Best Things to do in Columbia | Must-see attractions 2025

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

500 Wildlife Pkwy

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Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia houses nearly 2000 animals from 350 species, alongside a 70-acre botanical garden featuring over 4300 plant species.

Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Adults: $16.95, Children (3-12): $14.95, Under 3: Free. Discounted rates available for seniors and military.

University of South Carolina

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

University of South Carolina (Bull St)

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University of South Carolina, located in Columbia, SC, is a prominent public research university with a diverse array of programs and extensive collections in literature.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special events and exhibitions may have a fee.

Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

312 Laurel Street

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Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park offers walking trails, historical significance from the 19th century, and scenic views of the Congaree River in Columbia, South Carolina.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may incur charges.

Williams-Brice Stadium

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Stadium

1125 George Rogers Boulevard

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Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia, South Carolina, is home to the University of South Carolina Gamecocks football team, featuring a seating capacity of 77,559.

Duration: 3-4 hours for a typical game day.

Tickets generally range from $20 to $100, depending on the game and seating choice.

Saluda Shoals Park

7:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

5605 Bush River Rd

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Saluda Shoals Park spans 400 acres in Columbia, South Carolina, featuring trails, picnic areas, a river observation deck, and opportunities for kayaking and fishing.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a ticket.

South Carolina State Museum

Mo off; Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00, Su 12:00-17:00

Museum

301 Gervais St

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South Carolina State Museum in Columbia offers exhibits on history, culture, and geography, featuring a planetarium, 4D theater, and megalodon replica.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

General Admission: $10, Children (3-17): $5, discounts available for seniors and military.

Columbia Museum of Art

Tu-Sa 11:00-17:00; Su 12:00-17:00

Museum

Corner of Main and Hampton Sts

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Columbia Museum of Art showcases a vast collection of European and American art, including works by Monet and Chihuly, located in Columbia, South Carolina.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Paid. general admission fees apply, with potential discounts for seniors and students.

Colonial Life Arena

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Stadium

801 Lincoln Street

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Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, SC, hosts USC basketball games and major events. It's a premier venue for sports and entertainment in the region.

Duration: Plan for at least 2 hours for events.

Pricing varies by event; general admission for USC games typically starts around $15.

EdVenture Children's Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

211 Gervais Street

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EdVenture Children's Museum in Columbia, SC, features 9 interactive galleries, including EDDIE, the world's largest child, offering 350+ hands-on experiences.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $9 for children ages 1-15, and free for children under 1 year old. Discounts available for groups.

South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

301 Gervais St

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The South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, founded in 1896, focuses on the state's military history from the Revolutionary War to the present.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Trinity Episcopal Cathedral

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

1100 Sumter St (btw Gervais and Senate)

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Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Columbia, SC, features stunning architecture inspired by York Minster, serving as a central hub for spiritual growth and community engagement.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a ticket.

Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Event hall

1101 Lincoln St Columbia SC

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Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center in Columbia, SC hosts conferences and events, providing networking opportunities and modern facilities.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free access to public events; specific events may require tickets.

Sesquicentennial State Park

8:00 AM–7:00 PM

Park

9564 Two Notch Road

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Sesquicentennial State Park in Columbia, SC, offers forested outdoor recreation and a serene lake, ideal for nature lovers and families alike.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some events may have associated costs.

Finlay Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

930 Laurel Street

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Finlay Park is a municipal park in Columbia, South Carolina, featuring a playground, picnic areas, and walking paths in a natural setting.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free.

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

1931 Sumter St

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Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Columbia, United States, offers rich heritage, traditional architecture, and cultural events reflecting the Greek Orthodox faith.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations accepted but not required for entry.

Palmetto Falls Water Park

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Amusement Park

3381 Marion Ave

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Palmetto Falls Water Park in Columbia offers family-friendly aquatic fun with water slides, lazy rivers, and play areas amidst a natural setting.

Duration: 4-6 hours.

