In Columbia, SC, there are a variety of activities and attractions to suit different interests: Outdoor Activities and Parks

• Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park offers historic sites, hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and is family and pet-friendly.
• West Columbia Riverwalk Park features an amphitheater and greenway along the Congaree River, ideal for relaxing walks.
• For hiking and nature lovers, Sesquicentennial State Park, Congaree National Park, Dreher Island State Park, and Harbison State Forest provide trails and outdoor recreation

• Lake Murray and Congaree National Park also offer opportunities for camping, fishing, boating, kayaking, and canoeing

Museums and Cultural Attractions

• The South Carolina State Museum has interactive science and history exhibits, a planetarium, and a telescope observatory, making it great for all ages

• The Columbia Museum of Art features permanent and traveling art exhibits and educational programs

• EdVenture Children’s Museum is a highly interactive museum designed for kids with exhibits like a giant kid model, fire trucks, and more

• The Museum of the Reconstruction Era offers historical insights into post-Civil War life in Columbia

• The South Carolina State House provides free guided and self-guided tours of the historic capitol building and grounds

Family-Friendly and Entertainment

• Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a top family destination with over 2,000 animals, botanical gardens, a carousel, and tram rides

• Soda City Market on Main Street is a vibrant weekly market with local food vendors, artisans, and live music

• The Grand on Main offers boutique bowling and dining experiences

• Surge Trampoline Park and Flight Adventure Park provide indoor fun with trampolines, laser tag, and arcade games

Dining and Nightlife

• The Vista district is Columbia’s premier destination for dining and nightlife, featuring Southern and international cuisine in a lively atmosphere

Columbia offers a rich blend of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, family-friendly attractions, and vibrant local markets and dining, making it a well-rounded destination for visitors