It’s no secret to Columbia SC locals that West Columbia is booming. This beloved district is home to a burgeoning batch of funky restaurants, a delightful array of antique shops and more art than you can shake a stick at.
Start out by booking a stay at West Columbia’s Holiday Inn Airport, where kids stay and eat free, and sustainable initiatives abound as part of IHG’s Green Engage Hotel Program. Plus, it’s conveniently situated between the Columbia Metropolitan Airport and the treasure trove of activities in West Columbia. Also convenient, the Hampton Inn in West Columbia offers free breakfast and is located near I-26, the airport and attractions.
After checking in and freshening up, zip over to Black Rooster for an Italian dinner with river views from the rooftop bar. We recommend the Royale with Cheese that includes griddled patties of chuck and brisket, asiago cheese, caramelized onions, roasted tomato, garlic aioli, and beef tallow fries. Or cozy up at nearby Terra for their Steak Frites and a variety of expertly prepared seafood, pastas and wood oven pizzas.
If you happen to be coming in for the weekend, Friday nights are for bluegrass. Head to Bill’s Pickin’ Parlor for live music and line dancing on Thursday through Saturday nights.
Wake up early if you want to beat the line out the door at Cafe Strudel for brunch (yes, it’s worth the early alarm). Their Hangover Hashbrowns are legendary but you can’t go wrong with Breakfast Burrito or Cinnamon Pancakes and a Bloody Mary or fresh-squeezed orange juice.
Just behind Cafe Strudel, you can spend the afternoon exploring the new Interactive Art Park, with multiple murals, sculptures and even a colorful set of drums for mini jam session.
A visit to West Columbia is not complete without shopping at the many antique stores and unique shops including State Street Trading Co., Cherry’s Delight, 763 Antique Mall, Scratch N Spin Record Store, or Ed’s Editions.
Squeeze in a quick lunch at Zesto of West Columbia (look for the giant chocolate dipped cone out front!) and head to the West Columbia Riverwalk for a picnic and stroll.
Next up? A wild time at the Riverbanks Botanical Garden at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden which has been recognized by Horticulture magazine as one of 10 gardens that inspire and by HGTV as one of 20 great public gardens across America. In 2025, the zoo was granted two awards by USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for Best Zoo and Best Zoo Membership. Don't forget to feed the giraffes or conquer the Sky-High Safari ropes course.
If you're planning a trip to South Carolina, keep an eye out for new restaurants, bars, businesses and attractions popping up all over West Columbia.