- Updated with new information since originally published.
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- Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.
1. Columbia Museum of Art
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Category:
Museums & Culture
© Columbia Museum of Art
2. Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden
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Category:
Kids & Family
© Courtesy of Wolna - Fotolia.com
3. Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park
Category:
Activities
© Courtesy of stacy - Fotolia.com
4. South Carolina State Museum
Category:
Museums & Culture
© South Carolina State Museum
5. Governor's Mansion
Category:
Museums & Culture
© Governor's Mansion
6. EdVenture Children's Museum
Category:
Kids & Family
© Courtesy of tigera - Fotolia.com
7. South Carolina Military Museum
Category:
Museums & Culture
© South Carolina Military Museum
8. Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens
Category:
Activities
© Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens
9. Columbia Food Tours
Tours
© Courtesy of MartiniDry - Fotolia.com
10. Mr. Friendly's
© Mr. Friendly's
11. Il Giorgione
© Il Giorgione
12. Robert Mills House & Gardens
Category:
Activities
© Robert Mills House & Gardens
13. Motor Supply Company Bistro
Category:
Food & Drink
© Motor Supply Company Bistro
14. Sesquicentennial State Park
Category:
Activities
© EyeEm/stock.adobe.com
15. Harbison Environmental Education Forest
Category:
Activities
© Harbison Environmental Education Forest
16. Saluda Shoals Park
Category:
Activities
© Courtesy of jacf5244 - Fotolia.com
17. Tunnel Vision Mural
© tuomaslehtinen/stock.adobe.com
18. World's Largest Fire Hydrant
© downhomephoto/stock.adobe.com
19. Finlay Park
Category:
Activities
© SeanPavonePhoto/stock.adobe.com
20. Columbia Craft Brewing Company
Category:
Food & Drink
© Columbia Craft Brewing Company
21. McKissick Museum
Category:
Museums & Culture
© McKissick Museum
Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:
The capital of South Carolina, Columbia offers many great things to see and do, including excellent museums, parks and restaurants. Visit the Columbia Museum of Art, stroll along the scenic Riverfront Park, stop by the South Carolina Military Museum, and explore the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden.
Best Things to Do in Columbia, SC with kids include the South Carolina State Museum, EdVenture Children’s Museum and Saluda Shoals Park.
Map:
Columbia Events & Festivals:
- South Carolina State Fair
- Jubilee: Festival of Black History & Culture - September
- Famously Hot New Year - New Year's Eve
- St. Pat’s in Five Points - March 15, 2025
- Soda City Market - on Saturdays
Plan Your Trip