It’s almost guaranteed that Columbia, South Carolina, will wow you with all the cool things to do there. For the best things to do in Columbia, South Carolina, and the coolest places to visit in Columbia, South Carolina. Scroll down for our top travel recommendations in Columbia, South Carolina. Wondrous Drifter is a Web 3.0 travel startup with ambitious goals to change the world.
Table Of Content
- Busted Plug Plaza
- Columbia’s Museum of Art
- Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum
- Congaree National Park
- EdVenture Children’s Museum
- Koger Center for the Arts
- Lake Murray Dam
- Mast General Store
- Never Bust Chain
- Ra Obelisk
- Riverbanks Botanical Garden
- Riverfront Park & Columbia Canal
- Riverbanks Zoo
- Robert Mills House and Gardens
- South Carolina State House
- South Carolina State Museum
- Tunnelvision
- University of South Carolina
- Villa Tronco
- Waverly Historic District
- Woodrow Wilson Family Home
Busted Plug Plaza
The Busted Plug Plaza is one of the top attractions in South Carolina.
A visit to Columbia’s Busted Plug Plaza is a must for any traveler.
Sculpted from concrete and steel, this massive work of art represents the world’s biggest fire pump.
It has a weight of 67,000 lbs and a length greater than 45 feet.
One of the artists behind the Busted Plug is Blue Skies, a South Carolina native and indeed the creator of Tunnelvision, a virtual reality experience.
It is like a real fire hydrant, a spout of liquid shoots off from the “damaged” bottom of said enormous “monument.”
Even though the Busted Plug was originally designed to endure the wrath of catastrophic calamities, it was a failure.
Most of this would be to keep people safe throughout the case of a storm or other natural disaster.
Although current management has taken over the park and its property, neighbors are hopeful that the cherished artwork will be relocated to a nearby location.
If for no other reason, don’t miss this opportunity! In addition, bring a camera to record the stunning splendor of this piece of art.
Address: 1404 Taylor St, Columbia, South Carolina
Columbia’s Museum of Art
Do you enjoy looking at art from history? You’ll probably have a good time if you go here!
The Museum of Art at Columbia is among the region’s most lauded cultural centers, boasting over two dozen exhibit halls and a worldwide collection of nearly 6000 years ago.
In addition to winning the Governor’s Awards for exceptional service to the artworks throughout South Carolina and the National Park Association Honor, the exhibit has won several other accolades.
If you’re interested in Medieval and Bizarre art, pay a stroll to the Press Gallery.
The Oratorio Fresco by Florentine maestro Sandro Botticelli is the only example of its kind out beyond Italy.
A prized possession of the museum, Sight of such Seine by Claude Monet, is among his most famous works.
The gallery’s American art collection is just as noteworthy, featuring pieces by Frederic S. Remington, Hiram Powers, and Charles Willson Peale’s portraits.
Works of art from the early and mid-20th century in the United States.
In order to record the splendor of such crafts in Columbia, you can take your camera alongside you.
If you want to see beautiful pieces of art, tour Columbia’s Museum of Art.
Address: 1515 Main Street, Columbia, South Carolina
Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum
The earliest exhibitions you can see in the city include the South Carolina Relic Room and Military Museum, and you should probably see them!
The South Carolina’s Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum is the nation’s military legacy.
It spans from the American Revolution to the current fight against terrorists.
To a large extent, the gallery’s concentration is on the American Civil War, which is represented by a large number of very well preserved.
Moreover, there are diverse objects such as firearms, uniforms, photographs, and other memorabilia.
The comprehensive writings, paper records, and financial statements offer a vivid view of things throughout the battle, rather than merely relics or texts.
Also, the Daughters of the American Revolution are responsible for the gallery’s establishment and upkeep.
For historical aficionados, a trip here is among the finest instructive and intriguing things to do in Columbia.
Make sure to stop by this location in your travel itinerary!
Address: 301 Gervais Street, Columbia, South Carolina
Planning to travel to South Carolina? Check out our curated travel guides to Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach! Check also the captivating things to do in Hilton Head, South Carolina, and the best things to do in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina!
Congaree National Park
It’s among the favorite features to do in Columbia to explore Congaree National Park, among the most gorgeous areas in the United States.
