Columbus Historic Architecture
Columbus is rich with history. Over 250 buildings have been declared historic and are finely preserved examples of early 1900’s architecture.
We have a Louis Sullivan Jewel Box bank in our town that still operates as a bank. You can take a tour any time during business hours. There is a Frank Lloyd Wright home. A fine example of Wright’s architecture. And many, many painted ladies – early 1900’s Victorian homes.
You can wander tree lined streets and enjoy viewing the architecture and historic downtown area.
Michael Mann selected Columbus as the site for his 1930’s movie, Public Enemies, because of the fine architecture examples. You can enjoy an architectural tour on foot following a Walking Tour booklet provided by the B&B and written by the Columbus Historic Commission. Or travel the historic streets in a horse-drawn carriage. Make arrangements with Nancy for the carriage ride.
The cost is $75 / couple.
Golf
Columbus is home to two public golf courses - Kestrel Ridge Golf, and City of Columbus Golf Course. Both are fun, interesting courses that will test your skills.
Amtrak
Come to Columbus on the Empire Builder train that travels between Chicago and Seattle, Washington. We are about 2½ hours out of Chicago. We will be glad to pick you up at the Amtrak station - just give us a call!
Antiques
The largest antique mall in Wisconsin is located just blocks from the B&B. Browse through hundreds of booths in over 83,000 square feet of space. In addition, we have many other smaller antique shops that specialize in restoration, lamps and lighting, and unique pieces.
Farm Visit
Columbus is a rural community surrounded by many family farms. We can make arrangements for you to visit our 120 acre farm just south of Columbus. We have ponies, draft horses, and a big fire pit. Hay rides are available. S’mores by the fire on a warm summer evening make for a wonderful farm experience! Call to make arrangements.
Restaurants
Columbus has several unique dining experiences. The Capri Steak House is a 50’s style supper club. They feature steak, fish and chicken dishes served with all of the “extras” including soup, relish tray and salad. Alcohol is served at the Capri. Good food, interesting atmosphere. Summer time welcomes the opening of an old fashioned hamburger drive in, Mullins. Drive up to the hamburger stand and a car hop will serve you in the car or you can sit at a picnic table. The Apple Tree restaurant is a local restaurant the serves a wide variety of items. Julie’s Java is a small local restaurant located right along the railroad tracks. Julie features wonderful sandwiches and baked goods.
Horse Drawn Carriage Rides
Make arrangements to tour Columbus in a horse-drawn carriage, a service available to Bed & Breakfast guests for a fee. Tours will be arranged at you convenience. Learn about the city from the comfort and safety of a vintage carriage!
Aquatic Center
Columbus has a wonderful aquatic center that is open from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day. We can provide you with an updated schedule including lap swim times, water aerobics and open swimming. Day passes are available.
Shopping
Wisconsin Pottery – American heritage redware pottery created here in Columbus by world renowned potter Joel Huntley
Colonial Carriage Works – exquisite horse drawn carriages restored and created by Todd Frey right here in Columbus. Todd has a collection of over 200 carriages.
Susan’s Fibers – wool, felting supplies, spinning wheels, looms, yarn, fiber. Below are some of the fiber animals at Susan’s shop just south of Columbus
There are many other small, unique shops in Columbus including: The West James Gallery which features local artisans and jewelry, Kindred Kids a children’s toy and resale shop and we are the home to 6 custom cabinet makers.
Biking, Bird watching
Enjoy biking, nature walks and bird watching in our rural setting. This is a gently rolling farm community. There are places to walk and enjoy nature.
Annual Columbus Events
Red Bud Days - 1st weekend in May
Local festival featuring the crowing of the Red Bud prince and princess, planting red bud trees, specials in local shops and burgers and brats on the Boulevard.
Columbus Carriage Classic - Father’s Day Weekend (3rd weekend of June)
An American Driving Society sanctioned driving event held 3 days each year in Fireman’s Park. Includes the picnic class, carriage dog class, and a special drive around the city of Columbus.
Independence Day Celebration - 4-5 days around July 4th
Music, parade, food, carnival. One of the largest 4th of July celebrations in the area. Fireworks are free and start at dusk on July 4th.
Columbus Days - Early October
Crafts, food and music on the boulevard downtown.
Historic Home Tour - 1st Sunday in December every even year
Historic homes decorated for the holidays on display.
Columbus Carriage House
Bed & Breakfast
