Rain or Shine: Indoor Family Fun Near Fort Benning

When the weather isn't cooperating, there's no need to put family fun on hold! Whether you're escaping a rainy afternoon, taking a break from Georgia's summer heat, or looking for something new to explore over the weekend, the Fort Benning and Columbus area has plenty of indoor adventures waiting to be discovered.

From fascinating museums and outer space exploration to ice skating and indoor playgrounds, there are activities for just about every age and interest. Whether you've recently arrived at Fort Benning or have called the area home for years, here are a few local favorites worth adding to your family adventure list!

Discover Military History at the National Infantry Museum

Located just outside Fort Benning, the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center is a must-visit for military families and history enthusiasts alike. This impressive museum brings more than 250 years of American military history to life through immersive exhibits, historical artifacts, and the stories of the Soldiers who helped shape our nation.

Visitors can explore exhibits spanning generations of Infantry service, experience the museum's Giant Screen Theater, or take on an adventure in its Virtual Reality Center. It's a meaningful opportunity for children to learn more about military service and the history of the community they call home.

Best of all, general admission is free, although donations are appreciated. Some special attractions have additional fees.

Learn more: National Infantry Museum

Get Creative at The Columbus Museum

Looking for a little art, history, and hands-on fun? The Columbus Museum combines American art and regional history with exhibits designed to inspire curiosity and creativity.

Families with younger children will especially love the Daniel & Kathelen Amos Children's Gallery, where little explorers can climb through a treehouse, create their own mini-museum exhibition, and interact with art in imaginative ways. Older children and adults can enjoy the museum's galleries featuring art and the rich history of the Chattahoochee Valley.

With free admission and plenty to discover, it's an excellent choice for an affordable family outing, especially when you're looking for an activity that's both entertaining and educational.

Learn more: The Columbus Museum

Blast Off at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center

Have an aspiring astronaut in the family? Located in Uptown Columbus, the Coca-Cola Space Science Center offers an exciting journey beyond Earth without ever leaving Georgia!

Operated by Columbus State University, the center introduces visitors to astronomy, space exploration, and science through interactive exhibits and authentic space artifacts. Families can learn about NASA missions, discover the wonders of the solar system, and enjoy immersive planetarium experiences in the Omnisphere Theater.

It's a great destination for curious kids, future scientists, and anyone who has ever wondered what lies beyond the stars. Check the center's schedule before visiting to make the most of available shows and experiences.

Hit the Ice at the Columbus Ice Rink

Who says you need snow to enjoy a little winter fun? The Columbus Ice Rink offers a cool escape throughout the year, making it a fun outing no matter what the Georgia weather has in store.

Located near the Columbus Civic Center, the indoor rink welcomes skaters of different ages and experience levels. Whether your family is taking its first wobbly steps onto the ice or already has a few skating skills to show off, public skating sessions are a great way to spend an afternoon together.

The rink also offers skating lessons and other ice activities. Be sure to check the public skating calendar before heading out, as session times vary.

Learn more: Columbus Ice Rink

Bounce Into Fun at Sky Zone

Sometimes, the best family activity is one that lets the kids burn off some serious energy! Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Columbus is an indoor destination packed with opportunities to jump, climb, and play.

With wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball, basketball-inspired challenges, and obstacle-style attractions, there's plenty to keep active kids entertained. Sky Zone also offers special programs, including Little Leapers for younger children and sensory-friendly sessions.

It's a great option for an energetic weekend outing, a birthday celebration, or simply getting everyone moving when outdoor play isn't an option.

Learn more: Sky Zone Columbus

Take Playtime to New Heights at Urban Air

If your family loves adventure, Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park is another exciting indoor destination to explore.

Featuring a variety of attractions such as trampolines, climbing challenges, obstacle courses, and indoor adventure activities, Urban Air offers something for kids who like a little extra excitement. Younger visitors can enjoy play areas designed for smaller adventurers, while older kids and teens can tackle some of the park's bigger challenges.

With plenty of options under one roof, it's a fun choice for families looking to turn an ordinary afternoon into an adventure.

Make It a Family Game Night at Stars and Strikes

Looking for something that the whole family, including teenagers, can enjoy? Stars and Strikes in Columbus brings several classic entertainment options together in one indoor destination.

Challenge the family to a bowling match, test your skills in the arcade, or team up for an exciting game of laser tag. With food available on-site, it's easy to make an entire evening out of your visit.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, planning a weekend outing, or just hoping to settle a little friendly family competition, Stars and Strikes offers plenty of ways to have fun together.

More to Explore, Right Outside Fort Benning

One of the great things about living at Fort Benning is having so much to discover just beyond the gates. The Columbus area offers a wonderful mix of history, science, creativity, and entertainment, giving military families opportunities to make memories and discover new favorites throughout the year.

At Heritage Landing, we know that finding your place in a new community involves more than just settling into a home. It's also about discovering the experiences, destinations, and local traditions that make the area special.

So the next time the forecast calls for rain, or you're simply wondering what to do this weekend, consider exploring one of these indoor destinations. Your next family adventure might be closer than you think!

Hours, admission rates, and available activities may change. We recommend checking each attraction's website before planning your visit.