Columbus NE

Columbus – A friendly Midwestern gem nestled along the Platte River, Columbus welcomes visitors with small-town warmth, historic charm, and plenty of outdoor fun. Whether you're strolling through vibrant parks, exploring local museums, or enjoying riverfront views, Columbus offers a blend of community spirit and natural beauty that makes it a great place to visit—or call home.

• Population: ~24,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; cold, snowy winters and warm, sunny summers (20–88°F).
• Places To Visit: Pawnee Plunge Water Park, Andrew Jackson Higgins Memorial, Platte County Historical Society Museum, Glur's Tavern, Frankfort Square.
• Top Activities: Fishing or boating on nearby lakes, catching a movie at the local theater, biking through scenic trails, enjoying community festivals and live music in the park.
• Famous Food: Nebraska beef burgers, homemade pies at local diners, Midwest-style pizza, and hearty steak dinners from family-owned restaurants.

Columbus, Nebraska is known for its strong manufacturing sector, growing healthcare services, and solid infrastructure in agriculture and transportation. The city supports a wide variety of skilled labor and professional careers, making it a solid choice for job seekers in the Midwest.

Top 5 Jobs in Columbus, NE

Columbus, Nebraska may be a small city, but it offers plenty of great spots where students can unwind, take a break from the books, and have some fun. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, tasty local eats, or cultural experiences, Columbus has something to offer.

Pawnee Park – A vast and beautiful park, perfect for a walk or jog, playing sports, or having a picnic with friends. With plenty of space and a relaxing atmosphere, it's a favorite among students.

Columbus Public Library – Not just a place to study, the library hosts fun activities and events. It’s a great spot to relax, pick up a good book, or enjoy some peace and quiet.

Andrew Jackson Higgins Memorial – For a slice of history with a serene setting, this memorial honors a key figure in WWII. It's an introspective but soothing place to chill on a sunny day.

Downtown Columbus – Full of charming shops, cafes, and local boutiques. Grab a coffee, window shop, or just stroll around to soak in the small-town vibe and friendly atmosphere.

Columbus Aquatic Center – Ideal for those who love to swim or want to cool off during hot days. With its excellent facilities, it’s a fun spot to visit with friends or to get some laps in.

Glur's Tavern – Known as one of the oldest continuously operating taverns west of the Mississippi, it's a great place for a burger, fries, and some fun history. Perfect for a casual hangout.

Columbus, Nebraska offers a selection of higher education institutions that support career development in areas like business, healthcare, skilled trades, and the arts. While the city is smaller compared to major metropolitan areas, it still provides access to quality public and private colleges that equip students with the education and experience needed for a successful future.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Columbus, NE

Central Community College – Columbus Campus – This is one of the main campuses of Central Community College, offering associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates in fields such as nursing, business administration, information technology, and welding. The college emphasizes hands-on learning and workforce readiness, making it a popular choice for local students.

Northeast Community College (satellite programs) – Although based in Norfolk, NE, Northeast Community College often offers satellite programs and partnerships with schools in Columbus. Known for its technical training and career-focused programs, it gives students nearby access to quality educational resources.

Columbus Public Schools Career and Technical Education Center – While not a college itself, this public education center collaborates with Central Community College to give high school students college credit and vocational training, preparing them early for career or college paths.

University of Nebraska – Extension in Platte County – While not a traditional campus, this public resource provides continuing education in agriculture, business, youth development, and community leadership, serving as a valuable extension of the University of Nebraska system.

University of Nebraska Online Programs – Many local students in Columbus take advantage of online undergraduate and graduate programs offered through the University of Nebraska system, allowing them to earn a respected public degree while staying in their community.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Columbus, NE

Scotus Central Catholic High School – Dual Credit Partnerships – This private high school partners with colleges like Central Community College and private institutions to offer dual-credit college courses, giving students a strong academic start before graduation.

Concordia University Nebraska (nearby in Seward) – Just over an hour from Columbus, this private Christian university is accessible to many Columbus students. It offers degrees in education, business, theology, and the liberal arts, and is known for its strong academic and spiritual foundation.

Midland University (nearby in Fremont) – Located within driving distance, Midland University is a dynamic private college offering innovative programs in nursing, business, and the sciences. With its supportive campus environment, it’s a popular choice among Columbus residents seeking a personalized education.

Bryan College of Health Sciences (serving Greater Nebraska) – Although based in Lincoln, this private college is accessible to Columbus-area students pursuing careers in health sciences. It offers specialized training in nursing, diagnostic imaging, and healthcare management.

Doane University (Crete Campus, serving Central Nebraska) – Known for its liberal arts education and strong teacher training programs, Doane University is another respected private institution within reach of Columbus students. Its commitment to leadership and service aligns well with the goals of many local learners.

Columbus, NE, may be a smaller city, but it offers excellent educational opportunities for high school students through its public and private institutions. With a focus on academic success, career readiness, and values-based education, students and families can find schools that meet a range of needs and interests.

