Today we're going to talk about a small American city that may not be on your radar - Columbus, Georgia.
It is not only beautiful and culturally rich, but also hides many great places for a weekend trip. Now let's take a deeper look at its charm with us!
Where is Columbus? Why is it worth visiting?
Columbus is located in western Georgia, adjacent to Alabama, separated by the scenic Chattahoochee River. It is the county seat of Muskogee County and the second largest city in Georgia, with a population of about 200,000. It combines urban convenience with small town tranquility, suitable for families, couples or small groups of friends.
Where are you from? How to get to Columbus?
We can drive from Atlanta for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, taking I-85 and then I-185 south. If you choose to fly, Columbus International Airport (CSG) offers flights to Dallas and Charlotte. Public transportation in the city is provided by the METRA bus system, but we recommend driving or taking a taxi, especially when visiting natural attractions.
Best time to travel: Spring and autumn are the best time to travel
March to May and September to November are the best time to visit Columbus. Spring is full of flowers and trees, suitable for outdoor activities; autumn is cool and pleasant, especially for strolling along the riverside trail. Summer is hot and humid, and winter is mild and rarely snows, which is also suitable for light travel.
Main attractions and ticket information
We have selected several must-see attractions in Columbus, each of which combines culture, history and natural scenery:
Chattahoochee RiverWalk
- Open all day: free
A 15-mile riverside trail suitable for cycling, walking and picnicking. There are also many piers and historical interpretive signs along the way, and the scenery is amazing.
Columbus Museum
- Tuesday to Saturday 10am–5pm, Sunday 1pm–5pm, closed on Monday
- Free admission (suggested donation $5)
Exhibitions cover American art, local history, and parent-child interactive areas, making it an indoor activity suitable for all ages.
Whitewater Express
- Open according to the season, it is recommended to make an online reservation in advance
- Prices range from $29 (normal rafting) to $55 (whitewater challenge)
Thrill-loving friends should not miss this "urban whitewater rafting" route - this is one of the longest urban whitewater rafting in the United States!
Coca-Cola Space Science Center
- Monday to Friday 10am–4pm, Saturday 12pm–5pm
- Adults $8 | Children (4–10 years old) $6 | Students/Seniors $7
This is a planetarium, simulated spacecraft, and astronomy displays, especially suitable for families with children.
Accommodation and Food: Where to stay? What to eat?
Columbus has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget chain hotels to boutique hotels. The most recommended area for accommodation is Uptown Columbus, which is close to the river, museums, and restaurants.
For food, we recommend trying the local favorite Southern cuisine, such as fried chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and corn tortillas. There are also many small restaurants opened by locals on Broadway Street, which are reasonably priced and authentic.
Travel tips to make our trip smoother
1. It is recommended to wear a hat and sun-protective clothing during the day, as the sun in the south is strong
2. Prepare enough water and drinks, especially when you are by the river or in the park
3. Bring more cameras! The scenery of the Chattahoochee River is perfect for taking photos
4. Bring some cash, as some small shops and activity booths may not accept credit cards
5. It is recommended to check the opening status of attractions and ticket price changes on the official website or Tripadvisor in advance
Why do we love Columbus?
Columbus is not a bustling city, but it has a unique sense of tranquility and intimacy. It allows us to slow down and feel the wind by the river, the stories in the museum, and the songs of street performers. If you are looking for a destination that is both relaxing and full of fun to explore, Columbus, Georgia is worth a trip.
Dear Lykkers, our journey is not over yet
Columbus may not be a well-known check-in point, but it is precisely because of its low-keyness that it is more real. If you are planning to take a weekend trip, you might consider this small southern city. Are you also tempted? Please leave a message to tell us which corner you most want to go! Let's continue to discover more unknown wonders together!