7 Things to Do in Your First Week in Columbus, Indiana

From its architecture to its ample green spaces, there is so much to love about living in Columbus, Indiana. Located 40 miles south of Indianapolis, Columbus is a medium-sized city with a growing population. If you are considering moving to Columbus or have recently relocated to the area, you are probably wondering what there is to do in the area. Fortunately for residents, Columbus has many big-city amenities while maintaining its small-town feel. Whether you are passionate about architecture or the great outdoors, here are some of the best Columbus, Indiana, things to do.

When moving to a new city, one of the most important things you can do is learn more about it. Whether that includes exploring the area or brushing up on local history, learning more about Columbus, Indiana, will help you feel more connected with the area. Fortunately, you can do both through a city tour. Columbus offers a variety of walking tours throughout the city, including themed tours. Columbus is well-known for its mid-century modernist architecture. A themed architectural tour can give you an insight into some of the history associated with the area’s one-of-a-kind architecture. Columbus has a vast array of natural and man-made sites, making it an exciting place to explore. Choose a guided walking tour for the additional context of Columbus’ rich history, or go on a self-guided tour, where you can visit the city’s best sites at your own pace.

A little-known fact about Columbus, Indiana, is its treasure trove of art. From public art displays to galleries and museums, Columbus has some of the most impressive collections of art in Indiana. Columbus has sculptures, murals, and other forms of street art sprinkled throughout the city, with guided tours that can give you context over each piece. Check out some of the city’s many art galleries. You can support local and regional artists either by purchasing their pieces or even admiring their work. Columbus’ eclectic art collection gives the city a unique identity that makes it unlike any other city in Indiana. There are even art lessons and themed events throughout the year, giving you the perfect opportunity to hone your artistic skills.

Mill Race Park is so much more than a city park. It is one of the most beloved green spaces in Bartholomew County. Recognized as one of the nation’s Top 100 Parks by Landscape Management, Mill Race Park is an 85-acre public park set at the confluence of Flat Rock and the Driftwood Rivers. With lush green spaces and fabulous public facilities, Mill Race Park has a stellar reputation within the community and is easily accessible to all Columbus residents. Explore the area’s pristine nature trails or climb the 84-foot observation tower for a panoramic view of the city. Mill Race Park also features playground equipment, basketball courts, picnic areas, horseshoe pits, and an outdoor amphitheater, which hosts concerts and live performances throughout the year.

Simply known as the Miller House, the Miller House and Garden is one of the city’s most iconic tourist destinations. The Miller House and Garden is a quintessential mid-Century modern home and one of the city’s classic examples of its Modernist roots. Designed by renowned architect Eero Saarinen, the Miller House and Garden are open to the public, with the option of taking a guided or self-guided tour. The guided tour lasts around 90 minutes and provides valuable insight into the city’s rich history and the mid-century modernist movement. For those who are fans of mid-century architectural icons, such as Frank Lloyd Wright, the Miller House is a must-see.

While Columbus is best known for its mid-century architecture and many impressive churches, it was also the home of one of Indiana’s most prominent air force bases. Today, it is the site of the Atterbury-Bakalar Air Museum, an impressive collection of airplanes and other memorabilia from World War II and other modern wars. The Atterbury-Bakalar Air Museum is located near the Columbus, Indiana, Municipal Airport and is free to the public. This volunteer-run museum is dedicated to educating its visitors on the history of the air force and the integral role airplanes have played in modern warfare. There are even restoration efforts underway for the Charlie 119 Project.

While exploring Columbus, one of the most important things you can do is check out the city’s many restaurants, from Italian food to upscale dining. Yet, one of the best restaurants in Columbus, Indiana, isn’t a restaurant in the traditional sense. It’s an ice cream parlor. Try dessert first with Zaharakos Ice Cream Parlor and Museum. Established in 1900, Zaharakos is one of the city’s oldest shops and has retained much of its original charm throughout the years. The restaurant has majestic carved wood and stained glass windows throughout, elevating to so much more than a typical ice cream shop. Along with classic ice cream dishes, such as ice cream sundaes and waffle cones, Zaharakos also has fabulous food, including soups, salads, and sandwiches, making it a great place to grab lunch.

Ready for something familiar after exploring the city? Check out one of the movie theaters in Columbus, Indiana. Columbus features AMC Classic 12, a modern movie theater featuring first-run films, wall-to-wall seats, and comfortable seating. This movie theater has multiple theater screens with various showtimes for movie-goers. Come for a matinee or opening night of your favorite film. AMC Classic 12 has everything you need.

 

From stunning parks to modern marvels, Columbus, Indiana, is a beautiful, multi-faceted city with much to offer. Whether you are relocating from another area or even considering moving, Columbus is a wonderful place to call home.

Ready to relocate to Columbus, Indiana? When it’s time to begin your search for Columbus, Indiana, real estate, let The Nolting Team help you find your dream home. Serving clients throughout Columbus and the surrounding area, trust Brigette and Hillary to help you find your dream home. Contact us today to begin your house hunt.