Real Local

To really know a city, you need to see it through the eyes of its locals. That's why we've teamed up with some well-known locals to give you their insider tips on what to do in South Carolina's capital city, whether you are a long-time resident or visiting for the first time.

Amy Beth Franks

Amy Beth enjoys Columbia SC from baseball games to art galleries, with a Gourmet Shop iced coffee in hand, of course.

Crush Rush

See Columbia SC through photographer Crush Rush's eyes. A city of vibrant people is just a snapshot away.

David Laird

David knows this city well and is ready with tips on where to eat, find live music and enjoy the energy of Columbia.

Pamela Bynoe-Reed

Pam and her pup Ming Ming take on Columbia SC one bus stop at a time.

Meet Bianca Crawford Shelton

Bianca has you covered from great wine recommendations to weekend family fun.

Meet John Sherrer

John can tell you where to go in Columbia SC and the history of the bars, museums, hotels you'll visit.

Meet Morihiko Nakahara

MORIHIKO is ready to direct the SC Philharmonic Orchestra and your weekend itinerary in Columbia SC.

Meet Mattison Heatherly

Mattison is your source for what's going on in the restaurant world of Columbia SC.

Meet Preach Jacobs

Preach keeps busy as a DJ and columnist, but he's still got time to show you where the action is.

Meet Ashley Elsey

Ashley shows you how to take on the capital city in style from the arts to the eats.

Meet Angela Yong

Angela wears many hats - business owner, mom, coach and Columbia SC expert.

Meet Mike Mayo

Mike is ready to paddle with you through the heart of SC. The great outdoors are calling!

Meet Ashley Jenkins Wood

Ashley has a unique and stylish flair & keeps her finger on the pulse of what’s new in our classic city.

Meet CJ Lake Tamasco

CJ is a Gamecock through + through. Let her take take you through the capital city from UofSC and beyond.

Meet Merrell Johnson

Merrell will make you feel right at home in the heart of SC as he champions local businesses.

Meet Lee Snelgrove

Lee is an arts + crafts man, and by crafts we mean beer. Follow Columbia SC's arts advocate + beer enthusiast.

Meet Kim Crafton

Kim can be found at all the best culinary spots. Read how she enjoys hitting the Columbia SC food + cocktail scene.

Meet Mark Rapp

Mark has an unrivaled passion for music and Columbia SC. Follow along for a trip filled with live music and creative energy.

Meet Rita Patel

Rita runs a business and a family in the heart of downtown. Don't miss her tips on family fun in an urban setting.

Meet Lynn Luc

Lynn is behind the @GoCola Instagram and is used to being an expert on new things to do. Read all about her ultimate weekend.

Meet Anthony Goldman

Anthony gives you an insider's list for the outdoor adventurer, from parks to al fresco dining to brewery hopping.

Meet Vanessa Bialobreski

Vanessa knows Columbia's food scene in and out. Read on for her can't-miss list of eateries and attractions.

Meet Shanika Pichey

Shanika and her two kids take over Columbia with classic and out-of-the-box ideas for a family trip.

Trip Ideas

Dive in to these itineraries full of our locals' favorite spots throughout the Columbia region.

Lee is an arts + crafts man, and by crafts we mean beer. Follow Columbia SC's arts advocate + beer enthusiast.

Kim can be found at all the best culinary spots. Read how she enjoys hitting the Columbia SC food + cocktail scene.

Merrell will make you feel right at home in the heart of SC as he champions local businesses.

CJ is a Gamecock through + through. Let her take take you through the capital city from UofSC and beyond.

Milo takes everyday life and makes it impactful for wildlife. Enjoy his eco-friendly weekend in Columbia.

Ashley has a unique and stylish flair & keeps her finger on the pulse of what’s new in our classic city.

Rita runs a business and a family in the heart of downtown. Don't miss her tips on family fun in an urban setting.

Vanessa knows Columbia's food scene in and out. Read on for her can't-miss list of eateries and attractions.

Anthony gives you an insider's list for the outdoor adventurer, from parks to al fresco dining to brewery hopping.

Lynn is behind the @GoCola Instagram and is used to being an expert on new things to do. Read all about her ultimate weekend.

Mark has an unrivaled passion for music and Columbia SC. Follow along for a trip filled with live music and creative energy.

Shanika and her two kids take over Columbia with classic and out-of-the-box ideas for a family trip.

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