4 Days of Family Fun: Exploring Columbia's Charms!

Experience the charm and adventure of Columbia, United States, where fun-filled family memories come to life.

19 July 2023

A family trip to Columbia, United States promises a delightful blend of history and outdoor adventures. Explore the South Carolina State Museum for interactive exhibits and fascinating artifacts that cater to all ages. Take a leisurely stroll along the Congaree Riverwalk or enjoy a picnic at the beautiful Finlay Park, offering a perfect setting for quality family time surrounded by nature's beauty.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Historic Unveiling

  • Check into the Garden Inn, a charming hotel nestled in the heart of Columbia, with cozy rooms that invite you to snuggle like a baby squirrel in a nest.
  • Unveil the city's history at the Columbia Museum of Art, showcasing stunning artworks from local talents and renowned masters. It's like stepping into a kaleidoscope of creative genius!
  • Wander along Main Street, where you can venture into unique shops like Prairie Poppins that sells everything from unicorn onesies to handcrafted pickle sculptures.
  • Indulge your taste buds at Motor Supply Co. Bistro, where their imaginative farm-to-table dishes will dance on your tongue like a fleet of synchronized flamingos.
  • Wrap up the day by joining a ghost tour through the haunted streets of Columbia. Who knows, you might just encounter a mischievous spirit who likes to pop bubble wrap in the dark.
Day 2

Nature's Symphony

  • Kickstart your day with a scrumptious Southern breakfast at Eggs Up Grill, where fluffy pancakes and savory grits will make your taste buds high-five each other.
  • Explore Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens, a tropical paradise teeming with vibrant flora and fauna. From swinging monkeys to majestic elephants, it's a nature lover's Disneyland!
  • Take a stroll through Congaree National Park and get lost in a labyrinth of ancient cypress trees, moss-draped boardwalks, and spontaneous squirrel ballet performances.
  • Reward your growling stomach at Palmetto Pig, a local BBQ joint that smokes their meats for hours, resulting in tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Prepare for a flavor explosion!
  • Catch a live performance at the Koger Center for the Arts, where music, dance, and theater collide to create an experience that will leave you breathless and applauding like a seal.
Day 3

Southern Charm

  • Start your day with a heaping plate of biscuits and gravy at a local favorite, Lizard's Thicket. The fluffy biscuits will make you question why clouds don't taste this good.
  • Get lost in the charm of the Historic Columbia neighborhood, strolling past beautiful antebellum homes that stand tall and proud like megaphone-wielding peacocks.
  • Immerse yourself in history at the South Carolina State Museum, where exhibits range from dinosaurs to Confederate relics to spaceships. It's like time-traveling on a rollercoaster!
  • Treat your taste buds to a crispy fried chicken feast at The War Mouth. Each bite will transport you to flavor paradise, where golden-coated poultry rules the land.
  • End the day with a walk along the Vista Greenway, a trail that winds through scenic parks and lets you titillate your senses with the sights, sounds, and smells of Columbia.
Day 4

Discover Downtown

  • Start your downtown adventure with a caffeine jolt from Drip, a trendy coffee joint that brews specialty roasts and has baristas who will impress you with their latte art skills.
  • Explore the South Carolina State House, where you can marvel at the grand architecture and feel like a miniature human in the presence of towering columns and statues.
  • Dive into a world of literary wonders at the Richland Library, a hidden gem that houses a collection of books capable of whisking you away to magical realms and intellectual wonderlands.
  • Savor the bold flavors of Creole cuisine at Bourbon, a New Orleans-inspired eatery that serves up classics like gumbo and jambalaya with a Southern twist. Your taste buds will second line with joy!
  • End your Columbia escapade with a sunset picnic at Finlay Park, where you can recline on a blanket, bask in the evening glow, and reflect on the magical memories you've made in this captivating city.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Columbia, United States by plane is to fly into Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) from your departing destination.

Car

Driving is a great way to get to Columbia, United States if you live within a reasonable distance. Major highways including I-26, I-20, and I-77 run through the city.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no train stations in Columbia, United States. Flying, driving, or taking a bus are the best options.

Boat

Columbia is located inland, so you cannot get there by boat. Flying or driving are the best options for getting there.

Bus

You can take a Greyhound bus to Columbia, United States from various cities across the country. The bus station in Columbia is located at 7101 Fairfield Rd.

More travel plans

A Romantic Long Weekend in Columbia, USA

A romantic trip to Columbia, United States promises a blend of Southern charm and modern city life. Couples can stroll through stunning gardens and historic homes, sample delicious southern cuisine, and sip on cocktails at rooftop bars overlooking the city skyline. Whether exploring the scenic Congaree River or enjoying a live jazz performance, Columbia offers an unforgettable romantic experience.

Columbia Adventure Mania: Family Fun on a Budget!

Columbia, United States offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with a blend of rich history and modern attractions. Explore the charming Riverbanks Zoo and Garden where kids can encounter a wide range of animals, or visit the South Carolina State Museum to engage in interactive exhibits and learn about local culture. Don't miss the chance to take a relaxing stroll along the Congaree Riverwalk, offering beautiful views and outdoor activities for the whole family.

Columbia Unleashed: A 3-Day Family Adventure on a Budget!

A family-friendly trip to Columbia, United States offers a variety of exciting activities. Explore the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, where kids can marvel at exotic animals and enjoy interactive exhibits. Take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Congaree Riverwalk and visit the South Carolina State Museum, offering educational exhibits and a planetarium for an enriching experience for the whole family.

5 Days of Adventure and Charm in Columbia, SC

Columbia, the capital city of South Carolina, has something for every tourist. From historical sites like the South Carolina State House to outdoor activities such as kayaking on the Congaree River or hiking in Harbison State Forest, Columbia is a perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure. Its food scene is also diverse, ranging from Southern cuisine to international flavors, making it a must-visit destination.