27 Awesome Things to Do in Columbus, GA for Families
Is your family taking a road trip to Columbus, GA anytime soon? As someone who was born and raised in Georgia I can honestly say that I really had little desire to visit this middle Georgia city. However, I recently learned that there are so many awesome things to do in Columbus, GA for families (not Columbus, OH-don’t get confused).
Is Columbus, Georgia worth visiting?
Yes! If you have any interest in American history then this place should definitely be on your list. Or, if you have kids who like to explore new outdoor places, then this place should definitely be on your list. There really are SO many fun things to do in Columbus, GA!
Does Columbus GA have a downtown? Yes! Downtown Columbus is known by locals as “Uptown” and features a variety of places to eat and shop. See our Vicinity Tours recommendation (below) if you’d like to have an official tour of Uptown.
What is Columbus, GA known for?
Columbus, GA is known for many things, but it is very well known for its historic places. There are a wide variety of history museums, science centers, and more that also double as some of the best free things to do in Columbus!
Fun Things to Do in Columbus, GA for Families
There are tons of fun things to do in Columbus, GA for families. The historic places, outdoor activities, and parks that are located in Columbus are all unique and worth visiting.
In addition to those activities, Columbus also offers all of you standard, run-of-the-mill family activities like bowling, movie theaters, and indoor trampoline parks. We are focusing on the “unique to Columbus” activities but feel free to explore the other options a well!
– Historic Places Near Columbus GA –
Columbus is full of historical landmarks and museums that allow your family to experience some pretty cool moments in history. Bonus: most of these double as free things to do in Columbus!
The National Infantry Museum
The National Infantry Museum in Columbus, GA features galleries and exhibits on every war America has participated in, as well as special galleries or Rangers, Armor, Cavalry, and more.
The Museum is also host to the Giant Screen Theater, playing documentaries and Hollywood movies (think Top Gun, Dunkirk, etc) for a small admission fee. You will also find virtual reality simulations and a gift shop!
Our kids are younger (3 and 4) and they still really enjoyed the National Infantry Museum! There are tons of military vehicles and cool memorabilia to keep kids (and adults) of any age entertained.
Address: 1775 Legacy Way #235, Columbus, GA 31903
Cost: Free (though donations are graciously accepted)t
Website: Check out their website here.
The Columbus Museum
The Columbus Museum is both an art and a history museum so it offers something for everyone. Our kids really enjoyed the giant sculpture directly outside of the museum. It was truly one of their favorite parts because they thought it was a dinosaur. We could have just visited the outside for free! Oh well..
Please Read: The Columbus Museum is undergoing renovations so it will be on the move for 2023! You can check out all of the details on their website here.
Traditionally, the Columbus Museum hosts a variety of exhibits, as well as some really cool (and seasonal) programs/events.
If you are not sure if your kids are ready for this type of museum, I would encourage you to check out their Virtual Museum video tours. These are neat videos that focus on specific exhibits. They even offer a booklet for kids to follow along with! You can check out these resources here.
Address: TEMPORARY HEADQUARTERS – 1327 Wynnton Road Columbus, GA 31906
Cost: Free, with a suggested donation to the museum!
Website: Check out their website here.
National Civil War Naval Museum
Guys. This place is SO cool! The National Civil War Naval Museum houses the oldest Confederate warship (intact) as well as the wreckage of the CSS Chattahoochee. They also have replicas of ships that include a berth deck. ward room, captains cabin, and more.
In addition to the amazing ships they have on display, they also have an impressive display of Civil War Naval flags and a timeline exhibit to help you put all of the pieces in order.
The inside of the museum is not even the coolest part. The National Civil War Naval Museum overlooks the Chattahoochee River and offers some really cool outdoor demonstrations such as: cannon firings, weapons demonstrations, and more.
This is truly one of the coolest historic places near Columbus, GA and you definitely get your money’s worth out of this visit! If you’re looking for a Columbus museum to visit with kids of any age then I would start here.
Address: 1002 Victory Drive, Columbus, Georgia 31901
Cost: $9 for adults // $7 for students // Children 6 and under are free
Website: Check out their website here.
Coca Cola Space Science Center
The Coca Cola Space Science Center has so many activities to explore during your visit. Our favorite: the planetarium show in the Omnisphere Theater! Our kids loved this show and actually asked if they were outside a couple of times. But that’s not the only thing offered at the Coca Cola Space Science Center.
What is there to do at the Coca Cola Space Science Center? So. Much. Some of the awesome things to do at the Space Science Center include: a sky tour, a tour NASA space artifacts, a flight on the Space Shuttle Odyssey, interactive pilot exhibits, Apollo exhibits, and a really cool gift shop.
