Columbia North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Columbia, North Carolina.
1. Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
WILDLIFE AND NATURE PRESERVE
Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge is a vast natural area providing crucial habitat for migratory birds, especially wintering tundra swans and snow geese. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, wildlife photography, and serene walking trails through unique wetlands. The refuge showcases the region's biodiversity and is an essential stop for nature enthusiasts.
2. Tyrrell County Visitors Center
LOCAL TOURISM HUB
Tyrrell County Visitors Center serves as the welcoming gateway for discovering Columbia and its surrounding attractions. Staff provide maps, guides, and personalized recommendations to help travelers make the most of their visit. It's also a convenient stop for local information and souvenirs.
3. Vineyards on the Scuppernong
WINERY AND TASTING ROOM
Vineyards on the Scuppernong offers a charming setting to experience local wines made from North Carolina's signature muscadine grapes. Guests can participate in wine tastings, browse the gift shop, and enjoy picturesque views of the vineyard. The venue frequently hosts events and is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
4. Palmetto-Peartree Preserve
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Palmetto-Peartree Preserve is a scenic green space known for its tranquil trails and diverse wildlife habitats. Nature lovers can explore hiking paths, observe birds, and experience the beauty of Eastern North Carolina's wetlands. The preserve is also an excellent destination for photography and peaceful relaxation.
5. Columbia Theatre Cultural Resources Center
HISTORIC COMMUNITY THEATER
The Columbia Theatre Cultural Resources Center is a restored historic venue showcasing local performing arts and cultural exhibits. The theater hosts live shows, community events, and rotating art displays. It serves as a vibrant hub for Columbia's artistic community and heritage.
6. Boardwalk Interpretive Trail
SCENIC WALKING PATH
The Boardwalk Interpretive Trail offers visitors an easy, accessible route to observe native plants and wildlife along the Scuppernong River. Educational signs along the trail detail the ecological importance of the wetland environment. The boardwalk is ideal for families, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a peaceful outdoor stroll.
7. Maggie Duke Antiques
ANTIQUE SHOPPING DESTINATION
Maggie Duke Antiques is a well-loved shop featuring a curated selection of vintage furnishings, collectibles, and decorative items. Visitors can browse unique treasures from various periods and styles. The store's knowledgeable staff enhance the shopping experience with stories and insights about the items for sale.
8. Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft
CREATIVE ARTS CENTER
Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft offers hands-on workshops, classes, and exhibitions in metals, ceramics, and other crafts. The center attracts artists from across the region, providing both educational opportunities and a gallery for local creations. Visitors are welcome to browse the gallery and participate in special events.
9. Columbia Municipal Docks
RIVERFRONT ACCESS POINT
The Columbia Municipal Docks provide public access to the scenic Scuppernong River, ideal for boating, kayaking, and fishing. The docks are a popular spot for launching small watercraft and offer stunning sunset views. They also serve as a starting point for riverfront walks and local events.
10. Walter B. Jones Center for the Sounds
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER
The Walter B. Jones Center for the Sounds, part of the Pocosin Lakes refuge, features interactive exhibits about the region's wetlands, wildlife, and conservation efforts. Families and school groups enjoy hands-on displays and guided programs led by experts. The center is a hub for understanding the ecological importance of Northeastern North Carolina.
11. Somerset Place State Historic Site
HISTORIC PLANTATION TOUR
Somerset Place State Historic Site, located a short drive from Columbia, is a meticulously preserved antebellum plantation on Lake Phelps. Guided tours share the complex history of the site, from its architecture to the stories of enslaved people who lived and worked there. The scenic grounds make it both an educational and reflective destination.
12. Eastern 4-H Center
YOUTH CAMP AND RETREAT
The Eastern 4-H Center offers outdoor education programs, team-building retreats, and summer camps for youth and families. Facilities include cabins, dining halls, and recreational areas by the Albemarle Sound. The center's scenic setting and structured activities make it a vital community resource.
13. Southern Dreams Gallery
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Southern Dreams Gallery highlights the work of local and regional artists, showcasing paintings, crafts, and handmade gifts. The gallery provides a space for art appreciation and shopping in downtown Columbia. Rotating exhibits ensure there's always something new to discover.
14. Red Wolf Coalition Visitor Center
WILDLIFE ADVOCACY EXPERIENCE
The Red Wolf Coalition Visitor Center focuses on the conservation of the endangered red wolf population native to the area. Educational displays, guided tours, and special events inform visitors about efforts to protect this rare species. The center invites wildlife enthusiasts to help support one of America's most unique predators.
15. The Blue House Bakery and Café
CHARMING LOCAL EATERY
The Blue House Bakery and Café is a cozy dining spot beloved for its homemade baked goods, sandwiches, and fresh coffee. Locals and visitors alike stop in for breakfast, lunch, or a sweet treat while exploring downtown Columbia. The café's welcoming atmosphere makes it a community favorite.