Whether you’re heading to Columbia SC for a much-needed family escape or find yourself in town for a business trip or function with kids in tow, we’ve compiled 7 ways to spend a quality day with the fam.

 

Museum Hopping 

The South Carolina State Museum and EdVenture Children’s Museum are conveniently located on the same campus in The Vista. Start the day at EdVenture exploring Eddie, the world’s largest kid. Once the kiddos have worn themselves out head across the parking lot to the South Carolina State Museum. By this time, they’ve probably worked up an appetite, so make a beeline for the Crescent Café for lunch. We recommend splitting a flatbread or the fruit and yogurt parfait. Depending on everyone’s energy levels you can head into the exhibits for more learning and exploring or enjoy a chill show in the planetarium. Insider Tip: If you’re visiting for the weekend, purchase a CoolPASS for discounted entry to these two attractions and the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.

Best for: Elementary Age Children

 

River and a coffee

With over 15 miles of riverside trails, there is so much nature to explore along the Three Rivers Greenway. Whether you’re still pushing a stroller or your curious kid needs wants you to check out every leaf and flower, these trails are the perfect spot to do it. Fuel up at Piecewise Coffee in Cayce with overnight oats or a bagel. Grab a coffee to go (we recommend their seasonal horchata cold brew) and hit the trail. You’ll find an entrance to the Cayce River Walk just two blocks over on Lyles Street. Insider Tip: pack some bug spray. 

Best for: All Ages

 

Art walk and ice cream

Columbia is full of public art. Around just about any corner you’ll find murals and statues. One of the best neighborhoods for spotting art is Five Points. Park in the public parking lot on the corner of Saluda and Harden (don’t forget to check the updated parking rules) and start your stroll. The first two murals will be easy to find since they are right there in the lot! Take photos with each of the art pieces you find. End your stroll at Scoopy Doo Gelato for a cool treat and some time to review the photos you took around the district. For more public art, visit One Columbia. 

Best for: early elementary and up

 

Market and Play

Main Street offers endless entertainment for a family on Saturday mornings. Start with a stroll through Soda City Market at 9 am to beat the crowds and the heat. There are plenty of food trucks selling breakfast for the whole fam and lots of vendors to explore. When the little ones run out of patience for shopping, head over to the Columbia Museum of Art’s Boyd Plaza for Play on the Plaza. Starting at 10 am each Saturday morning, they set out colorful building materials and toys to encourage sensory play.

Best for: toddlers to early elementary

 

Dinner and a Show

Got a theater kid? A night out at Town Theater is the perfect evening. Town Theater is the longest continuously running community theater in the US with over 100 seasons on stage. This 106th season includes A Christmas Carol, The Secret Garden, and more. Now to make the evening extra special, Town Theater has partnered with local restaurants to provide a prefix menu for only $35 per person. It’s the perfect family friendly evening out. 

Best for: Late elementary to high school

 

‘Za and Axe Throwing

Make your way over to downtown Lexington for this fun evening. Their cute Main Street is a fun spot to explore, but for the main event book a lane at Craft Axe Throwing. Throwers must be at least 10 years old and accompanied by a parent or guardian until the age of 17. Go head-to-head with your teen in an axe throwing competition. It takes a bit of practice to get the hang of, but that’s part of the fun. You’re sure to work up an appetite, so once you’re done, head across the street for a slice at Nicky’s Pizzeria.

Best for: Middle and high school age

 

Books and BBQ

All Good Books in Five Points has quickly become a community favorite. They’ve got books for all ages, but Saturday morning story time for the young ones is a can’t miss. Plus, their coffee bar is perfect for caffeinating you to keep up with the kiddos all day. Enjoy story time and some shopping before heading over to Home Team BBQ for lunch. From their patio to the kid’s menu, this spot is a hit with families. 

Best for: Toddlers to early elementary

 

For more family-friendly options, visit our Things To Do page or chat with an Experience Columbia SC Visitor Information Specialist at our Visitors Center to help plan your trip.