Columbus MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Columbus, Minnesota.
1. Running Aces Casino, Hotel & Racetrack
GAMING AND RACING DESTINATION
Running Aces Casino, Hotel & Racetrack is a major entertainment complex offering live harness racing, a bustling casino floor, and a comfortable hotel. Visitors can enjoy action-packed races, try their luck at various casino games, or relax by the hotel's clean pool. The facility's blend of gaming, sports, and hospitality makes it a favorite for locals and travelers in Columbus.
2. Waldoch Farm
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FARM EXPERIENCE
Waldoch Farm offers an engaging visit with seasonal pick-your-own produce, a garden center, and fall activities like corn mazes and pumpkin patches. The farm is especially popular with families, who come for hands-on agricultural fun and farm animal encounters. Located in Lino Lakes, just south of Columbus, it provides a classic Minnesota farm day close to the city.
3. Hallberg Center for the Arts
LOCAL ARTS HUB
The Hallberg Center for the Arts in the city of Wyoming is a vibrant venue dedicated to showcasing the work of regional artists. With rotating exhibits, art classes, and community events, the center brings art appreciation and education to visitors of all ages. The charming gallery atmosphere makes it a cultural highlight in Chisago County, near Columbus.
4. Carlos Avery State Wildlife Management Area
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Carlos Avery WMA sprawls across thousands of acres in and around Columbus, offering premier wildlife viewing, hiking, and hunting opportunities. Nature lovers flock here year-round to explore its diverse habitats, including wetlands and forests teeming with birds and native animals. The area is a favorite escape for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty close to the Twin Cities.
5. Chain of Lakes Park
SCENIC LAKESIDE PARK
Chain of Lakes Park provides visitors with a picturesque outdoor setting featuring interconnected lakes, trails, and picnic spots. It's well-suited for fishing, kayaking, and walking, making it a great stop for nature enthusiasts. Located in Lino Lakes, the park is a short drive from Columbus and offers a peaceful retreat from urban bustle.
6. Anoka County Bunker Hills Regional Park
EXPANSIVE REGIONAL RECREATION
Bunker Hills Regional Park in Coon Rapids delivers outdoor fun across 1,600 acres, with amenities including a water park, golf course, and miles of trails. The park's natural sand prairie landscapes attract hikers, birders, and bikers year-round. Its convenient location in Anoka County makes it a top choice for day trips from Columbus.
7. Chomonix Golf Course
SCENIC PUBLIC GOLFING
Chomonix Golf Course, nestled within the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park in Lino Lakes, offers 18 holes surrounded by wooded scenery and wildlife. Golfers of all skill levels appreciate its tranquil setting and well-maintained greens. Its proximity to Columbus makes it a favored spot for both casual and competitive play.
8. Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve
NATURE AND WATER TRAILS
Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve is one of the largest parks in the Twin Cities area, encompassing lakes, wetlands, and extensive multi-use trails. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, camping, and wildlife observation in a beautifully preserved landscape. Just south of Columbus, it's a go-to destination for outdoor recreation and family picnics.
9. Wild Mountain
ADVENTURE & SKI RESORT
Wild Mountain in Taylors Falls offers year-round adventure with skiing and snowboarding in winter, and water slides, alpine slides, and go-karts during summer months. The resort caters to families and thrill seekers with varied activities and stunning views of the St. Croix River Valley. Its location makes it an easy day trip from the Columbus area.
10. William O'Brien State Park
ST. CROIX RIVER PARK
William O'Brien State Park invites visitors to explore rolling prairies, wooded trails, and the scenic banks of the St. Croix River. The park offers hiking, camping, canoeing, and abundant birdwatching just northeast of Columbus. It's a sought-after spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking peaceful natural surroundings and waterway access.
11. Giese Memorial Library
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE CENTER
Giese Memorial Library serves the Wyoming community and surrounding areas with a welcoming space for reading, learning, and community programs. Its collection spans fiction, nonfiction, and multimedia resources suited for all ages. The library frequently hosts events and workshops, making it a community cornerstone near Columbus.
12. The Wishing Tree Play Cafe
INDOOR PLAY PARADISE
The Wishing Tree Play Cafe in Lino Lakes provides a safe, creative indoor play environment for young children while parents relax with coffee or snacks. The facility is known for its imaginative play structures and hands-on activities designed to encourage learning through play. It's a popular spot for local families and visitors from Columbus alike.
13. Wargo Nature Center
ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER
Wargo Nature Center offers interactive exhibits, walking trails, and seasonal programs aimed at fostering nature appreciation. Located in Lino Lakes, it serves as a hub for environmental education through guided hikes, wildlife programs, and canoe rentals. The center is ideal for families and school groups seeking hands-on learning near Columbus.
14. Blue Heron Days Festival
ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Blue Heron Days is Lino Lakes' signature annual festival featuring parades, live entertainment, vendors, and family-friendly activities. The multi-day event draws residents and visitors from Columbus and nearby towns for summer festivities. Its lively atmosphere and community spirit make it a highlight of the local calendar.
15. Forest Lake Area Historical Society
REGIONAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Forest Lake Area Historical Society preserves and shares the history of the region through engaging exhibits and special programs. Housed in Forest Lake, just north of Columbus, the society's collection includes artifacts, photographs, and documents from early settlers to modern times. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in local heritage.