The nutritionally Congaree and Wateree streams rush into this short forested area inside the 27,000-plus hectare Congaree National Park, wherein natural magnificence has been on full show.
Visiting the Hampton Viewing Platform first, wherein you may grab canoes and route guides.
Likewise, you can talk to a keeper and discover some of the world’s largest hardwood forests’ incredible ecology.
Nearly every tree has canopies that are at least 110 feet in height.
A Youth Rangers program and scale replicas round out the exhibitions at the center, which are especially entertaining for children.
Hiking out of the woodlands on the neighboring 2.6-mile wooden path route, keep your shoes clean.
Painted rails correlate to the designations on your maps, which provide details on the park’s ecosystem.
The plains can be rainy and dirty, so bring strong footwear and trekking shoes for any other treks.
Overall, this National Forest has a great deal to offer you and your family!
Address: 100 National Park Road, Hopkins, South Carolina
EdVenture Children’s Museum
Visitors at EdVenture Children’s Museum are struck by how unique the exhibit is from the minute they enter.
Here, youngsters and grownups may have a hands-on journey, thanks to the museum’s interactive displays.
All guests are met by Eddie when they go into the atrium’s primary lobby.
The 40-foot-tall, 18-ton youngster who will never grow up is the world’s heaviest human.
Kids love to crawl over and around this massive size because of his kind demeanor and infectious grin.
Children may practice caring for and grooming their stuffed animal pets in a specially designed display called Whiskers and Wags.
The Marketworks Architect’s Lab, open to children ages five years up, has kid-friendly equipment, bricks, and legos.
While Workplace demonstrates to young people what they might expect when they join the workforce as adults.
Burritos, hot dogs, and mac & cheese are just some kid-friendly snacks and meals available at Carousel Café.
Address: 211 Gervais Street, Columbia, South Carolina
Arranging a trip to South Carolina? If you’re looking for unique travel ideas, see our guides for Greenville and Charleston! Explore the best things to do in Greenville, South Carolina, and the best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina!
Koger Center for the Arts
Come see this Center for the Arts on your next trip to Columbia for awesome shows that will truly amaze you!
Koger Center is a cultural attraction for viewers looking for various experiences in a vibrant and colorful atmosphere.
Several local artists’ organizations are featured.
Since its inception around 1987, the Koger Center for the Arts has been situated just on the University of South Carolina campus.
It has always been a premier destination for tourists, residents, and college residents alike.
Moreover, the 2,25-7seat theater is a popular venue for anything from Musical theater to punk rock acts.
The South Carolina Symphony Band and Columbia City Opera usually have their yearly concerts here.
Furthermore, there are nearby food options that make it easy to get to the theater, which sits in Columbia’s established leisure and arts area.
After a concert somewhere at Koger, you may take your family out to eat at any of the many dining options nearby.
Address: 1051 Greene Street, Columbia, South Carolina
Lake Murray Dam
When it comes to finding love in Columbia, there’s no better place to go than Lake Murray Dam.
If you’ve never heard of it, it’s a particular location wherein lovers go there to lock a padlock symbolizing their partnership, which you can learn more about here.
The names of both the newlyweds are traditionally engraved on the padlocks.
As a result of its popularity, couples come from all over the state and also enjoy this unique date idea.
This is a fantastic holiday spot because of the 1.-mile crosswalks promenade and the 660-mile beachfront around Lake Murray.
Moreover, visitors can hire boats, kayaks, and camps.
It’s also possible to sprint throughout the Lake Murray dam inside the Columbia region of South Carolina.
Throughout Columbia, SC, there’s no better place than the Locks of Romance Museum.
Search for a sweet date or simply some good old-fashioned fun with your significant other here!
Address: 1832 N Lake Dr, Lexington, South Carolina
Mast General Store
Among the greatest locations to come if you need to buy a wide variety of products at once.
North Carolina’s Historic Valle Crucis is home to a local shop called the Mast General Store.
They have a wide variety of things to pick from at the shop.
It offers everything, including confectionery to recreational equipment, from clothes to gifts, and it has countless amounts of different brands.
