Columbia After Dark: Unexpected Nightlife Entertainment

Beyond music and dining, our city is bursting with unique entertainment and nightlife. Live music shows can be found across the city, but if you’re looking for a different kind of entertainment, well we’ve got just the thing. 

All Laughs

The Columbia SC comedy scene is growing and there are plenty of ways for you to enjoy it around the Midlands. Just downtown, The Main Course offers a weekly comedy night with the Comedy Zone. Get your laughs over on the west side with Comedy Closet, owned by local comedian John Gibson. Up on Decker Boulevard, The Comedy House is serving up smiles alongside cocktails.

You’re the Star

Do you want to take the stage and be the entertainment for an evening? Try your hand at performing at Art Bar in The Vista. On Tuesday night you’ll find Open Mic Comedy and Wednesday nights, Karaoke. 

Enjoy the Show 

If you’re looking for something requiring a bit less audience participation, a movie night is just what you need. Head to the Nickelodeon Theater on Main Street. In addition to showing independent films, the theater is an active contributor in the Columbia arts community, frequently hosting events. For a little al fresco movie night, Icehouse Amphitheater  shows movies year-round. Grab a blanket to sit on and enjoy the show. 

Play

Columbia SC nightlife is ready to welcome your competitive side. Strike up a game of pool over at Vista Union or over on Devine Street at either Jake's on Devine or NightCaps. If the pool tables are full, Jake's and Bar None also welcome you to play a rousing game of shuffle board, it's harder than you think. For something that's more likely to work up a sweat, grab a beer and an axe at Craft Axe Throwing down in The Vista for a night that's sure to hit the bulls eye.