Travel to the Theo of Golden City: A Theo-Themed 3 Day Itinerary in Columbus, Georgia

Millions of readers have fallen in love with Allen Levi’s New York Times bestselling novel Theo of Golden, and now, they’re discovering Columbus, Georgia, is the town that inspired the book. In numerous interviews, Levi has spoken about the connection between his beloved hometown and Golden, the fictional city in which the novel is set.

Readers across the globe have been researching travel to Columbus, Georgia, so we’ve developed an itinerary for the perfect three-day weekend here. In this guide, you’ll find some specific places Levi has confirmed are in the novel, as well as a host of other local spots we just know you’ll love.  

Book your trip, and get ready to fall in love with Columbus, Georgia—a “Golden” city you’ll return to again and again. 

 

DAY 1: Check In and Step Into Theo of Golden

Check into one of Columbus, Georgia’s incredible hotels. There are a myriad of options depending on your preferences. If you’re looking for something historic, consider the Rothschild Pound House Inn. This beautifully restored inn sits right in the Historic District where Levi has confirmed inspired the architecture and surroundings Theo frequents in the novel.

Another great option for history lovers is City Mills Hotel. Located inside one of Columbus’ historic textile mills, City Mills offers the perfect blend of riverfront views and modern amenities for travelers looking for somewhere quiet to begin and end their day.

For those looking for a modern, urban feel, we recommend Hotel Indigo, AC Hotel Columbus Downtown, or the Columbus Marriott all located in Uptown Columbus.

Other great hotels around town include the Double Tree by Hilton Columbus near Midtown, the Hampton Inn Columbus South Fort Benning, and the Hilton Garden Inn in North Columbus.

Once you’re all checked in, here’s a plan for your first day that will make stepping into Theo of Golden easy. Trust us, this is the Columbus, Georgia, welcome you’re looking for. We like to think these are the places where Theo would have sent his friends.

 

Your First Morning

Every person who wants to step into Theo of Golden should always start with a stop at Fountain City Coffee. This is the place Allen Levi has confirmed inspired The Chalice where the portraits Theo bestows hang on the walls. It’s good to know the portraits you’ll find at Fountain City Coffee are created by a real-life Columbus artist and friend of Levi named Garry Pound. Grab a cup of coffee and spend a few quiet moments admiring the portraits before deciding where your next stop will be. 

If you’re looking to explore the area on foot, consider taking our Theo of Golden Self-Guided Walking Tour. This tour was designed by our team to take you through some of the places and themes in the novel. It’s perfect for people who prefer discovering a city on foot, although you certainly can choose to drive to each location as well. Those choosing to complete the tour on foot should be comfortable walking for several miles, able to climb several flights of stairs, and willing to navigate uneven historic streets made of bricks or cobblestone.

 

What’s for Lunch?

Luckily, the self-guided walking tour will take you by dozens of local restaurants in Uptown, as well as BANKS Food Hall down by the Chattahoochee River that houses a myriad of delicious vendors offering a great variety of cuisine from across the world.

However, if you’re wanting the ultimate Theo-like pick, we would send you to Minnie's Uptown Restaurant. Although it isn’t from the novel, it is a beloved and authentic Columbus staple, and a longtime tradition for many in the area. Serving up their famous “meat and three” Minnie’s is famous for its fried chicken and Southern sides that have fed generations of locals and visitors. You’ll also notice that the place is filled with locals and their stories. We’re certain this is somewhere Theo and his many friends would love because Minnie’s is such a part of the fabric of our community, and they welcome everyone just like they’ve been doing for more than thirty years. Our final tip? Don’t skip dessert. We love their banana pudding or one of their many cakes and pies. You can’t go wrong, and besides, vacation calories don’t count.

 

Your Afternoon 

After lunch, why not continue exploring the Historic District on foot? Walk beneath the giant oak trees and take in all the historic architecture that Levi utilized to build the fictional city of Golden.

Fans of the book will see many elements they recognize in this area. If you’re in for a literary treasure hunt of sorts, decide which of the dozens of historic homes you think might have hosted Theo for Thanksgiving and which of the churches might hold Asher’s studio. 

If you find yourself needing a snack or a welcoming place to sit down in the Historic District, we can’t recommend The Goetchius House enough to you. This gorgeous spot has a bakery, cafe, and restaurant where you’ll find everything from coffee and pastries to a three-course meal depending on the time of day. Don’t miss the chance to sit in their garden, too!
 

Your First Evening 

After exploring all day, we recommend returning to your hotel for a rest before heading to dinner in Uptown. If you’re looking for great recommendations, we’ve got plenty for you depending on what you’re in the mood to enjoy.  

For casual dining, we love Mix Market, The Black Cow, Me Encanta, or The Cannon Brew Pub. If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, try to get a reservation at Gabagool, The Animal Farm, Saltcellar, Mabella's Italian Steakhouse (Uptown or Midland), or 11th and Bay Southern Table.

