WHILE WE ARE IN COLUMBUS...
THINGS GOING ON IN COLUMBUS
What is Columbus all about?
Under the radar and over the top, Columbus, GA blends a vibrant artsy energy with unique local history and a thriving food scene. It is also the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors, listen to local bands, and taste finely brewed beer. In short, we’ve got world-class experiences without the world class ego! (You can thank us later)
Market Days on Broadway
Market Days on Broadway will be in full swing on Saturday June 4th!
Each Saturday, four blocks along Broadway (900, 1000, 1100, & 1200 blocks) host over 200 local and regional vendors. Visitors ca expect to find fresh and organic produce, home goods, jewelry, unique crafts and delicious baked goods. Market Days is the perfect Saturday activity for family, friends and visitors. Don’t forget to bring you furry pals to get in on the fun!
The Meaning of Home @ The Columbus Museum
In March 2020, COVID-19 radically changed every aspect of our daily lives, both in the United States and around the world. Daily routines and interactions fell apart as people struggled to adjust to the new reality of social distancing and staying home to protect each other.
As our daily lives changed, the COVID-19 pandemic transformed our homes from personal spaces to multi-functional ones. Our homes became classrooms, offices, and social spaces as people struggled to remain connected and productive. Colleagues, classmates, friends, and extended family digitally joined us for a variety of virtual activities. As the functions of our homes evolved, so did its meaning.
This exhibition, co-curated by Curator of American Art Jonathan Frederick Walz and Director of Education & Engagement Lucy Kacir, explores this evolution through photography. The first part of the exhibition contains a selection of photographs from the Museum’s permanent collection that shows how artists have depicted home throughout the years. The second section will digitally display crowdsourced photographs from residents of the Lower Chattahoochee River Valley, the result of a public call for entries. Throughout the chaos of the past 18 months, our relationships with our homes have changed as our lives have changed. By contrasting these two sections, the curators hope to document this shift and encourage reflection on the lessons to carry forward.
Competere: An Exhibition of Artist Couples @ The Bo Bartlett Center
COMPETERE is a survey of Contemporary artist couples who are individually a vital part of the current New York art scene. This exhibition explores the concerns of artist couples while also comparing and contrasting the variety of artmaking approaches and choices related to gender, location, and context.
“The Latin word competere means to “strive together.” It is the root of the English word “competition.” Whereas “competition” suggests rivals, one faction determined to overcome the other – competere means two equals striving for the betterment of both.
In America, we are unaccustomed to such self-effacing practices. We are dog-eat-dog, everyone out for themselves. Yet, Art, unlike sports, politics, technology or industry, is a more benevolent enterprise. Within the artistic community, artists work in the privacy of their studios, all the while, keeping an eye on what other artists are doing, often feeding off a shared synergy to inform their own work. Art is evolutionary, building upon itself and what came before. Competere is ubiquitous and instrumental in Art history…”
– Betsy Eby and Bo Bartlett
Local Historical/Sightseeing Tours by Vicinity Tours
Visit VicinityTours.com or call 762-822-6251 for times and rates.
Enjoy one or all of our tour experiences:
(Allow 2 hours for each tour)
Historic Downtown Columbus
Covering the Historic, Liberty, and South Commons Districts. Up to over 50 points of interests.
Historic Black Heritage
Featuring over 40 points of historical interest.
Local and national icons such as Gertrude "Ma" Rainey, Eugene Bullard, and William Henry Spencer are spotlighted. Step to a time when the District was liveliest place in Columbus.
Art & Antebellum Tour
Art, Literature & History: An enlightening exploration of Columbus' Midtown districts. You can visit several local art/photo galleries. Hear stories of literary greats. View large antebellum homes.
Sin City & The Final Battle
Stories of decades-old "Sin City," and how crime tragically gripped a community. A miraculous clean-up resulted in Phenix City becoming an "All-American City."
Foodie Tours
Get a taste of the Bi-City from 4 local “mom & pop” eateries.
Come hungry, plenty to eat!
WAY DOWN YONDER ON THE CHATTAHOOCHEE
PLACES TO GO + THINGS TO DO
Whitewater Express
Come raft with Whitewater Express on the Chattahoochee River in Columbus, GA located in Uptown, the longest urban whitewater rafting in the world! The course has been described to be “Wild as Colorado and as Warm as Costa Rica.” There will be other things to do after your raft trip, such as: biking on 15 miles of RiverWalk, visit Columbus’ Coca-Cola Space Science Center, The National Infantry Museum, and Oxbow Meadows. Finish your trip by dining in beautiful Uptown Columbus— it’s all right there. Come by our new retail shop to pick up everything you need to enjoy the day on the river.
This course consists of over 5 class 4+ rapids and 10 smaller rapids. It's one of the most exciting whitewater rafting rivers in the US! The biggest distinction between this river and other rivers is the volume of water which will be in the river when it is rafted.
