bigtravelbuzzColumbia is the capital city of South Carolina, located in the central part of the state. Here are some things to do and see in Columbia:
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden: A popular family-friendly attraction with over 2,000 animals and a variety of beautiful gardens to explore.
South Carolina State Museum: A comprehensive museum that covers the history, art, and science of South Carolina, including exhibits on the state’s military history and natural history.
Congaree National Park: A stunning park with the largest intact old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. Visitors can hike, fish, and canoe in the park.
Historic Columbia: Take a walking tour of the city’s historic districts, which feature well-preserved homes and buildings dating back to the 19th century.
The State House: The South Carolina State House is an impressive building that houses the state’s legislative offices and chambers. Visitors can take guided tours of the building.
Columbia Museum of Art: A museum featuring a collection of American, European, and Asian art, including works by Monet, Botticelli, and Warhol.
Five Points: A trendy district with a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars.
Columbia is also known for its culinary scene, including barbecue, Southern cuisine, and craft breweries. Be sure to try local favorites like pimento cheese, shrimp and grits, and sweet tea.
Places to Visit in Columbia
Columbia, South Carolina is home to a variety of interesting and unique attractions. Here are some places to visit in Columbia:
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden: This is one of the top-rated zoos in the country, with over 2,000 animals and a variety of beautiful gardens to explore.
South Carolina State Museum: This museum covers the history, art, and science of South Carolina, with exhibits on the state’s military history, natural history, and culture.
Historic Columbia: Take a walking tour of Columbia’s historic districts, which feature well-preserved homes and buildings dating back to the 19th century.
The State House: This impressive building houses the state’s legislative offices and chambers. Visitors can take guided tours of the building and learn about the state’s political history.
Columbia Museum of Art: This museum features a collection of American, European, and Asian art, including works by Monet, Botticelli, and Warhol.
Congaree National Park: Just outside of Columbia, this park is home to the largest intact old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. Visitors can hike, fish, and canoe in the park.
Five Points: A trendy district with a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars.
Soda City Market: A popular farmers’ market held every Saturday morning in the heart of downtown Columbia, featuring local produce, food, and crafts.
Williams-Brice Stadium: The home of the University of South Carolina’s football team, the Gamecocks. If you’re a sports fan, catch a game and experience the excitement of college football in the South.
These are just a few of the many attractions that Columbia has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or the outdoors, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Best Time To Visit Columbia
The best time to visit Columbia, South Carolina is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) months when the temperatures are mild and the humidity is lower. During these seasons, you can enjoy the city’s outdoor attractions, like the Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens or the Congaree National Park, without having to deal with the heat and humidity of the summer months.
Spring is an especially beautiful time to visit Columbia, as the city’s many gardens and parks come to life with blooming flowers and trees. The city’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival and Parade is also held in March and is a popular event for visitors and locals alike.
Fall is another great time to visit Columbia, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than the summer months. The South Carolina State Fair is held in October, featuring rides, food, and live entertainment.
Summer (June to August) in Columbia can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 90s°F (32°C) or higher. However, if you can handle the heat, there are still plenty of indoor attractions to explore, like the Columbia Museum of Art or the South Carolina State Museum.
Winter (December to February) in Columbia is mild, with temperatures averaging in the 50s°F (10-15°C). However, outdoor activities may be limited due to the cooler temperatures and occasional rain.
How to get around in Columbia
Columbia, South Carolina is a relatively small city, and getting around is easy and convenient. Here are some ways to get around Columbia:
Car: The most common way to get around Columbia is by car. Rental cars are available at the Columbia Metropolitan Airport, and there are several car rental companies located throughout the city. Parking is generally easy to find in downtown Columbia, and there are several parking garages and lots available.
Public Transit: The COMET is Columbia’s public transit system, which operates buses throughout the city and surrounding areas. Fares are affordable, and schedules and routes can be found on their website.
Biking: Columbia is a bike-friendly city, with several bike lanes and trails available. Biking is a great way to explore the city and get some exercise at the same time. Bike rentals are available at several locations throughout the city.
Walking: Many of Columbia’s downtown attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the city on foot. There are also several walking tours available, which can be a fun way to learn about the city’s history and culture.
Ride-Sharing: Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Columbia, providing a convenient and affordable way to get around the city without having to worry about parking or driving.
These are just a few of the many ways to get around Columbia. Whether you prefer to drive, walk, bike, or take public transit, there are plenty of options available to explore this charming Southern city.
Where to eat in Columbia
Columbia, South Carolina offers a diverse and delicious food scene, with something for everyone. Here are some recommendations on where to eat in Columbia:
The War Mouth: This restaurant offers Southern cuisine with a modern twist, featuring locally-sourced ingredients and a unique cocktail menu. Try their crispy catfish or roasted pork belly.
Motor Supply Co. Bistro: This farm-to-table restaurant serves up seasonal and sustainable dishes in a cozy, rustic setting. The menu changes frequently, but their crispy duck confit is always a hit.
Cola’s Restaurant: For a fine dining experience, head to Cola’s Restaurant. The menu features classic Southern dishes with a sophisticated touch, and their extensive wine list is sure to impress.
Pawleys Front Porch: This casual eatery is a favorite among locals for its gourmet burgers and creative toppings. Try the pimento cheeseburger or the fried green tomato BLT.
