You’d be hard-pressed to find a bigger fan of the University of South Carolina than CJ Lake Tamasco. Between cheering on the Gamecocks at Williams-Brice and strolls through Gibbes Green, you’ll find CJ exploring the city with her Pomeranian Queso and dining at local establishments with friends and family.
Hey y’all! I’m CJ Lake Tamasco, the University of South Carolina’s senior social media strategist. Whether tailgates or nature trails are on your to-do list, you're in for a treat (keep reading to hear about one of my favorites). With the Historic Horseshoe as home base, let's explore everything Columbia SC has in store.
On THE WATER: Head out to Lake Murray to walk along the Dreher Shoals Dam Walk. The 1.7 mile path is great for strolling while watching the sunset.
Pro Tip: On clear days at the dam, be sure to look towards Columbia. You can see all the way to downtown
Hidden GEM: You might not expect it, but Columbia is a secondhand lover’s dream. From Roundabouts Consignment in the Northeast to gently-used designer pieces from Revente downtown and lots of fun stops in between, there are plenty of shops to hunt for unique finds. Plus, buying secondhand is good for the wallet and the environment!
Pro Tip: Five Points is home to many of these stores, so you can make a whole day of thrifting with plenty of local restaurants to fuel shopping.
Classic COLUMBIA: When it’s time for a chill treat, Rosewood Dairy Bar is a Columbia SC classic. For a casual date night, catch the sunset and then head to Rosewood Dairy Bar for a dipped cone with sprinkles.
Pro Tip: Chocolate isn't the only flavor on deck. You can also get a blue raspberry or butterscotch dipped cone at Rosewood Dairy Bar.
Spurs UP: From strolls around the Horseshoe to a Saturday in Williams-Brice Stadium cheering on the Gamecocks, the UofSC experience is integral to life in Columbia SC.
Pro Tip: Get to the Stadium early to witness the Sandstorm. Even if you are here to cheer on the other team, there’s no denying how cool it is.
Out ON THE TOWN: Date night is on the calendar and Cola’s is the place to be. Just steps from the Vista and Main Street, this long-standing establishment serves up a great steak and one of the best crème brulees in town.
Pro Tip: Cola's is just steps away from some of Columbia's vibrant murals. After dinner, take a walking tour and snap a few pictures for your Instagram feed.