Who doesn’t love seeing a great show! In Columbia, we are fortunate to have The Koger Center for the Arts right here in our backyard. From concerts to Broadway shows to comedy relief, there’s a show to fit every mood. So why not make a night out of it! Here are some of our favorite suggestions to make your night at the Koger Center complete.

Pre-show Dinner

The phrase “Location, Location, Location” truly applies to the Koger Center when you are looking for dining options. It’s literally in the middle of everything with several of Columbia’s districts just minutes away. Stay in the Vista for dinner at Motor Supply Co. Bistro, or Boku Kitchen and Saloon. Head over to Main Street for options at Smoked, Lula Drake Wine Parlour or Cantina 76. Find Publico Kitchen and Tap in Five Points or in the Bull Street District or head to West Columbia for a bite at Black Rooster or Savage Craft Ale Works.

The Main Event

There is plenty on tap this season at The Koger Center for the Arts. Join the 90th Birthday celebration for Drink Smalls, the Blues Doctor, on Oct. 26 at A Shot of the Blues, Drink Smalls: 90 Proof. The Columbia City Ballet brings back Dracula: Ballet with a Bite on Oct. 29 and the Broadway in Columbia feature is Elf: The Broadway Musical, which hits the stage Nov. 8-9. Onstage with Rod Foster and Company’s Motown Live will be held on Nov. 10 featuring Brittany Turnipseed and Brandon Stevens. Looking for laughs? See Joe Gatto’s Night of Comedy on Nov. 12. Thanksgiving weekend gets a boost with the Soda City Jazz Festival featuring Boney James on Nov. 27.

The After Party

It will be hard to end the night after these fantastic performances. Take your after-show energy to Bourbon Columbia, Goat’s, Pearlz Oyster Bar, COA Agaverua y Cocina or The War Mouth for a late-night snack and a nightcap.

Where to Crash

With several surrounding hotels, opt for an overnight stay. The newly opened Cambria Hotel is a modern hotel with a cozy feel located in the heart of The Vista. The recently renovated Marriott Columbia Downtown is another nearby option along with the acclaimed Hotel Trundle and Graduate Columbia.


Stay up-to-date with the arts in Columbia SC with our calendar of events.