Trying to plan a winter getaway that isn’t the same old routine? Stop looking. Columbus, Georgia is your answer. This isn’t just another Southern town with a sleepy main street. It’s a vibrant, energetic city where winter’s chill is met with warm hospitality and hot adventure.
Forget cabin fever. Your best winter vacation is waiting, packed with things to do that will have you ditching your heavy coat for a life jacket, trading snow boots for hiking shoes, and exchanging hot cocoa for world-class cuisine.
We’ve combed through every corner to bring you the definitive list of the best places to visit in Columbus, Georgia this winter. Get ready to make some serious memories.
1. Experience the Rush of the Chattahoochee Whitewater Course
Chase away the winter blues with the biggest adrenaline rush south of the Mason-Dixon Line. Columbus is home to the longest urban whitewater course in the entire world. Imagine that—class III and IV rapids roaring right through the heart of the city, with the skyline as your backdrop.
Companies like Whitewater Express offer trips year-round, tailoring the adventure to the season’s water levels so everyone from cautious beginners to thrill-seekers can find their perfect ride.
Stepping off the river doesn’t mean the fun stops. The surrounding RushSouth Whitewater Park is a winter activity hub in itself.
Stroll along the riverwalk, let the kids loose on the playground (who says playgrounds are just for summer?), or simply cozy up in the hammock park with a warm drink.
The energy here is contagious, proving that the best things to do in Columbus, Georgia often involve a splash, even in the cooler months.
2. Find Your Art Fix at The Columbus Museum
When you need a dose of culture away from the crisp outdoor air, The Columbus Museum is your perfect sanctuary. As one of the largest museums in the Southeast, it’s a treasure trove of American art and regional history that can easily fill a contemplative winter afternoon.
The collections are seriously impressive, featuring works by celebrated artists with Columbus ties like Amy Sherald and Alma Thomas.
But here’s a secret for a truly memorable visit: check their schedule before you go. The museum offers fantastic hands-on classes that make for an incredible indoor activity.
They even host a popular couples’ glass blowing class, which is just about the coolest (or hottest!) date idea you could imagine for a winter day. It’s a brilliant way to connect, get creative, and take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir from your trip.
3. Take a Walk on the Wild Side at Wild Animal Safari
Just a short drive from downtown, your winter journey takes a wild turn at the Wild Animal Safari. This isn’t your typical zoo stroll.
You’ll hop on the iconic Zebra Bus or rent a vehicle to cruise through over 500 acres of open parkland, coming face-to-face with herds of exotic animals from the comfort and warmth of your car. It’s a surreal and amazing experience that feels like a mini-expedition.
Roll down your window (just a crack!) and get ready for some curious guests. Giraffes may amble over to say hello, while bison and zebras roam freely across the plains.
The park is open year-round, and seeing these magnificent creatures in the peaceful, off-season atmosphere without the summer crowds is a uniquely serene adventure. Don’t forget to visit the walk-through area afterward to see more animals up close.
4. Discover a Psychedelic Paradise at Pasaquan
Prepare to have your senses dazzled at Pasaquan, one of the most extraordinary folk art sites in the nation. This is not a subtle experience.
It’s a seven-acre psychedelic wonderland of mind-bending colors, swirling mosaics, and towering totems, created by the visionary artist Eddie Owens Martin (St. EOM).
Walking through this restored complex feels like stepping into another dimension—a vibrant, joyful rebellion against a gray winter sky.
Every inch of Pasaquan is covered in intricate, hand-laid tile and bold paintings. Meander through arched passageways, ponder the meaning of the mysterious sculptures, and just soak in the sheer creative energy.
It’s a powerful reminder of one person’s imagination made real. Thanks to a partnership between Columbus State University and the Kohler Foundation, this masterpiece is preserved for everyone to explore.
It’s easily one of the most unique and visually stunning places to visit in Columbus.
