Top 8 Recreational Spots in Columbus

Let’s Discover the Columbus Recreational Areas Bonanza!

Columbus, located in the pulsating heart of Nebraska, aesthetically oozes out small-town America vibes. While family-friendly Columbus attractions and activities steal the limelight, its true highlight is the variety of recreational spots. These areas, from verdant parks to lakes and rivers, offer a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the city and enjoy a bit of nature. Following are the top areas that are worth checking out:

Pawnee Park is a 15-acre park that goes by the name of “Picnic Capital of Nebraska,” it is next to the Bam Berg Golf Course and Loup River and hosts American Legion and high school baseball programs. From aroma-filled rose gardens to the 1904 Union Pacific steam locomotive, every corner holds a unique adore. Thrill seeker? Feel a rapid dash of energy at Pawnee Plunge Water Park or try out your luck at a bike or skate facility. For those looking for a short solitude walk, family recreation playground areas are a perfect choice. Sports enthusiasts can look forward to having some fun at sand volleyball courts or tee off at a 9-hole disc golf course while anglers can enjoy fishing. With a 2,000-seat stadium with a lighted football field, tennis courts, and horseshoe pits, the best of the fun things to do in Columbus abound here. Fitness freaks can make their way to an eight-lane all-weather running track and if hunger strikes, a large picnic shelter as well as a small one invites you to enjoy your food in a serene ambiance.

South Highways 81 and 30

Gerrard Park is a 28-acre park that is located close to the Countryview Estates and Wagners Par. It boasts a sheltered area with concession stands and a couple of restrooms. It also offers a 6-diamond baseball/ softball complex along with 6 fields decorated with lights for night play and late evening, a playground for kiddos, and 6 tennis courts.

27th Street and 45th Avenue

Those who are looking for an adventure-packed journey should look no further than Centennial Park. It spreads over a 20-acre of land, serving as an ideal spot for both outdoor enthusiasts and sports admirers. Hit a home run on one of 3 softball and baseball diamonds, all features coruscating for grand night games. You can have ample time at immaculate tennis courts or let the kids enjoy the playground. Challenge your friends to a horseshoe game, which is one of the best activities in Columbus, or get snacks from the concession stand.

5th Street and 8th Avenue

Experience a heavenly sports paradise at the 18-acre Bradshaw Park Softball Complex. With four football/ softball complexes with lights, there are also 2 football fields; one eight-man and one regulation. Moreover, it also hosts high and youth school midget football and softball leagues.

15th Street and 48th Avenue

Wilderness Park Soccer Complex sprawls over 42 acres of land, featuring a 10-field regulation-sized soccer complex, being among the best Columbus tourist attractions for soccer lovers, featuring a restroom with bleachers, shelter, and a concession stand. High school soccer, American Youth Soccer Organization abbreviated as AYSO, and club have also played here.

41st Street and 18th Avenue

Just 4 miles north of Columbus lies heaven for outdoor fanatics, which spans over 200 acres. It is the ultimate playground for water skiing, picnicking, camping, swimming, jet skiing, and fishing. Launch your boat from one of the two rams and cruise along the crystal-clear waters. Let yourself feel the thrill of gliding across the surface or cast a line and haul in the big catch. Prefer dry land? Set up your camp, enjoy a leisurely picnic by the waters, or take a relaxing dip in them. Nature lovers can enjoy a 2.5-mile concrete bike or hike path that offers jaw-dropping views and connects to miles of natural surface trails beside the canal system.

4 miles north of US Highway 30 on 18th Avenue.

Located just four miles north of Columbus, this 40-acre wooded sanctuary features camping facilities, shelters, picnic spots, playgrounds, and restrooms. It's an excellent habitat for wildlife. Bob Lake and the Robert White Trails run alongside Lake Babcock and link to extensive natural and paved hiking and biking trails.

3 miles north of Columbus on 48th Avenue, take a turn east on Lakeview Road, and continue approximately ¼ mile.

Headworks Park spans 17 acres, just 6 miles west of Genoa, located on Highway 22. Here you can immerse yourself in thrilling hiking trails, pitch your camp to the beautiful night-lit stars, picnic among the panoramic views, and cool it off with a swim or a memorable fishing excursion. Meanwhile, there's also a Powerhouse Park 1.5 miles north of Highway 30, set on 3rd Avenue, which spans 4 acres, it offers multiple Columbus things to do, like fishing, playing on the ground, and camping under an open sky, making it a perfect spot for a family outing.