign land to me. My grandfather – Billy Carter – sold beer out of an old gas station in the 70s and 80s while his brother – known to me as “Uncle Jimmy” – is more commonly recognized as the former leader of the free world. At that time, I didn’t know much about my family’s history – nor did I care. It was June 2007. I was a child. I cared about my friends and fun times spent playing with them. I cared about making memories that would carry into the next school year. What I didn’t care about was my own story, one that was planted decades ago and was soon to sprout.

 

When we arrived in town, my mother drove to the former Plains High School – now a National Park museum, a tribute to days long foregone. “What are we doing?” I asked my mother, irritated at even the idea of the dreary structure. She responded, “Your Aunt Kim volunteers here during the summer when she’s not teaching. She told me she’d meet us here.” I began grudgingly lurking up the daunting concrete steps into the brick building. After exchanging our goodbyes and one more failed appeal, my mother skirted off, leaving me with Aunt Kim and a promise to retrieve me in three weeks. I felt deserted, and I dreaded the dullness I was sure would ensue. 

 

Plains High School  | Photo by Luke Usry Photography

“Follow me,” Aunt Kim said as she ushered me towards the auditorium. “I’m putting on a program in about an hour and I need to go get ready. We’re expecting tourists to attend, so just wait here and people should start arriving soon. If you have any questions, ask the Park Ranger.” Perplexed at why anyone would visit this spot, I agreed anyway and watched as Aunt Kim disappeared through the empty auditorium. The minutes dragged on; my sole companion the sound of the wooden floor creaking underneath a Park Ranger’s boots. I bleakly stared at the words inscribed on the wall – We must adjust to changing times, but still hold to unchanging principles – taken from the wise doctrines of Miss Julia Coleman, a beloved past principle. Admittedly intrigued by Plains and her people, I began to wander through a nearby exhibit, and soon found myself face to face with an encased Nobel Peace Prize - a testament to this community’s priceless influence on those it has raised. I was too young to fully understand the meaning behind this momentous honor, but I knew I was mesmerized to be in its presence.

President Carter's Nobel Peace Prize on display in Plains High School. | Photo by Luke Usry Photography

I spent the next few days exploring the modest town, going out of my way to become friends with the thoughtful locals. A shy child, this was the first time I remembered chatting to strangers with such ease. With each treasured memory told from their melodious voices, I felt a growing sense of pride for a tale I was just beginning to uncover. And on the cricket-sung nights, the streets lit only by the stars above, I sat on Aunt Kim’s front porch and admired her perfect view of downtown - humbly consisting of about seven buildings and a sidewalk overflowing with its own untold stories. Through my vulnerable eyes, it was the most magnificent sight I’d ever seen. The connection I had created with this place in just a few days had defined a part of me that I never knew existed. I was enthralled with Plains, Georgia – the simple destination with a genuineness greater than any I’ve ever known.  

President Jimmy Carter with his niece Kim Fuller.

President Carter with his niece, Kim Fuller in Plains.  | Photo by Luke Usry Photography
 

When my mother came to pick me up, I cried the entire way home. I realized that I had merely been a tourist, but my time in Plains had left such an everlasting impression on my young mind that I was forever indebted to them. They made a youthful and unbeknownst traveler fall in love with such a simple place. It was in that moment I made a promise to myself – one day I would reciprocate the compassion they had showed me. Over the years, I continued visiting periodically and increasing my investment in the community. 

 

In August 2019 I arrived in Columbus, Georgia - the second largest city in the state. Columbus is a beautiful city with a small town, tight-knit feel - and a history that can still be seen today. This is a city with award-winning Broadway shows, some of greatest adventure courses in the state, nationally recognized museums, and impeccably preserved architecture – all within walking distance to some of the best meals I’ve ever tasted (just don’t tell my grandmother I said this). I am thankful to be in a place where I can reach even larger audiences and continue to grow in my budding career. 

 

Another bonus about Columbus is that I live in a populous, thriving, fun city with my favorite getaway – Plains – one hour and an easy, beautiful drive away. I can spend a day enjoying the simplicity and genuineness of (what I like to call) “the greatest small town in the South,” while still making it back to Columbus in time to enjoy a phenomenal dinner followed by a performance at the Springer Opera House (which was named the State Theater of Georgia by then-Governor Carter in 1971).