Adults: $15, Children (ages 3-12): $10, Children under 3: Free. Group discounts available.

Earlewood Park

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

1111 Parkside Dr

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Earlewood Park in Columbia, SC, offers 7 recreational areas, including a playground, picnic areas, and sports facilities within a natural setting.

Duration: 1 to 3 hours.

Free. Special events may require a fee.

Woodrow Wilson Family Home

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Sights

1705 Hampton Street

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The Woodrow Wilson Family Home in Columbia, SC, served as the residence of the 28th US President. Explore this historical site dedicated to his legacy.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a fee.

Portfolio Art Gallery

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Museum

2007 Devine St

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Portfolio Art Gallery in Columbia showcases local and international contemporary art across diverse mediums. Open to the public with regular exhibitions and events.

Duration: Between 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Row Gallery

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Museum

2911 Millwood Ave

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Row Gallery in Columbia showcases contemporary art and local artists, providing a vibrant space for exhibitions, community events, and cultural engagement.

Duration: Around 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a ticket.

Allen University

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

1530 Harden St

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Allen University is a private historically black university in Columbia, South Carolina, serving over 600 students and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Access to specific events may require a paid ticket.

US Army Basic Combat Training Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Building 4442 Jackson BLVD

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US Army Basic Combat Training Museum in Columbia showcases army training history, displays artifacts, and educates about troops’ development since 1940.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Irmo Community Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

7473 Church St

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Irmo Community Park is a wooded park in Irmo, South Carolina, featuring trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and an amphitheater, ideal for outdoor recreation.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Gervais Street Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

Gervais St (Meeting St)

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Gervais Street Bridge in Columbia, SC, crosses the Congaree River. Constructed in 1928, it is a significant historical and architectural landmark.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free. No special events requiring paid tickets.

Seven Oaks Park

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

200 Leisure Ln

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Seven Oaks Park in Columbia, SC features a 30,000 sq. ft. leisure center, athletic fields, trails, and playgrounds, catering to sports enthusiasts and families.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

Tapp's Arts Center

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

1644 Main St Blanding St

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Tapp's Arts Center in Columbia, SC offers diverse art exhibitions, community events, and local artist showcases in a historic building, fostering cultural engagement.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Fort Jackson Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

4442 Jackson Blvd

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Fort Jackson Museum in Columbia, SC, houses military history artifacts, showcasing the evolution of training, equipment, and world conflicts since 1917.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Southeast Park

7:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

951 Hazelwood Rd

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Southeast Park in Columbia, United States, features 45 acres of recreational space, including playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails, perfect for outdoor activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may charge a fee.

Granby Park

8:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

100 Catawba Cir

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Granby Park in Columbia, United States, offers scenic green spaces, local art installations, and recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may have entry fees.

Village Artists

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

631 Promenade Pl Ste 8 Next to Panera Bread in the Village

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Village Artists in Columbia, USA, showcases local craftsmanship through a diverse range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a nominal fee.

Michael J and Mary Meech Mungo Park

All day

Park

2121 Lake Murray Blvd

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Michael J and Mary Meech Mungo Park is a scenic park in Lexington County, South Carolina, offering trails, picnic areas, and nature views for visitors of all ages.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have associated fees.

Village at Sandhill

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

Clemson Road (Two Notch Road)

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Village at Sandhill is a premier shopping center in Columbia, SC, featuring a variety of shops, dining options, and entertainment venues in a lively outdoor setting.

Duration: 2 to 5 hours.

Free to enter. Charges may apply for special events or parking.

Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

4201 N Main St

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Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary in Columbia, South Carolina, offers advanced theological education focused on Lutheran traditions and values.

Duration: 1-2 hours for a campus tour.

Free. Campus tours are available without charge.

Benedict College

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

1600 Harden St (Taylor St)

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Benedict College, a private historically black liberal arts college in Columbia, South Carolina, was founded in 1870 and offers diverse academic programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

E Z Bingo

5:00 PM–12:00 AM

Casino

1215 Saint Andrews Rd

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E Z Bingo in Columbia, USA, offers a lively atmosphere for bingo enthusiasts of all ages, featuring multiple game sessions, food, and entertainment options.

