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.

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Arts / Film / Film / Film / Family-friendly / History / Itineraries / Outdoors / River Fun / Trip Ideas