23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Columbus (MS)

Columbus is a city in eastern Mississippi and the county seat of Lowndes County. This city is situated near the Tombigbee River and the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway.

Columbus is a major city in the Columbus Micropolitan Statistical Area and part of the Golden Triangle consisting of West Point, Starkville, and Columbus.

Columbus claims to be the first city to start observing memorial day. The city contains various historical monuments like museums, historic buildings, and artifacts.

Visitors to Columbus can enjoy the city in various ways, ranging from fun at waterparks, art centers, and lots more.

Are you planning a trip to Columbus? Here are the best and fun things to do in Columbus, MS.

Things to Do in Columbus, MS

1. Columbus Riverwalk and Trail

Columbus Riverwalk and Trail
Credits: cmh2315fl / Flickr
Columbus Riverwalk and Trail

This place is for nature lovers and enthusiasts. The Trail is over 4.4 miles long, which is the same length as the well-known Tombigbee River.

The Trail begins on Main street and passes through dense forests, Riversides, and more.

This Trail also crosses the Tombigbee River through a beautiful bridge, hikers on this trail experience adventure and enjoy stunning views and scenery.

Columbus Riverwalk and Trail are uniquely beautiful at nighttime because of the lovely lamps lighting your way across the white bridge.

Various pavilions, picnic tables, and benches are on the trail for breaks, picnics, and relaxation.

A small butterfly garden can also be explored by visitors, where they can see beautiful creatures and flowers. Columbus Riverwalk and Trail is a lovely path in Columbus, MS.

Address: Columbus Riverwalk Trail, Columbus, MS, United States.

2. Lake Lowndes State Park

Lake Lowndes State Park
Credits: Real Sports Photos / Shutterstock

Lake Lowndes State Park is an amazing place in Columbus, MS. It has beautiful scenery and features a variety of recreational activities.

Lake Lowndes State Park offers visitors the chance to see the stunning lake and its surroundings. Various activities like boating, fishing, and water skiing can be enjoyed at this park.

The Opossum Trail, an award-winning trail, can be found at this park. Visitors will also see various native plant species and wildlife.

Lake Lowndes State Park has a great sports center with facilities like a football field, tennis court, and more. The Park has cabins and a camping site for nature lovers willing to spend the night in nature.

Special community events are usually hosted at this park.

Address: 3319 Lake Lowndes Road, Columbus, MS 39702, United States.

3. Tennessee Williams House Museum and Welcome Center

Tennessee Williams House Museum and Welcome Center
Credits: Roger Smith / Flickr
Tennessee Williams House Museum and Welcome Center

The amazing Tennessee Williams House Museum and Welcome Center is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

The Museum and Welcome Center was built and named after an incredible playwright of the 20th century, Tennessee Williams. Visitors pay tribute to his works and life by visiting this place.

The playwright’s first home was the Tennessee Williams House Museum and Welcome Center. This place preserves and portrays hints of the owner’s former lifestyle.

Tours of the facility consisting of the bedroom, living room, dining area, and more are available; a gift shop can also be found on the grounds.

The gift shop offers maps, brochures, and souvenirs of this unique location. Visitors can have a free cup of gourmet Coffee at this museum and welcome center.

The Tennessee Williams House Museum and Welcome Center also feature travel counselors who have answers to your various questions about the city and popular locations.

Address: 300 Main Street, Columbus, MS 39701, United States.

4. Malco Columbus Cinema

Malco Columbus Cinema
Credits: StockLite / Shutterstock

Malco Columbus Cinema is perfect for dates, family outings, and friendly gatherings. This cinema offers a more entertaining movie experience; this place also features comfortable seating and a high-resolution widescreen.

This cinema covers a large selection of the latest blockbuster movies before publicly being released on streaming platforms.

Snacks and drinks are sold at the concession stand at this theatre. Watching a movie at Malco Columbus Cinema is one of the best things to do in Columbus, MS.

Address: 2320 Highway 45 N, Columbus, MS 39705, United States.

5. South Columbus Historic District

South Columbus Historic District
Credits: Altairisfar (Jeffrey Reed) [CC BY-SA 3.0], Wikimedia Commons
South Columbus Historic District
Another fun place in Columbus, MS, is the South Columbus Historic District. This district is a region containing historical buildings with unique architecture.

This unique district was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982 and is a popular historical location in the community.

This region mainly covers Main Street and South Avenue. A distinguishing feature of this district is the unique design of its houses.

The style of houses in the South Columbus Historic District ranges from Italianate style to Greek Revival and Victorian Architecture.

