Things To Do
in Columbia
Columbia is the capital city of South Carolina, located in the central part of the state. Known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture, Columbia offers a mix of cultural attractions and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is home to the University of South Carolina, adding a youthful energy to its diverse population.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, strolling along the Congaree River, or attending events at the Colonial Life Arena.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Riverfront Park, where you can enjoy the scenic views alongside the river. Take a leisurely walk or rent a bike to explore the lush greenery.
Visit the beautiful Finlay Park, a perfect spot for a picnic lunch. Don’t forget to check out the stunning fountain and vibrant flower gardens.
Wrap up your day with a stroll through the Vista area, filled with local shops and galleries. Grab dinner at one of the many eateries, enjoying outdoor seating if the weather permits.
Begin your morning at the South Carolina State House, where you can take a self-guided tour of this historic building. Take the time to appreciate the surrounding gardens and monuments.
Head to the Columbia Museum of Art to immerse yourself in regional and international art collections. Enjoy a light lunch at the museum café before exploring the exhibits.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that offers Southern cuisine to get a taste of the local flavors. Afterward, consider catching a performance at the Koger Center for the Arts.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong sense of community and local pride
- Diverse cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities
- Access to various parks and outdoor activities
- Good quality of life with a lower cost of living compared to larger cities
- Growing job market and economic development
- Limited public transportation options
- Potential for high humidity and heat in summer months
- Traffic congestion in certain areas
- Less urban amenities compared to larger metropolitan areas
- Certain socioeconomic challenges and disparities
Best Activities in Columbia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse ecosystem and scenic trails in this beautiful national park.
Enjoy outdoor wildlife viewing and botanical gardens at this popular attraction in Columbia.
Take a scenic bike ride along the Congaree, Broad, and Saluda rivers on this extensive trail network.
Tours
Uncover the best of Columbia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Columbia
Visit one of these nice places.
The South Carolina State House in Columbia offers a beautiful view for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
This park along the Congaree River provides stunning views of the water, bridges, and downtown Columbia skyline, making it a great spot for photos.
This 400-acre park with river access and nature trails offers various picturesque spots for photography.
The Vista district in Columbia is known for its vibrant arts scene and also provides scenic backdrops for photography.
Food in Columbia
Columbia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Southern dish featuring seasoned shrimp served over creamy, stone-ground grits. Recommended at Mr. Friendly's New Southern Cafe.
Must-Try!
Also known as Lowcountry boil, this one-pot seafood feast includes shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes. Available at Blue Marlin.
A regional favorite, this juicy burger is topped with tangy pimento cheese. Try it at Pawleys Front Porch for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Columbia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant Saturday market in downtown Columbia offers a wide array of local produce, artisanal foods, and food trucks serving diverse cuisines.
A must-visit for street food enthusiasts, this food truck hub features a dynamic selection of international flavors, from Mexican tacos to Korean barbecue.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In both Columbia and the United States, it's important to respect personal space and not stand too close to others, especially when having conversations.
In Columbia and the United States, being punctual is important. Arriving on time for social events, meetings, and appointments is a sign of respect.
In Columbia and the United States, a firm handshake and direct eye contact are common in greetings. It's also polite to address people using titles and surnames until invited to use first names.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Columbia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Columbia
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tipping is a common practice in the service industry, with customary amounts ranging from 15% to 20% of the total bill. Tipping is generally expected at restaurants, bars, hotels, and for services such as haircuts and taxi rides.
Payments in the United States are commonly made using credit or debit cards, as well as cash. Mobile payment apps such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also widely accepted. Checks are less commonly used for everyday transactions, but are still used for certain bill payments and in business transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Columbia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Columbia, United States, as the temperatures are mild and the city comes alive with blooming flowers and outdoor events.
Summer in Columbia is hot and humid, but it's a popular time to visit for outdoor activities and festivals.
Fall brings cooler temperatures and stunning foliage, making it an ideal time for hiking and enjoying the colorful scenery.
Winter can be cold in Columbia, but the festive holiday events and the possibility of snow make it a charming time to visit for those who enjoy winter activities.
Columbia at Night
Hiking in Columbia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park featuring trails along the Savannah River, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
A national park with diverse ecosystems, offering hiking trails through old-growth bottomland hardwood forest.
A hiking path that runs through the grounds of Fort Jackson, providing a unique blend of nature and military history.
A recreational area with trails that wind around Lake Murray, providing beautiful views and a variety of outdoor activities.
A quiet area with trails around Pinewood Lake, ideal for a peaceful hiking experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Columbia through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Columbia by plane.
Located in West Columbia, South Carolina, approximately 10 miles from downtown Columbia, this airport serves domestic flights and offers limited international services.
Situated in Charleston, South Carolina, about 110 miles from Columbia, this airport is a major hub for domestic and some international flights.
Located in Greer, South Carolina, around 100 miles from Columbia, this airport provides numerous domestic flights and a few international destinations.
About 200 miles from Columbia, Georgia, this is one of the largest international airports in the world, offering extensive domestic and international flight options.
Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, roughly 90 miles from Columbia, this airport serves as a major gateway for international flights and a significant hub for domestic travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Columbia, accounting for a significant percentage of the population.
The second-largest demographic group, contributing to Columbia's rich cultural diversity.
A growing demographic group in Columbia, reflecting the increasing diversity of the area.
A smaller demographic group, but contributes to the multicultural fabric of Columbia.
This group includes individuals who identify with more than one racial category, representing a diverse identity.
A small but significant demographic group, representing the indigenous peoples of the area.
This includes various other racial and ethnic identities, contributing to the overall diversity of Columbia.
The Soul of Columbia
Discover the essence of Columbia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Columbia, South Carolina. The city has a strong following for its college football teams, particularly the University of South Carolina Gamecocks.
Basketball enjoys a significant following in Columbia. The city’s schools and the University of South Carolina provide a vibrant basketball culture.
Baseball has a rich tradition in Columbia, with minor league teams and local leagues contributing to the popularity of the sport.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in Columbia, with youth leagues and local clubs promoting the sport across various age groups.
Golf is a popular recreational activity in Columbia, featuring several golf courses and a community that enjoys the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Columbia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options abound for vegetarians in Columbia, with many restaurants offering flavorful veggie-centric dishes like eggplant parmesan and lentil curry.
In addition to dedicated vegan restaurants, many eateries in Columbia provide robust plant-based menus, ensuring a satisfying experience for vegans.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating options at various establishments, including gluten-free pizzas, pastas, and baked goods.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Columbia with these cultural adventures.
