From stage to street, creativity thrives in Columbus, Georgia. Explore world-class institutions like the newly reimagined Columbus Museum, discover unexpected experiences or folk art at the Columbus Collective Museums, and catch live performances at the RiverCenter or the historic Springer Opera House. Wander through Uptown and you’ll find murals, public art, and live music around every corner. Whether you’re an art lover or simply culture-curious, Columbus delivers experiences that inspire and entertain.
The arts are a big part of what makes Columbus feel like home. From its musical roots as the hometown of the legendary “Mother of the Blues,” Ma Rainey, to today’s lively mix of performances, exhibitions, and museums, creativity has always played a meaningful role in the community. Historic venues like the Springer Opera House and the stunning RiverCenter bring people together with everything from classic productions to touring shows, while local museums help tell the story of Columbus through art and history. No matter the season, the arts offer welcoming ways to connect, explore, and experience Columbus.
Part gallery/museum, part experimental arts incubator, and part community center.
The centerpiece of the city’s arts and entertainment district.
Catch a concert by the second oldest orchestra in the United States.
Young visitors can immerse themselves in creativity at this family-friendly gallery.
Start your self-guided tour and open up a whole new world of art in Columbus, Georgia.
One of the nation’s premier military museums, honoring the American Infantryman.
Pair your cultural itinerary with cuisine that’s just as inspiring. Uptown Columbus offers an elevated dining scene where creativity shows up on every plate. Savor Southern-inspired dishes with river views at 11th and Bay, indulge in chef-driven tasting menus at Epic, or enjoy the modern Italian flavors of Mabella’s. For refined coastal cuisine, Saltcellar delivers standout seafood and cocktails, while Millhouse Kitchen & Bar brings inventive twists to classic dishes in a stylish setting. Whether you’re planning a pre-show dinner or ending the evening with a handcrafted cocktail, Uptown’s artful dining options make every arts outing feel like a true occasion.
Now on view at the Columbus Museum–America Fantastica: Memories, Dreams, and Chance, a surrealist-inspired exhibition featuring works on loan from MoMA, the Art Bridges Collection, and pieces from COMU’s own collection, celebrating the museum’s decades-long engagement with imaginative dreamlike art. Looking ahead, the museum’s permanent collection shines brighter than ever, with masterworks in American realism, modernists, and artists tied to the region’s rich creative legacy. Outside the galleries, the city’s arts vibe stretches out into the open air: catch live music and performances at Uptown festivals, and enjoy public murals as you explore the city. Traveling in April? Celebrate ArtsFest, Columbus’ month-long creative celebration that includes 60+ events and 100+ local artists.
Start your self-guided tour and open up a whole new world of art in Columbus, Georgia.
Part gallery/museum, part experimental arts incubator, and part community center.
Non-profit, pre-professional youth ballet with spring and winter performances.
View a diverse collection of American art, regional history, and rotating world-class exhibitions.
Young visitors can immerse themselves in creativity at this family-friendly gallery.
Enjoy a cultural experience at one of three beautiful venues on the Riverpark Campus.
Catch a concert by the second oldest orchestra in the United States.
Discover the lasting legacy of author Carson McCullers at her childhood home.
Visit three galleries in one central location on Columbus State University's campus.
Three state-of-the-art performance spaces for CSU's performing arts students.
Catch a performance hosted by one of the most prestigious music schools in the nation.
Non-profit theatre company founded in 1997.
View a dynamic mix of professional and student exhibitions.
Opened in 1925, this historic venue continues to inspire community pride and creativity.
Historic home and museum of Blues icon Gerturde "Ma" Rainey (1886-1939).
The world's only museum dedicated to telling the complete Naval story of the American Civil War.
One of the nation’s premier military museums, honoring the American Infantryman.
A one-of-a-kind hidden gem that offers an art experience like no other!
The centerpiece of the city’s arts and entertainment district.
The State Theatre of Georgia and a leading Southern cultural institution since 1871.
Connect with Southern culture through images from World War II to the present.
Enriching Chattahoochee Valley music students and audiences since 1993.