26 Best & Fun Things to Do in Columbia (TN)

In search of the best and most fun things to do in Columbia, TN?

Columbia is is a city in Maury County, Tennessee, United States of America. It is the County’s seat.

In the 2021 Census, the city’s population was 43,340. The city is also part of the Nashville metropolitan area.

Columbia, known as the “mule capital of the world,” celebrates the yearly Mule Day in April.

This city and the county are known as the “Antebellum Homes Capital of Tennessee” since it has the most antebellum houses than other counties In Tennessee.

Additionally, the city is home to one of the remaining houses of James Knox Polk, the United State’s 11th president.

Columbia features a rich history, exciting shopping centers, restaurants, hotels, live music venues, breweries, wineries, museums,

The city is home to the unique Yanhali Park, which protects endangered species, and Chickasaw Park, which has trails suitable for beginner and advanced bikers and hiking. There are several other unique attractions in the city.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Columbia, TN.

Things to Do in Columbia, TN

1. Visit Elm Springs

This tourist destination is a large property named after the surplus elm trees surrounding the area.

Elm Spring is a Greek Revival-styled two-story brick house constructed in 1837. The edifice is situated on the outskirts of the town.

Elm Springs was built in 1837 by successful New Orleans merchants Nathaniel and James Dick for their sister as a present.

Their sister, Sarah, and her husband, Todd, lived in the house until their death. Subsequently, the house was inherited by their daughter, Susan Todd.

The house underwent repairs in the late 20th century to make it look like its original state.

In 1992, Elm Springs was bought by the Sons of Confederate Veterans. It has become one of the main tourist attractions in the city.

This historical landmark educates tourists about the history of the building prior to and after the civil war. In 1986, Elm spring was added to the National Register of Historic places.

Address: 2357 Park Plus Dr, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

2. President James K. Polk Home & Museum

This tourist attraction is the original house of the 11th president of the United States, James Knox Polk.

In the building, you will find private items that belong to James Polk. The museum opposite his house is in his honor.

A visit to President James K. Polk’s Home & Museum will give you insights into the life of this President.

This Museum provides daily guided tours of the house which features artifacts, materials about President James, and rotating exhibits.

When you visit the building, you can have a self-guided tour of the garden, the kitchen building, and the museum.

Additionally, the Museum partners with public libraries to host events and lectures that help people learn about President James K. Polk and his services to America.

Address: 301 W 7th St, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

3. Yanahli Park

Yanahli Park is 474 acres ecologically diverse park that you must visit during your trip to Columbia, TN.

Yanahli Park features diverse flora, a lot of ecosystems, and threatened and endangered species.

The Park is near the Duck River, which houses a large amount of unique and endangered fish.

Aside from viewing this endangered species, you can bike or take a walk around the Park’s trail.

Additionally, the Park features burial sites, historical settlements with interesting stories, and old rock walls.

This park, which is a mix of education, recreation, and nature, is one of the best places to visit in Columbia, TN.

Address: 922 Iron Bridge Rd, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

4. Columbia Farmers Fresh Market

Among the top things to do In Columbia, TN is to buy local fresh produce at Columbia Farmers Fresh Market.

Columbia Farmers Fresh Market is a few minutes from the town square.

This open-air Market has existed for over 30 years and has provided sellers with a venue to sell their locally grown and fresh produce.

When you visit Columbia Farmers Market, you are sure to buy healthy, reliable, and safe goods.

The Market opens only from May to October so if you visit Columbia during these months, seize the opportunity to visit and buy fresh produce.

Columbia Farmers Fresh Market also features vendors who sell other items like flowers, baked goods, and handmade items.

Address: Riverwalk Park @, E 5th St, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

5. Columbia Arts Building

Columbia Arts Building, situated in the Art District of Columbia, is a home for artists to exhibit their modern artistic skills.