Drip Coffee: This cozy coffee shop serves up some of the best coffee in Columbia, as well as delicious pastries and light bites. Don’t miss their signature “Dirty Chai” latte.
Di Prato’s Delicatessen: For a classic deli experience, head to Di Prato’s. This family-owned deli serves up delicious sandwiches, salads, and soups, as well as a variety of baked goods and desserts.
These are just a few of the many great restaurants in Columbia. Whether you’re in the mood for Southern cuisine, fine dining, or a casual bite, you’re sure to find something delicious in this charming city.
Famous street stalls in Columbia
While Columbia may not be known for its street food scene, there are a few popular food trucks and stalls that offer delicious eats. Here are some of the most famous street stalls in Columbia:
The Belgian Waffle Truck: This food truck serves up delicious Belgian waffles with a variety of sweet and savory toppings, including Nutella, fresh fruit, and crispy bacon.
The Wurst Wagen: This food truck specializes in traditional German sausages, including bratwurst, kielbasa, and spicy chorizo. Their sausages are served on freshly-baked rolls with a variety of toppings.
The Wolf Pizza Co.: This food truck serves up delicious wood-fired pizzas made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Their menu features a variety of classic and creative toppings, including goat cheese and prosciutto.
The Haute Dog Lady: This hot dog stand is a local favorite, serving up classic hot dogs and sausages with a variety of toppings, including chili, cheese, and sauerkraut. They also offer vegan and vegetarian options.
The Brain Freeze: This food truck serves up delicious shaved ice with a variety of flavors and toppings, perfect for a refreshing treat on a hot day.
These street stalls can usually be found at various locations around Columbia, including local festivals and events. Be sure to check their social media pages for updates on their location and hours.
Where to stay in Columbia
Luxury accommodation
Columbia, South Carolina offers a variety of luxurious accommodation options for those seeking a more upscale stay. Here are some recommendations on where to stay in Columbia for luxury accommodation:
Hotel Trundle: This boutique hotel offers stylish and unique rooms with a modern, artistic design. Located in the heart of downtown Columbia, it’s walking distance from many of the city’s top attractions and restaurants.
The Inn at USC: This historic hotel is located on the University of South Carolina campus and features elegant rooms with traditional Southern decor. Guests can enjoy amenities like a fitness center and complimentary breakfast.
Graduate Columbia: This trendy hotel is located near the University of South Carolina campus and features playful, retro-inspired decor. Guests can enjoy amenities like a rooftop bar and complimentary bicycles.
Hyatt Place Columbia/Downtown/The Vista: This modern hotel is located in the popular Vista district and offers spacious rooms with contemporary decor. Guests can enjoy amenities like a fitness center and complimentary breakfast.
The Marriott Columbia: This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of downtown Columbia and features elegant rooms with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and high-speed internet. Guests can enjoy amenities like a rooftop pool and multiple on-site restaurants.
These are just a few of the many luxury accommodation options available in Columbia. Whether you’re looking for a boutique hotel or a modern, high-end stay, you’re sure to find something that suits your tastes in this vibrant city.
Where to stay in Columbia
Budget accommodation
If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation in Columbia, South Carolina, there are plenty of options available. Here are some recommendations on where to stay in Columbia for budget accommodation:
Motel 6 Columbia – University of South Carolina: This simple hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. It’s located near the University of South Carolina campus and downtown Columbia.
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Fort Jackson Area: This hotel offers basic rooms and amenities at a budget-friendly price. It’s located near Fort Jackson and just a short drive from downtown Columbia.
Days Inn by Wyndham Columbia: This hotel offers affordable rooms with basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast. It’s located near the airport and just a short drive from downtown Columbia.
Sleep Inn Near Ft. Jackson: This hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. It’s located near Fort Jackson and just a short drive from downtown Columbia.
Red Roof Inn Columbia West, SC: This hotel offers simple rooms and basic amenities at an affordable price. It’s located near the Harbison shopping district and just a short drive from downtown Columbia.
These are just a few of the many budget-friendly accommodation options available in Columbia. Whether you’re looking for a simple motel or a comfortable hotel at an affordable price, you’re sure to find something that fits your needs in this vibrant city.
Travel Tips Columbia
If you’re planning a trip to Columbia, South Carolina, here are some travel tips that may be helpful:
Explore the city on foot: Columbia is a great city for walking and many of the top attractions are located within a few blocks of each other in the downtown area.
Visit the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden: This popular attraction features a variety of animals and beautiful botanical gardens. It’s a great place to spend a day with the family.
Check out the State House: The South Carolina State House is located in downtown Columbia and offers free guided tours. It’s a great way to learn about the history and government of South Carolina.
Eat some Southern cuisine: Columbia is known for its Southern cuisine, so be sure to try some of the local favorites like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and sweet tea.
Attend a sporting event: Columbia is home to the University of South Carolina and several minor league sports teams, so catch a game or event during your visit.
Stay hydrated: Columbia can get hot and humid, especially during the summer months. Be sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout your visit.
Respect the local culture: Columbia is a diverse city with a rich history and culture. Be respectful of the local customs and traditions, and take the time to learn about the history and culture of the area.
Overall, Columbia is a great city to visit with plenty to see and do. With these travel tips, you’ll be sure to have a memorable and enjoyable trip.