Classic Magic is back in Columbus, GA November 9, 2024 when the The Fountain City Classic returns to A.J. Memorial Stadium! This annual tradition brings a whirlwind of events and fun as thousands of people travel to Columbus for the game. It’s a perfect Fall weekend to #VisitColumbusGA with loved ones, and we’ve got everything you need to plan your trip to #GoAllOut!

The History:

The Fountain City Classic is an annual American football game featuring Fort Valley State University (Wildcats) and Albany State University (Golden Rams), two historically black universities (HBCU). The FCC rivalry between the Golden Rams and the Wildcats began in 1945 and relocated to the city of Columbus and became officially known as the Fountain City Classic.

Where to Stay:

Book a hotel ASAP because the Fountain City Classic draws quite a crowd! Columbus, GA is home to a multitude of great accommodations. Whether you’re looking for a historic bed and breakfast or a boutique hotel, there’s something for everyone here. To see a list of local accommodations, click here.

 

How to #GoAllOut:

In addition to the game, the Fountain City Classic also hosts a series of events leading up to the game including a golf tournament, an extensive vendor market, parties, and tailgating activities. Here’s their schedule for the weekend.

 

Outside of the game day, there are countless ways to explore the best Columbus, GA has to offer.

 

For the adventurous type, consider booking a whitewater rafting trip with Whitewater Express to raft the longest urban whitewater course in the world. Other outdoor activities are zip lining, biking The Dragonfly Trail, taking a paddle board yoga class, or making a day trip to hike Providence Canyon.

If you’re into arts & culture, you’re in the right place! Columbus is home to world class museums, galleries, and concert venues. Check the Columbus Event Calendar to see everything going on while you’re here! Some of our favorite ways to explore the arts? Spend a morning at the newly-reimagined Columbus Museum, catch a Broadway tour at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, see a concert at The Loft on Broadway, or spend an evening in the history Springer Opera House watching a show.

 

History lovers will revel in a day at the National Infantry Museum which features dynamic exhibitions that showcase the history of the U.S. Infantry. Another fantastic option is the National Civil War Naval Museum where you can see one-of-a-kind naval artifacts from the Civil War.

 

Where to Eat:

Columbus, Georgia is known for its food, and we love recommending hot local spots to visitors. Here are some of our favorites:

 

Breakfast:

Ruth Ann’s Restaurant - 941 Veterans Pkwy

Fountain City Coffee - 1007 Broadway

The Flying Biscuit Cafe - 211 13th St 100

Parker’s Pantry - 1815 Garrard St

First Watch - 2528 Weems Rd

Lunch:

Dexter’s Southern Barbecue - 547 Veterans Parkway

The Mix Market - 1040 Broadway

Country’s Barbecue - 6298 Veterans, 1329 Broadway, 3137 Mercury Drive

Jarfly - 1358 13th St

The Speakeasy - 3123 Mercury Drive

 

Dinner:

Warehouse 9 - 920 9th Street

11th & Bay - 1050 Bay Ave

Denim & Oak - 21 14th St

Millhouse Kitchen + Bar - 1801 1st Ave

Charred Oak - 3501 Massee Ln

EPIC - 1201 Front Ave

 

However you choose to #GoAllOut for the Fountain City Classic, we hope you have a GREAT time in Columbus, GA! Love this guide? Check out more travel ideas here.

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Family-friendly / Festivals / Trip Ideas