5. Pedal Through the Scenic Dragonfly Trail
If you think biking is just a summer activity, Columbus is here to change your mind. The city’s extensive Dragonfly Trail network offers over 40 miles of paved, accessible pathways perfect for a winter ride.
The crisp, cool air is incredibly invigorating, and you’ll work up a nice warmth as you pedal. The trail cleverly connects Columbus’s vibrant Uptown and Midtown districts, so you can plan a ride that includes coffee stops, window shopping, or a park picnic.
Don’t have bikes? No problem at all. Local shops like Ride on Bikes have you covered with daily rentals of everything from comfortable cruisers to sporty mountain bikes.
A ride along the Chattahoochee RiverWalk, with the peaceful winter river on one side and the city on the other, is an absolute must-do. It’s active, it’s easy, and it gives you a fantastic lay of the land.
6. Soar Across State Lines on a Zipline
Here’s a bragging right you can only get in Columbus: ziplining across state lines. That’s right. With the Blue Heron Adventure from Whitewater Express, you’ll launch from Georgia, zip high above the swirling Chattahoochee River, and land in Alabama—before soaring right back.
The aerial view of the whitewater park and the river valley below is absolutely breathtaking, especially with the bare trees offering clearer winter vistas.
It’s a rush of freedom that cuts through the quietest winter day. The feeling of flying, with the cold wind on your face and the world spread out below, is pure exhilaration.
This unique attraction is a cornerstone of the best adventure travel in Columbus, Georgia, and it’s an experience you and your travel crew will be talking about for years to come. It’s the perfect way to add a huge dose of wow to your winter itinerary.
7. Explore the Depths at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center
Launch your imagination into orbit without ever leaving town. The Coca-Cola Space Science Center is a world-class destination that turns a cold day into an interplanetary mission. This isn’t a stuffy museum; it’s a fully interactive spaceport.
Climb into realistic simulators to feel what it’s like to pilot a spacecraft or land the space shuttle. The immersive planetarium shows will transport you to the rings of Saturn or the surface of Mars, all from a cozy, reclining seat.
The center houses genuine NASA artifacts and offers educational programs that fascinate all ages. For families, it’s a top-tier destination that blends learning with sheer fun.
You can easily spend hours here exploring the mysteries of the universe, making it one of the most engaging and cool indoor spots to visit in Columbus, Georgia when you want a break from the elements.
8. Enjoy a Night at the Historic Springer Opera House
For an evening of elegance and entertainment, you can’t beat a show at the Springer Opera House. Designated as the State Theatre of Georgia, this historic venue is a jewel box of Victorian architecture and world-class performing arts.
Their winter season is always packed with a diverse lineup, from heartwarming plays and side-splitting comedies to dazzling musical performances.
Stepping into the opulent, intimate theatre feels like traveling back in time. The acoustics are phenomenal, and the talent on stage is consistently first-rate.
Checking their schedule and booking tickets for a performance is a quintessential Columbus activity. It’s the perfect way to dress up a little, enjoy a sophisticated night out, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heartbeat. This is where memories are made.
9. Savor Southern Flavors on a Culinary Tour
Columbus’s food scene has exploded, and winter is the ideal time to savor it. The city is a paradise for food lovers, with a spectrum ranging from down-home Southern comfort to four-diamond fine dining at restaurants like EPIC.
For a truly unique experience, see if you can snag a reservation for their Chef’s Table, where you dine right in the kitchen and watch the culinary magic happen up close.
But the warmth of Columbus dining isn’t just about fancy spots. It’s in the cozy, lively atmosphere of a place like Mabella’s Italian Steakhouse, the innovative fusion dishes at Vertigo Fusion Kitchen, or the fresh, farm-to-table creations at Bare Roots.
Exploring the local restaurants is a journey in itself. Every meal becomes an opportunity to discover a new favorite dish and experience the famous Southern hospitality that makes this city so special.
