Columbia Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Columbia, often referred to as the “Soda City” (short for Columbia), is a destination where Southern tradition meets a youthful, creative energy. Nestled in the heart of South Carolina, it serves as both the state capital and a college town, resulting in a unique blend of buttoned-up history and vibrant nightlife. Three rivers, the Saluda, Broad, and Congaree, converge here, creating a natural playground that runs right through the urban center.

While the summer heat earns the city its “Famously Hot” slogan, the warmth of the hospitality is just as notable. From the revitalized Main Street district to the historic brick warehouses of the Vista, Columbia has transformed into a culinary and cultural hub that surprises many first-time visitors. Whether you are looking for world-class zoos, national parks, or grits done right, this city delivers.

The Spirit of the Midlands

Columbia’s history is deeply etched into its streets, quite literally. It is one of the few places where you can touch the scars of the Civil War on the State House walls or walk through homes that survived the burning of the city in 1865. However, the city isn’t stuck in the past; the presence of the University of South Carolina injects a constant stream of art, music, and SEC sports excitement, particularly when the Gamecocks are playing at Williams-Brice Stadium.

Beyond the history and sports, the local geography sets it apart. It is one of the few capital cities with a National Park right in its backyard. Congaree National Park offers a glimpse into what the landscape looked like centuries ago, while the riverbanks closer to town have been developed into miles of scenic greenways perfect for cycling and running.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Congaree National Park - Just 18 miles southeast of the city, this park preserves the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the US. Admission is free, and the boardwalk loop is accessible for all skill levels.

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden - Located 3 miles from downtown, this attraction typically costs around $25 for adults. It features a spectacular bridge crossing the Saluda River that connects the zoo animals to the botanical gardens.

South Carolina State House - Situated at the intersection of Main and Gervais Streets, the grounds are free to tour. Look for the African American History Monument, the first of its kind on any state house grounds in the nation.

EdVenture Children’s Museum - Located 1.5 miles from the State House, this is the largest children’s museum in the South. Tickets are approx $13. Don’t miss “Eddie,” the world’s largest child sculpture (40 feet tall) that kids can actually climb inside.

Planning Your Visit

Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) is small and easy to navigate, located about 15 minutes from downtown. However, many visitors drive in via I-26 or I-77. Downtown Columbia is very walkable, specifically the Main Street and Vista districts, but you will need a car or rideshare to reach the Zoo, the Lake, or the National Park. Parking is generally plentiful and affordable compared to larger cities.

Pack light, breathable clothing if you visit between May and September, as the humidity is significant. Good walking shoes are a must for the hilly terrain of the zoo and the boardwalks at Congaree. If visiting in the fall, be aware that hotel availability drops and prices spike on University of South Carolina home football game weekends.

Columbia is a city that rewards curiosity, offering a rich tapestry of history, nature, and modern Southern culture. Whether you are floating down the river or enjoying a pimento cheese burger in the Vista, you’ll find the capital city is a hidden gem of the Southeast.