Columbus Georgia Riverwalk — Beautiful day on the Riverwalk! (Grace Howard/ Bama Buzz)

Columbus, established on the Chattahoochee River right across the Alabama State line, has a long history as a trade center and industrial city in the south. Today, Columbus is a hot spot for outdoor lovers, featuring the longest urban whitewater rafting course in the world as well as housing a thriving downtown full of attractions, shops and eats. Keep reading to check out our guide to spending the day in Columbus!

1. Banks Food Hall

Molded out of the historic Banks Building in Columbus, Banks Food Hall features a myriad of food and beverage vendors. Overlooking the Chattahoochee River, this is the perfect spot to eat, drink and socialize in the heart of Uptown Columbus. From Italian ice at Jeremiah’s to authentic Filipino cuisine at Filberto’s, Banks Food Hall is sure to have something for everyone.

Location: 1002 Bay Avenue Columbus, GA 31901
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 8AM-9PM, Friday-Saturday 8AM-10PM
Website

2. Columbus Museum

Both a museum of art and regional history, the Columbus Museum is home to a diverse display of fine art and cultural artifacts. One of the largest museums in the southeast, the Columbus Museum is a significant showcase of both permanent and temporary exhibitions representing the rich past and bright future of the Chattahoochee River region.

Location: 1251 Wynnton Rd, Columbus, GA 31906
Hours: Tuesday-Wednesday 10AM-5PM, Thursday 10AM-8PM, Friday-Saturday 10AM-5PM, Sunday 1-5PM
Website

3. Whitewater Express

Rafting — Hold on tight! (@whitewaterexpress on Instagram)

For the adventure seekers, the Chattahoochee River is a playground for all kinds of outdoor fun. Take it easy and coast down the lazy river or go for the extreme and take on Cutbait, one of the largest rapids in the southeast. Don’t forget to check out the Blue Heron Adventure, an interstate zip-line connecting from the Georgia side of the river to the Alabama side.

Location: 1000 Bay Ave, Columbus, GA 31901
Hours: Daily 9AM-6PM
Website

4. National Infantry Museum

From its role as an industrial city during the American Civil War to its proximity to Fort Benning, Columbus has a deep military history. The National Infantry Museum displays artifacts from all eras of US history and chronicles the story of United States Army infantryman. For the history buffs, this is a must-see exhibition.

Location: 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus, GA 31903
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9AM-5PM, Sunday 11AM-5PM
Website

5. Market Days

With over 130+ local vendors, Market Days on Broadway in Uptown Columbus is the perfect weekend activity. Open every Saturday 9AM-12PM, Broadway is filled with all kinds of fun from local produce and flowers to home goods and jewelry. Bring your friends, family and pets and explore all the local favorites Market Days has to offer!