In fact, the gift shop was our kids’ second favorite activity after the planetarium!
How much is the Coca Cola Space Science Center? These are some of the most reasonable tickets considering the full day’s worth of activities that you can participate in. Tickets are $8 for adults and kids over the age of 10. There is a senior/military discount at checkout if that applies to you! Tickets for kiddos are $6 for ages 4-10. Toddlers and babies (3 and under) are free!
Address: 701 Front Ave, Columbus, GA 31901
Cost: $8 for adults // $6 for children 4-10 // FREE for children 3 and under
Website: Check out their website here.
The Lunchbox Museum
The Lunchbox Museum does not have all of the rich American history that a preserved Confederate warship has, but it certainly has some historical artifacts. Our kids were actually pretty sure this was a toy store because so many of the lunch boxes on display have characters on them!
The Lunchbox Museum is home to thousands of metal lunchboxes that date back before the 1950s. The museum is a one room display that has lunchboxes on shelves, on chairs, and even hanging from the ceiling! They are arranged alphabetically so you can easily find some of your favorite characters.
The owner also has a “barter room” that allows visitors to buy or trade for duplicates that he has. Come step back in time and enjoy seeing all of your favorite characters (in alphabetical order)!
Address: 3218 Hamilton Rd, Columbus, GA 31904
Cost: $5 for adults // Free for children
Website: Check out their website here.
Historic Westville: Museum & Recreation
Historic Westville is an Antebellum village recreation that allows visitors to explore different buildings from different time periods in history. The oldest dates back to 1828!
Visitors can explore businesses (known as trade shops), homesites, churches, and more. There are also people who are fully dressed and immersed in life in the 19th century! These interpreters give tours, tell stories, and give demonstrations of specific skills. It is a full recreation of this time period.
Where did they move Westville to? Westville was actually previously located in Lumpkin, GA. They began moving the Muskogee Creek (Pre-1836) buildings and Historic Village (1840s-1890s) in 2013. There is a second phase of buildings (Antebellum Period and Pioneer Village) that they hope to move as soon as they have funding.
There is a ton to see and explore in the village. Our kids were very interested in seeing all of the different buildings and items within them, but they did not understand the concept of the recreation. To truly appreciate it, I would say Historic Westville is best for ages 6+.
Address: 3557 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus, GA 31903
Cost: $10 for adults (ages 13+) // $5 for children (5-12) // Free for ages 4 and under
Website: Check out their website here.
173rd Airborne Brigade Memorial
The 173rd Airborne Brigade Memorial is an outdoor memorial site that is located within the Walk of Honor at the National Infantry Museum. It pays tribute to any one who has served or will serve in the 173rd Airborne Brigade.
Personally, I think this memorial holds a lot more value for older kids and for adults. Our toddlers were too young for this experience. If you have older kids who enjoy learning about history, the “Sky Soldiers” memorial would be a great place to go!
Address: 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus, GA 31903
Cost: Free
Website: Check out their website here.
– Outdoor Activities –
Columbus Botanical Gardens
The Columbus Botanical Gardens hosts a variety of different gardens that are each home to specific species of plants. You can find a map of the botanical gardens that outlines each individual garden below. The gardens take an average of one hour to walk through if traveling with kids. Adults could easily walk the gardens in 30 minutes.
The garden offers some beautiful plants/flowers year round. In winter (January-March) visitors can see the Camellias in bloom, Roses are in bloom from April-October and the Vegetable Garden is blooming all year long! From March to November, visitors can see different varieties of flowering trees, shrubs, and perennials!
If you’re traveling in December, Columbus Botanical Gardens Christmas lights are a must see! Their SHINE Holiday Lights Festival includes photos with Santa, a walk of stars, kid’s crafts, s’mores, holiday workshops, entertainment, refreshments, and more!
Columbus Botanical Gardens Christmas lights run the whole month of December during two time slots: 6:00-7:30pm and 7:30-9:00pm. You can get tickets on their website.
The Columbus Botanical Gardens are wheelchair accessible and stroller accessible!
Note: Dogs are allowed in the gardens on the Joann Holt Walking Trail only. They must be on a leash.
Address: 3603 Weems Rd. Columbus, GA 31909
Cost: $10.00 for Adults // $5 for ages 4-18 // 3 and under are free.
Website: Check out their website here!
Whitewater Express
If you’re feeling adventurous, then Whitewater Express is for you! They offer three different trips with each one varying in adventure. The first is the Classic trip, which includes class I-III rapids, surf, and their habitat pool (a lazy river of sorts).
