· By Visit Columbia
Fall Weekends Were Made for Columbia, TN
There's just something about fall in Columbia, Tennessee. Crisp air, changing leaves, a calendar full of events, and plenty of good food, local finds, and things to explore make this season one of the best times to visit. Spend the day outdoors, wander through downtown, discover Columbia's history and arts, or turn it all into a weekend getaway. However you choose to spend your time, consider this your guide to making the most of fall in Columbia.
Fall Fun Starts Here
All Aboard: Mid-South Live Steamers Fall Meet
September 24 - 26 | Maury County Park
All aboard for one of Columbia’s most unique family traditions! Twice a year, the Mid-South Live Steamers open their tracks to the public for free miniature train rides during their spring and fall meets. Their Fall Meet returns September 24–26, giving kids and grown-ups alike the chance to climb aboard and experience these impressive miniature trains for themselves. It’s a Columbia favorite and an outing the whole family can enjoy together.
Fall Fest at October First Fridays
Friday, October 2 | Downtown Columbia
First Fridays is getting a fall makeover! Head to Downtown Columbia on October 2 for Columbia Main Street’s Fall Fest-themed First Fridays. Spend the evening strolling downtown while enjoying live music, local vendors, food trucks, family-friendly activities, shopping, dining, and plenty of fall fun along the way. It’s the perfect excuse to gather the family and kick off October in the heart of Columbia.
A Spooktacular Night Downtown: Haunting in the District
Saturday, October 31 | Downtown Columbia
Halloween night is getting spooky in Downtown Columbia! Haunting in the District invites families to dress up their little ghosts, goblins, superheroes, and princesses for an evening of trick-or-treating around the downtown district. Kids 12 and under can collect sweet treats from participating businesses while families enjoy all the Halloween fun happening around the square. Grab your costumes and candy bags and make Downtown Columbia part of your Halloween tradition!
Fall Stops Worth Making
Meet the Animals at FairyTails Petting Farm
Make a few furry—and maybe not-so-furry—friends this fall at FairyTails Petting Farm! Located right here in Columbia, FairyTails is home to an exciting variety of animals and offers visitors the chance to experience the farm through tours available by appointment. It’s a fun addition to a fall day in Columbia, especially for families and animal lovers looking for something a little different.
Pick the Perfect Pumpkin at Hidden Bee Pumpkin Patch
September 19–November 1 | Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays
Nothing says fall quite like a trip to the pumpkin patch! Hidden Bee Pumpkin Patch is back for another season of pumpkins, farm fun, and plenty of reasons to spend a fall day outdoors. Search for the perfect pumpkin, meet rescue farm animals, hop aboard for a scenic hayride, make your way through the maze escape room, grab something tasty to eat, and browse unique gifts before heading home. Whether you’re here for the pumpkins or just a picture-perfect fall day, Hidden Bee is a stop worth adding to your Columbia itinerary.
Get Your Scare On at Miller’s Thrillers
September 26–October 31
Ready to trade the cozy side of fall for something a little scarier? Miller’s Thrillers brings the screams with outdoor haunted attractions made for those who like their fall fun with a fright. Take on Hillbilly Hollar, an eerie outdoor haunted woods experience, or climb aboard the Zombie Paintball Hayride and put your aim to the test against a horde of zombies. There’s also an Entertainment Zone featuring live stage shows, concessions, photo ops, fire performers, a zombie drumline, light shows, and more.
A Taste of Fall
Start the Day with a Stack
The Stubborn Mule
A crisp fall morning calls for a breakfast worth getting out of bed for. Start your day at The Stubborn Mule, a local favorite serving up the kind of hearty breakfast that just feels right this time of year. Order a stack of their banana and walnut pancakes and load up your plate with all the breakfast sides your heart desires. Sweet, filling, and the perfect fuel for a full day of exploring Columbia.
Cozy Up for Lunch
Square Market & Cafe
By lunchtime, make your way to Downtown Columbia and grab a table at Square Market & Cafe. Nothing says fall quite like a warm bowl of soup, and this longtime Columbia favorite is known for its homemade soups and classic sandwiches. Pair the two for the ultimate cozy lunch before heading back out to explore the downtown district.
Finish the Day with a Full Plate
Boot Stompin’ BBQ
After a full day of fall adventures, you’ll need something to fill you up! Located inside the Columbia Arts Building, Boot Stompin’ BBQ. specializes in authentic, slow-smoked Texas-style barbecue. Fill your plate with smoked meats and traditional sides, settle in, and end your fall day in Columbia the Southern way; happy and full!
A Few More to Fall For
Events:
Ghosts of Greenwood
Columbia Cars and Coffee
Pumpkin Paradise
Downtown Ghost Tour
Fall Sips Through Columbia:
August Sage Cafe
B's Salty & Sweet
Bradley Mountain
Buckhead Coffeehouse
Hank's Coffee Station - Columbia
King's Baking Co.
Legacy Coffee Co.
Muletown Coffee Roasters
Tennessee Coffee & Smoothie Co.
Towne Café
In This Story
The map needs a browser that can draw it. Everything on it is listed on this page.
