Real Local: Meg Syms

From live music to family strolls, Meg knows where to find community in Columbia SC.

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A woman poses against a pole, smiling and holding a drink with her hand in her pocket.

Hello there! I'm Meg Syms and though I didn't grow up in Columbia, I love calling this place home. Even if you're just here for a visit, you'll see that it's the people that make Columbia SC special. Tag along with me to see where you can find some of the best folks around town. 

White hydrangeas with a historic brick home.

HISTORIC COLUMBIA: Go beyond the history books and learn how South Carolinians from all walks of life lived in the capital city with Historic Columbia. These homes serve as more than a quiet preservation. The gardens are open daily for exploration, the grounds host vibrant festivals, and tour guides teach the impact of our history. 

Women creating floral bouquets
Flower bouquet being wrapped in brown paper with a sticker that says "Fern Flower Studio"

BRIGHT BLOOMS: Vibrant shops line Devine Street, and one of the brightest is Fern Studio Flower. This small florist packs big color and joy into every bouquet. The shop also has a small gift shop filled with books, vases, ribbons and other charming notions.

Insider Tip: Stop by on a Thursday for their flower bar to build your own bouquet or check their calendar to learn about seasonal workshops.

Two men and a woman sitting on the grass in a park

Columbia’s event calendar is packed with events every day of the week, and one of my favorites year after year is Jam Room Music Festival. This year it moved over to Finlay Park, which is quickly becoming one of the city’s best venues. 

Outdoor music venue with band and viewers sitting on grass.

Insider Tip: Check out the Events This Weekend page to pack as much fun as possible into your visit.

Two women drinking beer and laughing in a biergarten

ANOTHER ROUND: Nothing beats an ice cold beer on a hot day, except for enjoying it under the shaded jasmine covered patio at WeCo. They pour all manner of brews here, no matter your preference.

Two beers with WeCo biergarten logos

Insider Tip: Check WeCo's Food Truck Schedule and make a whole evening out of your visit.