Looking for a getaway without leaving town? Columbia has you covered. With walkable neighborhoods, vibrant markets, and top-tier attractions, it’s easy to enjoy a relaxing staycation. Here’s what you need to know:
Key Highlights:
- Places to Stay: Options range from boutique hotels like Hotel Trundle ($209/night) to budget-friendly choices like Fairfield Inn ($86/night). For a cozy vibe, try The 1425 Inn or Chesnut Cottage Inn.
- What to Do: Visit the South Carolina State Museum, Riverbanks Zoo, or explore Congaree National Park. Don’t miss the Soda City Market every Saturday morning.
- Where to Eat: Savor local favorites at Motor Supply Co., Cola’s, or Blue Marlin. For international flavors, try 929 Kitchen or Coa Agaveria.
With its mix of history, outdoor activities, and dining, Columbia offers something for everyone - all without the hassle of travel. Plan your perfect weekend and rediscover your city.
Top 10 Best Things to Do in Columbia, South Carolina - Travel Guide 2024
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Where to Stay in Columbia
Columbia SC Hotel Comparison: Prices, Ratings, and Amenities
Downtown Columbia offers a variety of places to stay, all conveniently located near Main Street, The Vista, and popular attractions. Whether you're looking for a stylish boutique hotel or a cozy bed-and-breakfast, there's something for every traveler.
Boutique and Design Hotels
Hotel Trundle stands out with its unique charm, housed in three restored historic buildings dating back to 1872. This 46-room hotel boasts a stellar 9.6/10 rating from 339 verified reviews. Rates start at $209 per night and include perks like a complimentary breakfast from local favorites Drake's Duck-In and Crepes & Croissants, welcome drinks, and gourmet popcorn. Guests can choose between king rooms with private rooftop access (Flutter Wing) or standalone cottages equipped with full kitchens (The Dens). For an extra touch of luxury, the "Suite Touch" package ($150) offers champagne, keepsake glasses, macarons, and seasonal flowers. Located just 800 feet from the Columbia Museum of Art, it’s a perfect spot for a Friday night stay before exploring Soda City Market on Saturday morning.
Moxy Columbia Downtown offers a modern vibe with 130 guest rooms and flexible meeting spaces for small groups. Nightly rates average $490, and the hotel has an 8.1/10 rating.
Upscale Chain Hotels
Marriott Columbia, located at 1200 Hampton Street, is a 14-story luxury hotel featuring 300 rooms. Starting at $136 per night, it includes a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor heated pool, a hot tub, and 27,000 square feet of meeting space. The on-site restaurant, Midlands', serves Southern dishes like their award-winning shrimp and grits, while Rocks at Midlands' Lounge offers handcrafted cocktails. Guests rate the hotel 8.9/10 overall, with a 9.6/10 location score for its proximity to the Columbia Museum of Art (a 2-minute walk) and the University of South Carolina (an 18-minute walk). Additional features include a concierge lounge (open Monday through Thursday) and daily parking for $14.
Mid-Range Hotels
For travelers seeking comfort without breaking the bank, Fairfield Inn & Suites Columbia Downtown offers rooms starting at $86 per night, while Holiday Inn Columbia - Downtown begins at $103. Both hotels provide essential amenities and have ratings between 7.7 and 8.1/10. Other solid choices include Courtyard Columbia Downtown at USC ($149 per night) and Springhill Suites Columbia Downtown The Vista ($174 per night), both offering modern facilities near key attractions.
Bed & Breakfasts
For a more intimate stay, The 1425 Inn offers a historic bed-and-breakfast experience starting at $187 per night. Guests enjoy conveniences like keyless locks, free private parking, and a manager's reception. With an 8.7/10 rating and a 90% guest recommendation rate, it’s a charming option for personalized hospitality. Booking directly through their website can save you up to 10%. Another standout is Chesnut Cottage Inn, Columbia’s last locally owned historic inn, known for its gourmet breakfasts and private baths with Jacuzzi tubs.