Columbia Arts Building is used for all types of artistic activities. When you visit this building, you can explore different kinds of art, including pottery, painting, photography, and music.

Columbia Arts Building also offers classes for beginner artists interested in developing and nurturing skills in their field. Exploring this destination is one of the best things to do in Columbia, TN, especially if you’re an art lover.

This art building can also be seen as a community where artists can express themselves while having the best experience.

Address: 307 W 11th St, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

6. Downtown Columbia Public Square

Downtown Columbia Public Square is complemented by a gorgeous Town Square and Main Street, where you can explore to your heart’s fill.

At Downtown Columbia Public Square, you will not lack things to see and do since it is filled with a lot of activities.

Downtown Columbia Public Square features a live music event, food trucks, and vendors to buy goods on the first weekend of every month.

You will learn about this terrific district’s past when you spend quality time at Downtown Columbia Public Square.

In addition, you can explore restaurants, coffee shops, pie shops, taprooms, boutiques, spas, barbershops, and vintage shops in Downtown Columbia Public Square.

Do not hesitate to spare some time and explore the beautiful sights located in this historic Downtown Columbia, as it’s one of the best places to visit in Columbia, TN.

Address: Columbia, TN, United States

7. Bleu 32 Vintage Marketplace

Bleu 32 Vintage Marketplace is home to different kinds of items like homemade goods, art, clothes, and other items.

Bleu 32 Vintage Marketplace is situated in downtown Columbia, and over the years, the Marketplace has grown to house more vendors.

Before becoming the large marketplace it is now, it was a small building. This destination currently features a restaurant and 25 more vendors offering various products and services.

At this building, with over 12,000 square feet filled with antiques, you can buy souvenirs that will help you remember your trip to Columbia or gifts for your family.

So if you like antiques and vintage stuff, be sure to visit Bleu 32 Vintage Marketplace.

Address: 108 W 7th Street, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

8. The Athenaeum

The Athenaeum is the remains of the popular two famous girls’ schools that existed in the 1830s.

The building of this tourist attraction started in 1832 for the nephew of Samuel Polk Walker and finished in 1837.

The Athenaeum was used as a refectory for two famous all-girl schools before it was shut down during the Great Depression.

In recent times, the building now serves as a tourist attraction and is open for tourists to explore

To explore the Historic Athenaeum, you must make an appointment, so endeavor to book as early as possible.

Address: 808 Athenaeum St, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

For a fun road trip in Tennessee, do not miss exploring our checklist of things to do in Dandridge, and things to do in Townsend.

9. St. John’s Episcopal Church

This historic cathedral is located in Mount Pleasant, 19 minutes from the center of Columbia; it is truly a sight to behold.

Before the emergence of the civil war, St John’s Episcopal Church was known for its ministry and services. It even boasted a large following in the first ten years.

When the war began, the Church was used as a hospital for wounded people and soldiers.

After the war, it was turned back into a church, but the number of people attending had reduced drastically, and as a result, the church was closed.

Although St John’s Episcopal Church no longer operates, the building is now used as a tourist destination for visitors to explore the towers, alter, and other parts of the church.

Additionally, the church features a small cemetery built outside the building. It is the burial place of a few episcopal bishops of the state.

The quiet but clean environment of St John’s Episcopal Church will allow you to appreciate the legends of the church and even its cemetery.

Address: Hwy 243, Columbia, TN, United States

10. Chickasaw Trace Park

If you are a fan of outdoor activities, one of the fun things to do in Columbia, TN, is to go hiking at Chickasaw Trace Park. It is a 240.5- acre park that was established in 1992.

The Park is dedicated to outdoor activities in the city. Chickasaw Trace Is famous for its 9-mile hiking and biking trails. The Park trails are perfect for beginner and advanced bikers and hikers.

If you don’t like biking or hiking, you can relax at the pavilion and use the cabins, electricity, and outdoor grill for picnics.

