Many people will claim their hometown is unique. They'll say there is absolutely no place like it because it holds such a special place in their heart. Well, just about an hour south of Nashville is my hometown, Columbia, Tenn., that's about as unique a place as I can think of.
Home to roughly 40,000 people, Columbia has made a name for itself in the world by being the mule capital of the world and hosting the infamous Mule Day. Muletown, as it's fondly, called is a place like no other and if you live there or are from there you'll know why.
Here are 8 things you know if you're from Columbia, TN.
1. Downtown
Whether it's shops like the famous Ted's Sporting Goods and Lily Jane's or restaurants like Puckett's and Square Market & Cafe, downtown Columbia is growing and there is so much for you to explore!
2. The Columbia Mall
Around since the 80s, the Columbia Mall was once a peak shopping center in Columbia. Now, the main purpose is for those who are mall walkers. Here's to hoping the Columbia Mall makes a comeback soon!
3. James K. Polk Home
At some time, or if you're like me many times, you've been to the James K. Polk Home. One of the many historic sites in town, the family home of James K. Polk is definitely somewhere most people in Columbia have been!
4. Jumbo House
What's better than a Janie burger and onion rings? Nothing that's what! It's safe to say that Jumbo House looks like a dive but it's anything but that. You haven't lived until you've gone to Jumbo House!
5. Muletown Roasted Coffee
I've been to many coffee shops but there is nothing quite like the nostalgia of going home to Columbia to go to Muletown Roasted Coffee. This is the place I made some of my favorite high school memories. Muletown has become quite a staple in Columbia!
6. Shadybrook Cinema
Shadybrook Cinema is an icon in Columbia. The fluorescent-lit theater masks and painted movie stars on the outside have been a part of town as long as I can remember. This small 12 theater cinema is a place that basically everyone in Columbia can say they have been to
7. The Bypass Deli
Another burger place that if you're from Columbia you know is delicious! The Bypass Deli has some of the best burgers in town.
8. Mule Day
The pinnacle of living in Columbia comes in the Spring, Mule Day. A week-long event, Mule Day includes the 5k run, Mule Day Pagent, and many other things that lead up to the grand parade on Saturday. If you're from Columbia you either love Mule Day or steer clear of town.
Regardless of your feelings towards the practical holiday, you will always have this unique and fun fact to tell anyone who has never been to Columbia!
