Pics or it didn’t happen, right? This time of year, Columbia SC turns bright red and orange. No, we’re not talking about that school in the upstate. We’re talking about the changing of the leaves, crisp fall air and golden hour that seems to last all day long. We’ve rounded up a couple of our favorite spots to snap pics to document the season.

Get Outside

Congaree National Park

The boardwalk trail at Congaree National Park is a photographer’s autumn paradise. With soft light filtering through the orange and red leaves, this is the perfect spot to snap a portrait, spy on wildlife and capture the crisp Columbia SC season.

Dreher Island State Park

There’s nothing quite like the way that autumn light shines on the water. Head out to Dreher Island State Park for a day of exploring. You’re sure to get some golden shots to share with social media.

Saluda Riverwalk

This newly completed path along the Saluda River is ready for you and your camera. Enjoy boardwalks, rapids and brightly colored leaves from behind the lens.

Clinton Sease Farm

You look gourd-geous darling! For that classic pumpkin patch shot, head to the farm, Clinton Sease Farm that is. Here you can pick the perfect gourd to bring home and get a new autumn profile pic.

Foodies

Saluda’s Balcony

Snap a shot of a delicious craft cocktail on Saluda’s balcony. This prime location provides excellent views of the sun setting over the Five Points Post Card Mural and the perfect shot of changing trees laced with twinkly lights.

Hazelwood Brewery

Snap and sip at Hazelwood Brewery in Lexington. The amber color of these local brews pairs perfectly with the changing leaves outside. When the weather turns cold, cozy up inside. They’ve got a fireplace that will look right at home on your Instagram feed.

Gamecocks

USC Horseshoe

Take your fall foliage with a little history out on the UofSC Historic Horseshoe. The 12 buildings surrounding the brick path were the first out to outline the university. The historic architecture and tree lined pathway is sure to secure you plenty of likes.

Williams Brice Stadium

Show off your Gamecock pride with a photo at the stadium. The new bronze gamecock statue is a perfect spot for a Spurs Up photo shoot.

Artsy

Southern Affair Mural

This new mural on Rosewood screams fall with bright orange and cool blue colors. The beautiful piece of art by McClellan Douglas Jr. on the corner of Assembly Street and Rosewood Drive wraps around an entire building, giving you plenty of room for a unique shot.

Immersion SC

This recently opened art exhibit on Main Street allows you to step inside the art. Snap a selfie in any of the immersive art rooms created by local artists for a unique addition to you Instagram feed. 

Don’t forget to include #RealColumbiaSC on your posts for the chance to be featured on our Instagram.