Some houses in this district can be explored and toured. Visitors driving through this region will be amazed by the beautiful architecture and designs.

This place is a perfect place for history and architecture lovers,

Address: 170 Lake Norris Rd, Columbus, MS 39701, United States.

6. Temple Heights Mansion

Temple Heights Mansion
Credits: Altairisfar (Jeffrey Reed) [CC BY-SA 3.0], Wikimedia Commons
Temple Heights Mansion
Temple Heights Mansion is an intriguing building in the city. Temple Heights Mansion was built in 1837 and is now a place that proves the luxurious lifestyle of General Brownrigg.

This stunning mansion was designed with a mixture of Greek Revival Architecture and Federal Tones. The white pillars, Grecian designs, and marble mantles make the mansion look exquisite.

Temple Heights Mansion was designed in a 19th-century style. This mansion makes a repeated appearance in vintage homes, magazines, and sites.

Pilgrimage tours of the building are held annually; the tours offer insight into the tradition and history of the mansion, including stories and residents of the luxurious building.

Temple Heights Mansion is one of the best places to visit in Columbus, MS.

Address: 515 N 9th Street, Columbus, MS 39701, United States.

7. Gateway Shopping Centre

Gateway Shopping Centre
Credits: NDAB Creativity / Shutterstock

Another popular place in Columbus is the Gateway Shopping Center. This shopping mall is one of the longest in the city.

The Gateway Shopping Center has been around for over ten years and is known and trusted by most city residents. This shopping center contains almost every basic need.

Visitors can purchase clothes, meals, groceries, and other items at this shopping mall. It is also conveniently situated near other shops and restaurants.

Visitors can also check out nearby establishments to learn more about the city. Shopping at the Gateway Shopping center is a fun activity.

Address: 221 Alabama Street, Columbus, MS 39702, United States.

8. Magnolia Motor Speedway

Magnolia Motor Speedway
Credits: Grindstone Media Group / Shutterstock

Magnolia Motor Speedway is a unique attraction and a fun place in Columbus that is mostly visited by car lovers.

Visitors can watch various race cars as they speed round the track and try to win first place in the speedway.

Magnolia Motor Speedway offers a fun, unique experience. Visitors can sit along bleachers and watch the entire race.

Concession stands selling snacks like hotdogs, fries, burgers, sodas, and more are also available at the Magnolia Motor Speedway.

Watching races at The Magnolia Motor Speedway is one of the fun things to do in Columbus, MS

Address: 495 US-45, Columbus, MS 39701, United States.

For a fun time in Mississippi, take to exploring our list of things to do in Tupelo, and fun things to do in New Paltz for a fun vacation time.

9. Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center

Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center
Credits: Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center / Facebook
Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center

Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center is a wonderful nature preserve and outdoor recreation spot.

This Environmental Center covers about 190 acres of land and is filled with various facilities and recreational amenities for visitors.

Multiple nature trails with high woodlands, structures like stairs, footbridges, kiosks, and distinct floodplains can be found at this place.

Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center is home to multiple wildlife animals and species. Visitors can also lodge in the well-equipped and air-conditioned rooms at this center.

The Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center also features environmental programs and outdoor challenges. Exploring Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center is one of the best things to do in Columbus, MS.

Address: 2200 Old W Point Road, Columbus, MS 39701, United States.

10. Birdy’s Scooters and ATVs

Birdy's Scooters and ATVs
Credits: Dmitriev Mikhail / Shutterstock

An entertaining way to explore the city is atop Scooters and ATVs. Birdy’s Scooters and ATVs offers such an experience.

Birdy’s Scooter and ATVs offer rentals of various scooters and ATVs. They have rentals as cheap as $25 per hour.

This establishment is safety conscious, so they maintain and check every vehicle before its rental. They also offer accessories and gear, including a helmet to protect you on your rides.

Birdy’s Scooters and ATVs have friendly and knowledgeable staff.

Address: 3748 US-45 N, Columbus, MS 39705, United States.

11. Rosenzweig Arts Centre

Rosenzweig Arts Centre
Credits: guruXOX / Shutterstock

Checking out the entertaining Rosenzweig Arts Center should be on your itinerary of the top things to do in Columbus, MS.

Rosenzweig Arts Center houses the popular organization devoted to arts and culture, The Columbus Arts Council.

Various art forms can be found at this center, including theatre performances, traditional art, and musical concerts.

Rosenzweig Arts Center was incorporated in 1971 and contained an engaging gallery with various exhibits. This art center contains anything with a spark of creativity.

There are also various options for visitors looking to have a great time at this center, from taking art classes to browsing gallery exhibits or watching entertaining shows.