To make the most of your evening, spend it the way Theo would and enjoy a performance at the Springer Opera House or the RiverCenter where Legacy Hall, the concert hall that inspired the one in the book can be found. While we love the idea of catching a large show if it’s in town, we highly recommend an evening in Legacy Hall enjoying one of Schwob School of Music’s free concerts performed by students from all over the globe. Check out their calendar of performances, and if you can, go find a seat in the audience and support these talented young students just like Theo did in the novel.

 

DAY 2: Branch Out to Discover the Art and Soul of Columbus

Today’s itinerary is all about broadening your experience of the city that inspired Golden, and the cultural gems that help make Columbus an arts & culture destination.  

 

Your Second Morning

Begin with breakfast or brunch in Midtown at Parker’s Pantry. This locally owned favorite offers everything from coffee and pastries to quiche, hot sandwiches, house-made soups, and some of the best salads in town. If the menu overwhelms you, just ask the friendly staff about their current favorite thing to order. They’ve never steered us wrong.

Now that you’re ready to tackle the day, it’s time to head to The Columbus Museum which is affectionately known as COMU. This is a must for Theo lovers because of the way this museum embodies the book’s themes of seeing people, art, memory, generosity, and the way individuals create community through shared stories and experiences. When you visit The Columbus Museum, you’ll get a firsthand look at the actual artistic and cultural history of the city that produced Allen Levi, Garry Pound, Amy Sherald, Bo Bartlett, Alma Thomas, Carson McCullers, and so many other notable artists and creatives. Take the time to walk through their galleries and enjoy becoming intimately acquainted with local history, their vast collection of American art, and enjoy perusing the culturally driven city that inspired Theo’s Golden.

 

The Afternoon

After a lot of walking in your itinerary thus far, it’s time to enjoy a bit of a reprieve and find somewhere quiet to sit awhile. Since you’re already in Midtown, there’s an obvious duo of small businesses to help you spend your time well.

First, head to Midtown Coffee for an afternoon snack and a cup of coffee or tea. This coffeehouse is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike because of its calm and cozy atmosphere, house-made pastries, and delicious coffee. Order at the counter and walk towards the back of the building to find small rooms and quiet spaces to relax or read and replenish your energy before heading out again.

When you’re ready to move on, walk just a few doors down to Columbus Bound Bookshop. Easily one of the most visited spots on our Theo of Golden Self-Guided Walking Tour, this locally-owned small business prides itself on a wide selection of literature for all ages and interests, a fantastic array of gifts & literature-themed goods, and—you guessed it—keeping copies of Theo of Golden in stock year-round. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s a good chance they’ve got it. Pull up a chair and enjoy this small shop we just know Theo would love. Just don’t forget to tell the owners “Hello” for us!

After you’re done perusing the shelves at Columbus Bound, take some more restorative time to explore nearby Lakebottom Park. This large city park sits at the heart of Midtown, and depending on the time of year, you’ll likely find a bit of everything that makes Columbus special. Expect to see Little League Baseball games full of neighborhood families gathered to cheer on their kids, tons of foot traffic enjoying the park’s walking loop, artists gathered to paint plein air, and a playground full of children playing the afternoon away. 

Not into exploring the park? Head back to the Shoppes at St. Elmo where you began the day at Parker’s Pantry and enjoy visiting several of the small shops located at the north end of the park. Our top recommendations to visit are Park Place which offers a wide selection of gifts and items for the home, and Gloria Mani Fine Art which is owned by a local artist who’s been in the art and art restoration business for more than forty years! Spend an hour or so at these shops and enjoy meeting their owners. Just like Theo, we’re pretty sure you’ll leave with more than one new friend and maybe even a piece of art to take home.

 

Early Evening

Believe it or not, there’s more art you’ve simply got to see. Before we send you to dinner at one of the top restaurants in the Southeast, we’d like to recommend an early evening stop at yet another world-class center for the arts. After you finish up in Midtown, head downtown to The Bo Bartlett Center located on the second floor of Columbus State University’s Corn Center for the Visual Arts.

This intimate, contemplative space is rooted in education and celebrates the immense impact Columbus native Bo Bartlett has had on the world throughout his exceptional career. Known globally as a leader in the American Realism movement, the Center houses an impressive collection of the artist’s work. It also hosts numerous exhibitions every year from organizations like South Arts, The Bennett Prize, and a variety of other touring shows. In addition, the Bo Bartlett Center hosts an annual exhibition called Beyond Go Figure which exclusively features the work of local artists. There’s no doubt in our minds Theo would have loved this space, and we hope when you visit you find something beautiful that encourages you to look at the world, and others, a bit more like Theo every day. 

