In Columbia SC, game days are our specialty. Even though some of our favorite fall Saturday traditions may be adjusted (because...2020), we are sharing some inventive ways to make the most of our favorite season safely, without sacrificing the fun. 

 Whether you're watching the game from inside the stadium, from the big screen at your favorite local spot, or from the comfort of your own home, the energy remains the same.  

The Situation: 

You don’t have a ticket but want to be as (safely) close to the action as possible 

Our Playbook Says: 

If you’re from out of town (or, even if you’re not!), get in the mix by booking a hotel room in Columbia SC. Graduate Columbia offers that collegiate vibe, Hyatt Place and Aloft are situated in the artsy Vista, and Hotel Trundle and Marriott are in the middle of the Main Street action, just to name a few. Near game time, anchor down at Thirsty Fellow in the Vista, Henry’s (Devine Street or Cayce locations) or Pawley’s Front Porch in Five Points have all the eats - and plenty of TVs so you don’t miss a moment. 

The Situation: 

You have a ticket but can’t tailgate in your regular spot 


Our Playbook Says: 

Visit a local restaurant that has your favorite tailgate foods like burgers, wings, and appetizers that’s also close to the stadium. The legendary Rockaway Athletic Club or The Cock n’ Bull are both conveniently located in the Rosewood District near the stadium.  J’s Corner is just a stone’s throw from Williams Brice, so you can close your tab and walk on over. 

The Situation: 

You cheer for the visiting team and always make Columbia SC your road trip when your team is playing the Gamecocks. You love football, but make a point to check out what’s new in the city, too. 


Our Playbook Says: 

Awww, we love you, too, and can’t wait to welcome you back. If you’re looking for the latest in town, book a comfortable and affordable room at the brand-new Holiday Inn in the Main Street District. Walk to The Main Course at 1624 Main Street for a day of football and fun. They have a new taproom with craft beer, wine, cider and cocktails if you want to chill, or you can book a bay and get moving with interactive simulator golf and games or visit the Immersion art experience in the very same building! Don’t forget your Columbia SC favorites, like Mast General Store and Soda City Market are here, too, with safety and distancing measures in place.  

The Situation: 

You’re just not feeling ready to travel or come to a game in-person yet, but want still want to enjoy a piece of the Columbia SC gameday experience.  


Our Playbook Says: 

Even if you are from out of town, you can order a bit of Columbia SC direct to your door with boiled peanuts from Cromers (they ship Monday-Wednesday) and team spirit cookies from Blue Flour Bakery. If you are in Columbia SC and hosting several families at your home, Spotted Salamander has an entire menu dedicated to catering for social distancing. Offerings include hors d’oeuvres boxes for each guest as well as trays for small gatherings, which are perfect if you need to order something separate for each family unit to snack on through the game. 

The Situation: 

You have a ticket and are ready to roll, but your standard blue disposable mask does not show the extent of your team spirit. 


Our Playbook Says: 

Addams University Bookstore and Barefoot Campus Outfitters have tons of Gamecock gear, including masks. Miss Cocky on Main Street has masks, as well as a sampling of kitschy gameday T’s perfect for the 2020 mood. 

The Situation: 

You’re sticking around for the whole weekend and are wondering how to spend your Sunday in Columbia SC.  


Our Playbook Says: 

After a hearty brunch (try Steel Hands Brewery or Market on Main) take advantage of warm fall weather and tube down the river with Palmetto Outdoors. Make it a family affair with a trip to Riverbanks Zoo or South Carolina State Museum. Or if retail therapy is more your speed, visit Devine Street for a perfect afternoon of shopping, strolling and lunch.  

Even with limited admission into the stadium, we still expect game days to be bustling in Columbia SC, so plan your itinerary in advance and call your favorite spots to check availability, wait times, hours and any new protocols that may be in place before you arrive. Need additional options? Search a full list of sports bars in the Columbia area and their safety protocols in place.