What to Do in Columbia
Downtown and Vista District
The Congaree Vista is a lively neighborhood nestled between the Congaree River and downtown Columbia, perfect for exploring on foot. This area is packed with over 45 restaurants and bars, along with 60 artist galleries, all within a compact space. Foodies will love the variety, from the farm-to-table dishes at Motor Supply Co. (reservations highly recommended, especially for brunch) to the flavorful Korean fare at 929 Kitchen & Bar. For something different, stop by the Art Bar, known for its quirky decor and live performances - a great spot to kick off your evening.
In the Main Street District, you'll find the bustling heart of downtown. Every Saturday morning, the Soda City Market draws locals and visitors alike with its vibrant mix of vendors. Public art is a highlight here, including the newly installed Dawn Staley statue at the corner of Lincoln and Senate Streets. Many of the city's key attractions, like the State Museum and the State House, are just a short walk from the area's hotels.
Museums and Historic Sites
Columbia's rich history and culture come alive through its museums and historic landmarks. The South Carolina State House offers free guided tours on weekdays, showcasing fascinating Civil War-era relics. Meanwhile, the South Carolina State Museum, the largest in the state, features four floors of exhibits spanning art, history, natural sciences, and technology. It also boasts a 4K planetarium and an observatory. From April 4 to 11, 2026, the museum is offering a special "Spring Break Fun" promotion with half-price admission for kids aged 3–12.
Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Columbia Museum of Art, home to a collection that spans 5,000 years, including works by Monet and Botticelli. Admission for adults is $15. For a deeper dive into history, the Woodrow Wilson Family Home stands as the only museum in the country dedicated to interpreting the Reconstruction era following the Civil War. Historic Columbia also manages 14 acres of public gardens and five historic house museums. On the third Sunday of each month, residents of Richland and Lexington counties can enjoy free tours of select properties.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy in and around Columbia. Just 20 minutes from downtown, Congaree National Park protects the largest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the Southeast. Visitors can explore 25 miles of hiking trails, including a 2.4-mile boardwalk loop. Another family favorite is the Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden, which combines animal exhibits with stunning gardens and interactive activities.
For water-based adventures, the Saluda River is a popular spot for tubing and kayaking. If you prefer staying on land, check out the Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park or the Cayce Riverwalk Park. Both offer paved trails perfect for walking or biking, with the Cayce Riverwalk stretching 12 miles along the Congaree River and featuring public art along the way. For more outdoor fun, Sesquicentennial State Park offers camping, hiking, kayaking, and even a splash pad for kids.
Where to Eat in Columbia
Soda City Market
Every Saturday morning, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Main Street (between the 1300–1600 blocks) turns into a lively hub of food and culture. Soda City Market attracts over 5,000 visitors weekly, with numbers climbing to 7,000 during special event weekends. Around 150 vendors set up shop each week, offering a mix of local goods and mouthwatering eats. While technically a producer-only market, locals affectionately describe it as:
"Honestly, it's more of a food fest than a farmers market!" - When In Columbia
This bustling market is the place to discover some of Columbia's standout food spots. For example, Rambo's Fat Cat Biscuits, known for its indulgent chicken biscuits, has grown into a full-fledged restaurant. Sweet tooth? From Scratch Bakery serves up artisan sourdough bread and cinnamon rolls, while The Donut Guy's offerings have become so popular, they’ve expanded to a brick-and-mortar location. You’ll also find The Belgian Waffle Truck parked near the Marriott on the 1400 block, alongside local coffee favorites like Curiosity Coffee and Indah Coffee.
To make the most of your visit, arrive early - by 9:00 a.m. - and park at the Cannon Garage on Taylor Street. Early birds can grab coffee and baked goods, while food trucks like Mary's Arepas, Paella South, and Lobster Dogs start serving closer to lunchtime. Boyd Plaza, located in front of the Columbia Museum of Art, offers tables and grassy spots where you can enjoy your market finds. For the latest vendor map, check out the market’s Facebook page before heading out.
After soaking in the market vibes, head over to the Vista District for a more refined dining experience.
Vista District Restaurants
The Vista District is a perfect stop for anyone looking to pair local charm with an unforgettable meal. This area is home to a mix of historic settings and inventive menus. Motor Supply Company Bistro, for instance, serves a farm-to-table menu that changes daily, featuring hand-butchered meats and fresh seafood. For something a little more adventurous, The Hollow offers a "forest-to-table" experience, with dishes like elk, bison, boar, and rabbit served in a cozy, upscale atmosphere.
