Columbus Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of Indiana, the city of Columbus offers visitors a unique blend of art, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "Athens of the Prairie," Columbus is renowned for its world-class architecture, captivating public art installations, and picturesque landscapes.

Architecture enthusiasts will find themselves in awe as they explore the city's many architectural masterpieces. The Miller House and Garden, designed by the legendary architect Eero Saarinen, is a prime example of mid-century modern design. This iconic residence showcases the harmonious integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, with its expansive windows and stunning garden landscape.

For a journey through time, visitors can venture to the Bartholomew County Courthouse. Designed by renowned architect Charles Bassett, this historic courthouse is an exquisite example of neoclassical architecture. Its towering columns and intricate detailing make it a must-see for history buffs and architecture aficionados alike.

Art enthusiasts will also find themselves captivated by Columbus. The city is home to an impressive collection of public artworks, thanks to the visionary initiative of J. Irwin Miller and his family. The Irwin Gardens, with its meticulously manicured landscapes and captivating sculptures, offers a serene oasis for art lovers. Additionally, visitors can explore the outdoor art installations scattered throughout the city, including the iconic "Chaos I" sculpture by Jean Tinguely.

Nature lovers will find solace in the natural beauty that surrounds Columbus. Brown County State Park, just a short drive away, offers breathtaking hiking trails and scenic vistas. From cascading waterfalls to vibrant foliage, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a respite from the city's hustle and bustle.

After a day of exploration, visitors can indulge in the city's vibrant culinary scene. From farm-to-table dining experiences to cozy cafes serving up local delicacies, there is something to satisfy every palate. Be sure to try the famous Hoosier pie, a delectable dessert made with sugar cream and a hint of vanilla.

Alternative names: Population: 46.7 thous.Area: 28.01 mi²Elevation: 627 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 39°12'15"N, 85°55'8"W

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IndianaUnited States

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Columbus Top Attractions

Columbus Attractions - What to See and Explore

Columbus offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: First Christian Church, Indiana University – Purdue University Columbus, First Baptist Church, North Christian Church. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Church • Sacred and religious sites
First Christian Church
The First Christian Church in Columbus, Indiana, was built in 1942. It was the first contemporary building in Columbus and one of the first churches in the United States to be built in a contemporary architectural style.
Universities and schools
Indiana University – Purdue University Columbus
Indiana University—Purdue University Columbus is a public university in Columbus, Indiana. IUPUC offers degree programs from both Indiana University and Purdue University.
Church • Architecture • Sacred and religious sites
First Baptist Church
The First Baptist Church is one of six National Historic Landmarks in Columbus, Indiana. It was designed by distinguished architect Harry Weese; construction was completed in 1965.

