There’s always an adventure to be found in the Columbia SC region, and if you’re looking to get out of the city center and go somewhere quaint and quiet for the day, you’ll want to spend your Saturday out in Chapin’s neighborhood. What originally started out as a quaint town at the edge of Lake Murray has since expanded to a bustling up and coming neighborhood with more and more being added every time you look. Get out on the water, explore some of the town’s history, or spend the day shopping around, but your day in Chapin will surely be packed.
For this packed day you’ll want to get your fuel in early. Start with breakfast and a cup of joe at the Daily Grind Café. Grab an outdoor table to soak up the sunshine to go with one of their handcrafted lattes. Everyone knows coffee is best paired with French toast, and here it’s topped with a heaping of whipped cream and fresh berries. You’ll need an extra plate of bacon for the table, obviously. If you’re looking for something lighter, breakfast sandwiches aplenty await you or a classic yogurt parfait. Don’t forget a doggie bag of any of their fresh house made desserts.
Whether you like to spend the day outdoors, ultimate relaxation time, or shopping until it’s dark out, Chapin has something to offer for any of your needs. Bringing the kiddos along and need them to run out some energy? Crooked Creek Park is the place for you. With numerous walking paths (dogs welcome!), playground equipment, and even a disc golf course, you’ll burn up hours here.
If you’re looking to squeeze some R&R in, you’ll want to visit Lotus Mind & Body. Splurge and treat yourself to one of their signature massages or a deluxe facial accompanied with skincare guidance and tips. Once you’ve got that rejuvenated glow about you it’s time to keep that treat yourself train rolling. Get the latest clothing trends and accessories at boutiques like Miss Cocky or jewelry and trinkets at the Nifty Gifty.
Anyone else work up an appetite? Grab some grub at local favorite Higher Ground Char House known for onion rings the size of your head and their unique twist on burger combinations. What’ll it be? Death by Bacon? Or try your luck with the Char-Nobyl burger. If you’re looking for something light so you can splurge at dinner head over to Lazy Creek Taphouse. Grab a couple brews and kick back while you grab a snack to share from one of their rotating food trucks.
If you’re in the mood for some live music pull up a stool and spend the afternoon chatting with locals at Tipsy Toad Tavern. With small bites, cocktails, local sips and local bands, the hours will just slip away here.
You can’t go to Chapin and not at least lay your eyes on the beauty that is Lake Murray. Which is why you’ll want to grab dinner and a sunset view at Liberty Taproom. Head to their upstairs dining to get a view of the boats sailing by (or riding up to the dock) and the occasional turtle waddling on to shore. Sunset views pair well with their happy hour specials and appetizers shared with your loved ones. It just feels right to end a day here.
Y’all come back now, ya hear?