Welcome to Columbia, TN - Your Future Home!
Welcome to Columbia, Tennessee! Known as the "Mule Capital of the World," Columbia is a charming city with a rich history, vibrant community, and a plethora of amenities that make it an ideal place to call home. Whether you're relocating for work, family, or simply seeking a new adventure, Columbia offers a welcoming atmosphere and a high quality of life. Let's explore what makes Columbia such a great place to live.
About Columbia, TN
Columbia, located in Maury County, is a city full of southern charm and hospitality. With a population of around 39,000 residents, it strikes the perfect balance between small-town charm and big-city amenities. Columbia is situated just 45 miles south of Nashville, providing easy access to the vibrant city life while maintaining a peaceful, suburban feel.
Local Schools
Education is a priority in Columbia, and the city is served by the Maury County Public Schools district. Here are some of the top schools in the area:
1. Columbia Central High School: Known for its strong academic programs and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
2. Whitthorne Middle School: Offers a robust curriculum and a supportive learning environment.
3. J.R. Baker Elementary School: Focuses on providing a solid foundation for young learners with a commitment to academic excellence.
In addition to public schools, Columbia is home to several private institutions and is within commuting distance to higher education establishments such as Columbia State Community College.
More information on Columbia schools can be found here:
GreatSchools.org Columbia Schools
Parks and Recreation
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Columbia. The city boasts numerous parks, trails, and recreational facilities:
1. Maury County Park: Spanning 242 acres the park contains a multitude of amenities to serve the surrounding population, as well as space to hold annual festivals like Mule Day and the Maury County Fair. The park boasts a 1-mile nature trail that features a Storybook Trail and outdoor classroom, 2-mile paved trail, an ADA accessible trail (“Tony’s Trail”), three playgrounds, eight pavilions, a gazebo, two buildings (Baker Building and Exhibit Building) and restrooms.
2. Riverwalk Park: Located along the Duck River, it features wide open greenways, paved walkways, pavilions, a splash pad, a basketball court, and two pavilions. Home to a number of annual events and programs this park is a must-visit destination in Columbia.
3. Ridley Sports Complex: A state-of-the-art facility, Ridley Sports Complex is one of the premier athletic facilities in Tennessee. Featuring 10 softball fields, 10 soccer fields, and 2 multi-purpose rectangular fields - this complex can do a lot and it does! Each section of the facility features a concession stand with bathrooms, full-field lighting, and generous seating for each field.
Community Events
Columbia hosts a variety of community events that bring residents together and celebrate the city's unique culture:
1. Mule Day: Mule Day is an annual celebration of all things related to mules and is held in Columbia, Tennessee, the "Mule Capital" of the world. Begun in 1840 as "Breeder's Day", a meeting for mule breeders, it now attracts over 200,000 people and takes place over four days. In addition to mules, traditional Appalachian food, music, dancing, and crafts are featured.
2. First Fridays: Experience historic downtown Columbia like a local every First Fridays of the month! Make an evening of it in historic downtown Columbia, Tennessee where this family-friendly event transforms downtown into a high-energy scene of live music, friendly faces, and local flavor every first Friday of the month, April through December each year.
3. Columbia Farmers Market: The Columbia Farmers Market is an open-air market that takes full advantage of our surrounding farms and local artisans. Open year-round, with our primary season running from May through October, you will be able to find a variety of local produce, fruits and vegetables, locally raised meats, fresh eggs, herbs, honey, jams, baked goods, fresh flowers, hand-crafted items, and much more!
Local Amenities
Columbia is home to a range of amenities that enhance the quality of life for its residents:
- Shopping and Dining: Downtown Columbia offers a mix of boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes, while larger retail centers provide convenient access to everyday necessities. Some of my favorites are:
1. Prime & Pint: Reviving Culinary Heritage: At Prime and Pint, we intertwine the timeless craft of butchery with the spirited ambiance of a community-centric public house and scratch kitchen dining experience.
2. Taps Off Main: Taps Off Main is a craft taproom located in the historic downtown square of Columbia, Tennessee. We offer 26 continuously rotating taps, package options to-go, local snacks, & kindly welcome outside food.
3. Ollie & Finn's Counter: Ollie and Finn’s began in the Columbia Arts Building in 2021 serving up deliciously crafted sandwiches compiled of scratch-made recipes, all from the minds of husband and wife duo; Ethan and Anna Eilermann. Take a look at the menu and get ready to fall in love with some unique, but tasty combinations!
4. Factory At Columbia: The Factory At Columbia, A 1959 Industrial Shirt Factory, Is Home To An Eclectic Variety Of Retailers And Restaurants. It’s The Place To Be For The Best Shopping, Eats, And More.
- Healthcare: Maury Regional Medical Center is a top-rated hospital providing comprehensive medical services to the community.
- Entertainment and Culture:
1. The James K. Polk Home and Museum: Learn about a fascinating and pivotal time in U.S. history through the life and legacy of our 11th President. Our docents are passionate about history and this community, and ready to lead you on an educational journey through the Polk Home.
2. Columbia Arts District: The emerging Columbia Arts District was established as a haven for artists and artisans to gather together in an eclectic mix of contemporary creative culture, near the heart of downtown Columbia only blocks from Downtown Columbia.
3. Public Arts & Murals: Explore Columbia's artistic and sometimes hidden treasures of public art sculptures, murals, and ghost signs found downtown, in the Arts District, on Columbia State's campus, and around town. Some are worthy of deep contemplation while others make for a great selfie!
Columbia Information Resources
- Visit Columbia
- Columbia TN Wikipedia
- City of Columbia
Why Move to Columbia, TN?
Columbia is a city that truly offers something for everyone. Its friendly community, excellent schools, diverse housing options, and abundance of recreational opportunities make it an ideal place to live, work, and play. Whether you're seeking a quiet, suburban lifestyle or a place rich in history and culture, Columbia is ready to welcome you home.
Contact Us
Ready to make Columbia your new home? Contact us today to learn more about available properties and start your journey to becoming a part of this wonderful community.