Chickasaw Park also features a boat ramp, a pump & Jump track, the Derryberry Log Cabin, a radio control car track, a radio control flight field, a pavilion, restrooms, and playgrounds.

Address: 1419 Santa Fe Pike, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

11. Maury County Archives

Maury County Archive is a building owned by the government that features original documents of Maury County that are open for the public to see.

A prominent feature of the Maury County Archive is the authentic Maury County Court Minute Book 1, which records the county’s birth as far back as the 19th century.

Some records include marriages, wills, taxes, court records, and deeds. The archive is open from Monday to Friday.

This historic place is an excellent destination to learn about Maury County and the other counties around it.

If you love learning about history, make sure you add a visit to Maury County Archive to your list of top things to do in Columbia, TN.

Address: 201 E 6th Street, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

12. Asgard Brewing Co. & Taproom

Asgard Brewing Co. & Taproom is a popular brewery with a fantastic selection of beers at reasonable prices. The brewery uses only natural and locally sourced ingredients to make these delicious craft beers.

Asgard Brewing Co. & Taproom is a big fan of the Viking customs. This admiration is shown in their farm-to-barrel idea in maneuvering their beer. This style is what makes it unique from other breweries.

This facility has two structures for production, while the other serves as a brewhouse.

When you visit Asgard Brewing Co. & Taproom, endeavor to taste all the rare and fresh flavors of beer.

Address: 108 W 7th Street, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

13. Stan’s Restaurant

Initially, this destination’s name was Stan’s Café and Service Station.

Stan’s Restaurant was established in 1947. It was run by the owner Stan and his spouse Myrtle.

Stan’s Restaurant featured a soda bar, a curb-side service always available, and country-style cooking during that time.

In 1971, a gift shop, an antique museum, and a county store were added to the new location.

In 2015, another Stan’s Restaurant was established. The new one featured a hotel, convenience store, and gasoline pumps.

 Despite the years that have gone by, the county’s cooking style has not changed at all.

Address: 1555 Bear Creek Pike, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

14. Higher Pursuits

This attraction offers a large variety of water-based activities, including canoe rentals, kayak rentals, guided trips, and paddling classes.

Higher Pursuit aims to connect people with the wonders of the river while offering top-notch equipment, a family-friendly atmosphere, and impeccable services.

In October, Higher Pursuit holds fishing trips to fish for Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, and Blue Gills in April and October.

Higher Pursuit offers a large selection of kayaks, canoes, and even two-people kayaks.

Their paddling route is through the Yanahli Wildlife Management Area, which is suitable for beginners, advanced levels, and ages three and above. If you are indecisive about what to do in Columbia, TN, don’t pass on an adventure with Higher Pursuits.

Address: 3114 Cheeks Bend Rd, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

15. W7thCo Vintage Photo Gallery

W7thCo Vintage Photo Galley is also called “west seventh Company.”

This Gallery is home to a stunning collection of images of the city captured by various photographers that go as far back as the early 20th century.

This tourist attraction is located in a building that has existed since the 19th century. However, the building has been repaired to create a space suitable for the pictures displayed in the gallery.

W7thCo Vintage Photo Gallery features carefully curated items that attract the attention of tourists.

W7thCo Photo Gallery aims to ensure that these art collections will be admired by the generations yet to come.

The images in the W7thCo Vintage Photo Gallery are spectacular. Furthermore, you can decide to buy some of the images for personal use.

Address: 107 W 7th St Columbia, TN 38401, United States

Tennessee makes one of the top places to visit in the United States. Check out the list of things to do in Brentwood, and things to do in Hendersonville for a fun time.

16. Maury County Park

Maury County Park is a 240 acres Park located in the center of Columbia, TN. The Park has different amenities that you can use when you visit.

Furthermore, Maury County Park is a venue for several yearly events and festivals like Mule day and the Maury County Fair.

