If you love discovering local gems with a dash of Southern charm, here's a customized tour of Columbus, GA’s top museums! Each of the stops along the way has a unique story waiting to unfold as you explore these cultural treasures of Columbus.

 

The Columbus Museum (COMU)

Nestled in the historic Wynnton neighborhood, The Columbus Museum is the second–largest museum in Georgia, combining American art and regional history under one roof. You’ll see works by influential 20th‑century artists like Amy Sherald, Lee Krasner, Alma Thomas, Stuart Davis, and Louise Nevelson, alongside hands‑on galleries for families or the serene Bradley Olmsted Garden—a perfect spot to unwind after a stroll through the galleries.

Tip: admission is always free, making it a no‑brainer for visitors and locals alike. #GoAllOut!

 

National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center

Just south of Uptown and adjacent to Fort Benning, this sprawling museum chronicles 250 years of U.S. Army infantry history through over 70,000 artifacts, immersive galleries, Veterans memorials, and even a VR simulated military experience. Don’t miss the Giant Screen Theater or live simulations in DownRange Combat. Entry is free, though some immersive experiences have modest fees.

 

National Civil War Naval Museum

Here’s where maritime history comes to life: this 40,000  sq.  ft museum houses the largest surviving Confederate warship (CSS Jackson) and a massive collection of Civil War naval flags and artifacts. The Timeline Exhibit provides month‑by‑month insights into the naval theaters of the war—and don't skip any living history events or cannon demos if you catch them in season.

 

Columbus Collective Museums

For quirky, eclectic fun, visit Columbus Collective Museums—eight themed mini‑museums all under one roof in a restored mid‑century tile factory. Standouts include the Lunch Box Museum, Hatcher Family Cola Museum, Peanut Museum, Folk Art Museum, Car Museum, Georgia Radio Museum, and more. Fun bonus: grab a photo with the giant dinosaur perched on the roof—a beloved local icon.

 

The Bo Bartlett Center

Dedicated to Columbus-born realist artist Bo Bartlett, The Bo Bartlett Center showcases his monumental paintings alongside rotating exhibits from other contemporary artists. A a part of Columbus State University, the Center also serves as an educational hub for young creative minds. It’s a beautiful celebration of Columbus talent and global artistry with a local connection, and has quickly become a highlight in the city’s cultural landscape.

 

More Notable Options Around Town

• Coca‑Cola Space Science Center: Offers planetarium shows and hands‑on flight simulators—ideal for science-lovers and families.
• Gertrude “Ma” Rainey House & Blues Museum: Celebrate the life of the “Mother of the Blues” in her historic home turned museum, featuring memorabilia, music, and live recordings.
• The W.C. Bradley Museum: This 11,000-square-foot Museum features the W.C. Bradley Co. Art Collection. In 1985, 120 original paintings and pieces of art were commissioned to mark the company’s Centennial Anniversary, with other pieces acquired and added to their collection in the ensuing years. These works, from acclaimed national and regional artists, reflect W.C. Bradley Co.’s culture, people, diverse interests and commitment to the community. The museum is free and open to the public on weekdays from 9AM-5PM.
   

Map Your Museum Tour

• Start with The Columbus Museum for art + history in one spot.
• Head south to National Infantry Museum if you're up for immersive military history.
• Glide downtown to Naval Museum for maritime drama.
• Then swing by the Bo Bartlett Center and finish at Columbus Collective for the fun side of local lore.
• Round out with Coca‑Cola Science Center, Ma Rainey House, or W.C. Bradley Museum depending on your interests!

Columbus, GA is a cultural treasure trove with museums that feed curiosity, ignite conversation, and bring vivid stories to life. Whether you're diving into art history, savoring Southern folk charm, or soaking in big‑scale realism, these museums capture the heart and heritage of Columbus, Georgia in a way you won’t want to miss. #GoAllOut!

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Arts / Film / Film / Film / Family-friendly / Trip Ideas