WELCOME TO
Columbia, Tennessee
AN IDEAL WEEKEND IN COLUMBIA, TN
Columbia, Tennessee—affectionately called "Mule Town"—is one of Middle Tennessee's hidden gems. From its rich history to its lively local culture, this charming town offers plenty to see and do. If you're looking for the perfect weekend in Columbia, here are my favorite spots for exploring all the best Columbia has to offer.
Friday
I can’t think of a better way to start a weekend in Columbia than with a visit to Muletown Coffee Roasters. Known for their artisan coffee and commitment to quality, this local favorite serves up hand-roasted blends that reflect the heart and soul of the town. Whether you’re grabbing a simple black coffee or indulging in one of their specialty lattes, the warm, inviting atmosphere is just perfect. Oh, and don’t forget to take a bag of their beans home—the Motor Co Espresso beans are my favorite!
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If you've got young kiddos, aMuse'um Children's Museum is a must. The kids will have a blast, and you’ll love watching their faces light up as they explore the hands-on exhibits. From pretending to grocery shop to experimenting with science, it’s a few hours well spent. Plus, it’s one of those rare places where the kids get to burn off some energy while learning new things—total win-win!
One of my favorite things to do is walk around Downtown Columbia’s Public Square. The Square is home to a variety of unique shops and boutiques, offering everything from vintage finds and antiques to locally-made artisan goods. Whether you’re on the hunt for a one-of-a-kind gift or just want to enjoy the leisurely atmosphere, shopping the Square is a quintessential Columbia experience. The old buildings and welcoming storefronts are so picture-perfect.
For lunch or an afternoon snack, stop by Buck & Board. Their sandwiches are something else—think gourmet meats and cheeses, and everything is super fresh. I love their cozy, rustic vibe too. It’s the ideal spot to refuel after a morning of exploring, and the fact that they source their ingredients locally makes everything taste even better. Don't miss it!
Every month, Columbia’s downtown comes alive with First Friday, which is an absolute blast. Picture this: live music filling the streets, local vendors selling everything from food to handmade crafts, and the whole town coming together for an evening of fun. Whether you’re dancing to a live band or tasting local cuisine, First Friday is a fantastic way to kick off the weekend.
Alright, dessert time! No weekend is complete without a stop at Hattie Jane’s Creamery. I’m love their unique, handmade flavors—think cookie dough, honeycomb, and everything in between. They use local dairy and seasonal ingredients, so you know everything’s fresh. The Cookie Monster Parfait will always have a special place in my heart--you’ve got to try it!
Saturday
If you’re into adventure gear or just love well-made leather goods, you’ll want to stop by Bradley Mountain. This shop is full of beautifully crafted backpacks, journals, and outdoor gear—perfect for anyone with a taste for adventure. Plus, there’s a cozy coffee corner inside where you can sip a brew while browsing. Not to mention they're always serving up seasonal items that are incredible. It’s honestly one of my favorite spots in Columbia, blending style and substance in the best way possible.
Feeling active? Head over to Woodland Park for a game of pickleball. Columbia has embraced this fast-growing sport, and Woodland Park offers well-maintained courts that are perfect for both beginners and seasoned players. It's a great way to enjoy the fresh air while spending time with friends or family.
The Factory is such a cool spot! It’s an old industrial building that’s been transformed into a space for shopping, dining, and events. There are tons of local vendors selling everything from clothes to crafts, and there’s always something happening, like live music or food trucks. It’s a great place to hang out, shop, and maybe catch a bite to eat while you're at it. And hey, the waffle flight at Slothful Waffle is an all-time favorite!
For authentic Italian flavors in the heart of Tennessee, Mama Mila’s is the place to go. feel like you’re dining with family. You can't go wrong with whatever you order, just be sure to get it with crack sauce on top! It’s one of those places where you’ll walk in hungry and leave happy (and maybe with a take-home box of leftovers because the portions are that generous!).
If you’re looking for some fun, Tenn Pin Alley has you covered. This modern bowling alley offers lanes for both casual and competitive play, along with an arcade, go-karts, mini golf, food, and drinks. Make sure to grab some loaded fries while you're there! It's a great place to unwind with friends or family after a day of exploring Columbia—it’s the perfect mix of competitive fun and relaxation.
For craft beer enthusiasts, Taps Off Main is the go-to spot. With rotating taps featuring regional favorites, it’s a beer lover’s dream. The laid-back atmosphere and super knowledgeable staff make it easy to find something new to try. Even if you’re just dipping your toes into the craft beer world, they’ll help you find something you’ll love.
Sunday
Looking for somewhere to worship on Sunday morning? The Bridge Church's Columbia Campus is a vibrant, gospel-centered church located in the heart of Columbia. From powerful messages to an engaging kids environment, you'll feel right at home. It's a great way to wrap up the weekend and head into the week feeling filled up.
End your weekend at Puckett’s, a Southern-style restaurant that’s as much about the experience as it is the food. Known for its hearty BBQ, live music, and friendly atmosphere, Puckett’s is a local favorite where you can enjoy a laid-back evening. Whether you stop by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the comforting Southern fare will leave you satisfied and ready to plan your next trip to Columbia.