Maury County Park features eight pavilions, restrooms, a multi-use field, a two-mile paved trail, three playgrounds, a trail called Tony’s Trail, and a two-mile paved trail.

This County Park also features an outdoor classroom Storybook Trail, a one-mile nature trail, and one of the biggest small train tracks in the United States.

Address: 1018 Maury County Park Dr, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

17. Rippavilla Plantation

Rippavilla Plantation, also referred to as Nathaniel Cheairs House and Meadowbrook, is a historic house and museum that used to be a plantation.

Rippavilla Plantation is situated in Spring Hill, Tennessee, 19 minutes from Columbia, TN.

This building was constructed in the mid-1850s by Nat Cheairs, who was a major during the civil war. Nat Cheairs and his wife Susan were among the wealthiest families in the area.

This Greek Revival-style building is open to visitors as a house museum. A large number of enslaved black people worked on this plantation for many years.

The town of Spring Hill currently owns the historical museum. It is managed by a non-profit organization called The Battle of Franklin Trust.

A lot of tourists from across the country pay visits to Rippavilla to learn about the causes and the consequences of the civil war.

Address: 5700 Main St, Spring Hill, TN 37174, United States

18. Pryor Art Gallery

This tourist attraction is situated on the campus of Columbia State Community College.

Pryor Art Gallery is devoted to developing, designing, and presenting programs that stimulate, entertain, educate, inspire, and enlighten students, locals, tourists, community members, and staff.

The Gallery holds exhibits and other art events throughout the year. In addition, Pryor Art Galley is often used as a venue for acknowledging all types and forms of visual arts.

Not only is the Gallery welcoming, but it is also accessible to the public. The Gallery hosts a regular exhibit schedule and events throughout the year.

Address: Waymon L. Hickman building, Columbia Campus, Columbia, TN, United States

19. The Mulehouse

Music is a significant part of the life of people in Columbia, TN. For this reason, the city features lots of live music entertainment in restaurants and other event centers.

One such venue used to hold live music is The Mulehouse. The Mulehouse is a stunning music and event venue located in historic downtown Columbia that hosts music of all types.

In addition to having gorgeous architecture and design, the staff at The Mulehouse are civil and polite.

Address: 812 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

20. aMuse’um Children’s Museum

aMuse’um is a children’s museum, a perfect location to spend quality time with your children.

This Museum’s primary goal is to provide a safe environment for kids of all ages while ensuring that they have fun.

This facility features various activities such as interactive exhibits, programs, events, and other educational activities that will help stimulate your kids’ brain development.

aMuse’um also has centers used for drama, including stores, a café, and a hospital that will entertain the children for a while.

There is so much to see and learn at this amazing museum located in the downtown district.

Address: 123 W 7th St #3213, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

21. Southern Tré Steakhouse

Having a meal at Southern Tré Steakhouse should be on your list of what to do In Columbia, TN.

You will be dazzled by the charm, 5-star entrees, and outdoor ambiance of this warm and welcoming restaurant.

Southern Tré is situated in the center of Downtown Columbia. This family-friendly restaurant creates an environment where you and your loved ones can enjoy a meal and converse politely with other customers.

Aside from being known for its charm, the restaurant is also used as a venue for community events, marriages, weddings, family get-togethers, and dates.

Make sure you visit Southern Trè Steakhouse with your loved ones and get served hand-licking meals.

Address: 117 W 7th St, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

22. The Dotted Lime

If you are looking for a restaurant that pays attention to people with dietary restrictions, you should dine at Dotted Lime.

The menu consists of peanut-free, tree-nut-free, and gluten-free meals. The restaurant also pays attention to people with unique dietary palettes.

Dotted Lime aims to serve you and your loved ones a healthy and safe meal regardless of your food restrictions or allergies.

Dotted Lime uses quality non-GMO products that will keep your stomach satisfied.

Another amazing thing about this restaurant is that the meals remain mouth-watering despite the absence of gluten.