For comparison, the rapids on the Ocoee River can reach up to 1,100 cubic feet per second in volume, while the rapids at the Chattahoochee can reach up to 13,000 cubic feet per second in volume. This makes the rapids the largest south of Canada and east of the Chattahoochee!
Chattahoochee RiverWalk
The RiverWalk is an outdoor 15-mile linear park that hugs the banks of the Chattahoochee River.
For centuries, the Chattahoochee River has flowed from the mountains of North Georgia to the oyster beds of the Florida Panhandle. Sometimes a trickle. Sometimes angrily slapping against the rocks. Always telling a story of the history of Georgia and of Columbus. The relationship between Columbus and the Chattahoochee predates written history. Spanish explorers told about the falls nearby. The Indians nation's most extensive trading center was here. Then, in 1828, state legislation set aside 1,200 acres for the town that became Columbus. Steam boats soon were unloading cotton and other products at her busy pier. Romantic ballads were written by passengers who sailed on her lazy paddle-wheelers. Commerce depended on the river with the arrival of the railroad and other means of transportation. More recently, the Chattahoochee became a Mecca for recreation. Lakes created from its lineup of dams attract fishermen from around the world and on weekends the water is filled with boats and skiers. So it was natural for Columbus to come back to the river in 1992. Four years later, that first stretch of riverfront trail was extended to the main post of Fort Benning, giving those who travel on two feet or two wheels a blend of cityscapes and untouched wildlife. The RiverWalk now extends through the campus of TSYS and into the cotton mill town of Bibb City. Join us now on a trip down the Columbus RiverWalk. Take a leisurely stroll through a city's heritage, a walk that reminds all who come of what was, what is, and what will be.
Columbus Dragonfly Trail
Columbus' Dragonfly Trail, part of the City's Rails-to-Trails project, is constructed on an abandoned railroad route. The Trail begins at the 14th Street Pedestrian Bridge and ends at Psalmond Road. The land was purchased by the Columbus Consolidated Government from Norfolk Southern Railroad. The project provides a 12-foot wide asphalt trail that includes two park and ride/rest areas (one near Hannan Magnet Academy and one across from Legacy Chevrolet). The project also involves improvements to several bridges, including the railroad bridge that crosses over I-185; and various hardscape and landscape improvements, such as benches, trash receptacles, and signage. Users will be able to access the trail at parks, numerous road crossings, and trail spur connectors.
In addition to making transportation a little easier and greener, the trail also offers a superb route for recreational bikers, joggers and walkers to enjoy daily exercise and the sights of Columbus.
Columbus Botanical Garden
Located on 36 acres of greenspace in north Columbus, GA. The Columbus Botanical Garden has 4 developed acres with a 10 year plan for new gardens to come. They have a suggested donation of $5/garden guest for entry and we have convenient donation boxes throughout the garden. We are pleased to provide an attractive venue and colorful setting for photography, special events, horticultural seminars and community learning.
Coca-Cola Space Science Center
The Coca-Cola Space Science Center (CCSSC) in Columbus, Georgia is a division of Columbus State University (CSU) serving as an academic enrichment center for the university and a regional informal education institution for the public. Established in 1996, the CCSSC is Georgia’s only science center and museum facility dedicated to providing experiences for students and public visitors in astronomy and space science. Visitors include walk-in patrons, K-12 school groups from across the region, corporate and community organizations, and the university community.
Bo Bartlett Center
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. The center is a unique cultural institution that is taking a leadership role in the broader University and Columbus arts community and creating a new paradigm for innovation and service.
National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center
The National Infantry Museum emphasizes the values that define the Infantryman, as well as the nation he protects: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. It preserves and displays one of the greatest collections of military artifacts in the world, with 190,000 square feet of galleries standing on a 200-acre tract just outside the United States Army Maneuver Center of Excellence (MCoE) at Fort Benning, Georgia. The MCoE is one of the Army’s largest installations, the home of the Infantry and Armor schools, as well as Ranger School, Officer Candidate School, and Airborne School.
The new National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center opened in June 2009 and has greeted over 2 million visitors from across the world. The facility is recognized as one of the premier military attractions in the nation by numerous outlets including USA Today and TripAdvisor. In 2011, the museum was awarded the prestigious Thea Award for Outstanding Achievement by the Themed Entertainment Association.
The River Market Antiques
River Market Antiques is one of the most unique antique shopping experiences in the south. Not only will you find hidden treasures in the form of estate sale jewelry, china, and your favorite classic music on vinyl. You will find several museums under one roof to include: Lunchbox Museum, RC Cola Museum, and the Georgia Radio Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
FOODIES, UNITE!
Eats & Drinks
11th and Bay Southern Table
At 11th and Bay, we are inspired by southern hospitality and fresh creative southern cuisine. We have a passion for quality ingredients and our menu is seasonally driven. Throughout the years, we have developed relationships with local farmers and purveyors to source the best products found in our area.
Upon arriving at 11th and Bay, you are greeted with a warm welcome in a rustic modern setting situated in an old cotton warehouse below W.C. Bradley. Our food and atmosphere are one in the same, bringing the old and the new together, while creating an atmosphere that is unpretentious, warm, and inviting.
