Looking for adventure that is light on your wallet? Nestled in the heart of the county, Columbiana is a small town with old-fashioned charm. Experience our town’s motto: “Come for the history, but stay for the shopping.”

Begin your day with a visit to Karl C. Harrison Museum of George Washington located on Depot Street, open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Housing the largest collection of memorabilia of Washington outside of Mt. Vernon, the museum is a little-known gem. Admission is free. Curator and Historian Bonnie Atchison gives guided tours with advance notice. Call 669-8767 for an appointment.

Next, stroll down Main Street and visit our shops. Tuesday and Thursday are the best days for shopping for the stores are open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Bring an original copy of this Reporter article as your coupon, and the retailers are offering 20 percent storewide discounts: Busy Hands, an exquisite accessory shop; Gail’s Florist; Back at Granny’s, monogramming personalized items; Dixie Printing, offering stationery; Second Elegance, a bridal consignment shop; and the gift shop at Davis Drugs. Anita’s Creation, a charming shop, is offering 20 percent off storewide on all non-sale items. Main Street Florist will discount any one article for 25 percent from its merchandise.

Hungry now? Enjoy a delicious lunch at Bernie’s on Main or the Snack Bar at Davis Drug, at 15 percent off with this article.

Complete your visit at the Shelby County Historical Society Inc. Museum and Archives on the roundabout at the end of Main Street. Built in 1854, the old Shelby County Courthouse is a historic landmark listed on the National Register of Historical Places. Recently renovated, the museum is filled with photos, artifacts and memorabilia from the Indian era to World War II. The museum is free, open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. For information call 669-3912.

Why not even make a full day of it and spend the night in the Columbiana Inn, a beautifully restored, Victorian bed and breakfast, originally built in 1889. For reservations and a 20 percent discount, call Diane Moore at 669-1450.

Come visit Columbiana, a town that is “embracing its future while preserving its past.”

Phoebe Donald Robinson can be reached by e–mail at phoeberobinson@bellsouth.net.