What Progress Has Preserved in Columbus, GA

 
 

Nestled along the banks of the Chattahoochee River in west central Georgia, Columbus was one of the last planned cities of the original 13 colonies.   The city served as a major supply point during the Civil War and in fact, one of the last battles of the Civil War was fought in Columbus in 1865. Needless to say, Columbus is steeped in history.

A stroll along the 15-mile Chattahoochee RiverWalk will bring you to the edge of Georgia and of history. As you meander beside the river, you can almost hear the whistle of an arriving paddleboat loaded with cotton. Walking, jogging, biking, or in-line skating down the RiverWalk is a treat year round.

And now you can experience the Chattahoochee River like never before! Columbus is now home to the longest urban whitewater course in the world. Whether you like rafting, kayaking, or canoeing, you’ll get to pick how you want to enjoy this 2.5-mile section of the river.

The National Infantry Museum & Solider Center at Patriot Park, honors the 233-year legacy of valor and sacrifice of the American Infantryman. This facility serves to educate, honor, and preserve the legacy of the oldest branch of the United States Armed Forces.

Inside the National Infantry Museum, you’re able to traverse the “Last 100 Yards Ramp,” where battles from each of the Infantry’s major conflicts over the years are depicted in striking realism, then amble through interactive galleries tracing Infantry history from colonial times to the present and the training of today’s Soldier.

Truly a one-of-a-kind experience is a visit to the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus—the only museum in the country dedicated to taking a comprehensive look at this fascinating aspect of the Civil War. Get swept away with stories of powder monkeys, and even see how the navies used submarines and torpedoes. New on the grounds at Port Columbus is a full-scale replica of the USS Water Witch, representing one of the most exciting events in Civil War naval history. Climb aboard the Water Witch to get a taste of what life was like sailing the high seas.

Other points of interest include the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, the crown-jewel in Columbus’ new arts and entertainment district; the Columbus Museum, one of the largest museums in the South and offering a rich collection of regional history artifacts, Native American crafts made on the Chattahoochee River, and fascinating American impressionist paintings and vibrant contemporary mixed-media pieces; or you can literally gaze into the future as you study faraway planets and distant galaxies or even board the space shuttle and go on a moon mission at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center! 

Columbus is also home to the Springer Opera House, The State Theatre of Georgia. This is one of America's most vibrant professional theatre companies, complete with a popular Mainstage Series, an innovative second-space series called Studio II, an Academy Series featuring some of this region's most talented student actors and a ten-state regional touring program called Springer Theatre On Tour.         

From military history, art and science museums, to world-class entertainment, Columbus takes the best of the past and merges into the present, creating a place that is both timeless and comfortable.

Columbus, Georgia is a city unafraid of change…yet careful to uphold its heritage. Come experience this one of a kind city and her true Southern hospitality. Come see “What Progress Has Preserved.”

For more information, contact the Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau at (800) 999.1613 or www.visitcolumbusgs.com.