Top Public High Schools in Columbus, NE

• Columbus High School – The main public high school in the city, known for its strong academics, arts, and athletics programs. Offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and career pathways in health sciences and engineering.
• Lakeview High School – Located in the Lakeview Community Schools district just outside of Columbus, it offers personalized attention, strong sports programs, and a supportive learning environment.
• Scotus Central Catholic Junior/Senior High School – While technically a private school, it serves many students in the public system through partnerships and shared programming for extracurriculars and career readiness.
• Northwest High School (Grand Island) – Though not in Columbus, families often consider this high-performing public school nearby due to its strong academics and STEM-focused programs.
• Central City High School – A respected school in the region, noted for its commitment to college preparation and well-rounded student development through various extracurriculars.

Top Private High Schools in Columbus, NE

• Scotus Central Catholic Junior/Senior High School – The top-ranked private school in Columbus. Offers a faith-based education with small class sizes and a tradition of academic excellence and spiritual development.
• St. Bonaventure Elementary & Middle School – While primarily a K-8 school, it plays a significant role in preparing students for local private high schools, offering a strong foundation for continued success at the high school level.
• Trinity Lutheran School – Though it focuses on elementary levels, it offers Christian education through eighth grade and connects students to Lutheran high schools in surrounding areas.
• St. Isidore School – Another important Catholic institution in Columbus, providing solid academic and values-based education through middle school, often leading into Scotus Central Catholic High School.
• St. Anthony’s School – This well-regarded parochial school offers a supportive, faith-based setting for younger students who often continue within the Catholic education system through Scotus.

Columbus, Nebraska is a smaller city that does not have any major league professional sports teams like those found in bigger metropolitan areas. However, the region enthusiastically supports local and regional sports through semi-professional teams, collegiate athletics, and strong community involvement in sports development and youth programs.

⚾ Baseball – Columbus United Federal Credit Union Seniors

• Columbus Seniors Legion Baseball – While not a professional team, the American Legion baseball team plays a significant role in the community. The team competes in talented regional leagues during the summer and draws strong support from locals. These games serve as an important part of the city’s sports culture and are often stepping stones for young athletes.

🏀 Basketball – Central Community College Raiders

• Central Community College Basketball – CCC, located in Columbus, fields men’s and women’s basketball teams that compete in the NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association). These teams regularly compete against other community colleges in the region, showcasing up-and-coming talent.

🏈 Football – High School and College Football

• High School Football – Football is a major part of Columbus culture. Local schools like Columbus High School, Lakeview High School, and Scotus Central Catholic have strong football traditions. Friday night lights draw large crowds and community pride.
• Central Community College Football (Retired Program) – Though the school no longer fields a football team, alumni and local stories keep the history of the sport alive in the community.

⚽ Soccer – Growing Youth and High School Programs

• High School Soccer – Soccer is rapidly growing in popularity in Columbus. Local high schools have competitive varsity programs that attract large student and family audiences every season.
• Youth Soccer Leagues – Clubs like the Columbus Soccer Club help young athletes learn soccer fundamentals and grow their skills in preparation for higher-level play.

🏒 Hockey – Recreational and Amateur Hockey

• Columbus Hockey Club – While Columbus does not have a professional hockey team, it is home to amateur teams and youth hockey programs that play in nearby rinks, especially during the winter months.
• Ice Skating and Hockey Events – Local ice skating venues host seasonal events, community hockey games, and learn-to-skate programs that encourage participation in the sport at a grassroots level.

Though lacking major professional teams, Columbus, Nebraska celebrates sports through deep local involvement, dedicated fans, and promising young athletes who dream big and play with passion. The heart of sports in Columbus lies in community pride and development.

Columbus, Nebraska is a charming Midwestern city with a rich history, small-town charm, and plenty of unique features that make it stand out. Whether you're a local or a curious traveler, here are some fun facts about Columbus that might surprise you:

1. Named After the Explorer – Columbus is named after Christopher Columbus, just like Columbus, Ohio. It was founded in 1856 by a group of settlers known as the “Columbus Company.”
2. Platte River Paradise – The city sits near the scenic Platte River, which offers fishing, boating, and beautiful nature trails right outside town.
3. Center of the Country – Columbus lies in the heart of the U.S., making it a popular stop for travelers crossing the country.
4. Big on Manufacturing – Despite its small size, Columbus is a major hub for manufacturing. Companies like BD and Cargill provide jobs to thousands of residents.
5. Home to the Andrew Jackson Higgins Memorial – This powerful memorial honors the creator of the WWII landing craft. Dwight D. Eisenhower once said Higgins “won the war for us.”
6. Belltower Blues – The historic clock tower in downtown Columbus plays music daily, adding charm and a touch of nostalgia to the area.
7. Friendly City Awards – Columbus has received multiple honors for being one of the most welcoming small towns in Nebraska.
8. Historic Railroad Town – Columbus grew fast thanks to the arrival of the Union Pacific Railroad in 1866. Today, the rich rail history is still evident throughout the city.
9. Fun by the Water – Columbus is home to Lake North and Pawnee Plunge Water Park, favorite spots for summer fun with swimming, paddling, and slides.
10. Multicultural Roots – From German to Czech influences, Columbus celebrates its cultural diversity with local festivals, events, and delicious food offered throughout the year.