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. If sports constantly run through your mind, this is the guide for you.
Food
Hometeam BBQ
You can’t go wrong with a pre- or post-game feast, and what better way to fuel up than with some southern favorites. Hometeam BBQ, just minutes away from campus, is a go-to for delicious BBQ comfort food. Even better, Hometeam is open until midnight, so you have plenty of time to catch a meal even if your game goes into overtime.
Pelican’s Snoballs
If you’ve ever been to Columbia, you know it can get pretty hot, so you’ll definitely want to find something cool after a sunny gameday. Pelican’s Snoballs is a Gamecock favorite for a cool, icy treat. Plus, there are tons of unique flavor combos, so you can try something new every time you go!
Campus Spot
Williams-Brice Stadium
If you’re a sports lover, you know Williams-Brice Stadium will be your second home. With a full capacity of over 80 thousand, you can “Sandstorm” along with all your fellow Gamecock fans.
Recreational
Fireflies Baseball at Segra Park
Another way to explore Columbia sports is to spend a night cheering on the Columbia Fireflies, our minor league baseball team. The team also hosts plenty of theme nights, including t-shirt giveaways and nights to bring your pup!
The Grand
This is by far one of the most unique restaurants you’ll come across. Aside from a bar, it’s also a bowling alley that hosts live music. So, whether you’re interested in listening to local artists or crushing your friends and family in bowling, The Grand has you covered for an evening of fun… and maybe some tacos!
Owens Field Pump Track
For all the skaters and BMX lovers, there is a pump track with plenty of unique elements, such as bern turns for you to try. We’d love to see any photos you take riding on the track!
Shops
Barefoot
Nobody does gameday ‘fits better than Barefoot. Located right across from Greek Village, Barefoot has gameday gear for everyone. Ranging from jerseys, hats and uniquely cut Gamecock shirts, you’ll be walking into Williams-Brice in style.
Todd and Moore
As a sport lover, Todd and Moore can easily become your happy place. As a small sporting goods store, you can enjoy incredibly personalized service in a fun, local environment. Fun fact, Todd and Moore has been in business since 1944!
Free Options
Frisbee on the Horseshoe
An easy way to spend an afternoon and meet new people is playing frisbee on the Horseshoe. There is more than enough green space to enjoy a sunny Columbia day, and it’s almost impossible to not find fellow students who also love playing frisbee.
Biking around Columbia
Looking for a fun way to explore our city? Grab your bike and get ready to ride! Biking is a great way to explore our campus, the city of Columbia and many local parks. And since we generally have over 217 days of sun each year, you’ll more than likely have perfect biking weather.
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.