About Columbia, South Carolina

A capital city with Southern charm, rich history, and a revitalized riverfront.

Quick Facts

• Best time to visit: Spring and Fall
• Average temperature: 60–85°F
• Ideal trip length: 2–3 days
• Getting around: Easy to drive with metered parking downtown
• Day trips: Congaree National Park (30 min), Lake Murray (20 min)
• Major events: Rosewood Crawfish Festival, Soda City Market (weekly)

Insider Tips

• Don’t miss the Saturday Soda City Market on Main Street — it’s full of food trucks and local art.
• Walk the Columbia Riverwalk at sunset for beautiful views and less crowds.
• Head to The Vista at night for dining, galleries, and rooftop bars.
• Public art and murals are all over downtown — great for photo stops.
• Many museums are free or discounted on the first Thursday of each month.

Top Tours and Experiences

South Carolina State Museum

A massive museum in a historic mill with planetarium, art, science, and natural history exhibits.

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

One of the top zoos in the Southeast, featuring lush gardens and a kids’ splash area.

The Vista

Columbia’s lively arts and entertainment district filled with bars, restaurants, and shops.

Congaree National Park

Just outside town, it’s great for hiking through old-growth forests and kayaking among cypress trees.

University of South Carolina

Stroll the Horseshoe, visit McKissick Museum, or catch a Gamecocks game.

Where to Stay

Best Places to Eat

Motor Supply Co. Bistro

Upscale bistro in The Vista with a daily-changing farm-to-table menu. View menu

The War Mouth

Southern comfort food with a quirky atmosphere and cocktails. Visit Facebook

Terra

Wood-fired cuisine and fine wine in West Columbia. See more

Bourbon

Creole-inspired plates and craft whiskey bar beside the State House. Check them out

Hendrix

Trendy rooftop bar with small plates and skyline views. Make a reservation

Local Events

Soda City Market

A lively street market every Saturday with food trucks, vendors, and live music on Main Street.

Rosewood Crawfish Festival

A springtime celebration of Cajun food, beer, and local bands.

Famously Hot New Year

Columbia’s downtown NYE celebration with fireworks and live music.

How to Get There

Nearest Airport

  • Nearest Airport: Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) – 15 minutes from downtown
  • Driving: Access via I-26, I-77, and I-20
  • Transit: COMET bus service connects most downtown neighborhoods

Map & Neighborhood Breakdown

The Vista

Lively arts district filled with restaurants, galleries, and nightlife.

  • South Carolina State Museum
  • Hendrix Rooftop
  • Gervais & Vine
  • Blue Marlin

Five Points

College-centric area known for bars, vintage shops, and late-night eats.

  • Bar None
  • Drip Coffee
  • Pawleys Front Porch
  • The Gourmet Shop

Shandon

A charming residential area with tree-lined streets and local favorites.

  • Rosewood Dairy Bar
  • Hunter-Gatherer Brewery
  • Emily Douglas Park