10. Journey into History at the National Infantry Museum
Even if you’re not a history buff, the National Infantry Museum is a profoundly moving and unforgettable stop. Voted the top free museum in the nation, it’s an immersive experience that goes far beyond static exhibits.
You’ll walk through lifelike dioramas, stand in a full-scale WWII landing craft, and see an incredible collection of artifacts that tell the story of the American infantryman from the Revolution to today.
The sheer scale and detail are awe-inspiring. The museum is adjacent to Fort Benning and is easily accessible via the scenic RiverWalk trail if you’re up for a walk or bike ride. Spending a few hours here is a humbling and educational experience that provides deep context for the region.
It’s a world-class institution and undoubtedly one of the most significant and impressive places to visit in the Columbus, Georgia area.
11. Hike the Otherworldly Providence Canyon
Pack a picnic, lace up your hiking boots, and take a stunning day trip to “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon.” Providence Canyon State Park, just a short drive from Columbus, is a natural spectacle you have to see to believe.
Erosion over centuries has carved deep, winding gullies into the soft sandstone, revealing stunning stripes of pink, orange, red, and purple soil. In the clear winter light, the colors are incredibly vivid.
The park offers several hiking trails that let you explore the canyon floor or gaze down from the rim. The cool temperatures make hiking here a genuine pleasure.
The landscape feels surreal and ancient, like you’ve discovered a hidden planet. It’s a powerful reminder of nature’s artistry and is consistently ranked as one of the top ten hikes in all of Georgia.
12. Get Hands-On at Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center
Reconnect with the natural world at Oxbow Meadows, a fantastic environmental learning center that makes for a perfect family-friendly or casually educational outing.
This isn’t just looking at placards; it’s about interaction. You can meet live native animals, learn about the local ecosystem of the Chattahoochee, and explore exhibits on everything from reptiles to river health.
The center often hosts special winter classes and events, like beekeeping workshops, that offer a unique, hands-on way to spend an afternoon.
The walking trails around the wetlands are peaceful and beautiful, offering a chance to spot winter birds and enjoy the quiet serenity of nature. It’s a low-key, engaging destination that celebrates the unique environment of the region.
13. Stroll and Explore the Vibrant Uptown Columbus
The heart of the city’s energy is its walkable, charming Uptown district. This is where you go to feel the pulse of Columbus. Spend a morning browsing in independent boutiques and art galleries housed in beautifully restored historic buildings.
The area is dotted with inviting coffee shops where you can warm up with a latte and plan your day.
Uptown is also the cultural core, home to multiple theatres and the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, where you might catch a symphony or a ballet.
As evening falls, the district comes alive with people heading to its amazing array of restaurants. Simply wandering the streets, people-watching, and soaking in the atmosphere is one of the simplest and most enjoyable things to do. It’s the perfect base for your winter exploration.
14. Unwind and Reflect on the Columbus RiverWalk
End your days, or start your mornings, with a peaceful stroll along the Columbus RiverWalk.
This beautifully maintained paved trail stretches for miles along the banks of the Chattahoochee, offering ever-changing views of the river, the rapids, and the city. In winter, it’s often quiet and misty, creating a beautifully reflective atmosphere.
You can walk, jog, or just find a bench to sit and watch the water flow by. It connects major attractions like the Whitewater Park and the National Infantry Museum, making it both a destination and a journey.
The RiverWalk embodies the spirit of Columbus—a seamless blend of natural beauty and urban vitality. It’s the perfect place to take a deep breath of fresh air and appreciate the unique character of this incredible city.
Conclusion
Columbus, Georgia isn’t waiting for spring to come alive; it’s buzzing with energy, warmth, and adventure right now. From soaring above rivers to diving into art, from savoring incredible meals to hiking through canyons, your perfect getaway is packed with possibilities.
Don’t just dream about a better winter vacation. Make it happen. Start planning your trip to Columbus today—your adventure on the Chattahoochee is waiting.