The Columbia center is approximately the area of James K Polk Ancestral Home and 1 mile east of Psychiatric Hosp Vanderbilt.
The weather in Columbia is pleasant throughout most of the year. The climate comfort index is 56 out of 100, as compared to the national average of 54. It sees about 76 rainy days per year and 206 sunny days. The humidity in Columbia makes the hot summers and cool winters feel more extreme than they are.
The hottest months of the year are June, July, and August, with the end of July and the beginning of August having the highest temperatures. During this time, temperatures are typically around 95 degrees.
Given the weather, the best time to visit Columbia is from mid-April to mid-June. During April, May, and June, the high temperatures are between the mid-70s and upper 80s, with the lows in the mid-40s to low 60s. Fall is another great time to visit. Just be sure to bring a light jacket, because the early mornings and evenings can get cool. During September, October, and November, the high temperatures range from the mid-80s to the low 60s, with lows ranging from the mid-50s to mid-30s.
When you visit Tennessee, you might want to bring a raincoat or an umbrella, as it can rain any time of year. The high chances of precipitation mean Columbia can get snow in the winter. However, the state averages only 3 inches of snow per year in comparison to most U.S. cities, which average 26 inches of snow per year.
Many hotels in the Columbia area offer discounts for AAA and AARP members, as well as for members of the military and government. To be sure you're getting the best rates, check to see what discounts the hotels that interest you offer. The Super 8 Columbia is one of the local hotels that offers discounted rates for AAA members and members of the military and government. It does not offer discounts for AARP members.
The Comfort Inn Columbia, on the other hand, offers great senior and military discounts, as well as AAA member discounts. Using the senior discount saves the most money, with the military and government discount offering nearly as much savings. The hotel provides free wireless high-speed internet, in-room coffee makers, hair dryers, and refrigerators. The Comfort Inn also features an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast for even more savings.
Two of the best values for your money are the Baymont Inn & Suites Columbia Maury and the Comfort Inn Columbia. Both hotels offer similar amenities and great discounts for AAA members and members of the military and government.
The highly rated Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Columbia is another good value and one of the nicest hotels in town. The beds at this two-star hotel are plush with comfy pillows and pillowtop mattresses. The well-maintained indoor pool makes for a great place to relax. A sitting area in the lobby is the perfect location for meeting with business associates or friends. Snacks and cold drinks are available 24/7 in the lobby at the corner market.
The Fairfield Inn also has meeting rooms and a great business center. Want even more value? Free breakfast and Wi-Fi are included with your room.
The James K Polk Ancestral Home located at 301 West 7th Street is one of the many historic sites in Columbia. It is the only surviving home of President James K. Polk other than the White House. The property built in 1816 by Samuel Polk is on the National Register of Historic Places and holds a designation as a National Historic Landmark, which it received in 1961. None of the outbuildings from Polk's time are still surviving, so the kitchen is a reproduction.
James K. Polk lived in this home for several years as an adult before beginning his career in politics. He left the property in 1819 when he went to Nashville to study law and served at his home again after he returned to Columbia to open his law practice.
If historic plantations interest you, the Rippavilla Plantation 9 miles away in Spring Hill is a must-see. Built in 1852, the plantation is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is open as a house museum to visitors Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. This remarkable specimen from its time period features beautiful white columns and red bricks with black contrasting shutters.
Rattle and Snap is another plantation located 10 miles away in Mount Pleasant. It received its unusual name because William Polk won the land on which the property stands from the Tennessee Governor in a game of challenge called "Rattle and Snap." The Polk family owned the property, although the president never lived there. It is still a private residence, but you can view the historic site by making an appointment. The Greek Revival mansion received its designation as a National Historic Landmark in 1971.
If you visit Columbia in April, you can check out Mule Day, a four-day festival dating back to the 1840s that celebrates mules and Appalachian culture. The event attracts more than 200,000 people and culminates with the Mule Day Parade.
If you're a wine connoisseur, stop by one of the many local wineries, such as Amber Falls Winery, Keg Springs Winery, or Natchez Hills Winery, for a tasting.
Below are reviews of the city of Columbia, TN from an actual visitor's perspective.
Rorys Homestead events!
Stan's was a GOOD place to dine!
Loved Marcy Jos and the antiques!
The Kubota dealership.
I went to DAVE RAMSEY CONFERENCE in Franklin, TN. There was a WAFFLEHOUSE restaurant right down the street with good food and right off I-65.
The courthouse square was really nice, a down home feeling. Hattie Jane's ice cream was very good...the grandkids loved it.
The rooms very nice and spacious, Staff was great! Visiting relatives traveling from one city to another. Enjoyed dinner at Pucket's.
Plenty of options for meals and entertainment
Quaint, historical with beautiful old buildings.