Traveling to cities within the United States that some may consider “smaller towns” is something my family really enjoys. In my mind, it’s like temporarily relocating to a new city and seeing how the locals live. So when the tourism board invited us to visit Columbia, South Carolina for an extended weekend, I was beyond impressed by the itinerary they had prepared for us.
In fact, my husband, twin boys, and I had an amazing time exploring the city, and the boys even said it was one of their favorite trips ever—and trust me, they’ve been on over 50 trips! Columbia, SC, might not be the first place that comes to mind for a family getaway, but it’s packed with fun, culture, and Southern charm that makes it a fantastic destination.
Columbia is known for its rich history, beautiful parks, and vibrant arts scene. You can spend your days strolling through the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, wandering around the South Carolina State Museum, or just enjoying the local food scene (I was surprised by how good it was)! It’s a city that offers a little bit of everything, making it perfect for a family weekend getaway.
One of the highlights of our trip was the variety of kid-friendly activities. From the interactive exhibits at EdVenture Children’s Museum to paddle boating on Sesqui Lake, there’s no shortage of things to do in Columbia, Sc with kids. Plus, the Soda City Market and Frankie’s Fun Park offer a variety of fun activities and explorations that kiddos love.
Whether you’re planning a trip with kids or looking for a girl’s trip (some of my friends from Charlotte drive down to meet us), Columbia has an amazing itinerary for everyone. Continue reading for our full Columbia, SC travel guide, packed with our complete itinerary and all the best tips for making the most of your weekend in this vibrant Southern city.
Getting to Columbia, South Carolina
Traveling from New Orleans to Columbia, South Carolina was relatively quick and easy- with a short layover either in Charlotte or Atlanta. The Columbia airport looks recently renovated and is approximately 20 minutes from downtown. And if your family is more of a road trip family, it’s a 90-minute drive from Charlotte and a 3-hour drive from Atlanta.
Visiting Columbia from New York? Consider taking the bus from New York to Columbia.
Where to Stay in Columbia, South Carolina: Our Family Trip Accommodations
We stayed at the Graduate Hotel, which is a chain of boutique hotels located in university towns across the US. There are also some locations in the UK. The Graduate SC is conveniently located on the campus of the University of South Carolina and it’s by far one of the cutest hotels I’ve stayed at.
Between the vintage chic decor and the uber-friendly staff, I couldn’t get enough of the vibe. We stayed in the Graduate Family Suite, which was actually three rooms. One of the rooms was a living room, which felt like a common room in college. There were board games, a TV, and a nice comfortable sofa couch. The other room was the kid’s room, including twin caboose beds! The room also included a bathroom and a mini desk with a cute lamp that looked like a stack of books resting on it.
The third room was an adjoining king bedroom, a bathroom, and a desk. Plenty of space for all of us!
What I loved about the Graduate was the bar, the Trophy Room. It has different rooms with cute decorations where you can sit, eat, drink, and chat with friends. And the whiskey list was top-notch (if only my palate for whiskey was this good in college).
Additional Columbia, South Carolina Accommodation Options
Although I highly recommend staying at the Graduate Hotel, what would a Columbia, South Carolina travel guide be without multiple options? Below are additional options that vary across the board in amenities, location, vibe, and budget. When choosing a Columbia hotel, be sure to consider your itinerary.
Hotel Trundle
Hotel Trundle, located in Columbia’s Main Street District, is more than just a place to sleep—it’s a vibrant boutique hotel, seamlessly blending modern amenities with historic charm. Each art-deco-inspired room is a mini masterpiece, featuring local art and quirky furnishings that create a cozy, vibrant atmosphere. Guests can start their day with a complimentary breakfast before getting started on their Columbia, SC itinerary. Plus, they won’t have to go far to enjoy downtown attractions as the hotel is conveniently close.
Hyatt Place Columbia/Downtown/The Vista
Looking to stay where the action is? Hyatt Place Columbia/Downtown/The Vista offers spacious rooms with sleek, contemporary decor and all the modern conveniences you need. Start your day with a complimentary breakfast, then unwind by the outdoor saltwater pool or squeeze in a workout at the hotel gym. With its prime location in The Vista, you’re steps away from many dining, shopping, and entertainment options – can’t get better!
Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel
Step into classic elegance at the Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel, housed in a historic building with timeless charm. Enjoy stunning city views from the rooftop bar, Rooftop Lounge, while indulging in delicious Southern cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Its central location means easy access to cultural hotspots like the Columbia Museum of Art and the South Carolina State House, making it perfect for exploring the city’s rich history.
Aloft Columbia Downtown
Aloft Columbia Downtown isn’t just a hotel—it’s a lifestyle. Known for its trendy, loft-inspired design and buzzing social scene, it’s the place to be for hip travelers. Hang out at the vibrant bar, chill in the lounge, or shoot some pool at the billiards table. With its luxurious modern design, unmatched vibes, and proximity to The Vista, it’s a top choice for those seeking a lively and convenient stay in Columbia.
The Inn at Claussen’s
Tucked away in the historic Five Points neighborhood, The Inn at Claussen’s exudes Southern charm and hospitality. This boutique hotel offers cozy rooms with elegant decor, a complimentary breakfast featuring comforting Southern specialties, and a tranquil courtyard perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring Columbia. Guests can enjoy the neighborhood’s vibrant dining and shopping scene, all within walking distance, making it an ideal spot for a classic Southern getaway.
Getting Around Columbia
Depending on your Columbia, South Carolina itinerary and hotel location, you may be able to get around by Uber and foot only. For most of our Columbia weekend, we explored by foot. Racking up over 10,000 steps most days, exploring the South Carolina State House, Main Street, and downtown attractions.
However, if your itinerary includes other areas of Columbia, you may want to consider getting a rental car. The great news is you can easily get to a variety of Columbia attractions within a 15-20 minute drive from downtown. So take a good look at how you want to enjoy your vacation and take into consideration rental car and parking costs, to determine if you want to opt for a rental car.
The tourism board did get us a rental car. We used it to get to a couple of the attractions like the zoo, and children’s museum, and explore other Columbia areas.
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History of Columbia, South Carolina
Columbia holds a ton of American and State history. Despite, most of the city being burned down in 1865, the city does a great job of honoring its history. Even if you’re not a history buff (which I am not), I do recommend adding at least one history attraction to your Columbia itinerary.
Columbia is home to the only presidential site in South Carolina, the Woodrow Wilson Family Home. President Wilson lived here when he was 13 years old for 2 – 3 years. The home is now the Reconstruction Museum- the only museum to focus on the Reconstruction era.
During your time, you will explore the 3-bedroom house with guided tours, panel exhibits, and interactive dialogue. It had a lot of great history of the racial conflict of the time. But it didn’t have enough kid-friendly interaction; therefore, I don’t know if I would recommend it for kids. It did what it was supposed to do with displaying history.
In fact, it is a part of the Reconstruction Era Trail. The trail itself is a self-guided tour through the various landmarks that were a part of the post-civil war reconstruction era in Columbia.
A block away is the Robert Mills House and Gardens, where the Reconstruction Museum tour begins. The property is one of only five national historic landmarks in Columbia. The house is named after Robert Mills, the American-born designer who designed the Washington Monument, and a few others. My favorite part was the gardens as they were absolutely gorgeous.
Reconstruction Era Trail
The Reconstruction Era Trail consists of 11 locations throughout Columbia. Therefore, you may want to spread the trail across your Columbia weekend itinerary.
One must-see stop is the South Carolina State House, the seat of state government in South Carolina. It is home to the Governor’s office, the House, and Senate Chambers. Located in downtown Columbia, it’s within walking distance from the Reconstruction Museum and Main Street. In fact, our boys walked this part of the trail with us!
One of my favorite parts of the South Carolina State grounds is the African-American monument, pictured above. Fun Fact: the monument was built in 2001 as part of the deal that ensured the Confederate flag was moved from the statehouse dome to the grounds closer to the Confederate monument.