The next level up in adventure is the Challenge Trip, which is a more advanced rafting trip that the Classic Trip. The highest level of adventure can be found on the Carnage Trip. This route is for experienced rafters only!
Address: 1000 Bay Ave, Columbus, GA 31901
Cost: The cost varies based on package and
Website: You can check out their website here.
Columbus Riverwalk
The Columbus Riverwalk, also known as the Chattahoochee Trail, is a scenic walk through some of the wonderful historical sites that Columbus offers its visitors. These sites are all located along the Chattahoochee River, hence the name “Riverwalk.”
How long is the Columbus GA Riverwalk? The Columbus Riverwalk is about 15 miles from start to finish, so definitely more walking than you can expect from your kids (or maybe even yourself) if you are planning to see the whole thing. However, most visitors choose to start in the middle of the Riverwalk and explore only certain areas of interest.
Where is the start of the Columbus Riverwalk? The Columbus Riverwalk starts at the River Road Marina and travels through downtown Columbus, Fort Benning, and down to the Infantry Museum where it ends.
Address: Parking options include these spots along the trail: 3535 South Lumpkin Road, Rigdon Park (1600 Howe Ave.), Rotary Park (1808 Victory Dr.), and Woodruff Riverfront (1000 Bay Ave.)
Kadie the Cow of Columbus
Kadie the Cow is a local piece of history dating back to the 1960s. She began as the mascot for Kinnett’s Dairy, which was later sold and turned into a Best Buy. The city of Columbus officially adopted her in 2019 after Best Buy closed so she is here to stay!
Kadie is located on the corner of a parking lot right off of the main highway. So, if you’re looking to take pictures with a giant cow, you can actually park right beside her. Our kids thought the giant cow was amazing and if you ask them about things to do in Columbus, GA, Kadie the Cow will be #1 on their list.
Address: 2925 Manchester Expy, Columbus, GA
Cost: Free
Website: Kadie does not have her own official website.
Columbus Fall Line Trace
The Columbus Fall Line Trace is an 11-mile trail that showcases all that Columbus has to offer. The trail begins at Psalmond Rd. The northern end of the trail showcases a beautiful canopy of trees that overhang the paved pathway. As the trail continues, visitors get the chance to see downtown Columbus, shopping area, Columbus State University, and more.
At the southern end of the trail, there is a connection to the Chattahoochee Trail (Columbus Riverwalk) for those wanting to make Columbus trail walking an all day adventure.
There are two rest stops along the trail that offers restroom access, benches, water fountains, and bike shops. The Columbus Fall Line Trail map (pictured below) gives visitors an idea of all that they can expect to see while walking (or biking) this popular Columbus trail.
About halfway through the trail you will find the Manchester Expressway parking lot and playground (3358 Manchester Expressway). This is a great place to hop on the trail as there is ample parking and restrooms!
Address: Psalmond Rd, Columbus, Georgia 31820
Cost: Free!
– Indoor Activities & Tours in Columbus GA –
If your family is looking for something more structured, one of the following indoor activities or tours may be a good fit! Each of these offers something unique. Check them out below!
Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center
The Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center is an extension of Columbus State University. Their goal is to educate the public about the environment and its inhabitants through a variety of programs they offer.
You can find the Environmental Learning Center at the end of the Columbus Riverwalk! They offer access to the region’s plant and animal species in a fun and captivating environment. Through their exhibits, displays, and nature trails, children (and adults) can learn about all the region has to offer.
They offer formal programs as well for the youngest learners up to adult age. You can check out their calendar of events page here.
Address: 3535 S Lumpkin Rd, Columbus, GA 31903
Cost: Suggested $5 donation for admission.
Website: Check out their website here!
Columbus Ice Rink
Not every city has a dedicated ice rink that is open to the public year round. In fact, I do not know of many cities that do! The Columbus Ice Rink is a great activity for a rainy day or for those wanting try a new experience in a new place. Bonus: its affordable!!
Our kiddos were a little young when we last visited so they have not have a chance to experience ice skating yet.
You will want to check the ice rink calendar before planning your visit. Public skate times are indicated on their calendar around scheduled events.
Address: 400 4th St, Columbus, GA 31901
Cost: $8 for adults // $5 for kids 10 and under //Free to enter & watch!
Website: Check out their website here.
Fun City Scavenger Hunt: Operation City Quest
If you are looking for something more interactive you should try a city scavenger hunt! Participants in the Fun City Scavenger Hunt use an app to submit photos of required objects throughout the city. You can complete the challenges in any order to earn points.