Duration: Approximately 2-4 hours.

Entry fees vary by game night, typically $10-$20 per session.

Columbia Owens Downtown Airport

24 hours

Airport

1400 Jim Hamilton Blvd

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Columbia Owens Downtown Airport is a public-use airport in Columbia, SC, offering general aviation services, situated near downtown Columbia.

Duration: Less than 1 hour.

Free. Services and charter flights may have associated costs.

Columbia International University

8:30 AM–5:00 PM

University

7435 Monticello Rd

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Columbia International University, founded in 1923, is a private Christian institution in Columbia, South Carolina, focusing on biblical education and leadership development.

Duration: Approximately 1–2 hours.

Free access to campus grounds. Some events may require a ticket or fee.

Robert Mills House and Gardens

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1616 Blanding St (Pickens St)

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Robert Mills House and Gardens in Columbia, SC, showcases remarkable architecture by Washington Monument designer Robert Mills and features historic gardens.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Persimmon Hill Golf Club

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

Persimmon Dr

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Persimmon Hill Golf Club in Columbia, United States offers an 18-hole course designed for golfers of all skill levels amidst beautiful natural landscapes.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees apply. Discounted rates for juniors and seniors available.

Columbia Township Auditorium

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

1703 Taylor St (Henderson St)

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Columbia Township Auditorium is a historic venue in Columbia, SC, known for its diverse events ranging from concerts to community gatherings.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Tickets typically range from $10 to $50, depending on the event. Discounts may be available for students and seniors.

Workshop Theatre School

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Theater

635 Elmwood Ave

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Workshop Theatre School in Columbia offers acting, production, and performance classes, fostering talent in the heart of South Carolina.

Duration: 2 hours.

Most workshops are free; ticketed events may vary.

Riverbanks Botanical Garden

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

1300 Botanical Pkwy

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Riverbanks Botanical Garden features themed gardens and a splash area for children in West Columbia, South Carolina, offering diverse botanical experiences.

Duration: Around 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Incarnation Lutheran Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

3005 Devine St

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Incarnation Lutheran Church in Columbia, United States, encourages a welcoming community with services and activities for diverse congregants.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free to attend services and community events. Donations accepted.

Riverfront Park Amphitheater

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

Three Rivers Greenway

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Riverfront Park Amphitheater in Columbia offers a scenic outdoor venue for concerts and performances, surrounded by lush greenery and the Congaree River.

Duration: 1-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may feature ticket pricing.

South Carolina Supreme Court

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

Gervais St. (at Assembly St.)

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The South Carolina Supreme Court, located in Columbia, is the state's highest court, consisting of a Chief Justice and four Associate Justices.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Court sessions and public tours do not charge an entry fee.

Pine Grove AME Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

101-125 Steward Dr

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Pine Grove AME Church in Columbia, United States, stands as a significant historical site, reflecting the cultural heritage of the African Methodism movement.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may charge a fee.

Antisdel Chapel

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

1600 Harden St (@ Benedict College)

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Antisdel Chapel in Columbia, United States, is a historic structure known for its Gothic architecture and serene campus setting, often frequented by visitors seeking tranquility.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required for entry.

Saint Martin De Porres Roman Catholic Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Columbia

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Saint Martin De Porres Roman Catholic Church in Columbia, USA, offers a place of worship with rich history, beautiful architecture, and community events.

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated during events.

Seven Oaks Presbyterian Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Columbia

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Seven Oaks Presbyterian Church in Columbia, United States, serves the community with rich history, engaging programs, and inviting architecture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community programs.

Earlewood Baptist Church

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

2930 River Dr

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Earlewood Baptist Church in Columbia, SC, is a historic church established in 1914, known for its significant architectural style and community programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations accepted for community programs.