Downtown Columbia Travel Guide
Columbia
Visit Downtown Columbia
Popular places to visit
University of South Carolina
Explore the campus of University of South Carolina, a top university in Columbia. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene or attend a sporting event.
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.
Finlay Park
Play sports with your kids in this scenic park, wander along the woodland paths and see the extraordinary fountain and cascades.
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.
Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens
Tour the premises and learn about the aristocratic residents who lived in this impressive mansion with a restored landscape garden.
Things to do
Capital City Heritage Walk Private Guided Tour
Top hotels in Downtown Columbia
Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Downtown at USC
"Great place to stay for a quick trip!"
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Tru By Hilton Columbia Downtown
"The hotel was very very clean and the staff were extremely helpful. The free breakfast was also probably one of the better free breakfasts I’ve seen. That being said - it is a minimalist hotel. So in the room, you don’t really have any comforts. No closet very small desk and no coffee maker. Beds ..."
Reviewed on 4 Jun 2026
Hyatt Place Columbia/Downtown/The Vista
"Very clean"
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Cambria Hotel Columbia Downtown The Vista
"Great location. Clean. We will be back."
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Graduate by Hilton Columbia SC
"Great Location ! Loved staying on campus and still close to attractions in Columbia! Fun decor and lots of common areas inside and outside to hang out. Our favorite spot was the front porch!"
Reviewed on 4 Jun 2026
Moxy Columbia Downtown
"The room was very nice definitely on the smaller side but still very nice and well maintained."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Where to stay in 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.
Rosewood
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Rosewood and surrounding area, you can visit South Carolina Military Museum and South Carolina State Fairgrounds.
Seven Oaks
Seven Oaks is noteworthy for its coffee shops, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Saluda Shoals Park and Three Rivers Greenway.
Shandon
While Shandon may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Columbia Urban League and Charlie W. Johnson Stadium.
Eau Claire
Travellers like the parks in Eau Claire, and Imara Woman is a top attraction you might want to visit.
