Columbia is a relaxing, comfortably paced town with an abundance of places to visit and see. The various personalities of Columbia guide people to the diverse experiences the city offers. From outdoor activities to culinary indulgences to historical explorations, there is no shortage of Columbia things to do.
Columbia is home to the Riverbanks Zoo, one of the best in the country. Take a relaxing stroll through the zoo’s botanical gardens or enroll kids in a lively ZOOventure program. Outdoor enthusiasts can get exercise by canoeing the historic Congaree River or soak up the sun tubing down the Saluda River. History is alive and celebrated in Columbia’s many museums, renovated buildings, and historic homes, such as the Governor’s Mansion and Kensington Mansion. Those who frequent popular attractions can get Columbia deals by signing up for memberships to receive discounts and other advantages.
The city of Columbia is also known for its arts scene. The arts district is home to boutiques, galleries, shops, salons, and one-of-a-kind restaurants and bars. Garibaldi’s Cafe is a fine-dining restaurant located in the Five Points area. The menu contains colorful European and Italian dishes, and the jazz music and art deco backdrop makes it an ideal location for business dinners and intimate meals alike. One can find live music playing seven nights a week at the New Brookland Tavern, the oldest music club and tavern continuously running in Columbia. Or one can enjoy an artistically plated swordfish or rib eye entrée and a well-paired wine at Solstice Kitchen. After dinner on the first Friday of the month, head over to the Columbia Museum of Art to view the latest exhibit.
With the abundance of things to do in Columbia, there is something for everyone. Even the most comprehensive guide to Columbia can’t contain the ever-changing pulse of the city’s offerings, from outdoor adventures to historical explorations to creative dining experiences.