There’s truly no place like Congaree National Forest. As South Carolina’s only national forest, it offers a unique experience: kayaking through some of the tallest deciduous trees in the U.S., growing directly from the floodplain of the Congaree River. Nowhere else can you paddle through the largest remaining tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the country.
If you’re visiting between May and June, this becomes a must-see. Congaree is one of only three places in the world where fireflies synchronize their flashes at night, creating an unforgettable spectacle. It’s consistently rated one of the most beautiful places to visit in the U.S.
If kayaking isn’t your thing, scenic hikes and elevated boardwalks give you access to stunning parts of this 26,000-acre preserve. Trails like the Bluff Trail, River Trail, and Kingsnake Trail are popular with hikers and bird-watchers alike. You can also join guided walks like the “Big Tree Hike” or enjoy canoeing, fishing, and camping.
A zoo doesn’t usually make a top-10 list—but Riverbanks Zoo does. Voted the #1 gated attraction not only in Columbia but in all of South Carolina, this 100-acre zoo is home to over 2,000 animals and is among the larger zoos in the U.S. Admission also includes entry to the adjoining 70-acre botanical gardens, making it an incredible value. If you’ve never hand-fed a giraffe—or know someone who would love to—this half-day outing (with lunch on-site) will be a lasting memory. Add in zip-lining across the river or hopping on the Spots & Stripes Railroad, and it’s a full day of fun.
Visiting in the summer? Floating down the Saluda, Broad, or Congaree River is a perfect way to cool off. Several local outfitters rent tubes, life jackets, and provide shuttle service upstream. These river floats last about three hours, mostly calm with occasional fun rapids. If you’re traveling with kids, this might be the highlight of your trip.
One of the best ways to get a feel for a city is to enjoy a great local meal followed by a walk in a place locals take pride in. Start with dinner at Blue Marlin (the top-rated seafood restaurant in town) or Villa Tronco (Columbia’s oldest Italian restaurant). Then take a stroll just a few blocks away through the scenic South Carolina State Capitol grounds and the neighboring University of South Carolina campus—both located right in the heart of downtown.
In town on a Saturday morning? From 9 AM to 1 PM, the Soda City Market takes over downtown Columbia. Dozens of vendors set up tents offering handmade crafts, local produce, and tasty food. It’s a lively, local tradition perfect for strolling, shopping, and grabbing a bite—before heading out tubing or wrapping up your day with a hike at Congaree.
Baseball isn’t for everyone—but a warm evening at the ballpark with someone you enjoy spending time with just might be for you; at least for a night. The Columbia Fireflies, a Kansas City Royals affiliate, play at Segra Park from April to September, with about 70 home games each season. Enjoy classic ballpark food, the relaxed vibe, and a chance to mix with locals.
This isn’t a full activity—but it’s a must-do food stop. Pimento cheese is a Southern staple: a creamy, savory spread made from cheese and red peppers. Many locals say DiPrato’s makes the best in town, especially served with fresh pita chips. It’s a perfect snack before dinner or after your USC campus walk. Conveniently located near the university and downtown.
Just 10 minutes from downtown, Harbison State Forest offers miles of scenic biking and hiking trails. We recommend renting mountain bikes and starting with either the 8.7-mile Outer Loop or the 4.4-mile Firebreak Trail. Afterward, ride the Broad River Trail, which hugs the river and heads toward downtown. If you're up for more, try the Sesqui Mountain Bike Trail in Sesquicentennial State Park.
Take a walk or drive by South Carolina’s only presidential site: the childhood home of Woodrow Wilson. It's easy to leave a city knowing only the food and fun—but learning a little history gives depth to your experience. Built in 1871, the preserved home offers a window into post-Civil War life and one of America’s pivotal leaders. Even if it’s not this site, we recommend picking at least one historical stop to connect with the region's past.
On your way to Soda City Market, take five minutes to check out Tunnelvision—a massive, surreal wall mural painted by local artist Blue Sky. This 50x75-foot optical illusion makes it look like the road continues through the building. It’s quirky, iconic, and just two blocks from the market. You might even catch Blue Sky himself doing a touch-up.
Staying for a few days? Try the best food Columbia has to offer. Join a Columbia Food Tour to sample top local spots and ask your guide for follow-up recommendations. If you're vegan, Good Life Café serves a full plant-based menu with fresh, flavorful options. For Southern comfort food, try Mr. Friendly’s—a Southern-style café with dishes like fried green tomatoes, Lowcountry seafood cakes, and sesame-seared tuna. Don’t miss their award-winning moonpies—served only on Mondays.
