Columbia, South Carolina, might just be one of the Southeast’s most underrated romantic escapes. With its blend of southern charm, walkable districts, and artsy energy, the city invites couples to slow down and savor time together. Whether you’re cuddled up in a boutique hotel or sipping cocktails in the Vista, every moment feels a little more special here. I remember thinking, "We didn’t need to go far—just somewhere that made us feel seen and celebrated." These cozy stays and sweet city corners make Columbia the perfect backdrop for your next couple’s retreat.
Best Romantic Getaways in Columbia:
Stylish & Sweet at Hotel Trundle
Hotel Trundle wasn’t just a place to stay—it was a love letter to Columbia. From the moment I walked into the art-filled lobby, I felt like I’d stumbled into a boutique dream. The vibe was bold, creative, and romantic in that perfectly unexpected way. I remember thinking, “This is what happens when personality and comfort fall in love.” The staff made us feel like old friends, and every room was like a Pinterest board come to life.
What I Loved Most: Cozying up in robes with vinyl records spinning and a local brew in hand.
My highlight? A leisurely breakfast from smallSUGAR, brought back to the room: rosemary biscuit sandwiches, honey-drizzled yogurt, and strong, fresh-roasted coffee. Simple, gorgeous, and exactly right.
Plan your trip:
- Location: Downtown Columbia, SC
- Vibe: Artsy, modern, boutique cool
- Highlights: Design-forward rooms, local partnerships, cozy comforts
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall for rooftop hangs and city walks
- Cost: Moderate to upscale boutique
- Hours: 24/7 front desk
- Address: 1224 Taylor St, Columbia, SC 29201
Classic Comfort at Columbia Marriott
There’s something reassuring about a stay at the Columbia Marriott. It has all the polish of a well-run hotel, but with extra touches that made it feel special. The elegant lobby, soft lighting, and quiet hum of the city below our window created the perfect space to unwind together. I remember thinking, “We don’t need anything fancy—just this moment, right here.” Everything felt easy and inviting.
What I Loved Most: Snuggling under the covers after a long city stroll, watching the lights blink on over Main Street.
My highlight? Dinner at Midlands’ Restaurant inside the hotel. I had the pan-seared scallops with garlic mashed potatoes and a glass of chilled rosé. Elegant, relaxed, and just what I wanted.
Plan your trip:
- Location: Main Street, Columbia, SC
- Vibe: Polished, easygoing, romantic simplicity
- Highlights: Indoor pool, on-site dining, walkable downtown
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round; spring is especially sweet
- Cost: Moderate hotel rates
- Hours: Check-in after 3 PM
- Address: 1200 Hampton St, Columbia, SC 29201
Luxury Romantic Getaways in Columbia:
City Elegance at Hilton Columbia Center
Hilton Columbia Center Staying at the Hilton Columbia Center felt like slipping into something timeless. With its soft golden tones, quiet halls, and the scent of fresh flowers at the entrance, everything about it invited slow mornings and long conversations. I remember thinking, “This is where we hit pause—on purpose.” Just steps from the South Carolina State House, it was the perfect home base for exploring hand in hand.
What I Loved Most: Late evenings by the outdoor fire pit, wine glasses in hand and city lights flickering just beyond the courtyard.
My highlight? Dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steak House downstairs. I ordered the petit filet with shrimp, paired with creamed spinach and a glass of merlot. It was date night done right—classic, cozy, and delicious.
Plan your trip:
- Location: Columbia Vista District
- Vibe: Elegant, central, intimate
- Highlights: Fire pit courtyard, walkable to nightlife and museums
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall
- Cost: Upscale
- Hours: 24-hour check-in available
- Address: 924 Senate St, Columbia, SC 29201
Southern Charm at The 1425 Inn
This was one of those rare stays that feels like visiting an old friend—if your friend happens to live in a beautifully restored Southern home. The 1425 Inn oozed charm and hospitality, with cozy rooms, vintage touches, and a warm welcome that made it hard to leave. I remember thinking, “This is what it means to feel at home—together, in a place that smiles back.” The front porch was made for slow mornings and shared secrets.
What I Loved Most: Sitting with coffee on the wraparound porch while the city woke up around us.
My highlight? A local pastry spread and fresh fruit served family-style in the dining room. I especially loved the homemade cinnamon rolls—soft, sticky, and warm from the oven.
Plan your trip:
- Location: Historic Elmwood Park, Columbia, SC
- Vibe: Charming, welcoming, personal
- Highlights: Southern hospitality, wraparound porch, unique décor
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for garden blooms
- Cost: Mid-range
- Hours: Limited check-in hours; call ahead
- Address: 1425 Richland St, Columbia, SC 29201
Relaxing Romantic Getaways in Columbia:
Urban Ease at SpringHill Suites - The Vista
Modern, clean, and quietly stylish, Springhill Suites – The Vista in Columbia’s Vista district brought a more low-key kind of romance. Everything felt effortless—from the spacious room to the walkable location. I remember thinking, “This is our weekend reset.” The energy of the Vista buzzed just outside, but inside our suite, it was all calm and connection.
What I Loved Most: Taking our time in the morning—sleeping in, sipping coffee, and planning nothing but our next stroll.
My highlight? Brunch at nearby Motor Supply Co. Bistro. I had duck confit hash with poached eggs, and it was every bit as bold and lovely as the space itself.
Plan your trip:
- Location: Columbia Vista District
- Vibe: Urban, clean, comfortable
- Highlights: Modern suites, Vista dining steps away, budget-friendly
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall
- Cost: Moderate
- Hours: 24/7 front desk
- Address: 511 Lady St, Columbia, SC 29201
?? Where Urban Energy Meets Southern Romance
The best romantic getaways don’t just offer luxury—they offer connection. Columbia blends modern comfort with historic charm in a way that’s effortlessly intimate. From stylish inns to fireside dinners, it's a place where conversations stretch long and love feels light. Let the city’s warmth wrap around you, and leave with memories that feel just as vivid as the sunsets over the Congaree River.
Related Romantic & South Carolina Adventures