It takes an average of 1-2 hours to complete the Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Columbus and gives visitors a great tour of the city! This is also on our family-friendly list of things to do in Columbus, GA because kids will love looking for each of these items and using clues to discover the next items.
Address: Launch point – 1020 Broadway, Columbus, GA 31901, USA
Cost: Check the cost of this tour here.
Vicinity Tours
Vicinty Tours offer guided tour experiences throughout downtown Columbus! Actually, they offer guided tours for all of these interests: Antebellum, Black Heritage, Sin City, Murals/Art, Foodies, & a Wicked River Cities tour.
Our favorite, especially for families with young kids, is the “Downtown Columbus Georgia Tour” where your family can tour over 30 points of interest in Columbus. You will see things like John Pemberton’s home (the founder of Coca-Cola), some local industrial history sites, as well as Black history sties. You will even get to learn some interesting sports tidbits!
There are three options for the downtown Columbus tours: Shuttle Tour, Walking Tour, & Tour Guide in Your Vehicle Tour.
The Downtown Columbus Shuttle Tour is similar to a trolley tour that allows passengers to hop on/off as the tour progresses. This option costs $30/person ages 10 and up, $15/person for kids ages 3-9, and kids 2 and under are free.
The Tour Guide on Board Your Personal Vehicle Tour is the most economical option for families. With this option, the tour guide joins you in your vehicle and directs you to each of the points of interest while sharing facts about each one. This tour is priced per group at $40 for 1-4 people and $55 for 5-9 people.
The Walking Tour is the same tour but visitors will be guided around downtown Columbus on foot by a tour guide. The price varies by group size. For example, a group of 1-4 is $20/person, a group of 5-9 is $17.50/person, etc. Children ages 0-7 are free in this option and do not count towards the number of group members.
Address: 900 Front Avenue, Columbus GA (Visitors Center)
Cost: See above for prices for each tour option.
Website: Check out their website here.
Unique Scavenger Hunt by Crazy Dash
The Unique Scavenger Hunt by Crazy Dash is definitely…unique! Rather than exclusively looking for Columbus-specific objects/places, visitors are asked to complete some “unique” actions and submit pictures to earn points!
Honestly, this type of scavenger hunt is even more fun for kids because they really get to play a role in these unique activities (like taking a picture of a pretend game of tug of war in the middle of the sidewalk).
Address: Launch point – 1020 Broadway, Columbus, GA 31901, USA
Cost:Check the cost of this tour here.
Hollywood Connection Family Fun Center
If you travel to Columbus on a day that is scorching hot (which could be any day from May-September) or a day with bad weather (again, could be any day from May-September) then Hollywood Connection Family Fun Center may be your saving grace!
This completely indoor activity center features a movie theater, skating rink, arcade area, and miniature golf!
Each of these activities is housed inside its own room so they each have separate admission costs. Prices vary based on activity and number/age of people. The Hollywood Connection skate prices also vary by day and time of visit.
However, even though you pay separately, you could easily spend a couple of hours on any one of these activities! The indoor putt-putt is definitely our favorite and the most adaptable activity for families with kids of any age or ability level.
Address: 1683 Whittlesey Rd, Columbus, GA 31904
Cost: Price varies by activity chosen and age of participants. Call for more information before you plan your trip!
Website: Check out their facebook page for up to date announcements!
– Parks Near Columbus GA –
If you travel with young kids, you know that sometimes you just need a break to play. Luckily, there are so many parks in or near Columbus, GA that give you the opportunity to do just that!
How many parks are in Columbus GA? Columbus has over 50 parks/recreation areas! So, if you’re looking for fun things to do in Columbus this weekend, might we recommend a local park!
Flat Rock Park
One of the best things to do in Columbus for free is to visit a local park. Many of the local parks in Columbus also have historical merit or beautiful natural landscapes. Flat Rock Park is one of those hidden gems! Flat Rock Park is home to waterfalls, detailed walking trails, bike trails, disc golf, a playground, and a picnic area.
How long is Flat Rock Park Columbus GA? See below for information about trail lengths at Flat Rock Park.
Is Flat Rock Park free? Yes! There is no cost to enter Flat Rock Park or use any of its amenities.
Can you swim at Flat Rock Park? I don’t know if I would use the word swim. However, the falls /shoals, are easily accessible by foot and you can definitely put your feet in the water. While we were there, we saw dogs and children playing in the water. Warning: the rocks are slippery!
Is Flat Rock Park open? Yes! Flat Rock Park is open seven days a week from 8AM-8PM.
