Discover Columbus: History, Museums, and Events

Columbus offers several distinct reasons to visit: the historic Polk County Courthouse, two museums, Stearns Park, and events held at different times of year. If you’re looking for a hotel in Columbus, these themes can help you decide what to focus your trip on. Architecture and local history, genealogical research, flags, time in the park, and event dates are concrete, distinct interests to consider.

History in the Center

The Polk County Courthouse stands in the center of Columbus and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Greek Revival brick building was constructed between 1857 and 1859 using bricks made from local clay. A Civil War Trail marker stands in front of the courthouse, describing historical events related to Stoneman’s Raid in 1865. This highlights two distinct historical points of interest: the courthouse’s construction period, materials, and architecture on the one hand, and the marker’s connection to the raid on the other.

Museums and Family History

The Polk County History Museum is located in the Feagan Building, at 60 Walker St., on the lower level; the entrance is at the rear of the building. Its research area supports genealogical searches into family history. The House of Flags Museum in downtown Columbus displays more than 300 different flags, offers self-guided or narrated tours, and is fully accessible. The two museums focus on different subjects: family history at the History Museum, and flags and different tour options at the House of Flags.

Stearns Park and Cycling

Stearns Park gives children plenty of room to play and run, as well as a pavilion, a walking path, and a picnic area. One side of the park offers an impressive view of the mountains, while the other looks out onto the historic Polk County Courthouse. The mountain view and the courthouse provide different points of interest; the park complements the historic sites with opportunities for play, exercise, and picnicking.

Black Bear Adventures is associated with bike tours in Columbus for enthusiastic or particularly adventurous cyclists. If cycling is a focus of your trip, this description of the intended audience offers a concrete way to assess whether the experience matches your interests.

Markets and Events

For 2026, the Columbus Farmers Market is scheduled every Saturday from May through October at 40 Courthouse St., Columbus, NC 28722. Dates for future seasons may change; check them before your trip. The Columbus Christmas Parade takes place annually. The 2025 parade included decorated floats, performances, and Santa Claus; details may vary in future years. In 2025, Hometown Christmas in Stearns Park followed the parade, though future arrangements may change.

For 2026, the family-friendly Wood Carvers, Whittlers, & Wood Crafters Festival is announced as a one-day event in downtown Columbus. It brings together local and regional wood carvers, wood sculptors, woodturners, and craftspeople for demonstrations, exhibits, and handmade goods for sale; scheduling in future years may vary. The Columbus Fabulous 4th is also held in Stearns Park.

Discover more destinations: Tryon, Saluda.

For the broader travel overview: Polk County.