Experience Outdoor Adventure and Cultural Delights Near Lakeside Retreat and Event Center
Discover an array of exciting outdoor attractions and cultural landmarks near Lakeside Retreat and Event Center. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping adventures or enriching historical experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and engaging activities that await you.
Outdoor Adventures
Whitewater Rafting & Kayaking: Dive into an exhilarating whitewater adventure on one of the most thrilling sections in the country. Experience the rush of our extensive whitewater course, the largest globally.
Ziplining: Soar through the air on The Blue Heron Adventure, the only dual-zip lines in America that span two states. Feel the adrenaline as you fly over the crashing whitewater below, reaching speeds of up to 40 mph. Once you cross into Alabama, take on The Blue Heron Aerial Course with its ten multi-level obstacles, each more challenging than the last.
Geocaching: Embark on a modern-day treasure hunt using GPS devices. Explore Columbus, GA, a city adorned with breathtaking scenery, as you track down hidden caches. Don’t forget to take in the beauty of your surroundings while on this captivating adventure.
Birding: Witness the return of unique bird species flocking to Columbus due to the restoration of the Chattahoochee River and the resurgence of native fish. Delight in the opportunity to observe diverse avian life in their natural habitat.
Biking: Discover the Dragonfly Trail, a remarkable multi-use bike and pedestrian trail that winds through Columbus, offering scenic vistas and memorable experiences. Rent a bike from Ride On Bikes or White Water Express to explore the trails at your leisure.
Chattahoochee Riverwalk: Indulge in a stroll or invigorating bike ride along the 22-mile Chattahoochee RiverWalk. Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of this picturesque riverside pathway.
Mountain Biking: Challenge yourself on the exceptional trails of the Standing Boy Property, spanning over 1,500 acres of rolling hills in northwest Columbus. Hikers, runners, and bikers will appreciate the high-quality trail system and breathtaking views.
Disk Golf: Engage in a fun and challenging round of disk golf at Flat Rock Park. This unique course features interesting scenery and terrain, making it suitable for players of all skill levels.
Providence Canyon: Uncover the wonders of “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon” as you navigate its extraordinary geological formations. Enjoy a journey through time and nature’s masterpieces.
F.D. Roosevelt State Park: Delight in the serenity of Georgia’s largest state park, spanning 9,049 acres. Hike along over 40 miles of trails, meandering through hardwood forests, pine groves, creeks, and waterfalls.
Chewacla State Park: Escape to the scenic beauty of Chewacla State Park, a 696-acre oasis near Auburn-Opelika. Enjoy the 26-acre lake, swimming area, playground, hiking trails, and mountain biking opportunities.
Explore Museums and Other Attractions
Plains Georgia – Jimmy Carter Home: Immerse yourself in the history and heritage of former President Jimmy Carter at this hub of preserved buildings, including his boyhood farm and school. Discover a wealth of indoor and outdoor attractions suitable for the entire family.
Callaway Gardens: Unwind in the award-winning Callaway Gardens, spanning 2,500 acres in Pine Mountain, Georgia. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains foothills through stunning gardens and recreational activities.
The Coca-Cola Space Science Center: Engage in interactive exhibits and exploration at The Coca-Cola Space Science Center. Experience the thrill of the Challenger Learning Center mission simulator, gaze at the stars in the WestRock Observatory, and enjoy captivating shows at the Omnisphere Planetarium Theater.
National Civil War Naval Museum: Journey into naval history at the National Civil War Naval Museum, featuring remnants of Confederate States Navy vessels, as well as exhibits showcasing uniforms, equipment, and weapons used by the United States Navy forces.
National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center: Pay homage to soldiers past, present, and future at the National Infantry Museum, dedicated to the American Infantryman. Explore one of the nation’s most extensive military artifact collections and gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by these brave individuals.
Andersonville National Historic Site: Step back in time at the Andersonville National Historic Site, preserving the former Andersonville Prison—a Confederate prisoner-of-war camp during the American Civil War. Gain insights into prisoners’ experiences and explore this site’s historical significance.
The Columbus Museum: Immerse yourself in American art and regional history at The Columbus Museum. Delve into a captivating collection of artifacts and exhibitions that highlight the cultural heritage of the Chattahoochee Valley.
Indulge in Shopping Delights
Uptown: Explore Uptown, a premier shopping destination boasting a vibrant array of unique boutiques, creative dining experiences, and recreational opportunities for the whole family. From splash pads and parks to free Friday night concerts, Uptown offers endless entertainment.
Columbus Park Crossing: Shop to your heart’s content at Columbus Park Crossing, featuring a remarkable selection of retailers, eateries, and services. Discover popular name-brand stores and satisfy your cravings with diverse dining options.
The Landings: Experience the charm of The Landings Shopping Center, where a delightful collection of boutique shops, national stores, services, and dining establishments awaits. Treat yourself to a memorable shopping excursion in this inviting locale.