Top 12 Things to Do in Columbus, Indiana

Columbus, Indiana, is a charming small town with a lot to offer travelers. There are plenty of things to do in Columbus, whether you’re interested in exploring the history and architecture of the town or spending time outdoors. Here are twelve of the best things to do in Columbus.

Columbus Visitor Center

The Columbus Visitor Center is located on Main Street, across from Bridgetown Park. This is where you want to go if you’re looking for information about what things there are to do and see around town. In addition to offering detailed maps of downtown Columbus and its adjacent areas, they’ll also be able to help plan your trip down through Indiana or over into neighboring states like Ohio and Kentucky.

Zaharakos Ice Cream Parlor and Museum

Zaharakos Ice Cream Parlor and Museum is a true delight. Stop in and enjoy the taste of an old-fashioned Soda, Floats, milkshakes, and their iconic ice cream. They make their Waffle cones on the premise so they are always fresh and warm. They also serve hand-pressed burgers and other delicious food to choose from.

Enjoy a little history of the building itself, no need to purchase anything to take a look and learn about the history of the place. In 2009 a few additions were made to make the place look more like the original, including the Victorian Style Crystal Parlor and an impressive display of the largest collection of soda fountains dating back to the 19th century.

This ice cream shop is delightful. It looks like it did in 1901 and is beautiful.

The Miller House and Garden

The Miller House and Garden are located on the corner of High Street and Mulberry. With its historic architecture, it’s a beautiful setting for its tours that range from 30 minutes to two hours. The most common tour takes an hour and involves a guided walk through the house.

The tour also provides information about the people who have lived in Columbus since the 1800s. The garden itself has been landscaped with plants from the Victorian era and includes a gazebo, pond and various statues scattered throughout the garden.

It’s a great place to take pictures during any season because the scenery changes often due to the changing seasons. The Miller House guided tours from March to December.

Mill Race Park

Mill Race Park is a wonderful place to go if you’re looking for family-friendly fun. Located on Morse Reservoir south of Columbus on Indiana 64/40, Mill Race Park offers a chance for fishing, camping and boating. The views at sunset are perfect.

The park also offers amenities such as picnicking areas and trails. If you’re looking for something quiet and tranquil with nature around you at every turn, Mill Race Park may be just what you’re looking for.

The Commons

The Commons is a great place for shopping. It’s a little less than 2 miles north of downtown Columbus and has 2 indoor malls as well as several other shops, restaurants, and an awesome play area.

Bring the kids and let them blow off some steam on a rainy day. They can climb on the sculptures and enjoy some hands-on entertainment. The Play area is separated into age groups so your kids can enjoy it more safely and freely. You can make a day out of going there or just stop by on your way home from work – the Commons is open until 8:00 pm every night except Sunday when it closes at 6:00 pm.

North Christian Church

Situated just north of downtown Columbus, North Christian Church (or North) is well-known for its outstanding worship services. The church boasts a fully functioning pipe organ and a massive stained glass window depicting Jesus raising Lazarus from death. Fun fact: The church was featured on a postcard commemorating religion in Indiana! It sits near downtown along Main Street.

Simmons Winery

Just 20 minutes outside of Columbus sits one of Indiana’s newest wineries. Simmons Winery opened its doors in 2015 but has already made a name for itself with its award-winning wines. The tasting room is open Saturdays and Sundays from 1-5 p.m., or by appointment.

Simmons offers complimentary wine tastings at every visit so there’s no risk involved! One thing that stands out with this winery is that they have an extensive lunch menu. The winery also features live music several days per week, highlighting bands from all over central Indiana.

Donner Park

Located at 2475 Discovery Drive Columbus Indiana 47201. Donner Park is a beautiful 9-acre park surrounded by woodlands with various walking trails, ponds and public areas where you can enjoy your visit. They have several umbrellas around the pool and depending on the time they provide shade so you won’t have to worry about getting sunburned.

There are many events held throughout the year including Easter egg hunts and summer concerts. You can also visit their other beautiful area parks: Rieth Pavilion and Discovery Park.

Atterbury-Bakalar Air Museum

The Atterbury-Bakalar Air Museum is located at Fort Wayne, Indiana. This air museum is one of those destinations you simply can’t miss if you are planning a trip to Columbus Indiana. It has a massive collection of different exhibits and aircraft models on display as well as an IMAX theater that shows various nature films.

Bartholomew County Historical Society

Columbus, Indiana is full of history. The Bartholomew County Historical Society was established in 1972 with a dedication and commitment to Preserving local history for generations of all ages through collections, educational programs and outreach activities. Find out more by visiting their website or visiting them at 2101 North 23rd Street Columbus IN 47201 Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm. They’re open on most holidays too!

Out of The Blue Finds

Located at 1600 Central Ave, Out of The Blue Finds is a Columbus shop with an impressive assortment of Vintage goods and locally created items like quilts, locally made stained glass, painted furniture. They are a retail distributor of Bass Farms Goat Milk Skin, Perfect for anyone with sensitive skin and especially used with Cancer patients.

Columbus Bowling Center

For a fun family activity that’s a bit different than your average laser tag or go-karting experience, head over to Columbus Bowling Center. With 25 lanes and plenty of arcade games to keep you entertained while you wait for your turn at one of them, it’s got something for every member of your family. Throw in a snack bar with pizza and ice cream and you have an evening well spent.

Columbus Indiana is a vacation destination that has lots of things to do with your family. From fun family activities and festivals that bring people together to small-town charm and friendly faces. Columbus Indiana is a great place for families looking for an affordable vacation. Check out our list of Best things to do in Columbus Indiana and see why it’s one of America’s best-kept secrets!