Aside from clothing and food, Mast General Store carries anything from grilled chicken recipes to teddy bears.
In addition, there is indeed a huge hardwood fireplace where you may gather in chilly weather to share tales as well as play scrabble.
Moreover, it has been listed on the National Heritage list as among the greatest representations of its kind.
You may also head to the Mast General Store to beat the heat, though be prepared to spend some time looking throughout.
Address: 1601 Main St, Columbia, South Carolina
Never Bust Chain
The Never Bust Chain is one of the best things to do in South Carolina.
The Never Bust Chain is a must-see in Columbia whether you’re seeking something captivating yet out of the ordinary.
In central Columbia, there’s a masterpiece by Bright Sky, an South Carolina sculptor best known for his artwork at Tunnelvision.
Only such landlords of any properties involved requested clearance first from the municipality.
However, because of the designer’s notoriety, the project was approved by the authorities very immediately.
In 2001, the Never Bust Chain was built across two large office towers.
The massive chain adds some industrialized touch, yet it’s still fun to look at.
Just for the clarification purpose of community safety, the remaining links within the chain needed to be bonded using 300 tons of mechanical power.
Excellent idea, as well: the massive piece of art hangs 10 feet beyond a busy alleyway!
Although it’s among the city’s most unusual tourist attractions, it’s nonetheless a worthwhile experience.
Address: 1502-1508 Main St, Columbia, South Carolina
Ra Obelisk
The Ra Obelisk hasn’t always looked like stuff plucked from ancient Egypt’s tombs!
Although this stone remained a portion of an old railway overpass, it began its narrative in 1988.
Contractors from Olympia, Columbia, traveled towards the area to demolish it.
However, when the bulldozer was unable to find a way to put it apart, they decided to abandon their efforts and leave it intact.
Henry Lane, a painter from South Carolina, noticed that it resembled an obelisk from Egyptian Civilization a few decades previously.
In 1994, he created a figure of the Egyptian solar deity Ra, accompanied by inscriptions and ancient texts, mostly on the side of the sandstone wall.
With the addition of a few chairs and a basic pathway, the Ra Obelisk is currently situated in a small parkland with seats surrounding it.
Among the most unusual activities to do here in Columbia is to see the Ra Obelisk. So come by for this one-of-a-kind experience!
Address: 900 Heyward St, Columbia, South Carolina
Riverbanks Botanical Garden
Whether you’re a fan of plants, make sure to spend more leisure in Riverbanks Zoo’s Botanical Garden!
Although entrance to Riverbanks Zoo’s stunning 80-acre grounds is also included.
More than 4,300 kinds of native and exotic North American flora, as well as a number of foreign specimens.
Likewise, the lovely garden sits upon this Saluda Water’s southern side and is linked to the zoo by a beautiful footbridge.
Trips, themes, and programs make it simple to go about the gardens, making it a great place for families to spend time together.
From the Saluda Overpass towards the Saluda Manufacturing Visitor Complex, this walk affords an excellent perspective of South Carolina.
Personal-guided Riverside Walk tourists intrigued by the territory’s textile heritage must keep an eye out for this one.
Whether you have the opportunity to tour the place for long or not, it’s well worthwhile the trip to experience all that this place has to offer.
Address: 1300 Botanical Pkwy, West Columbia, South Carolina
Riverfront Park & Columbia Canal
Another urban parkland that runs anywhere along Columbia Canal and Saluda Rivers may be found in Riverfront Park.
It is indeed a 15-acre green space inside the heart of town that’s open to the public.
Approximately 2.6 kilometers of the pathway provide excellent glimpses of such rivers and are designed for wheelchair pushing, walking, running, or bicycling.
The open-air gym has 7 intriguing types of equipment, where you may get full exercise and free access.
It’s a great spot for picnics or just to unwind.
Also, it is indeed a great site to learn about the background of the city.
For more than a century, this location has been home to one of California’s oldest and most reliable sources of hydropower power.
Take a stroll here with the whole family, including your four-legged friend.
Address: 312 Laurel Street, Columbia, South Carolina
Riverbanks Zoo
For the second time in three years, the Governor’s Cup Competition has recognized it as South Carolina’s best tourism destination!
