COLUMBUS, GEORGIA–2026–Patriotism and possibility meet along the banks of the Chattahoochee River in Columbus, Georgia. Just 90 minutes south of Atlanta via I-85 and I-185, Georgia’s second-largest city blends authentic military heritage, immersive museums, outdoor adventure and a revitalized Uptown district into one unforgettable destination.

With Fort Benning anchoring the community, Columbus proudly honors America’s service members while inviting visitors to explore more than 200 years of American history in dynamic, hands-on ways.

Walk Through 250 Years of Army History

At the National Infantry Museum, one of the nation’s premier military history destinations, guests journey from the Revolutionary War to present-day conflicts through immersive exhibits, artifacts and interactive simulations. The museum’s signature storytelling – centered on the Infantry’s role in “The Last 100 Yards” – places visitors in the boots of the American soldier.

Spanning 190,000 square feet, the museum features realistic combat simulators, large-format films in the Giant Screen Theater and detailed galleries that honor valor, sacrifice and service. It is both moving and memorable, offering an experience that resonates across generations.

Set Sail on Civil War Waters

The National Civil War Naval Museum remains the only museum in the world dedicated exclusively to the naval history of the American Civil War. Here, visitors encounter the story of maritime conflict through rare artifacts, immersive exhibits and historic vessels–including the ironclad CSS Jackson and the remains of the CSS Chattahoochee.

Guests can step aboard full-scale ship replicas and explore exhibits that examine the lives of sailors, soldiers and civilians–free and enslaved–who shaped the wartime experience along the Chattahoochee. The museum’s expansive collection of naval flags and personal artifacts offers rare insight into a pivotal chapter of American history.

Discover Art, Culture and Regional Storytelling

Reimagined for a new generation, The Columbus Museum continues to present American art and regional history in engaging, contemporary ways. Its collections trace the artistic and cultural evolution of the United States while highlighting the 10,000-year story of the Chattahoochee Valley.

From Colonial-era decorative arts to thought-provoking modern exhibitions, the museum connects visitors to the people, industries and landscapes that shaped Columbus and the Southeast. Educational programs, rotating exhibitions and community events make each visit fresh and inspiring.

Adventure for Every Group

Columbus is also home to one of the most exciting outdoor attractions in the country. Whitewater Express operates the world’s longest urban whitewater course on the Chattahoochee River—an internationally recognized destination that has earned designation as a Center of Excellence and will host the 2028 ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championships.

From guided rafting trips to stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, adventures are available year-round. For those who prefer to soar, Blue Heron Adventure Park offers the only zip line in the United States that connects two states, sending riders across the Chattahoochee River from Georgia into Alabama.

Groups can also enjoy a Broadway-caliber performance at the historic Springer Opera House, Georgia’s State Theatre and one of the most celebrated cultural venues in the Southeast. Located in Uptown Columbus, the Springer presents a robust season of musicals, dramas and special performances, with group rates available.

From battlefield stories and naval legends to world-class adventure and award-winning arts, Columbus, Georgia, offers an experience as bold and enduring as the nation it celebrates. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for American history–and plenty of reasons to return.

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Onslow County, North Carolina, may be known for its white sandy beaches, pristine waters and charming towns, but dig deeper and discover the treasured past of this coastal gem. Located off of I-95, north of Wilmington and east of Raleigh and I-40, Onslow County encompasses the areas of Richlands, Jacksonville, Camp Lejeune, North Topsail Beach, Sneads Ferry and Swansboro. Set off on a journey to explore the natural beauty’s connection to secret guided missile testing, World War II, African American history and more.

World War II Connections: Bumblebee and memorial gardens

Onslow’s story began in 1940. World War II had been raging in Europe for more than a year and the United States needed an East Coast training facility. The Navy purchased an initial 110,000-acre tract of land in Onslow County, which eventually became Camp Lejeune. When planners added the remote pine forests and miles of beach, the value of Camp Lejeune as a home training base for Marines was unbeatable. Today, the marine camp is home to the 3rd battalion/8th Marine Regiment.

Just steps away from Onslow County is Topsail Island–the home of Operation Bumblebee,  the U.S. Navy’s secret guided missile testing program that operated from 1946-1948. Exhibits at the Missiles and More Museum include model and original missiles from the project, a full-size Talos guided missile located outside at the front of the building and, in the Museum Kiosk, a film made in 1940 that chronicles the history of the program. Fun fact–the principle behind the controlled ramjet engine (the main concept for today’s supersonic flight) was tested and proven on Topsail Island as a result of Operation Bumblebee. www.MisslesAndMoreMuseum.org

Explore more military history at Lejeune Memorial Gardens. Here, find the newest addition to the Gardens, the Montford Point Marine Memorial. The Montford Point Marines were the first African American Marines to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps and bravely fought in WWII. The gardens are also home to the Onslow Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Stunning glass panels feature the names of all 58,000 soldiers and personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country while serving in Vietnam. Steps away, discover the Beirut Memorial. This solemn tribute honors the 273 Marines who gave the last full measure of devotion in Lebanon and Grenada on October 23, 1983, in a terrorist attack. Many of the fallen marines were stationed at Camp Lejeune and lived in Onslow County. The names of each service member are engraved in a granite wall, along with the words “They Came in Peace.” The gardens also hold a 9/11 memorial, which features a beam from one of the twin towers.OnlyInOnslow.com/History