Address: 1806 S Main St, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

23. Pumpkin Paradise

If you want to experience an exciting farm experience alone or with your family, you should head over to Pumpkin Paradise. It is among the fun things to do in Columbia, TN.

Regardless of if you’re looking for a place to allow your children to play, a location for a birthday party, or a site for an excursion, Pumpkin Paradise has it all.

Pumpkin Paradises has flying pigs, sit n’ play, swings, slides, a pedal track, a corn boxy, a hay maze, climbing tires, and a gravel pit.

You can take hayrides, see cows, and explore the Farmer’s garden when you visit.

At Pumpkin Paradise, you will learn about a Farmer’s life; it has signs depicting all the information you need.

Address: 3005 Sheegog Ln, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

24. Tenn Pin Alley

If you like bowling, visit Tenn Pin Alley in Columbia, TN. Tenn Pin Alley is the newest top-notch family Entertainment Centre in Columbia, TN.

This newly renovated tourist attraction is a 50,000 square feet center with over 50 game arcades, 32 Bowling Lanes, Laser Tags, a prize redemption store, and Bumper cars.

Also, Tenn Pin Alley has a café that offers a diverse menu of delicious meals and a bar stocked with special cocktails.

This tourist destination is suitable for team-building events, birthday parties, and having a good time with loved ones and buddies.

Tenn Pin Alley also features contemporary music, a clean environment, a fun Game Center for kids, and a relaxing atmosphere.

This facility is a must-visit for kids and parents because there is something to do for everyone, regardless of age. So head over to Tenn Pin Alley and have a fantastic time.

Address: 730 Mooresville Pike, Columbia, TN 38401, United States

25. Bad Idea Brewing Company

You might be wondering how the brewery came about its name, which sounds somehow awkward. In 2015 the brewery started as a chit-chat among friends about opening a Brewing Company while having dinner.

During the conversation, the wife of one of the friends said, “This is a bad idea.” This led to the brewery’s name. Since then, they have been dedicated to providing the best beer in this area.

Bad Idea Brewing Company serves its visitors a fine selection of tasty beers in a lovely setting with music in the background to spice up the atmosphere.

You can try out their Grisette, Raspberry Ale, Raspberry Berliner style Sour, Drupey, Stout, and others. They also have non-alcoholic drinks.

The brewery permits its guests to bring food from their homes or place a take-out order from any local eateries within the area.

Address: 307 W 11th St #6, Columbia, TN 38401, USA

26. Millers Thrillers Haunted Woods

One of the best ways to enjoy your vacation in the city is to check out this fun-filled family haunt nestled in the outlying area of Columbia, TN.

This place has two main haunts, namely the Hillbilly Holler and Zombie Hayride Reloaded, with two stages for entertainment all through the night.

The Hillbilly Holler, the primary haunt, features a 40-minute haunt within the woods. It is very engaging, with plenty of storyline and fun. This haunt is not for children below age ten or the Scaredy Cats.

If you want to shoot down some live zombies, try their Zombie Hayride Reloaded. This haunt is recommended for kids up to 8 years and above.

The entire course was newly revamped to provide a more immersive and thrilling experience for guests, including the addition of a musical theater show at the end of the haunt.

You can also be a part of their stage shows, including performances by stilt walkers, fire performers, jugglers, zombie drumlines, a fantastic light event for music, fireworks, lasers, and pogo stick stunts.

There are areas to take great pictures with family and friends for memory’s sake.

Address: 1431 Carters Creek Pike, Columbia, TN 38401, USA

Explore other parts of Tennessee, check out our list of things to do in Maryville, things to do in Jackson, and things to do in Chattanooga.

Plan Your Trip to Columbia

Columbia, TN, is a fantastic vacation destination with restaurants, parks, live music, art galleries, historic houses, and more.

In addition, the city boasts of its southern hospitality. There’s something for everyone in Columbia, TN, and you will not regret your stay here.