Things to do in Columbia, South Carolina
What would a Columbia, South Carolina travel guide be without the top things to do? Luckily, Columbia effortlessly blends Southern charm with vibrant urban energy, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking a mix of culture, history, dining, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Columbia offers a wealth of experiences that cater to diverse interests. You won’t be disappointed when adding a few of these activities to your Columbia itinerary!
The Vista
The Vista is Columbia’s premier arts and entertainment district, with an eclectic mix of dining options, bars, galleries, and boutique shops. It’s the perfect destination for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner. If delicious food is on your Columbia itinerary, begin your evening with fresh seafood at Blue Marlin, a local favorite known for its Lowcountry cuisine and charming Southern atmosphere. If farm-to-table dining is more your style, head to Motor Supply Co. Bistro, where the menu changes daily based on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The Vista also boasts a vibrant nightlife with bars like Tin Roof, offering live music and a lively atmosphere, and Art Bar, a unique spot featuring eclectic decor and a range of craft cocktails. For art enthusiasts, galleries such as if ART Gallery and Lewis + Clark showcase contemporary works from local and regional artists. Don’t miss a stroll through the boutique shops like The Mast General Store, where you can find everything from outdoor gear to nostalgic candies.
Columbia Museum of Art
Spend an afternoon at the Columbia Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of European, American, Asian, and contemporary art. Although this is a suitable activity for children, you may choose to keep this an adults-only activity – I know how impatient kiddos can get at art museums, not to mention their insatiable desire to touch everything! Also, this museum frequently hosts adult-focused events, including gallery tours, wine tastings, and art classes.
Koger Center for the Arts
The Koger Center for the Arts is Columbia’s premier venue for live performances, offering a diverse lineup of concerts, Broadway shows, dance performances, and more. It’s a perfect spot for an evening of culture and entertainment. Enjoy performances by the South Carolina Philharmonic, touring Broadway productions, and dance companies from around the world. With its state-of-the-art acoustics and elegant design, the Koger Center provides a memorable experience for all attendees. Be sure to check the schedule for special events and seasonal performances to make the most of your visit.
Main Street District
Explore the vibrant Main Street District, where a range of activities awaits. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined streets, stopping to browse unique boutiques like Bohemian Home for eclectic home decor or Something Special Florist and Gifts for charming gifts and flowers. When hunger strikes, the district offers excellent dining options, from the upscale Hampton Street Vineyard, known for its extensive wine list and gourmet dishes, to the cozy Drip Coffee, perfect for a relaxing coffee break.
Main Street is also the heart of Columbia’s cultural scene, hosting events like First Thursdays on Main, where you can enjoy live music, food vendors, and art displays. During these events, the street comes alive with performers, artisans, and a festive atmosphere that captures the spirit of the community.
And I’d be remiss if I didn’t include Soda City Market every Saturday morning. I talk more about it in the Things to Do with the Kids section below because my boys had A TIME
Things to Do with Kids in Columbia, SC
When we first started planning our Columbia weekend itinerary, I was pleasantly surprised by how family-friendly this beautiful city is. It wasn’t uncommon to see families exploring downtown and other Columbia attractions, together. As a mom of twin boys and one who loves to travel with my kiddos, I love it when cities intertwine family and kids into a variety of attractions.
EdVenture Children’s Museum
The first stop on our Columbia, South Carolina weekend itinerary was the EdVenture Children’s Museum, which was very impressive. I didn’t know this at the time, but it’s the largest children’s museum in the South East and it’s second only to The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis which is the largest children’s museum in the world. It’s 92,000 square feet and has more than 350 individual hands-on exhibits.
Huge is an understatement. The building is three stories tall and as you walk inside, you’re greeted by Eddie, the world’s largest child.
Eddie is a ten-year-old boy who is 40 feet tall and 17.5 tons. But don’t be alarmed, Eddie’s heart is open and big enough that even adults can climb and slide through the heart of the Children’s Museum. When arriving at the top floor, you’re greeted by the aviation area with flight simulators and a paper airplane creation station. They discuss the Wright Brothers, which is perfect for my twins, The Wright Bros. There is also a huge makeshift plane detailed with a cockpit and all. The kids are allowed to fly in the cockpit and the back has seats for “passengers”. It was so cool!
