Things to do in Columbia

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South Carolina State House
Robert Mills Historic House and Park
Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens
Columbia
Columbia

Columbia Attractions

Named for Christopher Columbus, the capital city of Columbia blends the best of the Old World with the new, with trendy restaurants that offer a new take on classic Southern cuisine cropping up amid the historic colonial scenery. If that's not enough, a highly walkable downtown connects the dots between the Columbia's humming music halls, celebrated art museums, and national landmark sites making South Carolina's second-largest city a coveted destination for travelers of all ages. Whether you're four or ninety-four, there's a reason to fall in love with the Soda City.


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Recommended things to do in Columbia

Number of things to do
2
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Guided Congaree National Park Kayak Tour: $110
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Columbia

Free Things to Do in Columbia

Vacationing on a shoestring budget in Columbia? Spend time instead of money on great experiences.

Columbia Fire Museum - Young or old, this place will spark your imagination and capture your mind.

Tunnel Vision Mural - If you'd love to learn more about the artistic and cultural side of the area, make sure you stop by.

Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park - You'll love this attraction if your aim is to kick your heels up and have some fun.

University of South Carolina - Stroll around this historic attraction and find out some secrets from the past.

William Jennings Bryan Dorn Veterans Affairs Medical Center - Chat to a local resident and learn why many tourists visit this place.

First Baptist Church - Whatever your religious leanings, this site will invoke a sense of reverence.

West Columbia Riverwalk - Kick back and let the natural surroundings calm your soul.

Finlay Park - Organize a picnic date and enjoy a relaxing walk around the trees and shrubs.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Columbia

A quick 20-minute trip from the Columbia Metropolitan Airport, the city of Columbia pulses with activity in neighborhoods like Main Street and the Congaree Vista District, while the University of South Carolina's palmetto-lined lanes provide look at a revered academic institution.

Downtown Columbia

Governmental buildings stand at attention beside historic structures like the Woodrow Wilson Family Home in Columbia's civic center. Highlights include the South Carolina State House and the Governor's Mansion as well as popular bistros dishing up pimento cheeseburgers and bacon-infused bloody Marys.

Main Street

Columbia's cultural heart and soul lies along Main Street, where residents and travelers flock to sites like the Columbia City Ballet, Tapp's Arts Center, and the Nickelodeon, which showcases independent films every night of the week.

University of South Carolina

A trip to Columbia isn't complete without a visit to the University of South Carolina campus. Peer into the past with a look at the 200-year-old Horseshoe—USC's take on the quad—or visit the Koger Center to see a ballet or opera performance.

Congaree Vista District

Industrial edifices give way to sushi bars, beer halls, and ice creameries in the hip Congaree Vista District, an enclave that's also home to EdVenture and the South Carolina State Museum.

Things to See in Columbia

Whether you want to soak up the natural splendor in South Carolina's geographic center or you’re looking to catch a play on an acclaimed community stage, there are a bevy of things to see in Columbia. Begin by heading to Sesquicentennial State Park for endless hours spent in nature. Drink in lakeside views while making use of the park's extensive hiking trails and dog run. Or, venture to the Columbia Stage Society's Town Theatre, a family-oriented performance space showcasing the talents of regional actors. Likewise, Music Farm is a popular spot to catch a concert located a stone's throw from the South Carolina State House.

Sightseeing in Columbia

From art museums to retail centers where you can shop until you drop, there are a plethora of things to do in Columbia. Art lovers can begin by heading to the Columbia Museum of Art, where permanent collections include masterpieces from the Americas, Asia, and Europe, in addition to featured contemporary exhibits. Or, make the trek to the southern edge of town where the 701 Center for Contemporary Art beckons. Inside, find artwork by regional, national, and international artists as well as workshops for aspiring creative types. On the other side of the river, the Riverbanks Zoo is a kid-tested destination that invites budding zoologists to admire animals from across the globe, while the neighboring Riverbanks Botanical Garden is filled with roses and lilies and is easily accessed via tram from the zoo. Those on the prowl for souvenirs should head to the newly renovated Village at Sandhill shopping center, an outdoor mall with the region's best boutiques and restaurants to satisfy every palate.

Things to Do in Columbia with Kids

Columbia is a fantastic place for a family vacation. Take the kids along and enjoy these popular family friendly experiences together:


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Columbia

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Columbia

Columbia

Downtown Columbia

A magnet for visitors to the southeast, this compact city is a favorite for its charm, cuisine, historic neighborhoods, world-class museums and pretty green spaces.

Downtown Columbia
Columbia

The Vista

The Vista is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Colonial Life Arena or Koger Center for the Arts.

The Vista
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Rosewood

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Rosewood and surrounding area, you can visit South Carolina Military Museum and South Carolina State Fairgrounds.

Rosewood
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Shandon

While Shandon might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Township Auditorium and South Carolina State Fairgrounds.

Shandon
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University Hill

4.5/5(129 area reviews)

University Hill is well-liked for its restaurants. You can also take some time to explore sights in the surrounding area like South Carolina State House and Township Auditorium.

University Hill
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Lake Carolina

While Lake Carolina isn't home to many top sights, Lake Carolina and Village at Sandhill Mall are some notable places to visit nearby.

Lake Carolina

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Columbia

Frequently asked questions

Is Columbia worth visiting?
Columbia has a unique mix of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into history, outdoor activities or traditional food, there's a lot you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Columbia?
Start your day with a visit to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden and South Carolina State Museum. Then, explore other parts of Columbia for local restaurants and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Columbia?
The top tourist attraction in Columbia is Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, so don't forget to add it to your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Columbia?
Three days in Columbia is enough to visit the city's major highlights. Many guests spend two days on average. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, Township Auditorium and South Carolina State Museum are highly rated sights. Like to discover more? Stick around a bit longer to check off nearby hotspots like Harbison.
Is Columbia a walkable city?
Some leading attractions in Columbia, such as Riverbanks Zoo and Garden and Township Auditorium, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.3 miles from central Columbia is Downtown Columbia and The Vista is 0.5 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Columbia with kids?
Deciding what to do in Columbia with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're taking a trip with little ones or teenagers, there are plenty of family-friendly sights to keep everyone happy here.
What to do in Columbia for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Columbia, with activities for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Carolina Coliseum or South Carolina State House.
Are there free things to do in Columbia?
One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Columbia is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on hip neighborhoods, parks and other major attractions you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Trinity Episcopal Cathedral is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.