Columbia

Day Trips

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in downtown Columbia, where you can savor delicious pancakes and fresh coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic district, admiring the beautiful architecture and charming storefronts. Don't forget to visit the South Carolina State House, where you can explore the grounds and learn about the state's history.

In the afternoon, dive into the local culture by visiting the Columbia Museum of Art, where you can appreciate both classical and contemporary works. After your art experience, head to the nearby historic Five Points district for lunch, enjoying a meal at one of the many eclectic eateries. Spend the afternoon shopping at unique boutiques and local shops, finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant overlooking the Congaree River, where you can sample Southern cuisine. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the riverwalk, enjoying the beautiful scenery and the soothing sounds of nature. Wrap up your evening with a visit to a local brewery, sampling craft beers and soaking in the vibrant nightlife.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before heading to Congaree National Park for a morning of exploration. Walk along the boardwalk trail, surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, and keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife such as deer and various bird species. The peaceful atmosphere and fresh air will refresh your spirit as you embrace the beauty of nature.

After your nature walk, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park's designated areas, where you can relax and take in the serene environment. Spend the afternoon hiking one of the park's more challenging trails, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the wilderness. Make sure to capture some photographs of the stunning landscapes and unique flora.

As evening approaches, return to Columbia and savor dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant, where you can taste fresh, local ingredients. After your meal, consider attending a live performance at the Koger Center for the Arts, featuring everything from concerts to theater productions. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on your adventures in nature.

Start your morning with a visit to the South Carolina State Museum, where you can explore exhibits ranging from art to natural history. Grab a quick breakfast at the museum café, fueling up for a day of cultural exploration. Spend some time browsing the gift shop for unique South Carolina-made products.

In the afternoon, head to the nearby Historic Columbia Foundation, where you can take a guided tour of some of the most significant properties in the city, including the Robert Mills House and the Hampton-Preston Mansion. For lunch, enjoy a meal at a local barbecue joint, savoring the flavors of authentic Southern cooking. Afterward, visit the Columbia Fireflies stadium for a behind-the-scenes look at minor league baseball operations.

As the day winds down, dine at a local restaurant known for its fusion cuisine, where you can experience a blend of Southern and international flavors. After dinner, explore the vibrant arts scene by attending a gallery opening or checking out local musicians performing at nearby venues. End your night with dessert at a famous local bakery, indulging in sweet treats that are a perfect way to cap off your cultural experience.

Enjoy breakfast at a quaint café before embarking on a trip to the stunning Middleton Place plantation, known for its beautiful gardens and rich history. Spend the morning exploring the plantation, learning about its role in South Carolina's history and admiring the meticulously manicured landscapes. Don’t miss the chance to visit the museum and see artifacts that tell the story of plantation life.

After touring the plantation, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the on-site restaurant, which features farm-fresh ingredients. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Drayton Hall, where you can take a guided tour of this historic home, learning about its architecture and the lives of its inhabitants. The surrounding grounds offer a picturesque setting for a serene walk.

As twilight sets in, return to Columbia and have dinner at a local seafood restaurant, where you can enjoy a taste of the coastal flavors of South Carolina. Consider taking a sunset riverboat cruise on the Congaree River, providing a different perspective of the city as the day fades. Wrap up your evening with a peaceful stroll along the riverbank, soaking in the tranquility of the water.

Kickstart your day with breakfast at a lakeside café, enjoying views of Lake Murray while you fuel up for a day of adventure. After breakfast, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters of the lake, soaking in the stunning natural surroundings. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including birds and fish, as you paddle your way across the water.

Enjoy a packed lunch on one of the lake's scenic shores, where you can relax and take in the beauty of your surroundings. In the afternoon, take part in water sports such as jet skiing or wakeboarding, or simply relax on the beach, soaking up the sun. The friendly atmosphere of Lake Murray is ideal for both relaxation and adventure.

As evening approaches, return to the café for a lakeside dinner, where you can indulge in fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the water. After dinner, consider taking a boat cruise to experience the lake in a different light, as the sun dips below the horizon. Conclude your day with a cozy bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and enjoying the company of friends or family.

Begin your day with a gourmet breakfast at a downtown bistro, fueling up for a day devoted to art and history. Head to the Columbia Museum of Art to explore its impressive collection, ranging from European masterpieces to contemporary works. Take your time to appreciate the architecture of the museum itself, which is a work of art in its own right.

For lunch, visit a nearby café that showcases local artists' work, providing a perfect backdrop for your meal. Afterward, embark on a guided walking tour of the city's historic neighborhoods, where you can learn about Columbia's rich past and see beautifully preserved buildings. Don't forget to snap some photos of the vibrant street art that adorns various walls throughout the city.

As the evening sets in, enjoy dinner at a locally-owned restaurant that features live music, creating a lively atmosphere. After dinner, take a short walk to the nearby theater district to catch a performance, whether it be a musical, play, or comedy show. End your night by visiting a local coffee shop for dessert and a nightcap, embracing the creative energy of the city.

Start your family day with breakfast at a kid-friendly restaurant that offers a variety of options for all ages. Afterward, head to EdVenture Children's Museum, where your kids can engage in hands-on exhibits and interactive displays. The excitement in the air will be palpable as little ones explore and learn through play.

After a morning of exploration, enjoy lunch at the museum café, which offers tasty options for kids and adults alike. Spend the afternoon participating in fun workshops or science demonstrations at the museum, ensuring everyone stays entertained. You might even find time for a quick visit to the nearby Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, where your family can marvel at exotic animals and beautiful flora.

As the day winds down, treat your family to dinner at a kid-friendly pizza place, where everyone can customize their own pies. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll around the zoo or visit a nearby park to let the kids burn off some energy before heading back. End the evening with a family game night at your accommodation, recalling the fun-filled day together.

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a nearby café known for its local ingredients and creative dishes. After breakfast, take a guided tour of some of Columbia's local breweries, learning about the brewing process and the unique flavors that define each establishment. The friendly atmosphere at the breweries will make for an enjoyable experience as you meet fellow enthusiasts.

For lunch, enjoy a casual meal at a brewery that serves food alongside its craft beers, allowing you to taste the perfect pairings. Spend the afternoon visiting a local distillery, where you can discover the art of distilling and sample artisanal spirits. Be sure to ask about the history and inspiration behind their unique creations.

As the day comes to a close, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a gastropub that features a rotating selection of local beers on tap. After dinner, join a brewery tour that includes tastings at different locations, giving you a chance to discover new favorites. Cap off the night at a rooftop bar, enjoying a nightcap while taking in the stunning skyline views of Columbia.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a popular brunch spot known for its diverse menu. Afterward, head to the historic Soda City Market, where you can browse local artisan goods, fresh produce, and handmade crafts. The lively atmosphere will energize your morning as you mingle with vendors and locals.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the market's food stalls, sampling a variety of cuisines from around the world. In the afternoon, explore the local shops and boutiques in the nearby Main Street district, where you can find everything from unique clothing to handmade gifts. Take a break at a local café, sipping on artisanal coffee while soaking in the vibrant street life.

As the sun sets, dine at an upscale restaurant that emphasizes seasonal ingredients and innovative dishes. Afterward, consider attending a cooking class, where you can learn to create a signature dish from a local chef. End your evening with a dessert tour, sampling sweet treats from various bakeries around the city, rounding off your culinary adventure.