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

1.Bike, Hike, and Unwind at Chickasaw Trace Park

Bike, Hike, and Unwind at Chickasaw Trace Park

© okostia/stock.adobe.com

Chickasaw Trace Park covers 300 acres and is best known for its hiking and mountain biking trails. In 1992, the Director of Parks and Recreation, Bob Martin, had a desire to build a trail to accommodate mountain bikers and hikers. Once it was agreed upon, 8.5 miles of single loop track was added to the park for beginners and expert riders alike. When entering the trail in the clockwise direction, the first 3.5 miles are mostly flat. In the final five miles, called the “Trail of Tears,” the trail is more difficult. The loop has several entry and exit points, making it accessible to leave or re-enter.

1415 New Highway 7, Columbia, TN 38401, Phone: 931-375-6101

2.Step Into Presidential History at the James K. Polk Home and Museum

Step Into Presidential History at the James K. Polk Home and Museum

© President James K. Polk Home and Museum

The President James K. Polk Home and Museum honors the late President James Polk. He was the 11th President of the United States and his home in Columbia is his only surviving private residence. And in 1961 it became a National Historic Landmark. Samuel Polk, James’ father built the house in 1816 and President James Polk lived there for six years on and off again. President Polk’s home and museum is a historic site that is open to the public for guided tours. During the tour, there are original and traveling exhibits relevant to Polk’s Presidency and American society and culture during his era.

301 West 7th Street, Columbia, TN 38401, Phone: 931-388-2354

3.Tour Civil War-Era Elegance at Historic Elm Springs

Tour Civil War-Era Elegance at Historic Elm Springs

© Elm Springs

In 1837, James and Nathaniel Dick wanted to give their sister, Sarah Todd a gift, so they built her a house. And today that house is called Elm Springs. Many years after Sarah Todd and her family passed away, the Akin family purchased the home around 1910. And several decades later, the Gillham family purchased the home in 1985 to restore it almost entirely to its original state. In 1986, Elm Springs was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The home is open for tours and educates visitors about the history of the home before, during, and after the Civil War.

Historic Elm Springs, 740 Mooresville Pike, Columbia, TN 38401, Phone: 931-380-1844

4.Hunt for Vintage Treasures at Bleu 32 Marketplace

Hunt for Vintage Treasures at Bleu 32 Marketplace

© Bleu 32 Vintage Marketplace

Bleu 32 Vintage Marketplace opened in 2015 right outside of downtown Columbia. Then, one year later, the Marketplace moved into the building that was formerly JC Penney. This historic building was much larger than the original location and needed renovation, but the owner knew it was perfect. During the grand opening, 30 vendors brought a mix of goods and clothes from various styles to sell at the store. Just nine months after the grand opening, 5,000 more square feet was added, plus a restaurant, and 25 additional vendors, who are vintage dealers and talented artisans.

108 West 7th Street, Columbia, TN 38401, Phone: 931-548-3282

5.Admire Gothic Revival Beauty at St. John’s Episcopal Church

Admire Gothic Revival Beauty at St. John’s Episcopal Church

© Visit Columbia, Tennessee

St. John's Episcopal Church was built during the years 1839 to 1842 in Ashwood, TN, only six miles from Columbia, TN. Bishop Leonidas Polk build the Church and it was very active during the first few decades. However, once the Civil War broke out in 1861 it was ransacked and then served as a hospital for the Confederate States Army. After the war, Church services resumed, but due to low attendance services ceased in 1915. Although St. John’s Episcopal Church is no longer an operating church, it’s open once a year for services. Outside the Church is a graveyard and the burial site for the Episcopal Bishops of Tennessee.

Hwy 243, Columbia, TN

Attractions for Couples

6.Explore Antebellum Mystique at the Athenaeum Rectory

Explore Antebellum Mystique at the Athenaeum Rectory

© Athenaeum Rectory

The home that later became the Athenaeum Rectory was completed in 1837 by Nathan Vaught. It was intended for Samuel Polk Walker, nephew of President Polk. Yet, Samuel never lived in the home. The first family to live there was Rev. Franklin Smith, his wife and children. By 1852, Rev. Smith built and opened a private school for girls, called the Athenaeum, meaning “seat of knowledge.” The Athenaeum operated until 1904. Several years later, in burned to the ground in 1959. All that remains is the Smith’s home, now called the historic Athenaeum Rectory. After it was donated to the APTA, it began operation as a museum.

808 Athenaeum St, Columbia, TN 38401, Phone: 931-381-4822

7.Discover Local Curiosities and Family Fun at a'Museum

Discover Local Curiosities and Family Fun at a'Museum

© a'Museum

a'Museum is a children’s museum that serves Maury County and the greater Nashville area. The mission of the museum is to provide an educational atmosphere for children to learn, imagine, and create. Before the museum opened in 2011, local families and school teachers helped spread the word about their vision for a children’s museum. They created “Museum without Walls,” an exhibit that brought a museum experience to local schools. This pilot program lasted for three months and due to its success, the permanent space, a’Museum opened. Besides a museum, the space has become a school-break destination and draws visitors to historic downtown Columbia.

123 West 7th Street, Columbia, TN 38401, Phone: 931-223-6337

8.If You're Hungry for Southern Classics, Then Stop by Stan's Restaurant

If You're Hungry for Southern Classics, Then Stop by Stan's Restaurant

© Stan's Restaurant

Before it was called Stan's Restaurant, the name of this long-time venue was Stan’s Café and Service Station. Its doors doors opened in 1947 and was run by Stan and his wife, Myrtle. At the time, there was country style cooking, a soda bar, and curb-side service available all hours of the day. Then in 1971, a new location opened to include a gift shop, country store, and antique museum. Nearly 45 years later, a new Stan’s Restaurant opened in 2015. The new features includes gasoline pumps, a convenience store, and hotel. Even with the changes over the years, the county cooking dining experience always remained the same.

1555 Bear Creek Pike Columbia, TN 38401, Phone: 931-381-2234

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


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