There are several dining options at 11th and Bay: view the sunset over the Chattahoochee while dining al fresco on our patio or around the fire pit; enjoy dinner inside our open dining room with heart pine floors and beams, warm brick walls, and vintage Edison lighting; or take pleasure in sitting at the bar with one of our distinguished bartenders.
The Loft
Mabella
At Mabella, Chef Tom Jones serves quality interpretations of classic dishes and daringly ventures into uncharted territories of Italian cuisine. The dynamic menu features a mixture of old and new, satisfying patrons with its wide array of flavors.
The name Mabella is an ode to our building's history. As an old telephone switch from the late 1800s, the building was home to many conversations that arguably formed Columbus into what it is today. We want those same connections to live on through our establishment. What better connects people than a great steak and a nice glass of wine.
Mabella's interior reflects the hipness of Uptown while also paying tribute to family's storied past. The multi-level restaurant offers several seating options from big parties to bar seating. Come experience the fusion of Columbus history and awesome taste.
Black Cow
The Black Cow brings a laid-back rustic southern charm to Uptown Columbus. Just steps away from the rapids of RushSouth Whitewater Park, sit down and experience southern hospitality at its best. From our Bacon Pimento Cheeseburger; “The Best Burger in the South” according to Garden & Gun Readers to our famous Meatloaf and succulent Steaks, we serve high-quality, mouth-watering southern comfort dishes. Sit back, relax and enjoy one of our signature cocktails or a craft beer at our bar. Watch the game on one of our five televisions or ride “Lil’ Rafter” the Bull.
Cannon Brew Pub
The Cannon Brewpub is a unique experience, where old-world charm is complemented by award-winning handcrafted beer and the best traditional American cuisine. Whether you choose one of our signature entrees or a sandwich, a meal at The Cannon assures thoughtful plate presentations, great value and fresh flavorful ingredients; made from scratch. We hope your experience is fun, relaxing, and most of all, unforgettable!
Wood Fired Pizzas, Homemade Burgers, Great Steaks, Pastas, and the finest craft-made beers made in West Georgia.
Tour the Brewpub.
The brewpub consist of two main areas - a barside dining area and pizza side dining area. The brewery located in the barside area is the central feature of the Brewpub. Dominating the rear of the building, it reaches from below floor level to the ceiling, 20 feet tall. The copper-topped bar, directly in front of it, provides a place where patrons can watch their favorite beer being brewed.
For a change in the atmosphere the Cannon offers a dining room with a quieter, more family-oriented feel. Featuring a wood-burning pizza oven, it helps to give our guests a place to call their own.
SaltCellar
Iron Bank Coffee Co.
Coffee is an important piece at Iron Bank Coffee Company. The only thing more important to us are the people. Whether you hang out in our shop, work for our company, or enjoy business with us, we value you. We are an independent and locally owned company. We are located in the old Iron Bank Building in the historic district of Uptown Columbus. Join us for coffee, lunch or drinks after work, use our upstairs space for a business meeting, kick back with friends or bring a book and enjoy our atmosphere. We have something for everyone.
Fountain City Coffee
Fountain City Coffee has been roasting beans and serving the community of Columbus (also known as The Fountain City) since its inception in 2003. Fountain City strives to create not only a premium product, but a welcoming environment for all in the community. Since Head Roaster, Jud Richardson, purchased “the shop” in 2013, it has become a literal family affair. Jud and his wife, Edy, are now part owners with his sister and brother-in-law, Libba and Will Dillon.
Houlihan's Restaurant + Bar
The first Houlihan’s opened in a location that was formerly known as Tom Houlihan’s Men’s Wear. As a placeholder, the blueprints had it labeled with "Houlihan's Old Place.” Despite the fact that the namesake of our restaurant never actually set foot in it, the name stuck. Eventually, we dropped the “Old Place” and here we are.
Today, we lovingly call Leawood, KS our Headquarters/Home. And with many locations nationwide, you can get a taste of home AKA high quality, from-scratch food and crazy delicious craft cocktails, almost anywhere you go. Because life’s too short to eat mediocre food.
Thrill-seekers will love the adventures in store in Columbus. Put a dent in your bucket list on a raft slipping through the Chattahoochee River rapids. Fly across the river and back on a zip line. Or experience the flow of area mountain bike trails. These are some of our favorite things to do. GO FAST Mountain bike trails at Flat Rock Park and Standing Boy Creek will get your blood pumping. Or go a little slower and walk, run, skate or bike the Columbus RiverWalk, our 15-mile linear park that hugs the banks of the Chattahoochee River. Part of an expansive local trail system called The Dragonfly, the RiverWalk provides a blend of cityscapes and untouched wildlife. Extend your journey on The Dragonfly where the RiverWalk meets the 11-mile Fall Line Trace rails-to-trails path. No bike? No problem! Bike shops in Columbus will rent you a set of wheels.