Things to Do in Columbia, South Carolina
Enjoy Performing Arts and Culture. The arts abound in Columbia, SC, and there are so many things to do! The hard part is choosing between several fabulous options. On almost any night in the region, visitors and residents can enjoy a musical, ballet or theatrical performance. There’s always something for all ages, too, and performances range from traditional to contemporary. The region is also home to several arts organizations & associations.|
|
Get in Touch with African-American Heritage. African-American history and culture is an integral part of South Carolina, and there are several opportunities to learn more about it in Columbia. The African American History Monument, the first of its kind on any of the nation's statehouse grounds, was designed to recapture the rich history of African Americans and their contributions to the state of South Carolina. Sculptor Ed Dwight modeled the monument after an African village built in the round. The Mann-Simmons Cottage is a testament to Celia Mann, an enslaved Charleston midwife who acquired her freedom,walked to Columbia, and lived here from the 1840's until 1867. The house remained in her family until 1970 before becoming a museum containing period furnishings, family portraits, original artifacts and works by local artists. And Allen University, founded in 1870 by the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, is the first institution of higher education in South Carolina founded by African Americans for the express purpose of educating African Americans. [Top]Beautiful Columbia Outdoors. Of all the things to do in Columbia, SC, be sure to take some time to explore the abundant natural beauty of the Riverbanks Region. Spend an afternoon fishing on beautiful Lake Murray, kayak down one of our three rivers, or enjoy a nature walk through nearby Congaree National Park, a breathtaking place which contains one of the country’s last remaining stands of old-growth forest, including bald cypress and loblolly pines that reach to 165 feet. When you’re ready to rest and unwind after a day of soaking up South Carolina’s great outdoors, return to your luxurious guestroom at the Inn at USC. Enjoy top-notch service from our friendly, knowledgeable staff, and quality amenities like free wireless Internet service, complimentary hot breakfast, and decadent pillow-top beds. [Top]
Relax at a Day Spa. Relaxation is good for you, and it’s also a fun thing to do! Relaxing can lower stress levels, improve immune system function, and lower blood pressure. What better way to relax than by indulging in a massage, manicure, or facial? There are dozens of day spas and salons to choose from in the Columbia, South Carolina area. Seven Doors Salon in downtown Columbia offers a full range of Eminence Organic Skin Care products. Logan Raye on Gervais Street is a full service spa and salon and…art gallery! It offers the latest in personal care products, the most elite retail products, and the finest in services that include massage, waxing, make-up, body treatments, hair care products, and skin care treatments. Finally, Urban Nirvana on Forest Drive has several tantalizing packages, including, the mysteriously named Mind Eraser and Cloud Nine. Now, who says finding things to do on vacation is stressful? [Top]


