About
Whether you're a fan of history, served in the military, or know someone who did, visiting The National Infantry Museum will be a highlight of your getaway. The museum is outside the gates of Fort Benning, offering a real connection to the soldiers training nearby.
The National Infantry Museum offers a family-friendly, up-close look at military history through hands-on exhibits and displays. Here, you can explore the life of foot soldiers from the Revolutionary War to current-day operations.
Inside the 190,000-square-foot facility is everything from weapons and uniforms to personal items used throughout the years. Each exhibit highlights rare artifacts from World War I, World War II, the Vietnam War, and ongoing operations in the Middle East. One of the standout exhibits is The Last 100 Yards ramp, which demonstrates the tough challenges infantry soldiers tackle on the battlefield.
Aside from the detail-oriented exhibits, the museum's architecture stands out with grand spaces designed to guide guests through different eras of American military history.
Building the museum was a team effort from local leaders, veterans, and generous donors. The mission was clear: provide a place where everyone could learn about and honor the nation's soldiers.
You'll also learn how technology and military strategies have changed across more than 200 years. The immersive experience is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom.
Aside from the indoor displays, the outdoor features include the parade field and a Memorial Walk of Honor. Here, monuments honor infantry divisions, with soil beneath each monument collected from actual battlefields around the world. It's a heart-touching exhibit that further honors these brave men and women.
The National Infantry Museum: Fun Facts & Cool Features
One of the museum's more popular attractions is the Giant Screen Theater that comfortably seats 289. With a 40-foot-tall and over 72-foot-wide screen, it's the largest certified Giant Screen Theater in Georgia! Add Christie Digital's cutting-edge 6P laser light projection technology, 4K resolution, and vibrant 3D visuals, and it makes documentaries and films come to life!
Equally appealing for all ages is the Virtual Reality Combat Simulator. Choose from the shooting range, the Humvee, Blackhawk, and Paradrop simulations. These non-combatant simulators are family-friendly and test how your marksmanship and decision-making skills stack up under pressure. It's a hands-on way to get a feel for modern military training while connecting history to the present.
World War II Company Street takes you outside for a walk through a slice of history. The faithful recreation of a 1940s military cantonment features a chapel, mess hall, and sleeping quarters. You'll get a real sense of how soldiers lived as they got ready for deployment. Inside the barracks, you'll notice period bunks, footlockers, and uniforms, adding a personal side to military history.
The jungle exhibit puts you in the heart of the Vietnam War. You'll walk through a recreated Southeast Asian setting with thick greenery. Real helicopters and patrol boats bring an authentic touch, making the scene feel like an actual combat zone.
With so much to see, explore, and experience, the National Infantry Museum is a must-do on your Columbus vacation. The blend of cutting-edge exhibits, hands-on simulators, and rare artifacts ensures you'll find something unforgettable.
Local Tips
- Arrive early to grab a parking spot and avoid the crowds.
- The theater sells movie-style concessions and drinks.
- Sign up for a guided tour for an in-depth learning experience.
- Plan on spending at least four hours to take in all the museum has to offer.