Firetrucks, Markets, Diners, and More
The museum is extremely well done, and that’s just upstairs. The downstairs had a fire truck that looked and sounded like a real truck. It had ALLL the bells and whistles- pole, siren, water hose, and more. The boys could “drive it” and the alarm went off and everything.
I enjoyed the way they implemented education into it so that it wasn’t just fun. Which is great for older kids who need a different experience. There was also a cute grocery store area called My Neighborhood Market, where kids could purchase their groceries and check out. My boys loved grocery shopping like me and playing cashier. There was also a cute diner with small pieces to make food and serve. Marley was the most adorable waiter, making pizzas to serve his dad.
The above-mentioned is just a portion of all of the available activities. It could be a challenge to thoroughly enjoy each activity in a single visit. But hey, you can always come back.
We didn’t leave the museum until closing and it was not a pretty scene. One of the twins stood outside of the front doors crying in protest as the museum’s employee locked the door at closing.
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
I was just as impressed with Riverbanks Zoo & Garden as I was with the children’s museum. To be honest, I’m not sure which one I liked better. I didn’t realize that the Zoo is a botanical garden as well as an aquarium.
We had limited time, so we weren’t able to visit the entire thing, just the children’s museum. There was an area where the kids could brush goats. The goats were docile and sweet and the boys loved it (it was so cute that I had to try it myself). Another area allowed you to get nectar and feed the birds. Marley was the ultimate bird whisper and Jaimeson was scared. I don’t like birds either, so I don’t blame Jam.
They also had unique animals like alpacas and kangaroos. Riverbank Zoo & Garden has enough activities that it can be an all-day South Carolina family trip adventure. We were there for almost three hours and we didn’t make it to the garden or aquarium.
Riverbank’s adult entry is $24.99 and $21.99 for kids 2-12. Kids under 2 are free. Tickets include admission to the Zoo, Botanical Gardens, and Waterfall Junction.
If you’re traveling with kids, including EdVenture’s Children’s Museum and/or Riverbanks Zoo & Gardens on your Columbia itinerary is a must!
Soda City Market
If this Columbia, South Carolina travel guide can only insist on one activity to include on your weekend itinerary, then the Soda City Market would be it. Each Saturday they have 150 vendors line Main Street from 9 am- 1 pm. The food options are global and delicious! From Latin American fare like arepas and pupusas to Asian cuisine, donuts, coffee, and everything in between. Plus, food was only a portion of the vendors as some were selling clothes, crafts, candles, and more. There were so many options, I didn’t know what to try first, lol.
Jubilee Festival
Our Columbia, South Carolina family trip took place the weekend of the Jubilee Festival. Jubilee celebrates South Carolina’s black history and culture and is held on the Mann-Simons site. The Mann-Simons site was a collection of commercial spaces owned and operated by the same African American family from 1843 to 1970. In 1970, there were threats of demolition which began an entire grassroots organization that saved the structure. It reopened as a house museum in 1978.
This year marked the 43rd celebration of it. To be honest, the festival was mediocre at its best, but the history of the homes and grounds made for an interesting story.
The boys enjoyed some delicious oxtails while we listened to live music performances of Frankly Beverly, Maze, and Earth, Wind, and Fire.
Murals and Street Art
If you love murals and street art, then Columbia is the place. Main Street has various murals and structures that I saw while walking through the market. I wished I had a little more time to take photos, but we made up for that at the West Columbia Interactive Art Park. It was super cute with drums, xylophones, and other instruments that you could interact with. There were also gorgeous murals!
Next door to the Interactive Art Park was Savage Craft. It’s this local brewery and restaurant with spacious outdoor seating, corn hole, and picnic benches that are perfect for kids to burn energy. Did I mention the rooftop bar? We had brunch at Savage Craft and it was delicious. My family practically inhaled the chimichangas, tabasco chicken, waffles, and salad. I personally loved being able to peek at the gorgeous city skyline. My boys loved the open space.