In spite of being a popular destination for families, Riverbanks Zoo has twice received the Governor’s Cup Medal for such state of South Carolina’s best touristic destination.
With over 2,100 animals, call this wildlife and conservatory, which spans 180 acres of habitat.
In complement to the Bird Active site, Feeding Zoo, and Reptile House, tourists of all ages may get up front and personal with a variety of animals.
Likewise, everyone is encouraged to discover about these animals through educational displays.
Among other stuff, you’ll discover beekeeping techniques and ecosystems via participatory exhibitions.
Also, you can even view information systems to understand every species.
For a modest price, visitors to Riverbanks may also give the giraffes vegetables given by the park.
Interested in learning more about the beekeeping process? Learn so much more in a unique display.
Address: 1300 Botanical Pkwy, West Columbia, South Carolina
Robert Mills House and Gardens
Those with an interest in design and also the crafts will find enough to enjoy at the Robert Mills House and Gardens.
The residential area was designed by Robert Mills, the protagonist of said film, and is a perfect illustration of Classic Restoration grandeur.
This was created in 1824 for Lenox Hall as well as his spouse, a rich Columbia trader.
The mansion served as a Christian school and theology for a while when it was no longer available to ordinary residents.
Visitors and residents alike may now visit the residence as an exhibition after it was fully restored in 1962.
As a result, the idea that it still stands nowadays is nothing short of a miracle!
The idea that it is still standing today is definitely a gift, given how close it came to demolition.
Every once in a while, exhibits of different mediums make an appearance at the underground galleries.
Because Mills only created a few private residences, seeing one constructed by him while you’re there should be considered on your priority list.
Address: 1616 Blanding St, Columbia, South Carolina
South Carolina State House
The state and Columbia are well-represented in the surroundings of the capital, making it a popular tourist destination.
Greek Renaissance design was in vogue throughout the South before the American Revolution, and the South Carolina Governor’s mansion is an excellent example of this style.
Despite the fact that work began in 1852, it wasn’t even finished till the day after World War I ended.
The patinaed brass ceiling on top of John Niernsee’s acclaimed masterpiece rises 170 feet above the ground.
The rich legacy of the state is on display as people stroll across the sprawling capital grounds.
See the monuments commemorating George Washington!
In addition, free admission allows glimpses of the state house and senate offices as well as the stunning interior hallways of the capitol complex.
To see where Union projectiles impacted the facility before it was finished throughout the Civil War, check for a 5-star rating anywhere along the house’s facade.
Address: 1100 Gervais Street, Columbia, South Carolina
South Carolina State Museum
The State Museum of South Carolina is among the best things to see in Columbia, SC since it can teach tourists about the history of the state.
Because since its opening in 1987, the State Museum of South Carolina has been a must-see destination for everyone interested in learning much more about the state’s rich heritage.
Alternating exhibitions concentrate on significant historical happenings.
Moreover, the tales of the people who lived inside the state via art, technology, and science on 4 layers of a nineteenth-century mill.
There’s indeed a lot of material about environmental heritage, too!
Museum tourists may also check out the observatory and 4D cinema and also the museum’s exhibitions while they’re there.
Other notable features also include observatories, the very first steaming locomotive to really be manufactured in the United States, and a prototype submarine.
There were indeed around 80,000 things on display, so spend your leisure and enjoy them thoroughly!
Address: 301 Gervais Street, Columbia, South Carolina
Tunnelvision
The Tunnelvision is one of the best places to visit in South Carolina.
Unusual, it’s a place where you can just walk in without any fuss or pretension.
One of the most well-known contemporary paintings in Columbia, South Carolina, was produced by South Carolina-based painter Blue Sky.
Having been spurred on by a vision, he set out to construct this fantastical work of art that appears to serve as a doorway into another dimension.
Tunnelvision is crafted on a 55-by-80-foot façade inside an ordinary car park in Columbia, South Carolina.
The artwork represents a “passage” into some other planet, made obvious by the strange bright moon.
This tunnel would be adequately big to let an automobile through, though.
This is on our ranking of Columbia’s must-see attractions because of the tunnel’s convincing appearance as a real tunnel.