History lives on

Built around 1850, the Pelletier House survives as Jacksonville’s oldest and only remaining antebellum home. This hipped roof Greek Revival dwelling initially occupied part of a turpentine distillery lot owned by the family. The home is open to group tours by request. www.OnslowCountyNC.gov

Swansboro Historical Association is committed to preserving the history and telling the stories of the region. Through its Heritage Center, historic homes tour, walking tours, history comes to life.  For the adventurous, Crystal Coast Ghost offers ghost tours with proceeds benefiting the association. swansborohistoricsite.org

Onslow has a rich maritime history. Otway Burns, a privateer in the War of 1812, built the first steamboat in Onslow County in 1818. The “Prometheus” plied the waters of the Cape Fear River, between Wilmington and Smithville. Its most notable run may have been in 1819, when it ferried President James Monroe from Wilmington to Smithville as part of his Southern tour.

Swansboro is home to the oldest standing structure in Onslow County, the Olde Brick Store. Originally built in early 1838, the store was once used as a naval merchant front, a church and a post office. Today it is home to a boutique. Visitor tip: Make like a local and strike a pose! The Olde Brick Store is a favorite backdrop for snapping a pic. Photographers regularly use the building for photo shoots of all varieties. Read more here.

The historic train depot is part of the Old Mill historic district. The district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as it is the largest concentration of least-altered historic buildings in the county seat. This gorgeously renovated area once was the railroad and lumber hub of Jacksonville, North Carolina. The train depot transported troops to Camp Lejeune during its early years and today provides a stunning backdrop for many of Jacksonville’s events, like the Onslow Oktoberfest.

African American Heritage Trail

Step back in time while walking Onslow County’s African American Heritage Trail. This fascinating path honors communities and various locations throughout the county that have a significant meaning. Visit African American grave sites, old school houses and churches. On the trail, you’ll find Ocean City. This area was the only oceanfront property that African Americans were able to purchase; lots sold for $500. Today it is home to the Ocean City Jazz Festival, which is going into its 10th year. www.OnlyInOnslow.com

Along the trail, gain insight into area attractions. For instance, Dr. William Sharpe donated Hammocks Beach State Park to the Black Teachers Association in 1950. Dr. Sharpe began visiting Onslow County in 1914. He became close friends with John Hurst, a local African-American hunting and fishing guide. Dr. Sharpe respected Hurst and gave him full responsibility as a property manager at the beach, not pleasing to some of the locals at the time. So, the doctor offered a $5,000 reward for the arrest of anyone who threatened the Hammocks or any of its employees. Hammocks Beach State Park was used for a segregated beach resort until 1961. Today, the park is continually growing and expanding its borders. Jones and Huggins Island are also part of the Hammocks Beach State Park system, boasting a rich Civil War history. www.NCParks.gov

Also on the trail is the Onslow County Museum. The County Museum prides itself on preserving African-American stories through research and recordings as part of its ongoing mission. An audio-history project is underway to create voice recordings of the memories of local African-American citizens. The museum also features other fascinating aspects of the county’s history and has a special room for children’s activities relating to Onslow’s history. www.OnslowCountyNC.gov

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What do flying in a helicopter, dining on Southern-Cajun delicacies and speeding through laps around a famed 1.54-mile track of a NASCAR speedway have in common? What connects the experience of noshing on famous barbeque to witnessing the relationships between rescue animals–the bear Baloo, tiger Shere Khan, and the rest of the animal residents at Noah’s Ark? All of these experiences are woven into the tapestry of Henry County, Georgia, 30 minutes south of Atlanta, and the perfect stopping point for those en route to Savannah or Orlando. Read on to uncover the treasures and learn why, in Henry County, History Has a Name.

Farm Fun

For most children, their first sentence revolves around a simple desire. For Jake Carter, “barn with daddy” would shape his life’s work. Carter grew up watching his dad Jimmy tend to the land, which was passed down from his father and the father before him. The farm looks a bit different than it did back then; instead of being covered with dairy cows, people fill up the 330-acre grounds of Southern Belle Farm. From strawberry pickin’ in the spring, to a pumpkin patch in the fall, this agritourism gem offers family fun throughout the year. Fly high on the jumping pillow, climb aboard the cow train, get lost in the fall corn maze, watch pigs race in steep competition and much more at Southern Belle Farm.

