27+ Things to Do in Columbia, SC This Weekend: A Guide to Unforgettable Experiences
Columbia, South Carolina, is brimming with exciting activities this weekend!
Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or looking for a fun day out with family or friends, there’s something for everyone.
From exploring local parks to engaging with art and culture, Columbia offers a range of activities that are sure to keep you entertained.
Check out these 27+ things you can do this weekend in Columbia, SC, each paired with stunning images to inspire your plans. 🌞✨
1. Visit Riverbanks Zoo and Garden 🦁🌳
One of Columbia’s crown jewels, Riverbanks Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals and a beautiful 70-acre botanical garden.
This zoo offers a variety of exhibits, from the African Savanna to the serene botanical gardens. 🦒🐅
2. Explore the South Carolina State Museum 🖼️⚙️
The South Carolina State Museum offers fascinating exhibits on art, history, and science.
Located in a historic textile mill, it’s an exciting place to learn more about the state’s heritage and explore interactive exhibits. 🖌️🔬
3. Hike in Congaree National Park 🌲🚶♂️
Congaree National Park is an absolute gem for nature lovers.
It’s one of the largest contiguous tracts of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the U.S.
Hike the trails or enjoy canoeing along the river for a full nature experience. 🌿
4. Relax at Finlay Park 💧🌻
Finlay Park is the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing afternoon.
With its beautiful walking paths and central fountain, it’s a peaceful oasis in the heart of Columbia.
Grab a picnic and enjoy the green space! 🌸🍉
5. Visit the Columbia Museum of Art 🖼️🎨
For those who love art, the Columbia Museum of Art is a must-visit.
From international exhibits to local collections, this museum offers something for everyone.
Enjoy the art-filled spaces and maybe even catch a special event! 🎭
6. Take the Historic Columbia Garden Tour 🌷🏛️
Admire beautifully restored gardens on the Historic Columbia Garden Tour.
This self-guided tour takes you through some of the most charming and historically significant gardens in the city. 🏡🌸
7. Shop at the Soda City Market 🛍️🍓
Every Saturday, the Soda City Market brings local farmers, artisans, and vendors to Main Street.
Browse fresh produce, handmade goods, and delicious food from local vendors.
Perfect for a Saturday morning outing! 🍪🥕
8. Visit EdVenture Children’s Museum 👧🎠
EdVenture is a great place for the little ones to learn and play.
With interactive exhibits, children can explore everything from science and art to history and the human body.
It’s a family-friendly experience with tons of hands-on fun. 🧸🖍️
9. Tour the South Carolina State House 🏛️
Learn about the state’s history while marveling at the architecture of the South Carolina State House.
You can take a guided tour and discover the inner workings of the government or simply admire the structure from the outside. 🏛️📜
10. Stroll Along Riverfront Park 🌊🚶♂️
Riverfront Park is an excellent spot for a peaceful stroll.
Located along the Congaree River, the park offers walking trails, sculptures, and plenty of spots to relax.
Perfect for anyone who enjoys being outdoors. 🌅
11. Picnic at Sesquicentennial State Park 🏞️🧺
This park offers more than just scenic views—it’s an ideal place for a picnic with its 30-acre lake and nature trails.
Bring your friends and family to enjoy some outdoor fun. 🏖️🌞
12. Bike on the Three Rivers Greenway 🚴♀️🌍
The Three Rivers Greenway is a 13-mile bike trail that links the city’s rivers.
Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just out for a leisurely ride, this trail offers beautiful views of Columbia’s natural landscapes. 🚴♂️
13. Visit the Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park 🚶♂️🚲
Walk or bike along the historic canal and enjoy the scenic views of the Congaree River.
It’s an ideal location to escape into nature while staying close to the city’s urban charm. 🌿
14. Explore the South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum ⚔️📜
Dive deep into the military history of South Carolina.
This museum features artifacts from the Civil War and beyond.
A fascinating stop for history enthusiasts. 🪖
15. Attend a Show at the Columbia Marionette Theatre 🎭🎪
Bring the whole family to watch a captivating puppet show at the Columbia Marionette Theatre.
These entertaining performances are sure to delight audiences of all ages. 👏
16. Watch a Columbia Fireflies Baseball Game ⚾️🎉
Catch a game with the local minor league team, the Columbia Fireflies.
Enjoy a fun day out with the family while cheering on your favorite team. 🏟️
17. Attend a Performance at the Koger Center for the Arts 🎶🎤
Check out an exciting performance at the Koger Center, home to concerts, theater performances, and dance events.
This weekend promises some thrilling shows to enjoy. 🎤🎶
18. See a Show by the Columbia City Ballet 🩰✨
For fans of ballet, Columbia City Ballet’s performances are not to be missed.
Whether it’s a classic show or a contemporary production, you’re in for a treat! 💃🩰
19. Attend the Columbia City Jazz Festival 🎷🎶
Jazz lovers, rejoice!
The Columbia City Jazz Festival brings live performances by talented musicians at various venues around the city.
Don’t miss out on this celebration of smooth tunes! 🎷🎶
20. Participate in a Workshop at the Columbia Museum of Art 🎨🖌️
Why just look at art when you can create it?
Attend a hands-on workshop at the Columbia Museum of Art to expand your artistic skills. 🖼️🎨
21. Explore Artista Vista 🎨🖌️
Artista Vista is Columbia’s monthly art crawl, where you can explore local galleries and meet the artists behind the pieces.
It’s a vibrant and inspiring experience for art enthusiasts! 🎨🖼️
22. Attend the Columbia International Festival 🌍🍽️
This festival celebrates Columbia’s cultural diversity, featuring international cuisine, performances, and art.
Come taste the world! 🌮🍲
23. Visit the Columbia Museum of Art for a Special Exhibition 🎨💡
Catch one of the museum’s rotating exhibitions that showcase global and contemporary works of art.
An inspiring place for all art lovers. 🖼️✨
24. Join a Guided Tour at the Columbia Museum of Art 🎤🎨
Take your museum experience to the next level with a guided tour.
Learn more about the exhibits from knowledgeable guides and discover hidden gems within the museum. 🖌️🎤
These are just some of the amazing activities you can enjoy in Columbia, SC, this weekend.
Whether you want to immerse yourself in nature, dive into local culture, or simply relax and enjoy the arts, Columbia has something special for you. 🎉 Make the most of your weekend by exploring these vibrant experiences! 🌞