Downtown Columbia Travel Guide
Columbia
Visit Downtown Columbia
Popular places to visit
South Carolina State House
Inspect the many monuments and political symbols that decorate the grounds and majestic mansion of the state’s most important structure.
Columbia Museum of Art
Bring kids to this fun gallery with a focus on medieval, Renaissance and Baroque art and fascinating traveling exhibits.
Trinity Episcopal Cathedral
Marvel at the stunning architecture and stained glass and examine the Civil War graves in this remarkable sanctuary in Columbia.
Three Rivers Greenway
Explore the great outdoors at Three Rivers Greenway, a lovely green space in Downtown Columbia. While in this walkable area, you can savour the lively bars.
Finlay Park
Play sports with your kids in this scenic park, wander along the woodland paths and see the extraordinary fountain and cascades.
Fort Jackson
After visiting Fort Jackson, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Columbia. You can attend a sporting event while in the area.
Top hotels in Downtown Columbia
Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Downtown at USC
Great location and excellent service
Reviewed on 20 Apr 2026
Graduate by Hilton Columbia SC
Room was very clean. Parking was convenient. Staff was helpful.
Reviewed on 19 Apr 2026
Tru By Hilton Columbia Downtown
Nice property. Great breakfast
Reviewed on 20 Apr 2026
Hyatt Place Columbia/Downtown/The Vista
Breakfast choices were excellent. Linens were scratchy. Staff was impeccable. HVAC was somewhat noisy. Location was perfect … walking distance to good food and the University.
Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026
The Lantern Columbia
Excellent stay
Reviewed on 20 Apr 2026
Cambria Hotel Columbia Downtown The Vista
Great location for exploring downtown Columbia. We enjoyed the bar in the lobby and the outdoor patio space. Nice rooms, very comfy bed. Will definitely return in the future.
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
Check Downtown Columbia hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Columbia
The Vista
The Vista is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Colonial Life Arena and Koger Center for the Arts while in the area.
Arsenal Hill
Unique features of Arsenal Hill include the restaurants and live music. Make a stop by Governor's Mansion or Richard Samuel Roberts House while you're exploring the area.
University Hill
Visitors to University Hill appreciate its restaurants. A visit to South Carolina State House and Township Auditorium might round out your trip if you're looking to see more of the area.
Five Points
The bars and live music are a few reasons travellers visit Five Points. Want to see more of the surrounding area? Township Auditorium and South Carolina State House are a few top sights nearby.
Waverly
Though Waverly may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Township Auditorium and Charlie W. Johnson Stadium.
Lyon Street
While Lyon Street isn't home to many top sights, Charlie W. Johnson Stadium and Township Auditorium are some notable places to visit nearby.
