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.
The Bo Bartlett Center houses and displays The Scarborough Collection: 14 monumental paintings by…
The centerpiece of the city’s new arts and entertainment district.
The State Theatre of Georgia and a leading Southern cultural institution for 150 years.
As an American art and regional history museum, and the second largest art museum in Georgia, the…
An internationally recognized Visionary Art Environment, Pasaquan is truly a one-of-a-kind hidden…
At the Columbus Collective Museums, you can check out artifacts from companies that helped shape…
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.
Art is kind of a big deal in Columbus! Home to a host of art galleries, large and small, you can now…
The Bo Bartlett Center houses and displays The Scarborough Collection: 14 monumental paintings by…
The Columbus Ballet is a non-profit pre-professional youth ballet that provides performance and…
As an American art and regional history museum, and the second largest art museum in Georgia, the…
Explore with your senses, create your own exhibition in our mini-museum, climb and slide in the…
Columbus State University's College of the Arts is comprised of three beautiful venues, all of which…
The Columbus Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1855, is the second orchestra founded in the nation. The…
Attend one of the 6 to 8 annual exhibitions presented by the Norman Shannon and Emmy Lou P. Illges…
The Columbus State University Department of Theatre's Riverside Theatre Complex houses three…
Columbus State Univeristy's Schwob School of Music hosts many events throughout the year, with many…
The Norman Shannon and Emmy Lou P. Illges Gallery is located in the Corn Center for the Visual Arts…
Port Columbus is the only museum in the world dedicated to telling the complete Naval story of the…
The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center, voted USA Today’s Best Free Museum and one…
An internationally recognized Visionary Art Environment, Pasaquan is truly a one-of-a-kind hidden…
The centerpiece of the city’s new arts and entertainment district.
The State Theatre of Georgia and a leading Southern cultural institution for 150 years.
The Do Good Fund, Inc. houses and displays The Do Good Fund Collection, a museum quality collection…
The Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus (YOGC) was formed in May of 1993, by Lynn Whiddon and…