From Boot Camp to Battlefield: What You’ll See at the National Infantry Museum

Emmaline Hoffmeister October 20, 2012 Travels

National Infantry Museum, Columbus, GA

A Family Adventure Through History: Visiting the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center

ARH and DEH standing in front of the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center in Columbus, Georgia.

If you’re looking for an inspiring and educational family outing, the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center in Columbus, Georgia, is a must-see. Our family spent the afternoon after the two author book signing at Barnes and Noble exploring this incredible museum, and it turned out to be one of our favorite family activities — full of hands-on learning, moving exhibits, and plenty of room for kids to explore.

The museum emphasizes the values that define the Infantryman — Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage — values that are also wonderful lessons for children. These themes are woven throughout the exhibits, helping kids understand not just the history of the U.S. Army Infantry, but also the kind of character and courage it takes to serve.

With 190,000 square feet of galleries set on a 200-acre campus next to Fort Benning’s Maneuver Center of Excellence, the museum is impressive the moment you arrive. Kids will love seeing the life-sized dioramas, historic artifacts, and even the interactive combat simulators that make history come alive.

The museum also features a giant-screen theater, a memorial walk, and an outdoor parade field — perfect spots for taking a break, having a snack, or just soaking in the atmosphere. Our kids especially loved watching new soldiers graduate nearby, waving flags and cheering them on.

Since opening in 2009, the museum has welcomed more than two million visitors from around the world and has been recognized by USA Today and TripAdvisor as one of the best military attractions in the country. It even received the Thea Award for Outstanding Achievement from the Themed Entertainment Association — and it’s easy to see why.

Whether your children are fascinated by history, airplanes, or simply enjoy an adventure, the National Infantry Museum offers a meaningful, family-friendly experience that’s both fun and deeply moving. We left with a renewed appreciation for the men and women who serve — and a few new little history buffs in the backseat.

ARH and DEH love cannons and always want their picture taken with them whenever we come upon them. This cannon was no exception.

The cannon at the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center in Columbus, Georgia.

ARH at the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center in Columbus, Georgia.

ARH and DEH at the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center in Columbus, Georgia.

Infantry statues at the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center in Columbus, Georgia.

Behind the Headlines at the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center in Columbus, Georgia.

The Soldier's Creed at the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center in Columbus, Georgia.

Author: Emmaline Hoffmeister

Emmaline Hoffmeister is the author of eight historical fiction novels and has published nine short stories in various publications worldwide. Left Behind marks Emmaline’s debut in Christian fiction and her first novel in over a decade. With degrees in accounting and psychology from Central Washington University and Brigham Young University-Idaho, Emmaline built a 12-year career as a fraud investigator, as well as an accountability, legal compliance, financial, and performance auditor. She later chose to become a stay-at-home mom, focusing on raising her two sons. In 2009, she launched her writing and publishing career. A lover of story, structure, and scenic places, Emmaline’s creativity is shaped by her travels and by the rugged beauty of North Idaho, where she now lives with her husband and two sons. When she’s not designing or writing, you’ll likely find her walking along the rivers and lakes near home, dreaming up new ideas with a journal in hand.