DESTINATION SPOKE

Places to Go in Columbus, Georgia

From world-class military museums to urban whitewater rafting, discover the dynamic attractions of Columbus.

BY AmazingReunion Team circle Jan 15, 2025
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Columbus, Georgia, situated along the Chattahoochee River, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation for family reunions. This vibrant city features a revitalized downtown, world-class museums, and beautiful riverfront attractions.

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Already chosen Georgia? Read the Georgia Planning Guide.

National Infantry Museum

A world-class military museum honoring the American infantry soldier with interactive exhibits, artifacts, and immersive experiences spanning from the Revolutionary War to modern conflicts. It is one of the most impactful military museums in the country and a must-visit for families with service connections.

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SCOUT LOGISTICS

Secure your group's theater tickets at least 21 days in advance. For parties over 30, use the 'Patriot Gate' for streamlined entry.

Military Museum American History Interactive Exhibits
Address: 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus, GA 31903
Website: nationalinfantrymuseum.org

Chattahoochee RiverWalk

A scenic 15-mile paved linear park stretching along the Chattahoochee River, connecting parks, public art installations, and waterfront restaurants. The wide, flat path accommodates large groups walking or biking side by side.

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SCOUT LOGISTICS

If your group is using the RiverWalk for a morning walk, park at the Bay Avenue parking deck. It has the only oversized vehicle spots near the 1.2-mile marker.

Riverwalk Biking & Walking Scenic Views
Address: Bay Ave, Columbus, GA 31901
Website: columbusga.gov

Columbus Museum

The second-largest art museum in Georgia, featuring American art, regional history, and hands-on discovery galleries for children. Families can explore diverse collections and interactive exhibits that appeal to all ages.

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SCOUT LOGISTICS

The 'Discovery Gallery' is great for kids, but limited to 20 at a time. Rotate your group in 15-minute intervals.

Art & History Museum Regional History Family Friendly
Address: 1251 Wynnton Rd, Columbus, GA 31906
Website: columbusmuseum.com

Whitewater Express

An exciting whitewater rafting experience on the longest urban whitewater course in the world. Perfect for adventurous families, the facility offers various difficulty levels suitable for different ages and experience levels.

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SCOUT LOGISTICS

Book the 'Group Splash' package. It includes a reserved picnic area and priority gear fitting. 14-day cancellation policy applies.

Whitewater Rafting Adventure Outdoor Recreation
Address: 1000 Bay Ave, Columbus, GA 31901
Website: whitewaterexpress.com

Coca-Cola Space Science Center

An engaging museum dedicated to space exploration and science. It features a planetarium, space shuttle artifacts, and interactive simulators that make for a fantastic educational outing for the whole family.

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SCOUT LOGISTICS

Group shows in the planetarium must be booked 1 month out. Max capacity for large groups is 50 per show.

Science Museum Space Exploration Planetarium
Address: 701 Front Ave, Columbus, GA 31901
Website: ccssc.org

Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center

A beautiful 1,600-acre wetland habitat that serves as a gateway to the Chattahoochee River’s ecosystem. It features live animal exhibits (including alligators and turtles), an interactive discovery center, and flat nature trails that are exceptionally well-suited for family groups with small children and seniors.

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SCOUT LOGISTICS

Free Admission: This is an excellent "budget-saver" for a large reunion. The Oaks Pavilion can be rented for a private family picnic and sits right next to the alligator pond. Note: The center is located at the southern end of the Riverwalk, so it makes for a perfect turn-around point for a family bike ride.

Nature Center Wildlife Nature Trails
Address: 3535 S Lumpkin Rd, Columbus, GA 31903
Website: oxbow.columbusstate.edu

The Bo Bartlett Center

Located on the top floor of a repurposed riverside cotton warehouse, this 18,000-square-foot interactive art gallery features the massive, stunning realist paintings of Columbus native Bo Bartlett. The soaring ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows offer some of the most dramatic views of the Chattahoochee River in the city.

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SCOUT LOGISTICS

The "Legacy" Shot: The center’s riverfront terrace is the most sophisticated location in Columbus for a formal family portrait. Group Protocol: While admission is free, they request 14-day notice for groups larger than 20. The facility is fully ADA accessible via a modern elevator in the Corn Center for Visual Arts building.

Art Gallery Contemporary Art River Views
Address: 921 Front Ave, Columbus, GA 31901
Website: bobartlettcenter.org
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AmazingReunion Team

Our travel scouts specialize in identifying high-capacity venues and unique group experiences across the United States.