15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Columbia, SC

Southern hot spot Columbia, in South Carolina, is steeped in history and culture, and calls to tourists with heritage-filled neighborhoods, beautiful parks, world-class museums, and plenty of fun outdoor adventures. South Carolina’s capital city since 1786, Columbia was physically and culturally transformed by the Civil War.

Today, the city is the vibrant home of the University of South Carolina; enjoys a diverse economic landscape fueled by high-tech, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing industries; and has emerged as a contemporary, shining New South city. A favorite place to visit in the southeast for tourists, Columbia is known for its compact, easily navigable streets, as well as its Southern charm, cuisine, and hospitality.

For the best sightseeing opportunities be sure to refer often to our list of the top attractions and things to do in Columbia, South Carolina.

1. Have Some Family Fun at Riverbanks Zoo

More than 2,000 creatures make their home at this 170-acre zoo and garden. Especially well-suited for family outings, Riverbanks Zoo is a two-time recipient of the Governor’s Cup Award for South Carolina’s most outstanding tourist attraction, drawing upwards of a million visitors each year.

Dedicated areas like the Reptile House, Bird Complex, and Petting Zoo make it easy for visitors – particularly the wee ones – to get extra close to various species and learn through interactive exhibits. Want to find out what goes into beekeeping? You’ll learn here in a special exhibit. At Riverbanks, you can even feed the giraffes lettuce that is provided for a small fee.

Official site: www.riverbanks.org

2. Riverbanks Botanical Garden

Be sure to also allocate some time to explore the zoo’s Riverbanks Botanical Garden. While entry to this beautiful 70-acre gardens is included with admission to Riverbanks Zoo, it’s certainly worth visiting separately if you can spare the time to explore everything there is to see here.

Set on the south bank of the Saluda River and connected to the zoo by a picturesque pedestrian bridge, the gardens are home to over 4,200 different species of exotic and native north American plants, along with numerous exotic examples from overseas. The gardens are easily navigable due to their being laid out by theme, and tours and workshops are available.

Visitors interested in the area’s textile history should look out for the self-guided 0.3-mile River Trail. Beginning at the Saluda Bridge and winding along the river to the Saluda Mills Interpretive Center, the trail provides a close-up view of the first water-powered textile mills in South Carolina.

Address: 1300 Botanical Pkwy, West Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: www.riverbanks.org/botanical-garden/

3. Take a Free Tour of South Carolina State House

One of the most visited tourist attractions in the state, the South Carolina Statehouse is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture that was in style during the pre-Civil War period in the South. While construction started in 1851, it wasn’t completed until after the war. The highly-regarded design work of John Niernsee, the capital towers 180 feet high, with a patinaed copper dome.

Visitors exploring the vast capitol grounds get a sense for the complex state history here, viewing the Revolutionary War Generals Monument, American-Mexican War Monument, the African-American History Monument, the Confederate Monument, and other statuary honoring George Washington, S.C. Senators, and fallen State Law Enforcement Officers.

Be sure to look for the five stars along the building’s exterior highlighting where Union cannonballs struck the façade during the Civil War, before the structure was completed. Free tours take visitors through the impressive inner corridors of the capitol building and provide views of both the state senate and house chambers. Hours vary depending upon when the legislature is in ession.

Address: 1100 Gervais Street, Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: www.scstatehouse.gov/visit.php

4. Explore History at the South Carolina State Museum

Since it opened in 1988, the South Carolina State Museum has established itself as the go-to attraction for those seeking to learn more about this great state’s history.

Spread across four floors of a 19th-century mill are a mix of displays of the museum’s own collections, as well as rotating exhibits focusing on important events in the state’s history, along with stories of its people through the lens of art, culture, science, and technology. There’s also a great deal of information regarding natural history, too.

In addition to the exhibits, visitors can enjoy shows in the museum’s state-of-the-art planetarium, as well as in its interactive 4D theater. Other highlights include an observatory, the first steam locomotive to be built in the US, as well as an early submarine.