Cola's Restaurant, located in a repurposed RC Cola bottling plant, is a must-visit for dishes like their whole crispy flounder and Southern staples such as pimento cheese boards. Blue Marlin brings Lowcountry cuisine to life in a historic former train station, offering favorites like shrimp and grits and Charleston crab cakes. For international fare, 929 Kitchen and Bar reinvents Korean classics with creative dishes like kimchi bulgogi nachos, all served in a stylish exposed-brick setting. Meanwhile, Coa Agaveria y Cocina, the city’s only upscale Mexican restaurant, impresses with bold choices like grilled cactus and piña-habanero ceviche.
Keep in mind, popular spots like 929 Kitchen and Bar, Boku Kitchen and Saloon, and Gervais & Vine often book up fast, especially for weekend brunch. Making reservations in advance is highly recommended.
Sample Staycation Itineraries
Plan your Columbia staycation with these thoughtfully crafted itineraries that focus on the city's rich history, scenic outdoors, or culinary treasures. Each itinerary is designed to keep things stress-free while helping you uncover the best of what Columbia has to offer.
Museums and History Itinerary
Begin your weekend by checking into a historic hotel, such as the Hampton Inn Downtown Historic District. For lunch, head to Motor Supply Co. in the Vista, where old warehouses have been transformed into contemporary dining spaces. Spend your afternoon exploring the University of South Carolina's "Horseshoe", a centerpiece of the campus dating back to 1801, and visit the South Caroliniana Library to delve into the area's past. Don’t miss a guided tour of the South Carolina State House, where you can see the bronze stars marking General Sherman's cannon strikes. Wrap up Friday with dinner at Hunter-Gatherer’s brewery, located in a historic airplane hangar once visited by aviation legends like the Wright brothers and Amelia Earhart.
On Saturday morning, visit Soda City Market on Main Street between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. After browsing the stalls, head to the South Carolina State Museum, housed in a former mill, to explore its four floors of exhibits. Follow that with a trip to the Columbia Museum of Art, which boasts a diverse international collection. Later in the day, join a guided or self-guided tour with Historic Columbia to see landmarks like the Robert Mills House or the Hampton-Preston Mansion, both showcasing 19th-century design and the area's layered history. End the evening with dinner at Villa Tronco, South Carolina’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, located in a former fire station.
Before heading home on Sunday, enjoy brunch at The Gourmet Shop in the Five Points district. Then, take a stroll through the 12,000 Year History Park in Cayce, where you can learn about early settlements and past battles. For a smooth experience, consider making reservations ahead of time at popular spots like Motor Supply Co. and Villa Tronco. This itinerary blends historical exploration with Columbia’s relaxed charm.
Outdoor Activities Itinerary
Start your nature-filled weekend at Congaree National Park, home to the largest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the Southeast. Walk the 2.4-mile boardwalk loop or venture onto the park’s 25 miles of trails. For a unique view of the environment, rent a canoe or kayak from a local outfitter and paddle through the blackwater swamp, surrounded by towering cypress and tupelo trees.
On Saturday, shift your focus to the waterways. The Saluda River offers a mix of calm stretches and whitewater rapids, perfect for tubing or kayaking - just check water levels with local outfitters beforehand. If you prefer open water, head to Lake Murray, which boasts over 650 miles of shoreline ideal for boating or sailing. As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at Liberty on the Lake, where you can watch boats drift by as the sun sets.
Sunday morning offers two great choices: take on the mountain biking trails at Harbison State Forest along the Broad River, or explore Sesquicentennial State Park, a sprawling 1,419-acre area with hiking and biking trails, a scenic lake, and family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and a splash pad. Conclude your weekend with a leisurely walk along the 12-mile Cayce Riverwalk Park, which combines serene river views with public art installations. This itinerary offers a refreshing escape into nature without ever leaving the area.
Food-Focused Itinerary
Kick off your Saturday morning at Soda City Market around 9:00 a.m. Convenient parking options include the Taylor Street garage or free metered spots on Assembly Street. While there, treat yourself to artisan breads from From Scratch Bakery or biscuits from Rambo’s Fat Cat Biscuits. Pair your breakfast with coffee from Azalea Coffee Bar (ordering online can save time) or Drip on Devine Street.
