Whether you live in Columbia, South Carolina or visiting the area, Columbia is a beautiful place to be. There are many things to do in Columbia, SC. While there are lots of places in Columbia to eat, shop and visit, there are also a lot of free things to do in Columbia, South Carolina.
Things to do in Columbia, South Carolina
Columbia is the capital of South Carolina. It is a great place to visit museums, like the Columbia Museum of Art and the South Carolina Military Museum. Visit the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. While these places do have a fee, there are plenty of free things to do in Columbia that will help you enjoy your time without hurting your wallet.
Free Things to Do in Columbia
Columbia offers a wide variety of parks and urban green space. I am creating this list of free things to do in Columbia so that families can visit the area and enjoy some of the beautiful places that Columbia has to offer.
Riverfront Park
Riverfront Park was opened in 1983. It was planned around the city’s oldest original waterworks and hydroelectric plant, which is the oldest one in the state and it still operating. Riverfront Park, about 167 acres, is a favorite place for walking and jogging trails. The trails are about two and a half miles and offer great views of the park and the river. Each year the park has events like the Riverfest, held at the brick amphitheater. Other smaller concerts can be seen there during the year as well.
Finlay Park
FinlayPark is one of the best-known parks in the state. It is known for hosting festivals, political rallies and everything in between including Easter Sunrise services. The park, which is 18 acres, has become a focal point in the downtown area. It often hosts things like Kids Day and Summer concerts. The park is located across the street from the Governor’s Mansion and is one of the most photographed views of downtown. Be sure to visit the bronze statue of Kirkman Finlay, the late mayor of Columbia, sitting on a bench, which was unveiled in April 2000.
Lake Murray
Lake Murray is one of the jewels of Columbia. It offers the best views of the area. Enjoy a walk or bike along the Lake Murray dam. It is best viewed at sunrise or sunset for the most vibrant colors reflecting off the water. There is a $3 fee to enter the park, but on the Lexington side, there is free parking.
State House
The State House offers free guided and self-guided tours Monday through Friday. Visit the State House and learn a bit of history. The State House and ground of the Capital Complex offer many works of art, including portraits and monuments. The works of art to honor important people and events that have had been a part of the history of South Carolina.
Sally Salamander Walking Tour
Sally Salamander is the Columbia ambassador. Sally Salamander is a walking tour of downtown Columbia. It involves visiting numbered bronze statues, and each one has Sally Salamander with it. Get the map and visit the first stop on the tour at the Columbia SC Visitors Center.
When you spot Sally Salamander along your journey, feel free to pet her.
Columbia offers many things to do and see. These are a few of the great places to visit that will not hurt your wallet.
Kmc Rims
Friday 19th of October 2018
Surprised how many interesting places you can visit in Columbia, SC. Heard how good the parks there, hope they are children friendly as advertised.