Columbus

Columbus is a city in Southern Indiana and the seat of Bartholomew County, noted for its inspired architecture and public artwork. With a population of approximately 50,000, the city punches well above its weight in architectural significance, earning recognition as one of the most architecturally innovative small cities in America. The Cummins engine company, headquartered here, has funded world-class architecture and public art throughout the city since the mid-20th century.

The city features works by renowned architects including Eero Saarinen, I.M. Pei, Harry Weese, and others. Columbus is also home to Indiana University Columbus, an extension campus located near the airport. The Columbus Area Visitors Center at 506 5th St provides information about the city's architectural heritage and guided tours.

Columbus has a humid continental climate with warm, humid summers (highs around 85°F/29°C in July) and cold winters (highs around 36°F/2°C in January). Spring and fall are pleasant and ideal for walking tours of the city's architectural treasures.

By Plane

The nearest commercial airport is Indianapolis International Airport (IND), about a 60-minute drive. Louisville International Airport (SDF) is about a 75-minute drive. Columbus Municipal Airport (CLU), 4770 Ray Boll Blvd, is a large general aviation airport with a "Hanger Five" restaurant in the terminal serving American breakfast and lunch.

By Car / Road

Columbus lies adjacent to Interstate 65. The easiest exit from either direction is exit 68 at State Road 46 (Jonathan Moore Pike). There is a daily bus from Columbus to the Indianapolis bus station, boarded at the transportation depot next to the county jail.

The 27-mile Columbus People's Trail circles the city, allowing easy movement by bicycle. ColumBUS (Columbus Transit), 850 Lindsey St, operates bus service M–F 6AM–8PM, Sa 6AM–6PM, at $0.25 per ride. A car is recommended for visiting architectural sites spread throughout the city.

Architecture

• Bartholomew County Courthouse — Historic courthouse in the Second Empire style, featuring a large clock tower.
• Fire Station Number 4 — An early post-modernist fire station, recognized by its tower displaying the number "4."
• The Republic Newspaper Office — A former newspaper office using glass walls extensively, now used by Indiana University for classes.
• McEwen-Samuels-Marr House — A two-story brick house in the Italianate style.
• Miller House and Garden — Famous for its conversation pit. A mid-century modern masterpiece designed by Eero Saarinen with landscapes by Dan Kiley.
• L. Frances Smith Elementary School — 4505 Waycross Dr. Modern architecture with colorful, tube-like hallways. Not open to public, but the exterior merits a visit.

Public Art

• Large Arch — In the plaza outside the library. A 25-foot (7.6m) tall bronze arch sculpture by Henry Moore.

• Chaos I — Inside the Commons. A 30-foot-tall series of motors and gears giving the statue movement.

• Friendship Way — A pedestrian alley with public artwork on display.

• Exhibit Columbus — Annual architecture symposium and exhibition celebrating the city's built environment.

• Hamilton Ice Arena — A public enclosed skating venue, open year round.

• YES Cinema (YCCC), 328 Jackson St. A downtown cinema operated by a local charity.

• Donner Aquatic Center — 739 22nd St. Outdoor public swimming complex with water slide, diving boards, lap pool, and leisure pool.

• Greenbelt Golf Course — 1000 Gladstone Ave. 18 holes for $18.

• Amazing Joe's Grill — 2607 Central Ave. ☏ +1 812-378-2130. Popular local grill.
• Ramen Alley — 217 Washington Street, Suite D (entrance in the alley). Tu–Th 10AM–7PM, F–Sa 10AM–8PM. Gourmet ramen and noodle dishes. Order at the counter. $10–15.
• The Garage — A casual eatery in a converted garage space, popular with locals for burgers and comfort food. $8–15.
• Hinkle's Sandwich Shop — A Columbus institution since 1929, known for its tavern-style sandwiches. $5–10.

Tap water in Columbus is safe to drink. The downtown area has several cafés and bars. The Crump Theatre, a historic venue, occasionally hosts live music and events.

• Budget: The Comfort Inn Columbus, located near I-65, offers rooms from approximately $90–120 per night.
• Mid-range: The Courtyard by Marriott Columbus, 2250 W. Jonathan Moore Pike, offers modern rooms from approximately $120–160 per night.
• Upscale / heritage: The Inn at Irwin Gardens, a historic bed-and-breakfast in a beautifully restored home, offers a unique stay from approximately $150–200 per night.

• Fair Oaks Mall — ☏ +1 812-372-3831. M–Sa 10AM–9PM, Su noon–6PM.
• Cummins Power Store — 406 Washington St. M–F 8:30AM–5PM. Sells Cummins-branded apparel.
• Columbus Farmers Market — Cummins Parking Lot. Second weekend of May through third weekend of September, 9AM–12:30PM.

• Bloomington, IN (25 miles north, ~30 min) — Indiana University campus, vibrant arts scene, and dining.
• Indianapolis, IN (46 miles north, ~1 hour) — State capital with museums, sports, and cultural attractions.
• Louisville, KY (47 miles south, ~55 min) — Bourbon trail, Churchill Downs, and the Louisville Slugger Museum.
• Nashville/Brown County, IN (25 miles southeast, ~30 min) — Charming village with arts, crafts, and Brown County State Park.
• Seymour, IN (30 miles south, ~35 min) — Birthplace of John Mellencamp; gateway to Muscatatuck County Park.