Updated July 15, 2022
Whether you’ve recently relocated or have lived in the area for years, there are plenty of things to do on Fort Moore, formerly known as Fort Benning. From art and history to food and games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Not sure where to start? Check out our list of things to do near Fort Moore:
1. National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center
MilSpouses interested in learning more about the legacy of our Military can head to the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center. Located about 13 minutes from Fort Moore, this historic Columbus attraction hosts more than 70,000 Infantry artifacts and is home to World War II Company Street, Vietnam Memorial Plaza, and soon, the Global War on Terrorism Memorial.
Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring the various displays, watching a film at the Giant Screen Theater, or grabbing a bite to eat at the Fife & Drum Restaurant and Bar.
2. Treadstone Climbing Gym
Embark on a family climbing adventure or practice your teambuilding skills at Treadstone Climbing Gym. Climbing not only serves as great exercise, but can also help children and adults learn to work toward specific goals, build problem-solving skills, and strengthen muscle memory.
Although Treadstone’s colorful, kid-friendly gym is ideal for young ones, adult classes and group training are extremely popular, too. In fact, every Friday is “Free Friend challenging evening!
3. Vicinity Tours
Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or art lover, Vicinity Tours offers exciting ways to explore the local color and find places you can enjoy with your spouse, kids, or friends.
Eat your way through the best restaurants in downtown Columbus, or visit the Historic District to learn more about the city’s past. No matter your interests, Vicinity Tours can help you discover your new favorite spots in town and even more things to do on Fort Moore!
4. Coca-Cola Space Science Center
If you have kids who are interested in science, Columbus State University’s Coca-Cola Space Science Center is a great place to spend a rainy day learning more about astronomy, space science, and space exploration.
Catch a film in the Omnisphere Theater or journey through the solar system in one of the Challenger Learning Center simulation programs.
5. Springer Opera House
Looking for romantic things to do on Fort Moore? Nothing says “date night” like dinner and a show. Springer Opera House is a professional theater company featuring some of this region’s most talented actors. It’s also one of only seven theaters in the United States recognized as a National Historic Landmark.
Get dressed up for a night out with your spouse and enjoy dinner in the Springer Saloon before Mainstage performances.
6. Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center
If you’re looking for kid-friendly fun without breaking the bank, Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center is a non-profit organization that offers exciting and educational nature exhibits and trails. For a small suggested donation, visitors can explore the trails, wetlands, and ponds in search of native wildlife and view a variety of exhibits that feature animals such as snakes, turtles, alligators, and more.
Oxbow Meadows also hosts special themed events throughout the year, such as “Owloween” and “Frogwarts”, and is available to book for birthday parties.
7. Whitewater Express
Feeling adventurous? Try rafting down the Chattahoochee River with Whitewater Express.
The Chattahoochee River, which runs right through Columbus, is one of the longest urban whitewater rafting courses in the world. Grab the kids and raft along some of the biggest rapids east of the Mississippi.
8. Gallery on 10th
The Gallery on 10th is a local artist co-op that exhibits pieces from makers across the region. It began as The Joseph House Art Gallery 18 years ago and, at the time, was the only independent art gallery in Columbus.
The Gallery is a great place for art lovers to engage with the local creative community. Visitors can view fine art, meet the artists, and even watch these creators in action. For those talented artists out there looking for space to create, the Gallery on 10th is currently accepting membership applications.
Be sure to sign up for their e-newsletter to keep up with their events!
9. Columbus Botanical Garden
Immerse yourself in nature at the Columbus Botanical Garden. Sometimes, you just need to put down your phone and take a moment to relax. The Columbus Botanical Garden offers visitors a beautiful, peaceful escape from the stressors of everyday life.
Take one of the many garden tours or wander through the forest along the Joann Holt Walking Trail and let your mind be at peace.
The Garden is also an excellent place to volunteer, make new friends who share a love for nature, and participate in events such as group yoga and nature workshops.
10. Market Days on Broadway
Uptown Columbus’ Market Days on Broadway is a local farmers market that operates every Saturday morning, year-round from 9 am until noon. More than 100 local vendors participate each week, selling produce, handmade soaps, home goods, jewelry, baked goods, and more.
Plus, local animal shelters and rescue groups can be found in the median of Broadway. Kids will love seeing the puppies while you and your spouse shop at the Market. Be sure to check out their event calendar for more fun!
11. Catch a Show at Columbus State
Columbus State University is right down the road from Fort Moore and home to one of Georgia’s best theatre programs. The school usually puts on a couple of productions in both the fall and spring. Check out the production schedule to see what’s coming up and buy tickets.
12. Callaway Gardens
Located less than an hour from Fort Benning is the Callaway Gardens Resort. Here, you can enjoy a relaxing vacation full of spa treatments, biking through the beautiful gardens, and lounging on Robin Lake beach.
They also offer seasonal events that don’t require overnight stays. A great example of this is their Christmas lighting displays.
Whether you ride the rapids of the Chattahoochee River or spend the day restaurant hopping in the Historic District, there is no shortage of things to do near Fort Moore.
More Places to Go and Things to Do:
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