How long is Flat Rock Park trail? There are 4 trails in Flat Rock Park, 3 of which are rated an easy difficulty level and one is a moderate difficulty level. The longest trail at Flat Rock Park is about 4.9 miles and is the moderate trail (named Heckler’s Hill, Pines, Zen, Sidewinder Loop).
The other three trails are 2.3 miles (Flat Rock Loop), 1.9 miles (Sidewinder), and 1.6 miles (Trillium Trail).
Address: 6106 Warm Springs Rd, Columbus, GA 31909
Cost: Free!
Heritage Park & Heritage Corner
Heritage Park doubles as one of the cool (and free) historic places near Columbus, GA. Heritage Park incorporates a variety of features to highlight the industrial history of Columbus that dates back to the mid 1800s.
Heritage Park includes granite pools, sculptures, and other water elements that each highlight a significant piece of Columbus’s history. Among these are dams, overlooks, a steamboat tribute, and even an original brick kiln! Visitors will also see life size statues of industrial workers and Dr. John Pemberton (the founder of Coca-Cola).
There is so much history to experience at Heritage Park, making it one of the top free things to do in Columbus, GA!
Address: W. 7th St., Columbus GA 31901
Cost: Free!
Woodruff Riverfront Park & Riverfront Splash Pad
Woodruff Riverfront Park is located right on the Chattahoochee River and the campus of Columbus State University. This is one of the best parks for kids in Columbus. The playground is amazing and very modern/well-maintained.
In addition to the playground, there is a free splash pad that is open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day. So, if you are visiting Columbus during those hot summer months, be sure to check out the splash pad!
In addition to the activities for the kids, Woodruff Riverfront Park offers walking trails along the river, benches under shade trees, and beautiful riverfront views. There is truly something for everyone here!
Address: 1000 Bay Ave, Columbus, GA 31901
Cost: Free!
FreeNotes Harmony Park
The FreeNotes Harmony Playground is located next to the River Walk Splash Pad on Bay Avenue. It features oversized outdoor instruments (hence the name, FreeNotes), climbing structures, tons of slides, and a see saw made for four!
There were areas for toddlers as well as areas for older children, up to age 12. The picture below gives you a good idea of how close the playground is to the splash pad. During the summer, this is a great place to spend an entire day splashing, drying off on the playground, and eating lunch with a river view!
Address: 10th Street and Bay Avenue
Cooper Creek Park
Cooper Creek Park offers a variety of amenities for all visitors. These include a walking trail, playgrounds, softball, picnic areas, horseshoe courts, fishing, and a clay court tennis facility.
The walking trails go around the pond which provides beautiful views of the water. The playgrounds are also perfect for toddlers and older kids.
Address: 5089 Cooper Creek Road,, Columbus, GA 31907
Cost: Free!
Britt David Park
Britt David Park in Columbus offers a little league baseball field, paved walking trail, a playground, and a full football field! They also have a Cultural Arts Studio that offers a variety of classes like pottery, ceramics, and photography classes.
Britt David is a great, low-key local park that offers a great place to get out and run around. We love little spots like this to have a picnic lunch and let the kids get some energy out.
Cost: Free!
Address: 5560 Armour Rd, Columbus, GA 31909
Lakebottom Park / Weracoba Park
Lakebottom Park is located in the heart of Midtown, northeast of downtown Columbus. The park offers tennis courts, a walking trail/fitness trail, basketball courts, baseball field, softball field, soccer field, football field, a playground, grills, and a covered pavilion area.
Lakebottom Park, aka Weracoba Park, is the oldest daily-use recreational facility in the city! It dates back to the late 1800s and is full of history! Come check out one of the top historic places near Columbus, GA.
Address: Cherokee Ave, Columbus, GA 31901
Cost: Free!
Bridging The Gap Playground
The Bridging the Gap Playground is located at the Columbus Public Library and seeks to provide a more accessible playground option for local residents of all abilities! If you ask our kids, this is one of the most fun things to do in Columbus, GA!
The playground includes a giant dinosaur skeleton, rock wall, a rope-climbing web, slides, zip lines, and more. It’s completely fenced-in and offers ramps for easy accessibility to slides and other playground features.
We highly recommend this brand new playground for kids of all ages and all abilities. It offers some of the coolest playground features and it is absolutely free!
Address: 1700 Midtown Dr, Columbus, GA 31906
Cost: Free!
Wrap-Up: Things To Do In Columbus, GA for Families
So, is there anything to do in Columbus, GA? I hope you know the answer to that and have been able to make an awesome list of things to do in Columbus with your family.
From river walks to space museums to retro lunchboxes, Columbus has something for every member of your family at any age. Do you know of a hidden gem in the area? Leave a comment below! Happy traveling!