A small gift shop selling unique gift items and souvenirs can also be found on the grounds. Visitors can purchase t-shirts, sculptures, books, paintings, and many other items at this shop.

Address: 501 Main Street, Columbus, MS 39701, United States.

12. Magnolia Antique Mall

Magnolia Antique Mall
Credits: Aris-Tect Group / Shutterstock

Magnolia Antique Mall features various items, including furniture, Plate sets, trinkets, and home décor.

Various restored furniture and antique items can be found at this Mall. Some items at the Mall were from artisans around the state.

Magnolia Antique Mall offers an optimal shopping experience. This place is a perfect location for lovers of vintage goods.

This Mall also offers items at a lower price than most retail stores. Residents have voted this store as one of the best antique stores in the city.

Magnolia Antique Mall offers an enjoyable shopping experience in Columbus, MS

Address: 302 Alabama Street, Columbus, MS 39702, United States.

13. Friendship Cemetery

Friendship Cemetery
Credits: NatalieMaynor / Flickr
Friendship Cemetery

The Friendship Cemetery is a historical location in Columbus, MS. This place has deep roots in the city and region.

Friendship Cemetery is the final resting place for some Confederate and Union soldiers who died during the Civil War.

Some impeccable monuments can be found here, including the amazing Weeping Angel Monument. The local school students play some interesting characters during the Spring Pilgrimage.

Friendship Cemetery is a great place to learn about the history of this city and the south.

Address: 4th Street S, Columbus, MS 39701, United States.

14. Columbus Marina

Columbus Marina
Credits: Visit Columbus GA / Flickr
Columbus Marina

Columbus Marina offers a fun experience in Columbus, MS. This Marina allows visitors to rent boats to sail on the waters in the city.

Columbus Marina rents boats and has docking areas and many other facilities. Unlike normal boats, the boats rented by this organization are equipped with life jackets, portable Bluetooth Speakers, a sun pad, and a swim ladder.

Sailing with Columbus Marina is one of the fun things to do in Columbus, MS. It creates an avenue for other water-based activities, including fishing and swimming.

Columbus Marina allows visitors to experience the marine aspect of the city, offering visitors a memorable experience.

Address: Marina Drive, 295 Wilkins-Wise Road, Columbus, MS 39705, United States.

15. Rebound Trampoline Park

Rebound Trampoline Park
Credits: v74 / Shutterstock

Rebound Trampoline Park is a remarkable park in the city. This place is a fun place for all ages.

This Park features various games and facilities, including arcade games, a laser tag arena, pool tables, 16 bowling lanes, and air hockey.

As implied by the name, this Park features a giant trampoline that kids adore. It also has foam pits, a basketball slam dunk zone, and a rock wall for children.

Rebound Trampoline Park is a perfect place in Columbus, MS, to have fun with family and friends. Birthdays and themed events are also hosted at this park.

Apart from this Park’s various activities and amenities, there is an excellent snack bar that sometimes offers food specials.

Rebound Trampoline Park offers unadulterated fun for both children and adults.

Address: 1207 US-45, Columbus, MS 39705, United States.

Considering a vacation in Mississippi?, do not miss out on these attractions in Starkville, and Bay St. Louis for a fun time here.

16. The Glam Station and Spa

The Glam Station and Spa
Credits: joysugarplum / Shutterstock

The Glam Station and Spa offers an amazing pampering experience. It offers various services like manicures and pedicures, body treatment, facials, waxing, make-up application, and more.

This Spa also offers waxing of various body areas, including legs and bikini areas.

The Spa has an enticing atmosphere and lovely staff. The professionals ensure you have an enjoyable procedure and smooth result.

The Glam Station and Spa also offer body treatments like Body wraps and scrubs to improve skin texture and tone.

Address: 1940 Military Road, Columbus, MS 39701, United States.

17. Slip-N-Dip

Slip-N-Dip
Credits: Eric Cote / Shutterstock

Slip-N-Dip is a water park and one of the best places to visit in Columbus, MS . It is the perfect place to escape the summer heat.

Various tourists and residents are known to visit this park during the summer. This water park contains various small and large pools of different heights to suit people of all sizes and ages.

The most popular attraction in this water park is the large water slides with sunken bodies. Slip-N-Dip is also dog-friendly. This place also hosts private parties and other events.

Address: 312 Lake Lowndes Road, Columbus, MS 39702, United States.

18. Shadowlawn Bed and Breakfast

Shadowlawn Bed and Breakfast
Credits: Shadowlawn Bed and Breakfast / Facebook
Shadowlawn Bed and Breakfast

Among what to do in Columbus, MS, is to lodge in Shadowlawn Bed & Breakfast. This place is housed within a 19th-century mansion. It is a great hotel and dining place.

