The Phenix City center point is approximately the area of Downtown Phenix City and the area of Columbus Convention and Visitors.
Phenix City experiences a humid subtropical climate, with an emphasis on the humidity and the tropical. There are parts of the Chattahoochee that resemble swamps, but you have to seek out those spots. Just don't underestimate the weather, particularly as you decide what to pack. Temperatures tend to stay moderate the entire year. It gets chilly at times in winter, but average daytime temperatures hover around the high 50s. At nighttime, it's typically around the mid-30s, but still — what days!
Spring, summer, and fall all boast hot days and warm evenings. Summer obviously wins out. Visit then, and you'll enjoy 90-degree days during the length of your stay. It's a bit cooler in spring and fall, making the humidity slightly more bearable. Room rates are lower then as well. Expect to pay a bit more in summer, unless you book early or opt for rooms that offer a discount for which you're eligible.
Seniors traveling to Phenix City should check with their hotels and ask about senior discounts. A number of other hotels in the area provide lower rates to older guests. Woodspring Suites Columbus Ft. Benning is an excellent choice right near the city. It's known for its comfortable furniture, solicitous staff, and impeccable service. Residence Inn By Marriott Columbus offers savings as well, and it's conveniently close to the airport. Consider La Quinta Inn & Suites Columbus North if you want to combine affordability with comfort.
Are you a member of AAA? Look into deals from Super 8 by Wyndham Phenix City to save on standard accommodations. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Phenix City Columbus gives the option of luxury at a low rate. Save as you swim, dine on meals from room service, and soak in the Jacuzzi. Candlewood Suites in Auburn is a solid mid-range choice that offers on-site laundry facilities and modern decor. All offer AAA discounts.
Military members and select government employees receive discounts from Hilton Garden Inn Auburn/Opelika, where the rooms are so gorgeous, you won't want to leave. You can enjoy your meals right at the hotel, which also offers a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and a bar area.
Springhill Suites by Marriott Columbus is a luxe option with savings potential from AAA and senior discounts. Swim in the outdoor pool, lounge around in the comfortable beds, or hit up the gym. You even get a free breakfast in the morning. Take advantage of the option to save on the base rate and give yourself a chance to splurge during your vacation. Anytime you can use a discount to get more than what you could ordinarily afford, go for it.
The Red Roof Plus+ & Suites Opelika offers savings on top of low daily rates, as the hotel offers AAA, senior, and military and government discounts. In addition to free breakfasts and access to fitness facilities, you'll do a double-take over the modern design aesthetics. The rooms are beautifully appointed, clean, and minimalistic in terms of decor. The Red Roof isn't what it used to be.
Phenix City and the surrounding area have several accommodations that guarantee excellent value for money. Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Columbus Fort Benning combines mid-range rates with the possibility of discounts. Rooms are comfortable, bathrooms are spacious, and all the extras add up to a pleasant experience. To save without sacrificing the extras, Baymont Inn & Suites Columbus gives you a peak location and a budget-friendly price range.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Columbus / Near Fort Benning takes it up a notch in terms of what you get for your money. Ask about a room with a kitchenette, which enables you to cook for yourself during your trip. You can save a surprising amount of money when you forego the restaurants.
To be fair, many of the hottest spots around Phenix City are over the river in Columbus, but also to be fair, you rarely have to travel more than a mile or two to get there. Take the Phenix City Riverwalk and connect to the Columbus Riverwalk, and you can cross the Chattahoochee on your own two feet. The river itself is a favorite spot, not to mention a versatile one. Keep cool in all that humidity with a whitewater rafting trip. Swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities present themselves at every turn, enabling you to get outside and enjoy nature during your holiday.
There are claims that Phenix City was the site of the Civil War's final battle. Alternately known as the Battle of Columbus and the Battle of Girard — now Phenix City — it was the last campaign of Wilson's Raid. Naturally, the area has its fair share of museums and memorials. Stop by the National Civil War Naval Museum and discover the ships and weaponry. The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center is a must-visit as well. There are other interesting museums on other topics, such as the Coca-Cola Space Science Center and the Columbus Museum.
Wandering around the area on either side of the river reveals eye-catching and moving tributes to regional history. Head to the Heritage Corner, which is part of the Columbus Historic District. It's a cozy corner of five homes, preserved to represent various eras of the state's history. You can visit the Pemberton House at Heritage Corner. Dr. John Pemberton, a local pharmacist, and inventor, lived there. He's responsible for creating Coca-Cola. His grave is at the Linwood Cemetery, another spot worth a visit.
Visitors have a wealth of dining choices right in Phenix City. Locals highly recommend Cafe 431, which serves up comfort on small plates. Minnie's Uptown Restaurant is the go-to spot for affordable lunches and Southern cuisine. If your palette is begging you for barbecue, head to 13th Street Bar-Be-Que. To satisfy your craving for Southern favorites like fried green tomatoes and macaroni and cheese, you have to go to The Black Crow.
Why not spend your vacation on the banks of the Chattahoochee? Phenix City is right there waiting for you.
Below are reviews of the city of Phenix City, AL from an actual visitor's perspective.
The river and riverwalk!
Wasn't there long enough but good choice of stores and places to eat!
It's cute as can be!!
Nice place!
Nice place!
Location to restaurants and stores.
Where I stayed had access to all eating spots.
Hotel reservation was made by a very helpful agent. Downtown Columbus is just a minute away. Very nice