Plenty of sunshine and sunny hospitality, plus a raft of great recreational options on land as well as water, have made Columbus the perfect kid-friendly family destination.

Morning

Start the day off at the 190-acre Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center, where the history runs as deep as the bluff rises high. The 60-70 foot high bluff offers dramatic views of the old Tombigbee River Channel in a gorgeous setting. Four miles of nature trails wind through a variety of natural areas ranging from floodplain forest to upland mixed hardwoods, and are ideal for hiking or simply enjoying outdoors that are truly great.

Fun Tip! Explorers of all ages should be on the lookout for fossils from the Cretaceous Period (145-66 million years ago) along the base of the bluff. At that time, Plymouth Bluff was underneath an inland sea.

 

Lunch

After you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Proffitt’s Porch for an equally delicious and memorable lunch. A large covered porch overlooks Officers Lake, and is a great place to enjoy the fresh air, beautiful scenery, and award-winning fare. Dig into one of their famed sandwiches, enjoy a cup of red beans and rice or seafood gumbo, and save room for one of their homemade desserts. This is a real treat for guests of all ages.

Afternoon

The first childhood home of Pulitzer-Prize winning playwright Tennessee Williams now serves as the Columbus Welcome Center, and that seems appropriate in a place where “play’s the thing.” Share a lesson in culture and history on a complimentary tour of the home, then stop in the gift shop for a piece of Columbus that the whole family will cherish for years to come.

Helpful tip! Parents, enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee, and browse our large selection of helpful brochures to make sure you’re ready for the rest of your trip!

Take the play back outdoors at Propst Park. Kids and canines go crazy for the fun at here, where amenities include disc golf and Bark Park: In The City that Has It All even the family dog has fun.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at one of our many family-friendly restaurants. And for an extra sweet ending, grab dessert at Smackers Frozen Yogurt or Southern Flour Bakery.

Stay

Camping, under the stars or in an RV, makes for family-friendly adventures as well, at Dwayne Hayes Recreation Area and Campground, and the Tombigbee River RV Park.

For those looking for a more traditional stay, check into one of our many well-appointed hotels.

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