Address: 301 Gervais Street, Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: http://scmuseum.org

5. Take a Stroll along Columbia Canal & Riverfront Park

Columbia Canal & Riverfront Park is a popular linear urban park running along the Saluda River and the Columbia Canal. Miles of paved paths attract bikers, joggers, and walkers. This is an unusual city park in that it has an outdoor gym with seven pieces of equipment, and you can enjoy a free workout using the lat-pull, vertical press, rower, leg press, and elliptical machines.

This 14-acre downtown park is wheelchair friendly, and you’ll find picnic tables, restrooms, and quiet river views here.

Address: 312 Laurel Street, Columbia, South Carolina

6. See the Artworks at Columbia Museum of Art

With more than 25 galleries and a global collection covering 5,000 years of history, the Columbia Museum of Art is one of the most highly regarded institutions of its kind in the southeast. The museum is a multiple award winner, capturing prestigious National Art Education honors, the Governor’s Award for outstanding contribution to the arts in South Carolina, and the National Park Foundation Award.

Worth a special visit is the Press Collection, a world-class assemblage of Renaissance and Baroque art. Florentine master, Sandro Botticelli’s Nativity Fresco is the sole such work outside of his native Italy. Impressionist Claude Monet’s View of the Seine is considered the collection’s crowning jewel.

The museum has an equally impressive American art collection, including works by portraitist Charles Willson Peale, sculptures by Frederic S. Remington, and marble work by Hiram Powers. Early and mid-century American decorative arts are also displayed, including furniture designed by Duncan Phyfe and ceramics by Victor Toothaker.

Address: 1515 Main Street, Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: www.columbiamuseum.org

7. University of South Carolina Visitor Center

With a sprawling 359-acre campus set close to vibrant downtown Columbia, University of South Carolina (USC) should definitely be included on your travel itinerary. Start your exploration at the university’s visitor center. Located a short stroll from downtown attractions such as the Columbia Museum of Art, you can gather information not just about the history of the university, but of fun things to do while exploring.

Topping our list is taking a self-guided walking tour of the campus. Along the way, you’ll follow a network of old brick paths and paved trails through the historic “horseshoe,” a park-like setting and the original 1801 campus around which are some of the university’s most important landmarks, including McCutchen House.

The visitor center is also home to the McKissick Museum, worth visiting for its large collections of cultural artifacts related to the American South. You’ll find an excellent interactive map of this easy-to-follow tour on the university’s official website.

Address: 1501 Pendleton St, Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: https://sc.edu/visit/

8. Wander the Waverly Historic District

This self-guided walking tour takes visitors in and around Columbia’s first suburb: Waverly. The community is well known as a diverse enclave encouraging black artistry, craftsmen and women, professionals, and social activists. Roughly bound by Hampton, Heidt, Gervais, and Hayden Streets, the neighborhood today is home to Benedict College and Allen University. These two widely acclaimed historically black colleges provided higher education during the time of segregation in the South.

Other highlights of the tour include Bishop’s Memorial AME Church, built in 1885 and listed in the National Register of Historic Places. You’ll also see Daddy Grace’s Parsonage, Heidt-Russell House, and the Waverly Five & Dime, along with Carpenter’s Hall and Carver Theater.

Check the official website link below for the full walking tour itinerary.

Address: 2222 Washington St, Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: www.historiccolumbia.org/online-tours/waverly

9. Explore Historic Columbia: Robert Mills Houses, Hampton-Preston Mansion & Woodrow Wilson Family Home

Three of Columbia’s most historic homes are lovingly restored and open for tours made available by Historic Columbia, a non-profit preservation organization.

Robert Mills House and Gardens was built in 1825 in the Classic Revival style as a private residence by Robert Mills, the designer of the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. Saved from the wrecking-ball in 1961, the home reopened as a historic museum and features an extensive collection of period pieces and decorative arts furnishings, many in the American Federal and French Empire styles. The gardens were a late post-restoration addition in the 60s and are in the classic English style.

The Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens has enjoyed many prior lives. Built in 1818 as a private residence and home to the prominent Hampton family, it went on to serve as a Union Army Headquarters during the Civil War and subsequently the Governor’s Mansion. The home is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The Antebellum Gardens surrounding the four-acre grounds were designed by former owners and mother-daughter duo of Mary A. Hampton and Caroline H. Preston.

