Columbia Guide » Attractions & Activities » Museums
Columbia Attractions & ActivitiesMuseums
If you're a history buff, art aficionado, archaeology fiend, or dabbler in the sciences, our museum picks are perfect for a rainy day or afternoon excursion! Our selections center around notable collections of historical and cultural items. Many have excellent rotating displays in addition to exceptional permanent collections.
Address: 1800 12th St, City of Cayce Municipal Complex, Cayce, SC 29033
This museum's exhibits lead you on a historical and cultural tour of life in this region from the18th century – when the area was known as "the back country" – to the present. Exhibits cover a variety of topics, including agriculture, Native American culture, commercial development, and daily life in Colonial times.
Address: 1800 Laurel St, Columbia Fire Department Headquarters, Columbia, SC 29201
Housed inside the fire department's main headquarters, this museum traces the history of firefighting in Columbia from the mid-1800s to the present. The state's largest fire department has a colorful history, and the artifacts on exhibit – including a 1929 American LaFrance fire engine, historic photographs and...
Address: 1515 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201
User rating:
( Rate It! )
South Carolina's largest fine arts museum, this facility houses the impressive Samuel H. Kress collection of baroque and Renaissance pieces, as well as a wide array of European and American fine art. Traveling exhibits present works from a variety of time periods and in many styles. The museum shop is a great place to...
Confederate Relic Room and Museum
Address: 301 Gervais St, Columbia Mills Building, Columbia, SC 29201
This collection focuses on Civil War artifacts but also exhibits an overview of regional history from colonial years up through the modern era. See military garb, weapons, and portraits and learn about military figures like Robert E. Lee, Francis Marion and Wade Hampton. Books and records allow visitors to look up any...
Address: 211 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201
User rating:
( Rate It! )
At Columbia's EdVenture you'll meet the 40-foot tall Eddie, who lives in the atrium across from the entrance. Through a series of tunnels and slides, kids can explore inside Eddie and discover just how amazing the human body is. The fun doesn't stop with Eddie – there are more hands-on exhibits here than most...
Address: 4442 Jackson Blvd, Columbia, SC 29209
User rating:
( Rate It! )
The United States Army-Fort Jackson museum focuses on the 200 years of South Carolina's military history. With more than 4,000 historic items, including weapons, uniforms and even vehicles, this is a fascinating glimpse at military life and development. Andrew Jackson – the fort's namesake – is featured prominently.
Address: 231 Fox St, Lexington, SC 29072
This museum's unique tour is led by guides garbed in authentic 19th century dress. They'll take you through 15 historic buildings full of antebellum arts, crafts and exhibits depicting daily life. See handcrafted furnishings and art from the pre-Civil War period.
Address: 816 Bull St, University of South Carolina - College of Arts and Sciences, Columbia, SC 29208
Run by the College of Liberal Arts at the University of South Carolina and located on the historic Horseshoe, this museum hosts an impressive permanent exhibit of minerals, gemstones, and 18th century silver. The displays focus on the history, life, and natural environment of the Southeastern US. Exhibits range from...
South Carolina Department of Archives and History
Address: 8301 Parklane Rd, Columbia, SC 29223
South Carolina's historical records dating back to 1671 can be viewed in these extensive archives. A changing but always fascinating schedule of exhibits delves deeper into the state's rich past.
Address: 301 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201
User rating:
( Rate It! )
Inside a century-old textile mill, this museum presents a comprehensive collection of art, history and science exhibits depicting South Carolina's past, present and future. From natural history to technology to fine arts, this museum has informative permanent displays and temporary shows that delve into a broad range...
