Columbus Travel Guide

Find out what to do, where to go and stay, what to eat, and more in this comprehensive tour guide for Columbus, Nebraska.


Introduction to Columbus

Nestled in eastern Nebraska, Columbus is a charming city that offers interesting attractions, beautiful scenery, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Besides being a great place to explore, Columbus is a wonderful destination to learn about Nebraska’s culture and history.

List of Places to Visit in Columbus

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Andrew Jackson Higgins National Memorial - A tribute to Andrew Jackson, an acclaimed designer and developer of the innovative landing crafts used by the US to win World War II.
  • Pawnee Plunge Water Park - A great outdoor park with lots of water features for everyone.
  • Columbus Area Arts Council - A dynamic arts organization that promotes creativity, with various programs year-round for people of all ages.

Natural Attractions of Columbus: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lost Creek Parkway - A fantastic park with great trails for hiking, biking, and nature walks.
  • Prairie Park Nature Center - A beautiful nature center with trails and exhibits.
  • Lake North RV Resort - A serene place to relax with fantastic sunset views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Columbus

  • Lost Creek Parkway Trail - A beautiful trail system with stunning views of Lost Creek Parkway park.
  • Columbus Trail of Hope - A trail that follows the story of the Pawnee tribe who traveled through the area.

Best Things to Do in Columbus: Activities and Tours

  • Platte River State Park - A beautiful park with lots of activities, including camping and fishing.
  • Discovering Adventure - A wonderful tour that will take you through some of the best attractions in Columbus and its surroundings.
  • Columbus Downtown Trivia - A fun scavenger hunt that challenges players to answer trivia questions as they explore downtown Columbus.

Week-Long Itinerary for Columbus

Day 1: Start your adventure by exploring the Andrew Jackson Higgins National Memorial, which is a unique place dedicated to the landing craft industry and World War II. Then, head to the Columbus Area Arts Council, where visitors can immerse themselves in art and create their masterpiece.

Day 2-3: Take a scenic stroll along the Lost Creek Parkway Trail and take in the natural beauty of the park. Make sure to visit the Pawnee Plunge Water Park, which is a great fun-filled day for everyone. The Prairie Park Nature Center is a beautiful place to learn about the local flora and fauna.

Day 4-5: Spend two days at Platte River State Park, where you can explore the trails, camp, hike, and fish.

Day 6-7: Take the Discovering Adventure Tour, which will take you to some of the best attractions in the area, including Lake North RV Resort and the Columbus Downtown Trivia.

Food and Drink Scene of Columbus

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kolache - A Czech pastry filled with meat or fruit.
  • Cornish pastries - A savory pastry filled with meat and vegetables.
  • Cheesesteak - A delicious sandwich with melted cheese and thinly sliced beef.

Local Beverages

  • Kinkaider Brewing Co. - A local brewery that offers high-quality beers, including a variety of IPAs and stouts.

Where to Stay in Columbus: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Ramada Columbus - A well-rated hotel near downtown Columbus.
  • Hotel West - A charming hotel with a restaurant and bar.
  • Days Inn & Suites - A hotel situated near popular attractions in Columbus.

What to Buy in Columbus: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Columbus Chocolate Caf - Traditional chocolates made from the finest ingredients.
  • Crafts of the Past - Handcrafted products made from the finest materials.

Local Culture and Customs of Columbus

Columbus is a friendly town that welcomes visitors from all over the world. The area is steeped in history, and locals are proud of their heritage and their Czech roots. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture through the many festivals and events that take place all year round.

Best Time to Visit Columbus

The best time to visit Columbus is in the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. Visitors can enjoy all the outdoor activities and events that take place during the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Columbus

Do:

  • Do explore the natural beauty of the parks.
  • Do try the local cuisine and take in the culture.
  • Do attend the many festivals and events that take place in the area.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter and respect the environment
  • Don’t disrespect the local customs and culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Columbus

Columbus is a safe city with a low crime rate. Visitors should still take normal precautions, such as locking car doors, keeping valuables hidden, and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Columbus

Visitors to Columbus should take necessary precautions to ensure they have proper health and travel insurance. Columbus has high-quality medical facilities, and visitors should carry relevant medical documents with them.

Getting to Columbus: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Columbus

  • Lincoln Municipal Airport - Approximately an hour and a half drive to Columbus.
  • Omaha Eppley Airfield - Approximately a two hour drive to Columbus.

Bus Stations Near Columbus

  • Greyhound bus Station - Located in Lincoln, which is an hour and a half from Columbus.
  • Omaha bus Station - Located in Omaha, which is two hours from Columbus.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car and drive to Columbus.

How to Get Around in Columbus

Visitors can explore Columbus on foot, on a bike, or by car.

Where to Go Next from Columbus: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lincoln - A charming midwestern town with many attractions and things to do.
  • Omaha - A vibrant city with world-class attractions, shopping, and dining.

Conclusion

Columbus is an excellent destination for those looking for a blend of cultural attractions and nature. Visitors can explore the rich history of the area, enjoy the natural beauty of the parks, and try the local cuisine. With a vibrant arts scene, plenty of outdoor activities, and a friendly welcoming culture, Columbus is a destination worth exploring.

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