Fill up your holiday with these merry things to do in Columbus, TX.
Take your holiday travel to new destinations! Columbus, Texas, is a small town on the Colorado River, conveniently located near San Antonio, Austin, and Houston. The famous Santa Claus Museum gets tons of visitors yearly and year. It’s a special place to get a start on holiday memories and the holiday season. Writing letters to Santa, enjoying delicious restaurants, and picking up gifts at unique shops are some fun things to do in Columbus, TX, for the holidays.
Things To Do In Columbus, TX, For The Holidays
From seeing a life-size Santa at the museum to eating great food at quaint places and walking the historic district streets, the whole family will cherish their time in Columbus during the holidays. Make those memories count! And if you get there before the new year, you’re in for a treat as the town magically turns into the Christmas season more so than any other time of the year.
If your travels take you there in June, check out the Columbus Annual June BBQ Cook-off.
Santa Claus Museum Columbus, TX
The Santa Claus Museum is the only one in the state of Texas and one of two in the United States. Having it here in Texas makes it an excellent holiday destination. Created by a single collection of Columbus local Mary Elizabeth Hopkins, the museum currently boasts nearly 5,000 Santas, including figurines, music boxes, dolls, dishes, ornaments, artwork, and needlework from 1927 to the late ’90s. These Santas come from all over the world and tell a story about how different cultures in different areas celebrate Santa Claus. If you’re a Christmas lover and a fan of Santa Claus, you will have a jolly ole time in this town. Santa is a huge deal in Columbus, TX!
Santa Clauses range from the common to the cute to the just plain odd. For example, there’s one Santa with red and green eyes. You’ll also see a fellow named Pete that brings coal rather than gifts. And many Fathers of Christmas of varying colors and cultures represent the jolly men from around the globe. These are just a few of the odd things shown at the museum.
A few highlights from the collection include a nearly life-sized Santa Claus previously displayed in the Priesmeyer Department Store during the 1950s. You’ll find Duncan Royal Santas from around the world, Russian nesting Santas, Norman Rockwell and Thomas Nast artwork, Lladró ceramic Santas, and a complete collection of Haddon Sundblom Coca-Cola Santas.
The Santa Claus Museum is open Fridays and Saturdays. Dates and times vary. Be sure to see the website for accurate dates.
Address: 604 Washington St., Columbus, TX.
Admission is $5 per person and FREE in December.
See The Beautiful Live Oak Trees In Columbus, TX
A drive slightly north along the original Highway 90 takes you back to where the Living Oaks grow strong and wrap-around porches. Speaking of trees, Columbus is home to many Live Oak trees said to be over 500 years old. Streets are split down to accommodate these beauties, and others are fully canopied from one side to the other. As impressive as these are, there is still one more beyond comparison.
Head further down Old Highway 90, and you’ll come across Columbus Oak, the 2nd largest Live Oak in Texas. It is centuries old and over 300 inches around.
Abram Alley Log Cabin
History awaits around every corner in Columbus, TX. Right around the corner from the Santa Claus Museum, you’ll find the Abram Alley Log Cabin, dating from the time of the Texas Revolution. The two-room log cabin (built in 1836) depicts the early Texas pioneer life. As you continue your walk, you will notice other historic buildings. For Alley Log Cabin & Antique Tool Museum tours, contact the Columbus Chamber of Commerce at 979-732-8385.
Inside the Columbus, TX Courthouse
Columbus, TX Courthouse
In the center of town is the Colorado County Courthouse. If you’re a history buff who loves courthouse, put this one on your list. This historic courthouse, with its copper dome and this stunning emerald-stained Tiffany-style Glass Dome, is a sight to behold. There have been many renovations through the years, and today it’s a show-stopper.
The Stafford Opera House
Directly across the street from the Courthouse is the 1886 Stafford Opera House. The Stafford Opera House is the state’s largest flat-floored opera house. The historic home next door is where the Stafford family lived. It’s been said that Mr. Stafford could watch the live performances on stage from his balcony.
At various times the building has been a car dealership, a roller skating rink, and apartments. The pine floors have remained the same through all incarnations. The building has returned to its roots as a performing arts theatre and holds special events.
Hound Song Brewing Co.
For something different and craft beer & live music, head to Hound Song Brewing for some fun. The kitchen is open—address: 535 Walnut St.
Saturdays On The Square
On the selected 2nd Saturday of the month, head to the Country Courthouse Square to enjoy local vendors of every kind, including fresh produce, baked goods, nuts, flowers, handmade gifts, metal art, and more.
Columbus County Market – The Big One
The last Saturday of the month, March through November. 9 am to Noon at the Courthouse Square.
Where To Stay In Columbus, Texas
Charming Bed and Breakfasts, hotels, vacation rentals, and RV parks are available in Columbus.
Mary’s Nest
Mary’s Nest is located in the heart of downtown Columbus and offers a large front porch for relaxing with family or friends. With three bedrooms, two bathrooms, two living rooms, and a full kitchen, it could be everything you need. It’s also within walking distance of the Santa Claus Museum.
The Lazy B Vacation Rental and 36 Oaks Retreat are two more.
Where To Eat In Columbus, TX
Columbus, Texas, offers excellent dining from German, Mexican, Austrian, and Czech and down-home cooking.
Nancy’s Steak House
For dining, consider Nancy’s Steak House. Excellent steaks with equally great service. They offer a salad bar and a soft-serve ice cream machine for free.
Schobel’s Restaurant
Schobel’s is family dining at its best. It’s an excellent option for families with varied tastes or picky eaters.
Joe’s Italian Restaurant & Pizza
Order the seafood pasta to go and take it back to your rental so you can enjoy it at the kitchen table or opt for inside dining. Either way, Joe’s delivers excellent food choices.
Check out the many other restaurants in Columbus, TX.
Here is to the best Christmas Cheer! It’s clear that South Texas Holiday Celebrations are the thing!
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