Looking for Southern charm, history, and music culture? Head to Columbia, Tennessee! Known as the “Mule Capital of the World,” Columbia offers a lively downtown, historic homes, antique shops, and outdoor fun on the Duck River. It's a must-visit for fans of Tennessee heritage and small-town vibes.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Columbia is in the spring (March–May) and fall (September–November). Enjoy mild weather, colorful scenery, and popular seasonal festivals. Summers are great for river activities, while winter is quieter and cozy.
How to Get There
- By Car: Columbia is located about 45 minutes south of Nashville via I-65 and US-31.
- By Plane: Nashville International Airport (BNA) is the closest major airport, offering car rentals and rideshares to Columbia.
- By Bus: Regional bus lines connect Columbia to nearby cities, with local transit available for getting around town.
Where to Stay
- The Polk Home Guest House – Cozy B&B near the historic James K. Polk Home & Museum.
- Holiday Inn Express Columbia – Convenient and modern hotel with breakfast and a pool.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites Columbia – Comfortable option close to shopping and dining with clean, spacious rooms.
Top Attractions
Where to Eat
- Marcy Jo’s Mealhouse – Homestyle Southern cooking in a cozy farmhouse setting, just outside Columbia.
- Puckett’s Columbia – Tennessee classic serving BBQ, live music, and friendly Southern hospitality.
- Muletown Coffee Roasters – Hip café serving locally roasted coffee and light bites in the heart of downtown.
Local Events
- Mule Day (April) – A quirky, beloved festival with mule parades, shows, Southern food, and crafts.
- First Fridays (Monthly) – Live music, extended shop hours, and food vendors bring downtown to life.
- Southern Fried & Sweet Tea Festival (August) – Celebrate Columbia’s flavors with food trucks, sweet tea tastings, and live performances.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Columbia, Tennessee
- Spring Hill (15–20 min) – Visit historic Rippavilla Mansion or shop at The Crossings of Spring Hill.
- Leipers Fork (30 min) – Artsy village filled with galleries, country stores, and live music in a scenic rural setting.
- Henry Horton State Park (25–30 min) – Enjoy hiking, disc golf, and riverfront trails at this peaceful natural retreat.
- Mt. Pleasant (15–20 min) – Explore small-town charm, antiques, and seasonal events in this nearby gem.
- Hampshire (25–30 min) – Discover local wineries and vineyards on a relaxing countryside drive.
FAQ
-
Where is Columbia located?
- Columbia is a small town in Tennessee, just 45 miles south of Nashville.
-
What is Columbia’s downtown area like?
- The historic downtown is vibrant, with a live music scene, a main street with vintage shops, national landmarks, and restaurants featuring locally sourced menu items.
-
What is the Columbia Arts District?
- The new Columbia Arts District is next to downtown and displays funky and creative artwork brought to life by local artists and artisans.
-
What kind of atmosphere does Columbia offer?
- Southern hospitality and community pride are ingrained in Columbia’s culture and felt by those who visit.
-
What are some major attractions in Columbia?
- Some of the major attractions include historical museums, churches, parks, breweries, and a vintage marketplace.
At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
The Lodge at Grace Valley – A charming countryside retreat.
Visit the James K. Polk Home & Museum – Explore the historic home of the 11th U.S. president.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and ideal for festivals and outdoor activities.
Hampton Inn Columbia – A comfortable and convenient stay.
Attend Mule Day Festival – Experience Columbia’s famous annual tradition celebrating mules and Southern culture.
Fall (September-November) – Cool air and vibrant autumn colors.
Baymont by Wyndham Columbia Maury – A budget-friendly and cozy option.
Explore Chickasaw Trace Park – Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and fall foliage.
Winter (December-February) – Cool and festive, great for holiday charm.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Columbia – A warm and inviting winter retreat.
Visit the Columbia Main Street Christmas Parade – Enjoy holiday lights, music, and seasonal celebrations.
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. Bike, Hike, and Unwind at Chickasaw Trace Park
- 2. Step Into Presidential History at the James K. Polk Home and Museum
- 3. Tour Civil War-Era Elegance at Historic Elm Springs
- 4. Hunt for Vintage Treasures at Bleu 32 Marketplace
- 5. Admire Gothic Revival Beauty at St. John’s Episcopal Church
- 6. Explore Antebellum Mystique at the Athenaeum Rectory
- 7. Discover Local Curiosities and Family Fun at a'Museum
- 8. If You're Hungry for Southern Classics, Then Stop by Stan's Restaurant