Columbus ranks among the best U.S. sites for ‘staycations.’ Here’s a few places to try
Columbus has landed on WalletHubs’ list of best U.S. cities for staycations just as the summer calls us to get away.
About 82% of Americans plan to travel this summer but who says you can’t hang out right here in Columbus?
Based on a hundred-point grading system, Columbus comes in with a respectable score of 41, based on recreation opportunities, food and entertainment choices and chances for rest and relaxation. On the list of 180 American cities, Columbus is listed as #113 and there are loads of things to do here or close to here if you’re not interested in being away or spending a ton of money.
If you can’t go across the globe (or even the country), Columbus has several options for ‘staycations’ that are just a short drive away.
Rothschild Pound House
201 Seventh Street, Columbus, Georgia
706-888-3832
Originally built in 1910, the classic Victorian house was converted into an inn in 1993, with four rooms and then four new cottages were added in 2002. It is the last remaining Second Empire Victorian house in Columbus, Georgia. This is an ideal place to stay with loved ones who may be visiting.
Things to do and visit in the area include:
Downtown Columbus with dozens of shops and restaurants.
Friday night concert series every Friday during the summer.
White water rafting
Riverwalk
National Infantry Museum
Springer Opera House
The Rivercenter for the Performing Arts
The Chipley Cottages
207 West Harris Street, Pine Mountain, Georgia
706-663-9801
The original Victorian mansion, formerly Chipley Bed & Breakfast, was built in 1895. Soon, it will feature two three-bedroom, three-bath cottages with a full eat-in kitchen and 2 living rooms. There is a nice porch where you could enjoy your morning coffee or relax after a busy day. The cottages would be perfect for families traveling together but need their own space.
While you’re there, visit:
Callaway Gardens
Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park
Wild Animal Safari
Holly House
127 Barnes Mill Road, Hamilton, Georgia
706-628-5634
Holly House is an 1880s Victorian home located in the heart of Harris County, Georgia. Hamilton is on Georgia’s Presidential Pathways that offers tourist destinations with strong ties to both Franklin D. Roosevelt and Jimmy Carter. The Holly House offers romantic rooms inspired by respective themes such as “The Victorian Countryside Suite” and “The Life is a Journey Room.” This cozy place is perfect for the traveler who likes to go on adventures and come back to a home-like space.
It’s worth it to visit:
Plains, Georgia, home of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter
Senoia, Georgia, where The Walking Dead and Fried Green Tomatoes were filmed
Poplar Place Farm, an equestrian destination
Nutwood Winery
Heritage House
714 2nd Avenue, Opelika, Alabama
334-552-3052
Heritage House was originally a single-family home built in 1913. In the 1970s it was converted to an antiques business owned by two sisters. It sat in disrepair until 1993 when it was renovated into the bed and breakfast it is today. It has a welcoming vibe that is perfect for the travelers who want to have a quiet getaway but still want to venture out.
Local attractions:
Historic Downtown Opelika
Grand National on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
Auburn University and Jordan-Hare stadium
Chewacla Park
Woodall House
324 West Main Street, Thomaston, Georgia
706-648-3598
Recently renovated, the restoration reflects every detail of true southern charm, including a wrap-around porch, grand staircase, and a “gentleman’s sitting room.” The house is set on more than two acres of beautifully landscaped grounds to host larger events, but also provides gorgeous scenery. This stay is a nature lover’s dream.
Things to do:
Auchumpkee Creek Covered Bridge
Sprewell Bluff Wildlife Management Area
Upson Historical Society
If you just wanna day trip
These local attractions are well within a day’s drive from Columbus and are perfect for the explorer who wants to see new things but also wants to be at home at the end of the day.
BabyLand General Hospital
Great Wolf Lodge
Rock Candy Tours
What places do you recommend to see or visit around Columbus? Sound off in the comments, or you can email me and find me on Instagram.
This story was originally published May 30, 2024 at 4:58 PM.