For lunch, consider City Grit near the State Museum for a laid-back café vibe, or indulge in The Hollow's "forest-to-table" menu featuring wild game sausage and elk filet. In the afternoon, visit Lula Drake Wine Parlour, a local favorite that earned Columbia its first James Beard Award. Then, stop by Market on Main to enjoy small plates like truffled frites in their outdoor biergarten.
Dinner presents plenty of options: savor Southern-inspired dishes like blue cheese BBQ meatloaf at Mr. Friendly’s New Southern Cafe, or enjoy farm-to-table dining at Motor Supply Company Bistro in the Historic Vista. For international flavors, try Lebanese cuisine at Arabesque or Italian classics at Il Giorgione. End your evening at Bourbon Columbia, a 1940s-style lounge known for its whiskey collection. To avoid long waits, make reservations at Mr. Friendly’s and Motor Supply Company in advance. This itinerary is a celebration of Columbia’s diverse and delicious food scene, perfect for food lovers looking to explore without leaving town.
Conclusion
Columbia offers everything you need for a perfect staycation: rich history, lively markets, and a variety of dining options - all just minutes from downtown.
With its walkable downtown, you can park your car once and explore Main Street, The Vista, and Five Points with ease. Each area has its own vibe: Main Street exudes historic charm, The Vista is known for modern dining, Five Points features quirky shops, and Devine Street boasts upscale boutiques. This mix of convenience, culture, and character sets Columbia apart.
"Columbia's the perfect destination for any kind of stay-cation you're craving, and you're already here."
– Experience Columbia SC
Whether you stay in a boutique hotel with artistic flair or a historic bed and breakfast, your accommodations will set the tone for your getaway. Add to that attractions like the highly rated Riverbanks Zoo and dining at James Beard–recognized restaurants, and you’ve got the recipe for a memorable weekend without leaving town.
To make the most of your staycation, book ahead at popular dining spots like Mr. Friendly's New Southern Cafe and Motor Supply Company. Arrive at Soda City Market by 9:00 AM for the best experience, and consider staying in the downtown area for added convenience. Columbia’s mix of accessibility, variety, and charm ensures a refreshing and enjoyable escape. Plan your staycation and rediscover all that Columbia has to offer.
FAQs
What’s the best area to stay for a walkable Columbia staycation?
Downtown Columbia is the ideal spot for a walkable staycation. Areas like The Vista, Main Street District, and University Hill/Five Points boast impressive Walk Scores of 84, 89, and 82, respectively. These neighborhoods are bustling with energy and perfect for exploring on foot, offering a mix of restaurants, shops, and attractions just steps away.
Do I need reservations for Soda City Market and popular brunch spots?
Reservations are a smart move for spots like Soda City Market and popular brunch destinations such as The Grand and The Toasty Hot Spot. These places can get busy, especially during peak hours, so booking ahead helps you secure your spot and skip those long waits. Planning ahead makes all the difference!
What’s the best 2-day staycation plan if I want museums, outdoors, and food?
If you're planning a quick escape without leaving Columbia, here's a two-day itinerary that blends culture, nature, and incredible food.
Day One
Start your adventure at the South Carolina State Museum. Dive into fascinating exhibits covering science, history, and art - all under one roof. Once you've had your fill of learning, head over to Riverfront Park. Its serene trails and scenic views make it the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the outdoors. As evening rolls in, treat yourself to some Southern comfort or farm-to-table dining at one of Columbia's standout restaurants.
Day Two
Kick off your second day with a visit to the Columbia Museum of Art. This gem offers an inspiring collection of works that will leave you feeling creatively refreshed. Next, shift gears and immerse yourself in nature at the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. Whether you're marveling at exotic animals or strolling through the lush botanical gardens, it's an experience that captures the beauty of wildlife and greenery. End your staycation on a flavorful note with a hearty meal - think soul food or barbecue - at one of the city's beloved local spots.
This mix of culture, nature, and delicious eats makes for an ideal getaway without ever leaving town.
