If sticking around the house for the last couple months has you longing for a day out, Columbia SC is ready to welcome you and the kids for a day of socially distant adventures. It's time to tie on your mask and load up the car. 

Good Morning

Start your day with a drive through Main Street. You and the kids can spot some of your favorite local businesses and public art before pulling into a parking spot near Drip on Main. At this Columbia SC classic, you'll find coffee to fuel the adventures ahead and breakfast sandwiches that are easy to grab-and-go for the kids. 

Get Wild

For families with older kids, point your vehicle in the direction of Saluda Shoals Park. This 400-acre park offers miles of trails. If you’ve brought along your four-legged furry child, be sure to check out the Barking Lot Dog Park where they can safely chase balls and play with other pups to their heart's content. If water fun is what you seek, Saluda Shoals has multiple entry points to the Saluda River and offers boat rentals. The waters here are perfect for both the novice paddler and the experienced river rat. 

Folks with younger explorers will be happy to hear that as of May 23, the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has opened its gates with increased safety precautions and all of the wild learning that you know and love. Take a peek at the pink flamingos, feed the giraffes and stroll over to the botanical gardens. Don’t forget that tickets are only being sold online, so buy before you head that way. 

Grab some grub

Before the afternoon hunger slump begins (parents, you know what we’re talking about) head back downtown to refuel those kiddos. A couple subs from Beezer’s and a relaxing picnic on the Horseshoe is just what your family needs. Lay back under the shade of the oak trees surrounding the historic campus and enjoy some fresh air while the kids take on the Discover SC Campus Scavenger Hunt

You Deserve a Treat

End the day on a high note with a little treat. On your way back home, swing by Rosewood Dairy Bar for an ice cream cone dipped in butterscotch or covered in rainbow sprinkles. Honestly, with all of the homeschooling, you’ve all earned this.

Don’t Forget

Many restaurants and businesses are encouraging patrons to wear masks. If you don’t have one yet, consider purchasing one from a local business like Nana by Sally or My Kim Collection.

Parking fees resume on June 1. Be sure to have a handful of quarters or download the Passport Parking App.

Commemorate your day of family fun by sharing photos on social media using #RealColumbiaSC.