Columbus, Georgia:  What Progress has Preserved!

What begins as a tiny trickle of a stream in the mountains of north Georgia, builds to become a grand and stately river known as the Chattahoochee;  a river mighty enough to form the western border and the lifeblood of the city of Columbus, Georgia.  Nestled in a valley in the west-central part of the state, Columbus was the last planned city of the original thirteen colonies.  It’s now a blend of old and new; headquarters to international companies and home to a rich array of history.

The best way to see where a city is headed is to see where it has been.  You’ll discover a city steeped in colorful legend and folklore when you trace the footsteps of the founding fathers in the Columbus Historic District.  Take a guided tour of the district to see sites like the Pemberton House, home to the originator of the formula for Coca-Cola; the Springer Opera House, the state theatre of Georgia; or discover our rich African-American heritage on a self-guided tour.  History was recently made with the opening of the new National Infantry Museum & Solider Center at Patriot Park, honoring the 233-year legacy of valor and sacrifice of the American Infantryman, preserving the legacy of the oldest branch of the United States Armed Forces.

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, and in-line skating down the RiverWalk is a treat year round.

But step back into today, and you’ll experience the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, the crown-jewel in Columbus’ arts and entertainment district, the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus, home to rare and historic naval artifacts from the Civil War, or you can literally gaze into the future as you study faraway planets or even board the space shuttle at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center!

In Uptown Columbus, the Visitors Center is located just one block from the RiverWalk and is a perfect place to begin your exploration of the area.  Along with regional information, souvenirs, and brochures, a fifteen-minute video can be shown to visitors about major attractions in and around Columbus.

Make sure your plans include time to venture out from Columbus to explore all there is to see and do in our region, known as Presidential Pathways.  You’ll find a wealth of heritage from United States presidents; Providence Canyon, known as Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon; the 1850’s Village of Westville; SAM Shortline Train; even a Wild Animal Safari!

People make Columbus what it is today.  It’s part of the unique southern heritage that’s reflected in the culture.  Columbus, Georgia is a city unafraid of change…yet careful to uphold its heritage.  Come experience for yourself 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.