The Woodrow Wilson Family Home is the only presidential site in South Carolina. This Italianate-villa-style manse was the boyhood home of Woodrow Wilson, the 28th president of the United States. Exhibits, vignettes, and backstories tell about “Tommy,” as Wilson was then known, and provide an early narrative (circa 1871) to the history of this great American.

Address: Historic Columbia, 1601 Richland Street, Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: www.historiccolumbia.org

10. Take the Kids to EdVenture Children’s Museum

From the moment you step into EdVenture Children’s Museum, you realize this is a special, one-of-a-kind attraction. Here, fun adventure awaits, with hands-on exhibits enhancing the experience for kids and adults alike. Eddie, the world’s largest child, greets everyone upon arrival to the main atrium. The perpetually ten-year-old boy is 40-feet tall and weighs more than 17.5 tons. His wide grin and encouraging nature encourages kids to climb over and through his giant frame.

Dedicated exhibits include Wags and Whiskers, a simulated pet care lab, where the kids can learn about grooming and caring for their four-legged friends, here in plush-toy form. Marketworks is a fun and imaginative inventor’s lab, where young tinkerers (age five and up) use blocks, Lego, and kid-friendly tools to work on various projects.

World of Work shows the young ones what may await them as they grow older and enter the workplace. They can visit (and climb upon) a real fire engine at Dalmatian Station, stock the shelves at the Neighborhood Market, and get behind the wheel of a tractor. Planet Putt & Play engages children of all ages using math and geometry combined with indoor miniature golf to conquer this tricky course.

Carousel Café has plenty of favorite child-friendly snacks and meals including mac ‘n’ cheese, burritos, and hot dogs.

Address: 211 Gervais Street, Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: http://edventure.org/

11. South Carolina Confederate Relic Room & Military Museum

The South Carolina Confederate Relic Room & Military Museum is the third-oldest museum in South Carolina and tells the story of the state’s military history from the Revolutionary War though the present-day war on terrorism.

Much of the collection focuses upon the Civil War and shares a vast and well-preserved grouping of uniforms, guns, medical gear, memorabilia, and artifacts that help tell the story of the “War between the States.” More than simply remnants, the detailed letters, manuscripts, ledgers, and written documentation paint a graphic picture of life during the war.

The museum is established and maintained by the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Address: 301 Gervais Street, Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: https://crr.sc.gov/

12. Catch a Game at Williams—Brice Stadium

Famous as the home turf for the Gamecocks, the University of South Carolina’s football team, Williams—Brice Stadium has been a fixture for sports fans in the South since 1934.

Located adjacent to the South Carolina State Fairgrounds, this state-of-the-art, fully renovated stadium hosts full crowds of upwards of 80,000 fans on game day and usually sells out in advance, so plan ahead if you’re wanting to catch a game.

The stadium also regularly hosts rock and pop concerts, with such legends as U2 and Paul McCartney having performed here.

Address: 1174 George Rogers Boulevard; Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: https://gamecocksonline.com/feature/williams-brice-stadium

13. Explore the Past at South Carolina Military Museum

A visit to the South Carolina Military Museum is definitely one of the top things to do for free in Columbia for history buffs. Formerly the National Guard Museum, the museum features a large collection of uniforms and artifacts related to the state’s military importance.

A number of vintage vehicles are on display, along with a large collection of weapons dating from the pre-Civil War period. Interesting displays reveal a timeline of military history, along with background material and photos.

While the museum can easily be enjoyed with a self-guided tour, hour-long guided tours are also available with advance notice.

Address: 1 National Guard Road, Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: www.scmilitarymuseum.com

14. Take in a Show at Koger Center for the Arts

Located on the grounds of University of South Carolina, the Koger Center for the Arts has been providing world-class entertainment to students, visitors, and locals alike since it opened in 1988. Featuring an auditorium capacity of 2,256, it’s a regular stop for everything from hit Broadway musicals to music stars and rock bands.

It’s also the permanent home of the South Carolina Philharmonic Orchestra and Columbia City Ballet, both of which feature a rich year-round program of performances. The venue’s location in Columbia’s designated arts and entertainment district means it’s close to numerous dining experiences.