Did I mention that Columbia has the world’s largest fire hydrant? It’s almost 40 feet tall and weighs 675,000 pounds.
Frankie’s Fun Park
Frankie’s Fun Park offers a wide array of activities that guarantee a day filled with family fun and excitement. Race around the go-kart tracks, challenge each other to a game of laser tag or test your skills at mini-golf amidst creatively designed courses. Dive into the arcade games for a nostalgic experience or enjoy the water-based thrills of bumper boats.
For those who love baseball, the batting cages provide a chance to practice your swing, while the climbing wall offers a physical challenge for all ages. Complete your adventure with a thrilling ride on the Drop Zone and replenish your energy with a selection of snacks and refreshments available onsite. Frankie’s Fun Park ensures a memorable outing packed with laughter and enjoyment for everyone in the family.
Sesquicentennial State Park
Known locally as “Sesqui,” Sesquicentennial State Park offers a serene escape just a short drive from downtown Columbia. This expansive park features picturesque hiking trails that wind through pine forests and around the tranquil Sesqui Lake. The park’s swimming area is perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day, while rental pedal boats and kayaks provide a fun way to explore the water. For those who enjoy picnicking, the park offers numerous picnic areas and shelters, complete with grills and tables. Sesqui is also a great spot for wildlife watching, with opportunities to see deer, birds, and other native animals. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful hike, a day on the water, or a relaxing picnic, Sesqui has something for everyone.
The Top Places to Eat in Columbia, South Carolina
The Toasty Hot Spot
This one is for breakfast lovers! This locally owned brunch restaurant doesn’t have a 4.7 rating with hundreds of reviews for nothing. The food is delicious- from the grit bowls to the breakfast sammiches, you really can’t go wrong! Plus it’s about a 15-minute walk from the downtown area!
Columbia Craft Brewing Company
The city has a growing craft beer scene, and Columbia Craft Brewing Company is truly a standout! A great spot for craft beer enthusiasts, you’ll pick from a variety of innovative brews. Sip on a range of refreshing craft beers in their taproom or outdoor patio.
The taproom has a laid-back atmosphere, and the outdoor patio is the perfect sunny spot for trying a flight with some friends. They also host trivia night every Tuesday and music bingo every Wednesday!
The War Mouth
For a true taste of Southern cuisine, dine at The War Mouth. This restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Southern dishes, paired with a great selection of local beers and craft cocktails.
Terra
Located just across the Congaree River in West Columbia, Terra offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on local ingredients. The restaurant’s seasonal menu features dishes that highlight the best of Southern cuisine, paired with a carefully curated wine list. The cozy yet upscale atmosphere makes it perfect for a special night out.
Tin Roof
For a lively night out, visit Tin Roof, a popular live music venue and bar in The Vista. They feature local bands and musicians, offering a fun atmosphere to enjoy live music and dancing.
The Grand on Main
For a unique blend of dining and entertainment, visit The Grand on Main. This boutique bowling alley offers upscale American cuisine, craft cocktails, and a vintage-inspired atmosphere.
Rooftop Bars
Columbia has several rooftop bars offering stunning views of the city. Hendrix, located in The Vista, is a favorite for its chic atmosphere, craft cocktails, and delicious small plates. Another great spot is the rooftop at Market on Main, which features a large outdoor screen for movie nights.
Your Columbia, SC Itinerary
Whether you’re drawn to explore the historic districts, indulge in local cuisine, or enjoy family-friendly activities, Columbia offers a variety of experiences to suit every traveler.
As you plan your Columbia, South Carolina weekend itinerary, keep in mind some of the highlights we touched on in this travel guide, like exploring the vibrant Main Street District, visiting the EdVenture Children’s Museum for a day of interactive learning, or relaxing at Sesquicentennial State Park.
Be sure to check out local favorites like the Soda City Market for diverse culinary delights and unique crafts. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, Columbia promises a memorable adventure filled with Southern charm and endless possibilities.
I’m so glad we went to Columbia, South Carolina for our family trip. The entire family had so much fun. The kids have been asking to go back! Let me get our next Columbia, SC weekend itinerary together.