Family roots also run deep in the soil at Gardener Farm. Since 1930, the Gardener family has grown the area’s finest peach trees and vegetable crops. As a kid, Ansley Glenn’s grandfather, “Big Pop,” taught her and her siblings how to run the family business. It was hard work, but when the work was done, there was also lots of laughter. The farm is where most of Ansley’s childhood memories took place–catching lighting bugs in mason jars and even learning to drive. Today, Ansley is passing down those same treasured experiences to her children as they all take part in running the land and peach stand. Stop by in the summer months to select juicy Georgia peaches, berries and vegetables. Before heading home, have a tomato sandwich for lunch or cool off with delicious homemade ice cream.

Eats and Drinks

Shane Thompson was set to move to Florida as part of his job in the medical field, but something didn’t feel right. On his drive back from that trip, he saw a ‘shack’ in Henry County, which spurred a longtime dream into motion–Shane’s Rib Shack was born. Shane and his grandfather had spent summers in the kitchen perfecting their secret barbecue sauce. That sauce is the key ingredient to Shane’s success, now with more than 70 restaurants that bear his name. Pull up a seat on the original screened in porch, chow down on scrumptious pulled pork sandwiches, ribs and smoked chicken while the kids have a blast on the playground at The Original Shane’s Rib Shack.

What happens when a master entertainer from New Orleans and a Georgia girl with an eye for design marry? They create the seamless recipe for a simply elegant Southern-Cajun restaurant. Step into Rick and Lauren Weaver’s French Market & Tavern for a dining experience that perfectly blends bold flavors and an atmosphere with heart. The couple transformed an old 1902 hardware store into a Southern-chic restaurant where intricate details bring the dishes to life. Savor favorites like fried green tomatoes with a spicy caper remoulade, seafood risotto and buttermilk fried chicken. When the feast has ended, venture over to the in-house boutique full of stunning home décor at French Market.

What goes great with beer? Pizza. Patrick and Katie McHugh serve up some of the best pies in the Peach State at 15th Street Pizza & Pub. This restaurant is a mainstay, as it is the longest locally owned pizza place in all of Henry County. Their secret? Besides using local farm-fresh ingredients, it’s a personal touch. The couple says they know 90% of their customers and have created an environment where friends are family. The McHughs have even watched couples at their tables have first dates that have turned into marriages. Become a part of the family by heading to Henry County’s 15th Street Pizza and Pub for great pies, Georgia brews, big screen TV’s and a patio atmosphere complete with corn hole.

Attractions

At only four years old, Jama Hedgecoth’s love for animals began to take shape. After rescuing small wildlife throughout her childhood and young adult years, she always dreamed of being able to provide a safe haven for animals of all kinds. In 1990 her dreams became reality with the birth of Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary. Noah’s Ark provides a permanent home, a sanctuary, for animals, no matter what their health condition. The sanctuary gives safe haven to over 1,500 animals. Take a tour and get up close to small mammals like prairie dogs, slithering reptiles, and large animals like a bear and tiger–who happen to be the best of friends.

Jim Joyce was drafted into the Army in 1967. The military is where he ended up spending the next 24 years of his life. Being a museum curator was never in Joyce’s retirement plan, but when he was approached to head up a new Henry County facility devoted to veterans, he couldn’t pass up the opportunity to serve once again. The Heritage Park Veterans Museum is dedicated to all veterans, their families and to those who serve now and in the future. The museum houses more than 20,000 vehicles, uniforms, and artifacts, almost all of which were donated by veterans or their families who wanted their service honored and remembered. Ask for a free tour from one of the veteran volunteers for a truly moving experience.

Then, head over to the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation. The foundation honors the military’s “Sky Soldiers” by restoring and maintaining vintage aircraft from the Vietnam War. Don’t just look at the impressive flying machines, climb aboard a UH-1H Huey, where a veteran pilot will fly you high you into the clouds aboard this impressive chopper. Adventure-seekers, enjoy a more thrilling ride by taking a seat inside the AH-1F Cobra attack helicopter. The Foundation connects the American soldier to the American public as an active, accepted, and admired member of the American family by presenting the story of Army Aviation and the American soldier. https://armyav.org/about/

The need for speed has always flowed through Ed Clark’s veins. His first tricycle was named “Panch” after American Stock-car driver Marvin Panch. When Clark was eight years old he went to his first race and then dreamed of working in the high-speed industry. For 40 years Clark has made that boyhood dream a reality–serving as the President and General Manager of EchoPark Speedway (formerly known as the Atlanta Speedway) since 1992. If you’ve ever dreamt of feeling the rush of the racetrack, AMS is in the business of making your dreams come true, as well. Whether you prefer an expert driver to take you around the 1.54-mile quad oval or want to take the wheel yourself at speeds in excess of 150 mph, there is a driving class that will make you feel as if you’re pulling into Victory Lane. For those who want just a taste of that need for speed, book a track tour available Monday-Saturday. The one-hour tour includes three laps around the track in the tour van.

In Henry County, it’s the people who are writing the history of this idyllic slice of Georgia. It’s where dreamers and makers shape the experience for those who call this land home permanently or only for the weekend.

Ready to visit?

Visitors can rest easy, choosing from a variety of lodging options including name brand hotels or sleeping under the stars at one of the beautiful campsites in the area.

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