Shadowlawn Bed and Breakfast is a popular place in the city and has gone through many owners since its creation.

The infamous Avakian family currently owns this place. They have put effort into restoring it to its founding structure and decoration.

Visitors to this bed and breakfast experience modern convenience in a classic historical setting. Shadowlawn Bed and Breakfast also has amazing features like water heaters, Wi-Fi, and air conditioners.

Some unique services are also offered at this place, including a fitness room and sauna. The rooms at this bed and breakfast all have vintage settings with gold mirrors and red velvet curtains.

Address: 1024 College Street, Columbus, MS 39701, United States.

19. Stennis East Bank Recreation Area

Stennis East Bank Recreation Area is a fun-filled place in this city. This place is also a popular tourist attraction.

This Recreation Area contains picnic areas, a nice playground, and more. This place is a fun family location, perfect for outings and gatherings.

Visitors can fish at the river in this park. The Stennis East Bank Recreation Area has a unique parking lot atop a hill.

You can’t afford to miss exploring Stennis East Bank Recreation Area, a place with stunning scenery.

Address: 3257 Wilkins-Wise Road, Columbus, MS 39705, United States.

20. Old Hickory Steak House

Old Hickory Steak House
Credits: INTHEBLVCK / Shutterstock

Another exceptional diner in Columbus is the Old Hickory Steak House. This place is known to have some of the best steaks in the city.

The Old Hickory Steak House has a comprehensive menu, and they grill various best types. They have an amazing recipe to ensure pleasant flavors in all their steaks.

This steak diner is within a cabin-like building, offering a unique dining experience. This steak house also features great culinarians and helpful staff.

Dining at Old Hickory Steak House is an enjoyable activity that should not be missed.

Address: 1301 US-45, Columbus, MS 39705, United States.

21. Rosedale

Rosedale
Credits: David Hoffman / Flickr
Rosedale

Rosedale is a historical building in Columbus, MS. This magnificent house was erected in 1855.

This large building is known to be one of the finest buildings in the state. It was designed in an Italianate style.

This impressive structure was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1944. Some notable architects involved in creating and designing this stunning house include Samuel Sloan and Vilz O’Connell Hutson.

Rosedale was recently re-designed to look like its founding appearance, including wallpapers and paint colors. Don’t hesitate to check out this amazing structure in Columbus, MS.

Address: 1523 Ninth Street S, Columbus, MS 39702, United States.

22. Bliss Yoga

Bliss Yoga
Credits: Marian Lopez Ojeda / Shutterstock

Bliss Yoga is a yoga studio featuring various fun ways to be fit and healthy.

Bliss Yoga offers classes for everyone regardless of skill or experience level. Visitors looking for gentle or challenging classes should check out this yoga studio.

The instructors at this place are experienced, knowledgeable, and helpful. They also help guests who require guidance or special help.

A 30-minute orientation session is hosted by this yoga studio for yoga novices. The session outlines the practice and benefits of the exercise.

Bliss Yoga also hosts workshops, retreats, and other special events.

Address: 425 Main Street, Columbus, MS 39701, United States.

23. White Arches

White Arches
Credits: Altairisfar (Jeffrey Reed) [CC BY-SA 3.0], Wikimedia Commons
White Arches
White Arches is a stunning place in Columbus. It was built in 1857. This house is also known as Harris-Banks House.

The White Arches was built in 1857 for Jephta Vining Harris, a cotton Planter. The building has an antebellum layout and was designed with a combined Italianate, Greek Revival, and Gothic style.

This large mansion occupies about 8,000 square feet. The Harris Family managed this place until 1967. In 1978, The White Arches was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This place is currently used as a bed and breakfast facility. This mansion’s beautiful woodwork, three-story cupola, mirrored glass doorknobs, and bedroom closets are among the most incredible things.

Touring and Staying at The White Arches should be on your checklist of what to do in Columbus, Mississippi.

Address: 170 Lake Norris Road, Columbus, MS 39701, United States.

Want more of Mississippi? do check out our list of things to do in Vicksburg, things to do in Tunica, and things to do in Hattiesburg for a memorable vacation.

Plan Your Trip to Columbus

Columbus is a popular tourist option for most people because of its beautiful attractions and scenery.

Columbus contains various diners, antique stores, hiking trails, historic buildings, parks, museums, galleries, cinemas, and more.

Columbus is one city everyone needs to visit at least once in their lifetime. A memorable time awaits you!