A Historic Mule Town with River Views, Arts Culture, and a Thriving Town Square
Living in Columbia, TN offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and modern convenience. Just 45 miles south of Nashville, Columbia is a town on the rise — known for its historic homes, wide-open pastures, vibrant arts community, and strong local schools. Whether you’re moving to Columbia for the thriving downtown, the outdoor lifestyle, or the sense of community, it’s a place that welcomes families, entrepreneurs, and creatives alike.
Essentials
Columbia schools are known for their emphasis on academic performance and community involvement, making them a solid choice for families relocating to Middle Tennessee.
Columbia TN Schools:
Maury County Public Schools (MCPS) – Serves grades PreK–12 throughout Columbia and greater Maury County.
Notable schools include Columbia Central High School, E.A. Cox Middle School, and J.E. Woodard Elementary School.
Commute Times:
Columbia is located approximately 45 miles south of Nashville, with an average commute time to downtown ranging from 49 to 57 minutes, depending on traffic. The city’s proximity to I-65 makes it a viable option for those who work in Nashville but want more space and serenity at home.
Lifestyle
Parks & Outdoor Spaces
Columbia offers a wide variety of public parks and natural spaces for residents to explore. From scenic trails to disc golf courses, there’s something for every age and interest.
Chickasaw Trace Park: A 240.5-acre park dedicated to outdoor recreation, featuring 9 miles of mountain bike trails, a pump & jump track, boat ramp, radio control flight field, radio control car track, restrooms, a playground, and two pavilions.
Riverwalk Park: Located along the Duck River, this park offers paved paths, open green spaces, and beautiful river views. It’s perfect for a morning walk, an afternoon picnic, or simply enjoying the serenity of Columbia’s downtown charm.
Woodland Park: A treasured local park in the heart of Columbia that is also home to a full, 18-hole disc golf course. Perfect for all skill levels, this excursion offers a fun way to spend an afternoon under the trees.
Yanahli Park: Covering 474 acres, Yanahli Park is a dream for explorers. One of its main trails, the Cheeks Bend Bluff Trail, winds along the bluffs above the Duck River and leads to Rummage Cave—a horizontal cave system with five impressive oval rooms.
Lakes & Fishing Spots
Outdoor enthusiasts in Columbia, TN enjoy easy access to fishing, kayaking, and paddling along the Duck River and nearby lakes.
Duck River: The Duck River is one of the most biodiverse rivers in North America, winding through Columbia and offering a relaxing yet adventurous paddling experience. Outfitters like Higher Pursuits and River Rat Canoe Rentals make it easy to spend a fun-filled afternoon on the water.
Williamsport Lakes: Known as one of Middle Tennessee’s most popular fishing spots, the lakes are teeming with Largemouth and Florida Bass, Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, Hybrid Striped Bass, and more.
Hiking & Horseback Trails
Columbia offers hidden gems for hikers and nature lovers, including scenic waterfalls, bluff trails, and unique cave systems.
Stillhouse Hollow Falls: Located approximately 21 miles southwest of Columbia, this 90-acre state natural area features a scenic waterfall trail. The journey to the falls is only about two-thirds of a mile, making it ideal for families or anyone looking for a short outdoor escape with a big payoff.
Cheeks Bend Bluff Trail: Part of Yanahli Park, this trail winds along the bluffs above the Duck River and leads to Rummage Cave—a horizontal cave system with five impressive oval rooms.
Annual Events & Festivals
Columbia has a strong sense of local pride, and its annual events celebrate both tradition and community spirit.
Mule Day: An annual celebration of all things related to mules, held in Columbia, Tennessee — the self-proclaimed “Mule Capital” of the world. Begun in 1840 as “Breeder’s Day,” it now attracts over 200,000 people and takes place over four days. Mule Day attracts visitors from across the country each spring, making it one of the most unique and celebrated festivals in Tennessee. Events include a mule parade, craft vendors, live music, and plenty of local flavor.
First Fridays: A monthly event that takes place on the first Friday of every month from April through December. It features live music, food trucks, local vendors, and other fun activities for children and adults.
The Homestead Festival: An annual event held in Columbia, TN, combining music with meaningful experiences, alongside world-class teachers focused on inspiring people to build sustainable lives filled with meaning and purpose.
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