Places to Visit in Columbia, South Carolina

If you have ever been to South Carolina, you would know that the capital city, Columbia, is a place to visit. As the second-largest city in the state, Columbia has a wide array of restaurants, stores, and landmarks that you should not miss. 

During the era of European expansion, a group of people known as the Congaree inhabited present-day Columbia. Hence, some of the city’s landmarks have the name Congaree. As for its current name, Columbia, this is said to have originated from Christopher Columbus.

There are several things to do in Columbia, South Carolina. If it’s your first time visiting the beautiful capital, here are a few places you should not pass on!

Congaree National Park

Columbia only has one national park, the Congaree National Park. With an area of over 22,000 acres, this landmark has consistently gained more and more tourists ever since its designation as a national park in 2003.You will get to see some of the country’s most extensive tracts of old-growth bottomland hardwood in this park. Here, you can also engage in a range of activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and camping.

Columbia Museum of Art

If you’re a fan of the arts, the Columbia Museum of Art is definitely for you! This museum houses a beautiful selection of European, American, Asian, and contemporary artworks from different periods.

Recently, the museum had undergone a two-year renovation that led to the addition of galleries, studios, and event spaces, totaling about 20,000 square feet of additional space. One of its unique points is its commitment to the concept of a 21st-century museum—a museum that would allow people to not only see art but experience it. 

South Carolina State House

Another thing to include in your list of things to do in columbia south carolina, is to visit the South Carolina State House. Depending on the month and time of the day, State House tours are offered to visitors to help them get to know more about the history of the place.

The last architect of the State House, Charles C. Wilson, proclaimed the South Carolina State House to be one of the most notable buildings of the world. This landmark contains a beautiful collection of paintings, artworks, and monuments that highlight the history of South Carolina. 

Historic Homes

The Robert Mills House and Gardens, Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens, Mann-Simons Site, and Woodrow Wilson Family Home are all open to tours by the Historic Columbia Foundation.

The foundation continues to preserve these homes as they hold particular significance to the history of South Carolina. Each of these historic homes also features landscaped gardens that are open for event and photoshoot rentals. 

Columbia is home to several landmarks and places that will give you tons of meaningful and enjoyable time. Through these places, you not only get to go on fun activities but also get a better idea of South Carolina’s history and culture. You will never run out of things to do in Columbia, South Carolina because the list keeps getting longer and longer.

The next time you are planning a trip, consider Columbia. There are lots of options for places to visit regardless of your preference. You will be able to visit parks, museums, gardens, zoos, and even engage in recreational activities. There will never be a dull moment. With its historical background and Southern charm, you’re sure to find yourself entranced and wanting to come back again and again.

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