Famed as America’s first city and named after Christopher Columbus, the world-famous explorer, South Carolina’s capital city is a historical center brimming with southern charm and sunshine. Gardens, Columbia’s zoo, artwork, and numerous city parks provide ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation, and you’ll find an impressive array of museums as well. So, diving right into it, here’s a list of things to do in Columbia South Carolina.
Things You Must Do in Columbia, South Carolina
The Columbia Art Museum
Via experiencecolumbiasc.com
The Columbia Art Museum is a nonprofit organization and the local community’s pillar. It remains dedicated to showcasing local artists’ work and supporting art education in the city. There’s something for every art enthusiast here, with work covering Baroque and older Renaissance paintings as well as contemporary canvases by the likes of Tatara Fire.
Besides its substantial permanent collection, the museum hosts various topical exhibitions. Therefore, you’ll be sure to catch something of interest during your time in Columbia.
Congaree National Park
Via nps.gov/cong/index.htm
It is one of the most breathtaking sites countrywide. You’ll find plenty of hiking trails, camping spots, and water bodies filled with fish. The National Park is ideal for active people looking to have a good time in the wild and is the perfect place to take your family and friends for an adventure.
Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden
Via riverbanks.org/botanical-garden/
With an exotic range of animals from every continent worldwide, this major attraction is home to numerous creatures, including koalas, giraffes, and lions. The animals’ well-being is paramount here. Moreover, the zoo operates in line with enrichment programs, fostering maintenance of natural behaviors learned in the wild.
The garden attached to the zoo is another impressive site to visit. It’s a stretch of more than 70 acres of land, and visitors spend hours strolling through the vibrant scenery. The zoo also offers various educational experiences and interactive programs to make your visit informative and enjoyable for different age groups.
Historic House Museum
Via historiccolumbia.org
The nonprofit organization seeks to protect the city’s rich social and cultural past by preserving various landmarks and historical buildings around the city. The Historic House Museum is a site that comprises of four different properties. You can stroll around the landscaped gardens or marvel at the breathtakingly restored features of the southern property. The museum should surely be on your list of things to do in Columbia, South Carolina.
Cayce Riverwalk
Via visitcaycewestcolumbia.com/riverwalk-park/
Cayce has over 20 miles of trails and river walks, along with 12,000 years of history. The Riverwalk provides a free escape to nature within an urban setting, five minutes from the South Carolina State House.
Lake Murray
Via lakemurraycountry.com
If you’ve run out of things to do in Columbia, you could always spend some quality time with your family in the water. Lake Murray is the perfect spot to enjoy a swim throughout summer. You’ll also find some excellent fishing spots provided you know where to look.
Make sure you’re on the lookout for some stunning birds; the lake draws some of the most beautiful birds. Don’t skip out on some fun, as well. Going to a lake is an excellent idea for cookouts and camping throughout summer.
South Carolina State House
Via scetv.org/news-and-public-affairs
Architecture and history lovers will enjoy visiting the South Carolina State House. You can stroll around the grounds while viewing the several monuments or tour inside to discover more of South Carolina’s history and legislation.
If you’re new in Columbia and wish to explore South Carolina, Lake Murray Country is the ideal source for the activities you should engage in.
