Wednesday, August 6, 2025
#GoAllOut as a Team! The Ultimate Guide for Sports Teams Traveling to Columbus, Georgia
Welcome to Columbus, Georgia—the ultimate destination for sports teams seeking a blend of competition, camaraderie, and Southern hospitality. Whether you're here for a weekend tournament or an extended stay, Columbus offers a winning lineup of group-friendly dining, shopping, adventure, and cultural experiences. Here's your game plan for an unforgettable visit. Get ready to #GoAllOut!
Group Dining: Where Teams Eat Like Champions
Feeding a hungry team? Columbus has you covered with restaurants that cater to large groups and offer a variety of cuisines.
- The Cannon Brew Pub: Located in a historic building, this brewpub offers a private upstairs dining room for events and gatherings.
- The Mix Market: Situated in the heart of Uptown Columbus, The Mix Market offers a diverse menu featuring pizza, sandwiches, fusion dishes, and more. With its spacious layout and private event options, it's an excellent choice for large groups seeking variety and flavor.
- Speakeasy: A beloved local institution since 1976, Speakeasy serves up American classics like burgers, sandwiches, and their signature "Camel Rider" pita. The relaxed atmosphere and spacious dining areas make it ideal for teams looking to enjoy a hearty meal together.
- Dinglewood Pharmacy: Established in 1918, Dinglewood Pharmacy is the oldest eating establishment in Columbus and home to the World-Famous Scrambled Dog. This unique dish features a chopped hot dog smothered in chili, topped with onions, pickles, and oyster crackers. It's a must-try for any visitor to Columbus.
- B. Merrell's: A local favorite since 1991, B. Merrell's offers a casual dining experience with a menu featuring rotisserie chicken, baby back ribs, sandwiches, and signature salads. The family-friendly atmosphere includes a game room for kids and a variety of house-made sauces.
- Tommy G's: Located in Midland Commons, Tommy G's is a modern eatery offering a diverse menu that includes pizzas, smash burgers, tacos, pasta, and more. With 50 beer taps and 10 wine taps, it's a great spot for teams to relax and enjoy a meal together.
- Monarcha: This Mexican restaurant near Old Town packs a ton of flavor into every dish. Locals love their guacamole that’s made table-side, and their queso is some of the best in the area. If you can, call ahead and let them know you’re coming. It’s not unusual for this popular place to be on a wait on the weekends.
- Country's BBQ: A Columbus staple since 1975, Country's BBQ serves up classic Southern barbecue with options like chopped pork sandwiches, ribs, and fried chicken. With multiple locations, it's a convenient choice for teams craving authentic barbecue.
- Minnie’s Uptown Restaurant: This beloved local staple serves up Southern comfort food to the max. Known for their “meat and three” plates and their popular homemade desserts, Minnie’s is the perfect stop for your entire team and families. Just make your way through the line and let them fill up your plate. Just promise us you’ll never skip dessert at Minnie’s!
- Deorio’s: If you’re craving a taste of local tradition, Deorio’s is a Columbus favorite you can’t miss! Known for its classic, hand-tossed pizzas, hearty pastas, and welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, this local treasure has been serving up comfort and flavor for decades. Whether you’re grabbing a casual dinner with your team or fueling up after a long day of games, Deorio’s is a place everyone feels at home.
- Me Encanta: This new Mexican restaurant in Uptown Columbus has quickly become a popular pick for locals and visitors alike. Our favorite thing about the restaurant? They have handmade flour tortillas! This spot is a must-try if you’ve got an hour or two between games and need a hearty meal to keep you running for the rest of the day.
Whether you're looking for a sit-down dinner or a quick bite between games, Columbus offers a variety of dining options to satisfy every team's appetite!
Shopping: Retail Therapy for the Whole Team
Between games? Unwind with some retail therapy at Columbus's premier shopping destinations.
- Highside Market: This hip new development blends boutique shopping with creative energy and some great food. Located at the crossroads of 13th Street and 2nd Avenue, this imaginative development mixes thoughtfully-curated shops with local eats, green spaces, and vibrant events. The best part? It’s all wrapped in stylish architecture that nods to Columbus’s history while embracing its future.
- Park Place Midtown: Located at 1817 Garrard Street, Park Place Midtown is a curated home décor and gift shop that blends classic style with modern flair. From elegant tabletop items and luxurious linens to unique gifts and accessories, it's a treasure trove for shoppers seeking quality and style.
- Galleria Riverside: Situated at 1658 Rollins Way, Galleria Riverside is a unique furnishings and gift shop offering original art, antiques, home accessories, and personalized invitations. With over thirty vendors under one roof, it's a fun, one-stop shopping experience that includes personal shopping, gift wrapping, and delivery services.
- Midland Commons: This vibrant 88‑acre mixed-use development blends everyday retail—including Panera Bread, First Watch, a Publix, and unique local boutiques—with cool dining spots like Tommy G’s and Mabella Italian Steakhouse Whether you're picking up essentials, indulging in specialty treats, or browsing locally curated finds, Midland Commons should be high on your list.
- Old Town Columbus: Styled like a picturesque village with red-brick sidewalks and iron-balcony storefronts, Old Town is centered around a vibrant town square. This development is full of quaint shops like Harlynn & Gray, The Brick‑and‑Mortar Café, and wellness stops such as Pure Salon and Old Town Optique. Spot local home décor and gift items at Tallulah Home, or stop by Old Town Provisions for market-style finds. It’s the perfect blend of cozy, walkable retail with modern Southern hospitality—ideal for those who love shopping with small-town warmth and curated charm.
- Columbus Park Crossing: An exceptional array of retailers and eateries to fulfill your team's shopping needs. Expect to find everything from Home Goods to a movie theatre and popular clothing stores like Old Navy, American Eagle, and The Gap.
- The Landings: A lifestyle center offering upscale shops and unique boutiques, perfect for indulging in pure retail therapy. Out with a team of girls? Check out Lizard Thicket, a popular boutique.
- Peachtree Mall: The only super-regional shopping center within 60 miles, featuring specialty stores and restaurants.
Adventure: Thrills Beyond the Field
Columbus isn't just about sports—it's a place where adventure knows how to #GoAllOut. Take your team's energy to new heights with these exhilarating activities, and build a little team culture along the way.
- Whitewater Express: Experience the world's longest natural urban whitewater rafting course, offering trips suitable for all skill levels.
- Go Zip Lining Across State Lines: Soar over the Chattahoochee River with zip line adventures that cross into Alabama and back.
- Chattahoochee RiverWalk: A 30+ mile linear park perfect for biking, walking, and enjoying scenic views along the river.
- Urban Air Adventure Park: Rained out? Check out his indoor park featuring attractions like trampolines, obstacle courses, and more for all ages.
The Final Whistle
Columbus, Georgia, is more than just a tournament stop—it's a destination where teams can bond, explore, and create lasting memories. From team-friendly dining to thrilling adventures and rich cultural experiences, Columbus has everything you need for a winning trip. Lace up your cleats, grab your teammates, and get ready to #GoAllOut as you experience the best of Georgia.
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