A feature piece from our Summer 2026 issue of the Lancaster Thriving Publication.
Architecturally, one would experience going back in time while viewing many of the stunning buildings still standing in the 100, 200, 300, and 400 blocks of Locust Street and its side streets. Fortunately, a large piece of history was preserved as these buildings were spared the redevelopment wrecking ball in the 1970s and 1980s. Colonial, Federal, Victorian, and Neo-Classical architecture can all be found throughout the downtown district, including landmarks such as the Wright Ferry Mansion and Museum and the Columbia Bank Museum.
Visitors are welcomed by numerous antique shops, restaurants, and coffee shops. The tree-lined streets create a calming atmosphere, and Columbia has been recognized as a Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation for 33 years. Another downtown anchor is the Columbia Market House. Built in 1869, it is one of the oldest operating market houses in the country and continues to serve the community on Saturdays with fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, and other offerings.
Columbia’s history is deeply tied to transportation and commerce. The town was built around a ferry that carried goods and travelers across the Susquehanna River and became known as the “Gateway to the West.” Later, canals, railroads, and bridges helped connect Columbia to the broader region. Columbia also played an important role in the Underground Railroad and Civil War history. Historians have found evidence that Columbia was the birthplace of the term “Underground Railroad,” and local citizens famously burned the bridge across the Susquehanna River in June 1863 to prevent Confederate forces from advancing into Pennsylvania.
Today, Columbia continues to evolve while embracing its history. The Hampton Inn by Hilton at The Chip Factory is bringing new investment to downtown and will draw visitors to the area’s antique shops, restaurants, and museums. The planned National Underground Railroad Museum is also expected to become a major attraction.
The Susquehanna River remains one of Columbia’s defining assets. Columbia Crossing serves as the trailhead of the Northwest River Trail, attracting hikers and bicyclists who can explore 30 miles of trail north to Bainbridge. River Park, Columbia Crossing, boating, fishing, and connections to York County’s Trail Towns network continue to bring visitors into the community.
The core businesses that draw visitors and make downtown a great place to work include locally owned coffee shops, eateries, boutiques, vintage and antique stores, craft breweries, galleries, museums, and warehouses. Longstanding anchors such as the Market House and Hinkle’s Restaurant have served generations of residents and visitors.
Support for local businesses comes from several organizations. The Columbia Economic Development Corporation offers grants for façade improvements, website development, and marketing initiatives while also hosting Lunch & Learns and an annual Small Business Summit. Discover Columbia promotes local businesses and attractions through DiscoverColumbia.com, while the Merchants Association of Columbia sponsors 4th Friday events and monthly mixers.
Community events continue to bring thousands of visitors downtown each year. Popular events include Thunder on the River, Mardi Gras, Riverfest, the Memorial Day Parade, and the combined Arbor Day and Earth Day celebration hosted by the Columbia Borough Shade Tree Commission and Sahd Metal Recycling. Together, these events showcase Columbia’s history, support local businesses, and strengthen the community’s connection to the river, its heritage, and its future.
Justin Rule, Discover Columbia
Discover Columbia is dedicated to promoting Columbia’s businesses, attractions, history, and community experiences. Through marketing, events, and visitor resources, the organization helps connect residents and visitors with everything Columbia has to offer. Learn more at https://discovercolumbia.com/
Bill Kloidt, Columbia Economic Development Corporation
The Columbia Economic Development Corporation works as a bridge between business, government and the community. They actively promote community development and encourage business investment within Columbia. They can help find a location for your business, assist in financing and work to fulfill your needs as a member of the business community. Learn more at https://www.columbia-edc.org/
Don Murphy, Merchants Association of Columbia
Merchants Association of Columbia was established in 2019 to provide local merchants and businesses a vehicle to preserve historic beauty and promote community, economic growth and establish an attractive location for businesses to thrive and become a destination for visitors to our town. Learn more at https://columbiamerchants.com/
not secure