Columbia Attractions & Activities

Best Attractions & Activities

Address: 1107 State St, Cayce, SC 29033

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Adventure Carolina offers a variety of guided kayaking and canoeing trips on Columbia's rivers. The popular "After Work" trip on the Congaree lasts about 3 hours and is ideal for first-timers and families (Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays during the summer). Weekend trips range from shorter jaunts to full-day...

Address: 312 Laurel St, Columbia, SC 29201

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For area runners, cyclists and walkers, Riverfront Park is a top choice. The long strip of sidewalk flanks the Congaree, offering visitors cool shade beneath a canopy of trees. Stop at one of the benches scattered along the river to take in the scenic view. A pedestrian bridge spans a surging section of the river

Address: 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061

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Not only is this 22,000-acre swampy forest designated a National Park, it's also an International Biosphere Reserve, a National Natural Landmark, a protected Wilderness Area, and a "Continentally Important Bird Area." The tallest trees in the eastern US are right here, along with all sorts of snakes, turtles,...

Address: 211 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201

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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: 930 Laurel St, Columbia, SC 29201

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Originally opened in 1859 as Sidney Park, this historic site experienced a rebirth in the early 1990s when it was given a complete overhaul and re-dubbed Finlay Park. The Vista district's green space features playgrounds, a lake, waterfalls, a fountain and playing fields, plus plenty of paved pathways for strolling...

Address: 816 Bull St, University of South Carolina - College of Arts and Sciences, Columbia, SC 29208

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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...

Address: 937 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201

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A diminutive 77-seat theater, the Nick concentrates on international, art and indie films with two screenings nightly and occasional matinees. Sit back with a bucket of popcorn and a cold beer, and enjoy a film like Persepolis or Daughters of the Dust. Operated by the Columbia Film Society, the theater also hosts...

Address: 500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29210

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Located near the Greystone Boulevard exit off I-26 and ranked as one of the most popular attractions in the Southeast, the zoo is home to a plethora of species. Monkeys, lions, birds, seals, koalas and much more are displayed in their natural habitats. The stunning botanical garden adjacent to the zoo features 70...

Address: 301 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201

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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...

Address: 900 Sumter St, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29201

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This beautiful tree-lined mall is the site of the original campus of the University of South Carolina. Still home to several campus buildings, most of them dating back a century, the wide-open green is usually full of students reading, talking, tossing Frisbees, or sometimes sleeping. Special events are often held...