Fortunately, there haven’t been any accidents involving automobiles yet.
To avoid being duped, be careful!
Also, make sure to get your photo taken within this magnificent piece of artwork, which can be found all across Columbia.
Address: 1550 Marion Street, Columbia, South Carolina
University of South Carolina
In the heart of Columbia, the University of South Carolina’s enormous 360-acre institution is a must-stop for visitors.
Starting somewhere at the campus’s welcome center, you’ll be able to learn more about the area and its attractions.
The Columbia Museum of Art is only a brief walk away.
So you can learn more about the campus’s background and also the interesting activities can do while you’re there.
Take a personal-guided stroll around the grounds to begin.
The route takes you past the historical “slight curve” and garden environment.
Likewise, you’ll see the historic 1802 school, which is home to a few of the campus’s greatest prominent structures.
Explore the McKissick Exhibit, which is housed in the welcome center because of its huge array of relics from the American South.
Maps of this trip may be found mostly on the main site of the institution, and they’re easily understandable.
Visit this one. It is considered among the top places to do so in Columbia!
Address: 1501 Pendleton St, Columbia, South Carolina
Villa Tronco
Why not eat at a restaurant that delivers delectable cuisine with a dash of the historical past? A great spot to lunch and study at the same time.
As one of Columbia’s and South Carolina’s earliest Italian eateries, Villa Tronco has still been going strong.
It has a warm and welcoming environment with an antiquated, rustic appearance.
With that, it evokes the migratory history of Columbia while providing an exclusive dining experience.
Thanks to the consistently large quantities, there’s no way you’ll go hungry at Villa Tronco.
The Chicken Prosciutto, the calamari, as well as the Chicken Villa Tronco are all noteworthy dishes.
Beverage Critics awarded Villa Tronco the Wine Spectator Excellence award because of its delicious beverage selections.
In fact, it is regarded to have been the best in town.
Have no idea what to eat for dinner? Visit Villa Tranco, where you’ll taste delectable cuisine and learn more about the town.
Address: 1213 Blanding St, Columbia, South Carolina
Waverly Historic District
It has been among the city’s most interesting and exciting neighborhoods, with a wide range of things to do.
Waverly, Columbia’s oldest neighborhood, is the focus of this personal-guided sightseeing.
The area is regarded as a place where black artists, craftspeople, entrepreneurs, and societal activists may thrive.
Allen University, as well as Benedict College, are located in the area.
Even during the era of segregation and discrimination, the above two highly regarded historical black universities offered advanced learning.
For the most part, they were well-known in the segregation period for offering advanced learning to the black community.
The Bishop’s Monument AME Chapel, which was erected in 1884 and is now on the National Heritage list, is another notable site on the trip.
Father Grace’s Rectory, the Waverly Half as well as Ten, the Heidt-Russell Residence, the Carver Opera, and Woodworker Lodge are all nearby.
Discover exactly in which you’re going on the authorized walking trip guidelines and schedule!..
Address: 2222 Washington St, Columbia, South Carolina
Woodrow Wilson Family Home
The sole presidential property in the state, the Wilson Childhood Home, is a must-see for history buffs.
The Woodrow Wilson Home has undergone extensive renovations and is now a fascinating historical attraction.
Woodrow Wilson, the 28th commander in chief of the United States, grew up in this house.
The manor house is indeed an Italianate villa-style manse that stands out beautifully against Columbia’s landscape.
The major activity at the Woodrow Wilson Private Residence is a pleasure for historical buffs, but there aren’t many others.
Additionally, the collection of exhibitions, like vignettes, has backstory about Wilson.
Indeed, this makes the house a must-see popular destination.
A site devoted to the post-Civil War rebuilding period is housed in the Woodrow Wilson Private Residence, the only among its kind in the United States.
Have your way to The Woodrow Wilson Home if you are interested in history!
Traveling and having fun in the USA? You have to check out this page – the best states to visit in USA for the most fun and unusual travel ideas.
Need more convincing to travel to Columbia, South Carolina, right? Click here for all the reasons to visit Columbia, South Carolina, at least once in your lifetime here.
Address: Historic Columbia, 1601 Richland Street, Columbia, South Carolina
