The Columbus center is about the area of Maude Norton Memorial Hospital and 17 miles southwest of Pittsburg State University.
Columbus, KS experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. Spring and fall boast the most pleasant weather, favorable for exploring the city's attractions. In spring, nature enthusiasts can observe the blooming flora at local parks. In fall, the annual Columbus Day Festival and Hot Air Balloon Regatta is held, a noteworthy October event featuring balloons, live music, and local food vendors. The sunny summer weather is perfect for exploring parks and outdoor spaces, such as Columbus City Park, where families can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and sports. The Columbus Farmers Market, held weekly, is a summer staple, offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. Winter, although mild, offers a quieter, more serene atmosphere for those seeking a peaceful retreat. The period from mid-May to early October is considered the most popular time for tourists. These warm months are ideal for open-air activities like strolling in the parks, attending festivals, and dining outdoors. So, if you want to enjoy Columbus to its fullest, plan your visit during these months. But whenever you choose to visit, Columbus provides numerous experiences that cater to every traveler.
Visitors to Columbus, KS can take advantage of a multitude of special offers, deals, and discounts through HotelPlanner. Group travelers, such as wedding parties, sports teams, and corporate groups, can benefit from significant group rate discounts, often receiving additional perks like complimentary room upgrades and free meeting space. For solo travelers, HotelPlanner frequently provides exclusive promotional rates, last-minute deals, and seasonal price cuts, making it easier to find affordable luxury accommodations. Additionally, loyalty program members can enjoy extra savings and earn points for future stays. Whether you're planning a large event or a solo adventure, HotelPlanner's extensive network of hotel partners ensures you can access the best rates and offers available, making your stay in Columbus both affordable and pleasant.
Columbus is steeped in a rich history that began in 1868 when the first settlers arrived. Just a year later, in 1869, its first post office was established, marking the start of a prosperous community. Named by founder A.L. Peters after his own hometown of Columbus, Ohio, the city indirectly pays homage to the famed explorer Christopher Columbus. It quickly became a pivotal railroad junction, connecting the Saint Louis and San Francisco and the Missouri, Kansas, and Texas railroads, which were instrumental in its expansion and progress. The neighboring area was abundant in natural resources, including coal, lead, and zinc, which were extensively mined. These industries, along with agricultural trade, formed the backbone of the local economy. Columbus boasted a diverse industrial landscape, with machine shops, grain elevators, and flour mills. A cigar factory, bottle works for soft drinks, a canning factory, and a significant brick-making plant also contributed to the city's bustling business activities. In a notable chapter of the local history, 1887 saw the formation of the Long-Bell Lumber Company by Robert A. Long and Victor Bell. What started as a single lumberyard in Columbus expanded into one of the largest vertically integrated lumber companies in the United States. The company's success story continued until 1956 when it was purchased by International Paper. This rich industrial past, combined with its pivotal role in the rail network, makes Columbus, KS a city with a history as robust as the materials it once produced and traded.