Columbus, GA Arts Scene: Museums, Music, Film & Local Culture

Looking for a city that keeps your creativity alive every single day?  In Columbus, GA, arts and culture aren’t reserved for special occasions — they’re part of the city’s rhythm. From live performances and vibrant murals to acclaimed museums and a fast-growing film scene, Columbus offers endless ways to feel inspired, connected, and at home.

Whether you’re considering a move or simply exploring what makes Columbus unique, the city’s creative energy is easy to feel. Walk through Uptown and you’ll pass galleries, music venues, and public art woven into everyday spaces. Spend an afternoon at a local museum, catch a show at a historic theater, or join a workshop at the library — and you’ll quickly see how culture shapes the community here.

If you’re searching for a place where creativity is accessible, welcoming, and built into the way people live, Columbus, GA delivers. Explore the city’s arts and culture scenes below and discover why so many residents say it’s one of the best parts of calling Columbus home.

The Cultural Landscape of Columbus, GA

Whether you’re considering a move or just getting to know the city, experiencing Columbus, Georgia through its arts scene is one of the best ways to understand what makes it special. A live concert, thought-provoking play, or a local art show can tell you more about the city’s energy, creativity, and community than a brochure ever could.

Explore our guide to cultural experiences in Columbus below, and remember to check local event listings, too — because there’s always something exciting going on.

Live Performance & Theater

• Springer Opera House: Built in 1871 and now a National Historic Landmark, this venue is the state theatre of Georgia, hosting Mainstage musicals, children’s theatre, and year‑round training programs. 
• RiverCenter for the Performing Arts: this Uptown landmark with a 2,000‑seat main theatre hosts live concerts and touring Broadway productions. 
• Columbus Ballet: This youth ballet company partners with the CSU Dance Conservatory to stage classical and contemporary performances that enrich the region’s dance scene.
• Columbus Symphony Orchestra: The second oldest orchestra in the U.S., this professional ensemble delivers season‑long concerts of classical masterpieces and modern works.
• Phenix City Amphitheater: A riverfront outdoor venue just across the bridge, offering concerts, films, and community events with scenic views of the Chattahoochee.

Why it matters: Whether you’re a theater lover or casual attendee, Columbus, GA offers performance quality that rivals larger cities within reach of your neighborhood.

Art Museums & Galleries

• The Columbus Museum: Accredited and Smithsonian‑affiliated, this institution is the second‑largest general museum in Georgia, showcasing American art and regional history. 
• Bo Bartlett Center: Located on the Columbus State University campus, the Bo Bartlett Center celebrates the work and legacy of acclaimed realist painter Bo Bartlett, featuring exhibitions, lectures, and programming.
• Columbus State University: CSU’s award-winning arts spaces offer visual art exhibits, theater productions, and cultural programming year-round.
• Highland Galerie: Located in the heart of Uptown, Highland Galerie features contemporary works by emerging and established artists, both regional and national.
• Art Galleries: Among Columbus, GA’s historic buildings are a number of galleries featuring talented contemporary artists and photographers from around the region.
• Want to see it all? Follow this self-guided tour of art spaces throughout Columbus for an easy way to experience the city’s creative landscape. 

Why it matters: From fine art to street murals, the creative fabric of Columbus is visible, accessible and integrated into everyday life.

Libraries, History & Learning

• Chattahoochee Valley Libraries – With more than one million items circulating at any given time and free programming for all ages, the library system is a hub for lifelong learning.
• Ma Rainey’s House: The restored Columbus home of “Mother of the Blues” Gertrude “Ma” Rainey now highlights her legacy and the region’s blues tradition.
• National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center: This award-winning museum honors the legacy of the U.S. Army Infantry with interactive exhibits and immersive experiences.
• Need a bonus? Consider the Columbus Collective Museums – eight niche collections under one roof that celebrate Americana, pop culture, and local history in inventive ways. 
• National Civil War Naval Museum: This immersive museum brings naval history to life with full-size ship replicas, original Civil War artifacts, and hands-on exhibits for all ages.

Why it matters: Museums and libraries are just the beginning. Check out our Things to Do in Columbus blog to explore even more ways to stay inspired, entertained, and connected in our city.

Film and Production Industry in Columbus, GA

With its status as a Georgia Camera Ready Community, Columbus, Georgia supports everything from feature films to indie shorts and student projects. Springer Film Institute has workshops and resources to empower filmmakers, actors, and screenwriters of all levels.

Shaw High School, Rainey McCullars School of the Arts, and Columbus State University, which offers the Georgia Film Academy’s on-set film production certificate program, prepare the filmmakers of tomorrow here at home. 

3 Tips for Exploring the Arts Scene

1. Don’t wait for the big show—many galleries host free openings on the first Friday of each month.
2. Check our local events calendar to discover outdoor concerts, rooftop events, and more.
3. Use this public art map to create a self‑guided walking or bike tour of murals and installations.

Ready to Explore Columbus for Yourself?

Whether you’re new to the area or rediscovering your hometown, Columbus is full of places to spark your curiosity. Dive into a live performance, tour a museum, or check out a local festival — there’s always something happening here.

Connect with us to explore events, plan your visit, or learn more about life in Columbus today.

FAQ: Culture in Columbus, GA

Is the arts scene in Columbus, GA just for tourists?

Not at all. Though it draws visitors, live music, gallery exhibits, library workshops, and more are aimed at locals and residents looking for creative community.

Are there free or low‑cost cultural activities?

Yes. Admission is free at The Columbus Museum. Many library programs are free, and plenty of outdoor arts events cost nothing or just a small donation. 

Can new residents easily plug into arts and culture in Columbus, GA?

Absolutely. From season‑ticket packages at the Springer to gallery member nights and volunteer programs, the barriers to participation are low.