Locate It: Columbus

As Georgia’s third-largest metropolitan area, Columbus is practically overflowing with thrilling opportunities. Whether you are ziplining across the Chattahoochee River, navigating the rapids of the world’s longest urban whitewater course or biking miles of paved trails, Columbus has what it takes to keep you moving.

The Chattahoochee River rushes through Uptown Columbus, giving the city a certain energy that flows into every aspect of the area. Where else can you zip line from Georgia to Alabama? The dual zip line in Columbus, GA over the Chattahoochee River to Phenix City, Alabama is the only zip line in America that connects two states.

At 1,200 feet long, riders experience speeds up to 40 mph as they glide over the river. Feel the wind on your body as you strap in and take that first, adrenaline-surging step off the platform. And since it’s a dual line, so you can share the adventure with a friend or family member age 10 and up.

Watch the rafters and kayakers battle the river below as you fly overhead. Then, finish the trip with

Launch yourself into aquatic fun with Columbus, GA Whitewater, named one of the Top 12 Man-Made Adventures in the World by USA Today. With rafting adventures ranging from a mild Lazy River to the famously wild Class V rapid, we have an experience for everyone in the family to enjoy on the Chattahoochee River. Located in the heart of Uptown Columbus, GA Whitewater is in the middle of a lively entertainment, music and food scene!

Biking is a popular leisure activity in Columbus, and you can start your bike adventure on the Chattahoochee RiverWalk where you will skirt the cityscape, examine historic monuments and markers, and take in the wild beauty of the rolling river and native wildlife. This 15-mile linear park spans the riverfront from the Lake Oliver city marina south to the National Infantry Museum.

Or you can pedal Columbus’ Dragonfly Trail, a multi-use bike and pedestrian trail that weaves its way through the city. The 11-mile (and growing) trail follows former rail lines that wind through Columbus where you can see a different side of the city, with rest stops along the way.

Geocaching is an outdoor adventure game that’s like a treasure hunt played with a GPS device instead of a pirate’s map. The basic idea is to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, then share your experiences online. There are over a million active geocaches around the world and now, with the RiverWalk GeoTour, there are even more reasons to bring the family and trek along the Chattahoochee RiverWalk.

Sporting events are a huge draw in Columbus. Some of the most notable events to occur in the area include the 1996 Olympic Softball tournaments, 1998 Snickers Soccer Cup, ASA National Championships, NFCA Leadoff Classic, GHSA State Softball and Cheer Competition, and the AFLAC Outdoor Games/STIHL Timber Sports (2008-2009). With its multitude of sports facilities, over 42 hotels offering 4,600+ rooms and only 75 minutes south of the Atlanta Airport (via I-85 & I-185), it’s no wonder Columbus, GA is such an appealing location for sporting events.