Beyond the relief from heat, autumn brings all kinds of good times to Columbia SC. Keep reading to find out why fall in Columbia SC is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. 

1. Foliage

From a stroll around UofSC’s campus to a hike along the Three Rivers Greenway trails, there’s no shortage of spots to peep the changing leaves. One of the most unique ways to experience this change of the seasons in by taking a guided canoe tour with Palmetto Outdoors at Congaree National Park, the state’s only national park. The orange and red hues are sure to inspire plenty of outdoor escapes this season and provide the perfect backdrop to your next Instagram post. Bonus: Tag your Instagram post with #RealColumbiaSC and you might get featured by @ColumbiaSC.

2. Football

Don’t be surprised if you hear the refrain “Go Gamecocks” emanating from all corners the city on an autumn Saturday. Whether you’re a fan of the Garnet and Black or you’re here to see a visiting team, there’s no denying that Columbia knows how to do it up right. From the spirited tailgates and lively sports bars to the can’t-miss game day traditions, you’ll be heading home with a smile on your face.  

3. Flavors

Situated in the heart of a state that has an abundance of locally grown food, you can be sure that our fall fare is top notch. Get the whole farm fresh experience at a Farm to Table Event Co. Harvest Dinner or pick up your own autumnal produce from the State Farmers Market or Soda City Market. Those on the hunt for cool-weather libations don’t have to look far. Local breweries crank out seasonal beers perfect for enjoying around a cozy fire pit or at the next tailgate. May we recommend the Pecan Brown Ale from Steel Hands?

4. Festivities

Once those cooler winds blow into town, locals and visitors alike are ready to get out and embrace them. Not that we need an excuse to head outdoors, but all manner of festival and events offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy the crisp air. For our thrill seekers, mark your calendar for the SC State Fair where you can take on every ride at the Midway. Craft crew, there’s more than one Oktoberfest celebration ready to satisfy your seasonal cravings. Spooky season lovers are welcomed to Halloween parties, haunted farms and even trick-or-treating at Riverbanks Zoo.  

Bonus: Farms

Name a more classic fall activity than visiting a pumpkin patch or corn maze. We'll wait. Whether you and the kiddos are on the hunt for the perfect jack-o-lantern gourd or snapping a photo field full of sunflowers is on your fall bucket list, Clinton Sease Farms is here to help. They even host a haunted farm throughout fall for those looking for a fall fright.