Church • Architecture • Sacred and religious sites
North Christian Church
The North Christian Church is a church in Columbus, Indiana. Founded in 1955, it is part of the Christian Church. The church building of 1964 was designed by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen and completed in 1964.
Concerts and shows • Entertainment • Rock club
The Crump Theatre
The Crump Theatre is located in downtown Columbus, Indiana, at 425 Third Street, is part of the Columbus Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Bridge • Park
Mill Race Park
Mill Race Park is a city-owned park located in Columbus, Indiana, where the Flat Rock and the Driftwood rivers join together in downtown Columbus.
Tower
Bartholomew County Courthouse
Bartholomew County Courthouse is a historic courthouse located at Columbus, Bartholomew County, Indiana. It was designed by noted Indiana architect Isaac Hodgson, built in 1871–1874 at the cost of $250,000, and dedicated in 1874. Construction was by McCormack and Sweeny.
Library
Cleo Rogers Memorial Library
The Cleo Rogers Memorial Library, also known as the Main Library, is the flagship library of the Bartholomew County Public Library system. It includes a branch in Hope, Indiana, and a bookmobile that serves the county. The building was designed by I. M.
39°12'6"N • 85°55'15"W
kidscommons
Children's museum • Entertainment • Museum
Neighbourhood • Italianate architecture
Columbus Historic District
Columbus Historic District is a national historic district located at Columbus, Bartholomew County, Indiana. It encompasses 574 contributing buildings and 1 contributing sites in the central business district and surrounding residential areas of Columbus.
39°11'59"N • 85°55'31"W
Columbus Pump House
The Columbus Pump House, which is also known as the Columbus Power House and the Senior Center, was designed by the architect Harrison Albright and completed in 1903.
39°15'18"N • 85°53'53"W
Atterbury-Bakalar Air Museum
Military museum • Specialty museum • Museum
City hall • Romanesque architecture
Columbus City Hall
Columbus City Hall is a historic city hall located at 5th Street and Franklin Street in Columbus, Indiana. It was designed by architect Charles Franklin Sparrell and built in 1895. It is a three-story, Romanesque Revival style red brick building on a limestone foundation.
39°12'8"N • 85°55'16"W
The Republic
The Republic is an American daily newspaper published in Columbus, Indiana. It is owned by AIM Media Indiana, a subsidiary of AIM Media. It covers the city of Columbus and several nearby communities in Bartholomew and Jennings counties.
Historical place • Garden • Museum
Miller House
The Miller House and Garden, also known as Miller House, is a mid-century modern home designed by Eero Saarinen and located in Columbus, Indiana, United States. The residence, commissioned by American industrialist, philanthropist, and architecture patron J.
Museum • History museum
McEwen-Samuels-Marr House
McEwen-Samuels-Marr House is a historic home located at Columbus, Indiana. The rear section was built in 1864, and the front section in 1875. It is a two-story, Italianate style brick dwelling. It has a stone foundation, four brick chimneys, and a hipped roof.
39°12'13"N • 85°55'17"W
Irwin Conference Center
The Irwin Conference Center was designed by Eero Saarinen and built in 1954 in Columbus, Indiana. It is currently owned and operated by Cummins, whose world headquarters is located across Jackson Street in the Cummins Corporate Office Building.
39°12'22"N • 85°55'26"W
Cummins Corporate Office Building
The Cummins Corporate Office Building in Columbus, Indiana is a modernist office building designed by Kevin Roche. Constructed in 1983, the building serves as the corporate headquarters of the Cummins engine company.
39°12'7"N • 85°55'18"W
The Commons
Convention center • Playground • Park

Day trips

Columbus – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Columbus, it's worth seeing attractions such as: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis (Indianapolis), Indianapolis Museum of Art (Indianapolis), Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art (Indianapolis).

44 milesN
Varied exhibits exploring arts and culture
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis stands as a vibrant beacon of creativity and education in Indianapolis, Indiana. Renowned as the largest children's museum in the world, this five-story playground of discovery offers an extraordinary array of exhibits...
45 milesN
Museum, Art museum, Modern art museum
Indianapolis Museum of Art, Indianapolis
The Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA), nestled in the vibrant city of Indianapolis, Indiana, stands out as a cultural beacon for art aficionados and casual tourists alike. This prestigious institution is renowned for its extensive collection that spans thousands of...
41 milesN
Museum, Art museum, Modern art museum
Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, Indianapolis
Nestled in the heart of Indianapolis, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art stands as a cultural cornerstone celebrating the art, history, and cultures of the American West and Indigenous peoples of North America.
44 milesNW
Museum
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, Indianapolis
Nestled in the heart of Speedway, Indiana, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is a mecca for motorsports enthusiasts and a treasure trove of racing history. This museum, situated within the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, offers visitors an up-close look at the...
33 milesW
Museum, Science museum
WonderLab, Bloomington
WonderLab Museum of Science, Health and Technology is an interactive science center located in the heart of Bloomington, Indiana. This hands-on museum is designed to provide educational experiences that stimulate curiosity and encourage exploration for visitors of all...

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Best Time To Visit Columbus

Learn when is the best time to travel to Columbus weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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May, June and July are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in April and September.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in January and February. Most of it rains in April and May.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Columbus?

The top attractions to visit in Columbus are:

What is the best time to visit Columbus?

May, June and July are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in April and September. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January.