You can’t visit the University of South Carolina without visiting the city that we call home. Our city is made for exploration. From delicious food to invigorating activities in a city that inspires, Columbia, South Carolina has something for everyone.
While we could make an entire list of noteworthy places to visit when you come to Columbia, we’ve made it a little easier for you. This one is for our river floating, trail hiking, outdoor-lovin’ Gamecocks. Here is a list of things to do and see when you visit.
Food
Pawley’s Front Porch
Pawley’s Front Porch is known for their delicious burgers. From a burger topped with grilled pineapple to one smothered in southern pimento cheese, the combinations are always unique. Bonus: they have a great patio for outdoor seating!
Campus Spot
The Horseshoe
The Horseshoe is everyone’s favorite green space on campus. It’s the perfect place to hang your ENO and read a book or play a game of tag football with friends. You’ll probably get a surprise visit from cute puppies while you’re there, too!
Recreational
West Columbia Riverwalk
West Columbia Riverwalk is a beautiful outdoor space. It’s a great place for walking, biking or rollerblading, and you can even tube or kayak down the river. There are even picnic tables so that you can enjoy an afternoon snack.
Lake Murray Dam
This dam stretches 1.5 miles over Lake Murray and is a great place for an evening walk. If you time it just right, you can get the perfect sunset view. While you’re there, be sure to place a lock on the chain-link fence!
Ziplining
Zipline over the trees and get a spectacular view of the Saluda River through Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden’s Zip the Zoo and Zoom the River.
Shops
REI
This store provides outdoor enthusiasts with top-brand outdoor gear and equipment. They have everything you need for hiking, biking, camping and more.
Palmetto Outdoors
This is the place to book all of your outdoor activities! Here you can rent tubes, kayaks, canoes and more – great for those wanting to explore the Saluda River while visiting.
Free Options
Finlay Park
This is the largest park in Downtown Columbia. It is the perfect place to host picnics or bring out your inner child by playing on one of two playgrounds. This park hosts many festival-like events – maybe you’ll get to experience one when you visit!
Fireflies at Congaree National Park
From hiking and fishing to overnight camping, Congaree National Park is 26,276 acres of pure nature. Go in the evening to see the night sky lit by synchronous fireflies!
Accommodations
Graduate Columbia Hotel
You have to book the perfect place to stay when you visit Columbia – the Graduate Columbia Hotel is just that! Just steps from the Horseshoe, this hotel is in the heart of the city. It is filled with southern charm offering unique, cozy rooms and amenities such as wi-fi. Be sure to check out the cute little café right within the hotel.