Hotels in Columbia

Columbia: Where History Blossoms Amidst Timeless Beauty

Discover the charm of Columbia, Tennessee, a hidden gem that beautifully blends small-town warmth with rich history. Stroll through the picturesque downtown, adorned with vibrant flowers and historic churches that echo the city’s past. Don’t miss the Confederate Museum, where stories of yesteryear come alive. Explore scenic parks and enjoy local festivals, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a romantic getaway or an off-the-beaten-path adventure. With its welcoming atmosphere and unique attractions, Columbia invites you to create unforgettable memories in a slice of Americana. For the best hotel rates in Columbia and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Columbia

Some of the best places to stay in Columbia are Historic Downtown Franklin, Lawrenceburg and Leipers Fork. Columbia, Tennessee, offers rich experiences in nearby Historic Downtown Franklin, Lawrenceburg, and Leipers Fork. Historic Downtown Franklin is perfect for first-time visitors, featuring charming shops and eateries. Lawrenceburg showcases local culture and history, while Leipers Fork boasts scenic beauty and art galleries. Accommodations range from affordable hotels to comfortable suites, with options like Hampton Inn and Comfort Suites available. Room rates typically vary, providing choices for different budgets in this delightful region. Here are some of the best hotels in Columbia that our travelers love:

1. Historic Downtown FranklinOpens in a new window: Historic Downtown Franklin is a charming area known for its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, making it ideal for family outings and cultural experiences. With attractions like CoolSprings Galleria for shopping, Vanderbilt University for a taste of local culture, and The Factory for entertainment, there's something for everyone. For accommodations, consider Conrad NashvilleOpens in a new window, a luxurious property that caters to business travelers with top-notch amenities like meeting rooms and a business center. Another option is 1 Hotel NashvilleOpens in a new window, a pet-friendly hotel that combines luxury and city vibes. Lastly, The Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel, NashvilleOpens in a new window is perfect for families, offering romance packages and spa services, all while providing a family-friendly environment.
2. LawrenceburgOpens in a new window: Lawrenceburg is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring stunning natural landscapes and recreational activities. Key attractions include David Crockett State Park and the scenic Laurel Hill Wildlife Management Area, ideal for adventure seekers. For lodging, Richland Inn LawrenceburgOpens in a new window is a budget-friendly choice that welcomes pets and provides essential business amenities. Alternatively, Best Western Plus LawrenceburgOpens in a new window offers a blend of adventure and business facilities, while Americas Best Value InnOpens in a new window focuses on pet-friendly accommodations, ensuring a comfortable stay for all travelers.
3. Leipers ForkOpens in a new window: Leipers Fork is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and small-town charm, attracting those looking to connect with nature. Close to attractions like CoolSprings Galleria and Vanderbilt University, it offers a unique blend of outdoor and cultural experiences. For affordable stays, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Dickson, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window and Hampton Inn DicksonOpens in a new window both provide essential business amenities and are pet-friendly, making them suitable for various travelers. For a slightly higher tier, consider Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott DicksonOpens in a new window, which offers enhanced business facilities, ensuring all your work needs are met during your stay.

Things to do in Columbia for first time

Three days in Columbia offers a delightful mix of vibrant landscapes, from lush forests and serene lakes to charming small towns. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and boating, while also indulging in shopping and entertainment. The city's cultural scene, including opera, adds to its allure for travelers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Columbia:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Thompson's Station Park, where you can enjoy scenic walking trails and perhaps a picnic amidst nature. After soaking in the peaceful surroundings, make your way to Rippavilla, a beautifully restored antebellum home that offers fascinating tours showcasing its rich history. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Spring Hill Public Library, a cozy spot to unwind, browse through local literature, and learn more about the community.
• Day 2: Start your day at Rattle and Snap, a historic plantation with stunning architecture and informative tours that highlight its past. Next, head to the Mount Pleasant Public Library, which provides a quiet atmosphere perfect for a leisurely read or catching up on local events. Conclude your day at Devil's Backbone State Natural Area, where you can explore hiking trails with breathtaking views, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at Henry Horton State Park, where you can immerse yourself in outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the natural beauty. Following your nature excursion, visit the Bethesda Public Library, a quaint place to relax and delve into local history or current events. End your trip at the Memorial Library, a cultural gem that often hosts events and offers resources about the area's heritage, ensuring a fulfilling conclusion to your Columbia visit.

5 tips to find a great Columbia hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit Columbia on a budget is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are more affordable. If you're traveling from abroad, it's advisable to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure the best deals. To truly appreciate the city's charm, plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days, which allows you to explore its highlights, including beautiful churches, stunning cathedrals, and interesting monuments. This budget-friendly trip offers great value for money as you discover the unique attractions Columbia has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great last-minute deals to Columbia, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you could find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging a good deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you'll stay informed about any flash sales and special last-minute promotions, helping you take advantage of opportunities to save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and season. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Columbia.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Columbia is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further from the center, you can utilize transportation options like a car or bus to explore the area and likely save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Columbia. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Columbia

Here are a few top restaurants to try in Columbia, Tennessee, United States of America:

• Cracker Barrel: A beloved American chain that offers traditional Southern comfort food with a twist. Enjoy classic dishes like biscuits and gravy, fried chicken, and country ham, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients that celebrate the region's culinary heritage.
• River Terrace: A charming spot that emphasizes farm-to-table dining, River Terrace features a seasonal menu highlighting local produce and meats. Their innovative dishes reflect the rich agricultural bounty of Tennessee, making it a great place to experience the flavors of the South.
• Red 7 Pizza: Known for its creative pizza combinations and fresh ingredients, Red 7 Pizza takes classic Italian flavors and infuses them with local flair. Their artisanal pizzas allow for unique toppings that showcase the best of Columbia's local farms and markets.

Best time to go to Columbia

Columbia experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 38.1°F (3.4°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 78.1°F (25.6°C). April tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Columbia are March, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and August are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.