 

A Dinner to Remember: EPIC Chef's Table

Not long after Theo of Golden hit the New York Times Bestseller List, Allen Levi shared that Theo’s catered meal for a friend in the novel was inspired by the team and experiences the author enjoyed over the years at EPIC. Now, the restaurant now offers a Theo of Golden-inspired Chef's Table experience and it’s one of our top recommendations for Theo of Golden fans and book clubs. Just be sure to contact the restaurant ahead of time to make your reservation and request the Theo of Golden Chef’s Table Experience.

By this point in your trip, you’ve walked the streets, seen the art, met Columbus, and begun to make your own connection to the city. Booking The Chef's Table at EPIC will now become the emotional centerpiece of your vacation rather than just another themed stop. The intentional, heartfelt way Chef Jamie Keating and his staff have curated this experience shines through their obvious connections to the novel and their love of it. Treat yourself and your travel companions to a night you won’t soon forget. Expect multiple courses, artfully plated, with the finest ingredients available, and a beverage list that rivals anywhere you’ve ever been. This beautifully curated experience is more than just a dinner. It is the moment your trip will come full circle, and you’ll understand why Theo of Golden, and the people and places that inspired its Columbus, Georgia, roots, have resonated with millions of readers across the world.

 

DAY 3: The River Runs Through It 

An Active Morning

Today is the day to choose your own adventure. Now that you’ve been introduced to the heart, art, and people of Columbus, it’s time to fully experience the river Theo grew to love.  
 
The Chattahoochee River runs through the heart of Columbus, and you can’t visit without experiencing it in one way or another. While you’ve probably already encountered imagery or themes of the river in the art you’ve seen, there’s no better way to discover its impact on the city than to just go and see it for yourself.  

For adventurous travelers, we highly recommend booking a rafting trip with Whitewater Express. If you’d rather not get in the water, consider Whitewater Express’ Blue Heron Zip Line which allows participants amazing views as you fly across the river from Georgia to Alabama and back. It’s helpful to know Whitewater Express also has flat water kayaks and paddleboards for rent, if you prefer to explore the calmer parts of the river on your own.  

For a quieter experience off water, consider renting bikes from our friends at Ride on Bikes and enjoy exploring Columbus via the Dragonfly Trails. This award-winning trail network connects miles of well-maintained trails to various parts of the city. Believe it or not, you can ride from North Columbus all the way to South Columbus near Fort Benning and back all in one day. It’s a lovely way to see the city on two wheels, and something we think Theo would have loved.  
 
If you find yourself choosing this option, consider starting in North Columbus to explore yet another part of town before or after you ride. Looking for a place to eat? Head to Old Town and grab lunch or dinner at Charred Oak Kitchen + Bar or Morten’s. Both of these locally owned spots offer seasonal menus that receive rave reviews from both locals and visitors alike. Fuel up before or after your ride by enjoying some more amazing, local food while you’re still in Columbus.

 

Your Last Afternoon in Town

It’s time to dive into some more history. If you love Theo of Golden, we’re sure you’ll also love The National Infantry Museum and Historic Westville Village. Located in South Columbus near Fort Benning, both history-driven sites are easy to enjoy in succession over an afternoon.  

The National Infantry Museum is an award-winning and all-encompassing look into the history of the Infantry of the United States of America from the Revolutionary War to current day. Expect to find top military experts giving tours, artifacts from every war America has ever engaged in, flight and battle simulators, and a series of outdoor memorials honoring every war in American history. If you’re lucky, you may even visit on a day with an Army graduation in which hundreds of soldiers will demonstrate all they've learned at Fort Benning and gather with their families to celebrate this landmark of their careers. Most visitors do not get to have this experience, so if you are fortunate enough to be there on a graduation day, please make time to attend.  

After you finish at the National Infantry Museum, consider heading less than a mile up the road to Historic Westville Village. This living history museum captures what life was like in Columbus and the surrounding region during the mid-nineteenth century. When you visit, you’ll see live demonstrations, a beautifully curated gift shop, and educational programming that varies throughout the year.

 

Before You Leave

Our final recommendation is to head back to your favorite area of town for dinner. Maybe you passed something in Midtown that piqued your interest like Jarfly or Lou Lou’s + Foster’s Bistro & Bar? Or maybe there’s a spot in Uptown or at Highside Market that you walked by and want to revisit? Either way, the final night is yours to enjoy. Now that you’re acquainted with places from the novel and the city that inspired it, you’ve got enough knowledge to explore the city like Theo.

Once you’ve finished your last meal in the city, don’t be afraid to go somewhere quiet and sit as Theo does so often in the novel. May we suggest following his lead and going back down to the river to find a bench to look for the first evening star? 

No matter how you choose to end your trip, we’re confident you will leave with a bit of Columbus, Georgia, and Theo’s “Golden” city to take home with you. We’re also pretty sure you’ll already be planning your next trip back.

Categorized in

Arts / Dining / Itineraries / River Fun / Stay / Trip Ideas