10 Fun Things To Do Near Columbia, South Carolina (Richland County)
If you’re planning a trip to
Columbia, South Carolina, or maybe you just moved here and want to explore, you’re in the right place. Columbia is more than just the state capital. It’s a friendly, laid‑back city with history, rivers, parks, and some surprisingly cool hidden gems.
Whether you’re coming for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a quick stop on a road trip through the Southeast, here are
10 great things to do in and around Columbia, SC that will keep you busy and happy.
1. Get Wild at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
If you ask locals what to do in Columbia,
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden almost always comes up first.
This popular attraction sits just a short drive from downtown and is one of the top zoos in the Southeast. You’ll find:
- Lions, tigers, giraffes, and gorillas
- An aquarium and reptile house
- A large kids’ play area and splash zone (in warmer months)
- Beautiful botanical gardens with walking paths
Plan at least half a day here, especially if you’re visiting with kids. The zoo is easy to walk, and there are plenty of shady spots to rest and grab a snack.
Travel tip: Arrive early if you’re coming in summer. Columbia gets hot, and the animals are usually more active in the morning.
2. Explore History at the South Carolina State House
Right in the heart of downtown Columbia, the
South Carolina State House is hard to miss. The building itself is beautiful, with a big copper dome and wide stone steps.
You can:
- Take a free tour of the inside on weekdays
- Walk the grounds and see historic monuments and statues
- Snap photos of the impressive front lawn and gardens
Even if you’re not a huge history buff, it’s worth stopping by. The State House tells the story of South Carolina through its architecture, artwork, and memorials.
Fun idea: Grab coffee or ice cream from a nearby shop and stroll around the State House grounds at sunset. It’s quiet, peaceful, and very “Columbia.”
3. Walk (or Paddle) Along the Three Rivers Greenway
Columbia sits where three rivers meet: the
Saluda,
Broad, and
Catawba, which come together to form the
Conga… just kidding—they form the Congaree River.
The
Three Rivers Greenway is a scenic trail system that runs along these waterways. It’s perfect if you like:
- Walking, jogging, or biking on paved paths
- River views and gentle breezes
- Picnics on the grass or at picnic tables
You’ll find fishing spots, small rapids, and places where locals launch kayaks and tubes. On a nice day, it feels like half the city is out enjoying the river.
Pro tip: If you’re into paddling, look for guided kayak or tubing trips on the Saluda River. Floating down cool water on a hot South Carolina day is hard to beat.
4. Step Back in Time at the South Carolina State Museum
The
South Carolina State Museum is housed in a former textile mill right by the river. It’s one of the largest museums in the state and a great indoor option if the weather isn’t cooperating.
Inside you’ll find four main areas:
- History – from Native American culture to the Civil War and beyond
- Science & technology – including space exhibits
- Art – paintings, sculpture, and regional works
- Natural history – fossils, animals, and geology
The museum also has a
planetarium and sometimes a
4D theater with rotating shows.
If you like museums that mix hands‑on exhibits with big displays, this is a must‑see in downtown Columbia.
5. Get Artsy in the Vista and at the Columbia Museum of Art
Just a short walk from the State House, you’ll find the
Vista district and the
Columbia Museum of Art.
The Columbia Museum of Art features:
- Changing exhibitions from around the world
- Classic and modern art side by side
- Special events, workshops, and family days
After browsing the galleries, wander through the Vista area. This neighborhood is full of:
- Restaurants and bars
- Public art and murals
- Boutique shops and galleries
In the evening, the Vista comes alive with nightlife. It’s a fun spot for dinner and drinks after a day of exploring Columbia.
6. Discover the Wild Side at Congaree National Park
Looking for something a little different? Head about 30 minutes outside of Columbia to
Congaree National Park in Richland County.
This park protects one of the last old‑growth bottomland hardwood forests in the United States. In simple terms, that means:
- Towering trees (some of the tallest on the East Coast)
- Boardwalk trails through quiet, swampy forest
- Kayaking and canoeing on slow, winding creeks
The
Boardwalk Loop Trail, about 2.4 miles long, is flat and easy. It’s great for families, photographers, and anyone who wants to experience nature without a tough hike.
