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.
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.
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.
Things to do
Top hotels in Downtown Columbia
Tru By Hilton Columbia Downtown
"We had a great experience and would definitely stay there again. Lillie at the front desk was amazing."
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Downtown at USC
"The entire staff was amazing with the exception of one man behind the counter (and I think he was tge manager). He seemed to have a chip on his shoulder because I booked through "a third party" and was canceling one night of our 2 night reservation. I didn't realize how hilly the area was which was ..."
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Hyatt Place Columbia/Downtown/The Vista
"Arrived at 3:45pm to check in, but were told our room wasn't ready. Front desk indicated they were short-staffed and so had no idea when our room would be ready. We missed our dinner reservations. Finally, at 5:02pm we were given our room key. Thr room was cool and clean. The staff did the best they ..."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Graduate by Hilton Columbia SC
"Friendly staff. Pink headboards!"
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Cambria Hotel Columbia Downtown The Vista
"Had a great experience, stayed for business so was in and out in one night."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
The Lantern Columbia
"Outstanding hotel! Super nice staff, wonderful sleek design and lots of amenities (gym 24/7, water and coffee machines, mini fridge, restaurant and bar). Such a pleasant stay, we couldn't wish for anything better! We are travelling with a toddler and they had a nice place in the back to offload a ..."
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
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 Matthew J. Perry, Jr. U.S. Courthouse while you're exploring the area.
University Hill
Visitors to University Hill appreciate its restaurants. A visit to Columbia Urban League and South Carolina State House 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? Columbia Urban League and Township Auditorium 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 Columbia Urban League and Township Auditorium.
Lyon Street
While Lyon Street isn't home to many top sights, Charlie W. Johnson Stadium and Columbia Urban League are some notable places to visit nearby.