Address: 1051 Greene Street, Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: https://kogercenterforthearts.com

15. Congaree National Park

Low-country outdoor splendor is on full display at the 26,000-plus acre Congaree National Park, where the nutrient-rich Congaree and Wateree rivers overflow onto the floor of this low-lying hardwood forest.

A good first stop here is the Hampton Visitors Center, where you can pick up trail, canoe, and kayak maps, chat with a ranger, and learn about the amazing biodiversity of one of the tallest deciduous forests in the world. The average tree canopy height is well over 100 feet tall. The center has some small yet interesting exhibits, along with scale models and a Junior Ranger Program to make the visit extra fun for the kids.

The nearby 2.5-mile Boardwalk trail will keep your feet clean and dry as you hike out into the hardwoods. Marked rails show numbers corresponding with your map providing descriptions of the park’s ecology. You’ll want sturdy boots and hiking gear on any of the other trails, as the lowlands can be wet and muddy. Cedar Creek flows through the center of the park and is well suited for canoeing and kayaking.

The park doesn’t offer rentals, so you’ll want to bring your own gear or check out a local outfitter. Some of the best can also organize tours at Cedar Creek and other nearby water attractions such as the Saluda River, Broad River, and Lake Murray.

Address: 100 National Park Road, Hopkins, South Carolina

Official site: www.nps.gov/cong/index.htm

Where to Stay in Columbia for Sightseeing

If you’re planning on spending vacation time – or perhaps a romantic couples’ getaway – in Columbia South Carolina, be sure to check out these top-rated hotels first:

Luxury Hotels:

• A favorite for those seeking a luxury hotel stay in South Carolina’s capital, Hilton Columbia Center features exquisitely decorated rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, an on-site steakhouse, plus a 24-hour fitness center.
• A contemporary feel is very much the in-thing at the high-end Hyatt Place Columbia / Downtown / The Vista , which offers its guests not just a great central location close to museums and shops, but also bright modern rooms with plenty of living space, and pullouts.
• The Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel is another reputable luxury hotel and features a mix of rooms and suites with classy fixtures and high ceilings, along with an on-site restaurant and a rooftop lounge.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• For a great quality boutique hotel experience in the heart of downtown Columbia, consider staying at the trendy Hotel Trundle , featuring classy rooms with kitchenettes, plus a great free continental breakfast.
• Although at the higher-end of the mid-range pricing level, the SpringHill Suites Columbia Downtown/The Vista is worth checking out for hotel deals due to its quality rooms, free breakfast, and great amenities.
• Also worth checking out for deals, the Hampton Inn Columbia – Downtown Historic District features comfortable rooms and beds, plus amenities including a saltwater swimming pool.

Budget Hotels:

• Although like most budget hotels and motels in Columbia it’s located outside of the downtown area, the Sleep Inn at Bush River Road is well-regarded for its clean rooms with fridges and microwaves, plus free hot breakfast.
• The Comfort Inn on Blush River Road is another good option, as is the Holiday Inn Express Columbia I-26 at Harbison Boulevard , both of them close to major highways.

Map of Attractions & Things to Do in Columbia, SC

Columbia, SC – Climate Chart

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The Best of South Carolina: Just a short drive from Columbia, you’ll find yourself in the picturesque old town of Charleston SC, largely unspoiled and one of the best places in the state to enjoy a waterfront walking experience. Prefer a beach vacation? Head to either Myrtle Beach for its endless stretches of sand and lovely boardwalks, or to Hilton Head Island for a relaxing walk on one of the widest – and longest – beaches on the East Coast.

The Best of North Carolina: That other Carolina, North Carolina, is not without fun vacation destinations of its own. A favorite for historians for its well-preserved architecture and the battleship North Carolina, the picturesque old streets of Wilmington are worth exploring. So too is the state’s largest city of Charlotte, home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the Carolinas Aviation Museum.

Top Places to Visit in the South: Few US cities are as attractive as Savannah, Georgia, popular for its well-preserved old homes and waterfront district complete with its original warehouses and cobbled streets. The much larger city of Atlanta, Georgia is also worthy of a getaway stay and is home to numerous attractions, including an aquarium and a fascinating civil rights museum. And you can’t travel much farther south in the US than the tropical paradise of Key West, tucked away at the bottom of Florida and the perfect playground for couples and adults seeking a fun escape from the cold.