 

To the people of Plains who make the community as wholesome and as kind as any can be, thank you. To Miss Carol, Miss Nelle, and Robin. To Jill and Andi. To my Mamama. To my Aunts, Kim, Jana, and Marle. To Cameron. To my Uncle Jimmy and Aunt Rosalynn. To the countless others who live and love in that beautiful town. And finally, to Miss Julia Coleman. Although our paths never had the honor to cross, her legacy lives on through her students. And her words are just as relevant today as they have ever been. Must we always remember to “adjust to changing times, but still hold to unchanging principles.” 

From left to right: Carter Flynn, her Uncle Jimmy, and her cousin Cameron. Taken in her Aunt Kim’s living room in Plains, Christmas 2003. 

 

Ready to plan a trip to Columbus, Georgia? Book your stay in Columbus, and head to Plains for a day trip your family will never forget.

Everything you need to plan the perfect trip is right here!

Categories: Family-friendly, History, Trip Ideas

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Fort Benning | Why You Should Meet in Columbus

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

Why You Should Meet in Columbus

Below are just a few of the reasons to have your meeting in Columbus, Georgia. Get in touch with one of our Meeting Planner Professionals to find out more!

Reason 1

Columbus, Georgia has become the place for culture, commerce, outdoor adventure and a remarkable place for meetings from 10 to 10,000.

Reason 2

CVB staff is dedicated to your success from a site visit to surveys and from rate negotiation to reception and everything in between

Reason 3

One of Georgia’s largest cities

 

 

Reason 4

The South’s best cuisine from over 500 great restaurants with dishes recognized in nationally-recognized publications

Reason 5

The longest urban whitewater course in the world (2.5 miles) that runs along a 15-mile RiverWalk

Reason 6

Vibrant arts and entertainment district in walking distance to meeting facilities and accommodations

 

 

Reason 7

Renowned museums of historic, artistic and military importance

Reason 8

Over 4,800 first-class hotel rooms

Reason 9

Over 750,000 square feet of meeting space

 

 

Reason 10

State-of-the-art performing arts center with 450-seat concert hall and 2,000-seat theatre with three levels

Reason 11

The historic Columbus GA Convention & Trade Center, also known as the Iron Works, is a one-of-a-kind meeting and exhibition venue.

Reason 12

10,000-seat sporting arena with hospitality suites and well-appointed amenities to accommodate VIP treatment

 

Categories: Groups, Meetings

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Fort Benning | Zip Line over the Chattahoochee River

Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence

Tuesday, July 18, 2017

Zip Line over the Chattahoochee River

Know what’s cooler than straddling a state line? Zip lining across one.

Do you know the only place in the country where you can zip line across a state line? Here – in Columbus, Georgia.

Yep, we have a 1,200 foot zip line, called the Blue Heron, that will take you speeding (okay, you’re only going about 40 mph, so it’s not really speeding) across the Chattahoochee River from Columbus, Georgia to Phenix City, Alabama.

As soon as you arrive on location, you’ll realize why it’s called the “Blue Heron.” Because you can’t possibly miss the Heron’s nest the size of a queen size bed atop a winding staircase that will lead you to the drop off portion of the zip line.

But don’t let me scare you… There are men, women and children of all ages gearing up to zip across the river. By gearing up, I mean literally stepping into ropes with carabiners and all sorts of gadgets that are there for your safety, while someone on staff ensures everything is fit properly for your adventure.

Once you’ve made it up to the heron’s nest, feeling 20 pounds heavier from all the gear, the staff at the top will take your picture, hook you up to the zip line and tell you to step right off. One step is all it takes and you’re soaring like the birds a hundred feet over the river with the Columbus skyline in full view. And if you’re anything like me, this adrenaline-pumping action will make you scream at the top of your lungs the entire way across.

Lucky for us, the staff couldn’t be more prepared and professional throughout the entire experience, creating a relatively graceful landing into the treehouse-esque tower sitting on the bank of Alabama’s side of the river. (SPOILER ALERT) From there, you will get hooked up to another zip line, which was a huge surprise to me as I thought the “ride” was over at this point. This shorter zip line goes along the bank and through the trees until you reach another tower with staff waiting to assist with your landing. And guess what?! Then, enjoy yet another zip line that will take you back across the river to Columbus! So cool!

On my first zip experience, I was fortunate enough to get in on the last zip line of the day at approx. 5pm when the sun was making its way down. As soon as I landed back in Georgia, I walked straight over to a 7pm reservation at 11th and Bay, a fabulous restaurant that sits along the river at the edge of Uptown Columbus. I’d highly recommend this place or any one of the many local spots within walking distance in Uptown that will serve delicious cocktails as you start to relax after your zip line. Cheers to adventure! Click for details and to book your trip today!

Categories: Outdoors, River Fun, Stay, Trip Ideas

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