If you’re visiting in late spring, check out the park’s famous
synchronous fireflies, where thousands of fireflies light up in rhythm. It’s magical, but you do need reservations for that event.
7. Cheer On the Gamecocks at the University of South Carolina
Columbia is home to the
University of South Carolina, and the campus adds a lot of energy to the city.
Even if you’re not a student, you can:
- Walk around the historic Horseshoe, a beautiful green space with old brick buildings
- Catch a South Carolina Gamecocks football game at Williams-Brice Stadium in the fall
- Watch baseball, basketball, or other college sports
- Attend campus events, lectures, or performances
On game days, the whole city feels electric. Tailgates, parties, and fans in garnet and black are everywhere. If you enjoy college sports culture, Columbia won’t disappoint.
8. Relax in Nature at Sesquicentennial State Park
Locals call it “
Sesqui,” and it’s one of the easiest state parks to reach from Columbia. It’s inside Richland County, about a 20‑minute drive from downtown.
This peaceful park offers:
- A 30‑acre lake for paddleboats, kayaks, and fishing
- Shaded picnic spots and playgrounds
- Walking and biking trails through pine forest
- Camping areas if you want to spend the night
If you’re looking for a simple, low‑key outdoor day—maybe grilling, reading a book in a hammock, or letting kids run around—Sesqui is a great choice.
Tip: Bring bug spray in warmer months and a light jacket in winter. The shade can make it feel cooler than downtown.
9. Taste the Local Flavors: Barbecue, Beer, and More
You can’t talk about things to do in Columbia without mentioning the food. South Carolina has a strong barbecue tradition, and Columbia proudly joins in.
Around the city you’ll find:
If you like trying local flavors when you travel, make a mini “food tour” part of your Columbia itinerary. Visit a classic barbecue spot for lunch, then hit a brewery in the Vista or
Five Points neighborhood in the evening.
Ask your server, “Where do
you like to eat?” Locals usually have strong opinions—and good tips.
10. Stroll Through Five Points, Devine Street, and Local Neighborhoods
Part of the charm of Columbia, SC is found in its small business districts and neighborhoods.
A few areas to check out:
- Five Points – A mix of college‑friendly bars, coffee shops, and unique stores. Great for a casual afternoon or night out.
- Devine Street – Known for boutiques, wine bars, and nice restaurants. It has a relaxed, upscale neighborhood feel.
- Shandon & Rosewood – Tree‑lined streets, older homes, and local cafés. Perfect for a simple drive or walk to see another side of the city.
These spots give you a feel for everyday life in Columbia, beyond the major tourist attractions. If you like to “live like a local” when you travel, don’t skip them.
Planning Your Columbia, SC Trip
Here are a few quick tips to make the most of your visit to
Columbia, South Carolina:
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall usually bring pleasant weather. Summers are hot and humid, but the rivers and parks help.
- Getting around: A car is helpful, especially for reaching Congaree National Park and Sesqui. Downtown is walkable once you’re parked.
- Trip length: You can see the highlights in a weekend, but 3–4 days lets you fit in more outdoor time and a slower pace.
What Will You Do First in Columbia?
From
Riverbanks Zoo and the
South Carolina State Museum to
Congaree National Park and cozy neighborhoods, there are plenty of things to do near Columbia, SC in Richland County.
Are you more excited about:
- Outdoor adventures on the rivers and in the parks?
- History and museums in downtown Columbia?
- Or just eating your way through barbecue spots and local breweries?
Whatever your travel style, Columbia has a little something waiting for you.
Share Your Columbia, SC Experience
Have you been to Columbia, South Carolina? Do you have a favorite restaurant, park, or hidden gem I didn’t mention?
Drop your tips and stories in the comments—I’d love to hear what you discovered.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are planning a trip to Columbia or looking for a new weekend getaway in the Southeast. It might just inspire their next adventure.
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