About five miles from Columbia’s city center is the thriving neighborhood of Forest Acres. There are more than enough restaurants, shops and happenings in the area to make you want to plunk down some serious roots - just ask any of the young professionals, families and retirees who call this area home. 

But if you are just in the Columbia area for a short jaunt, follow along for our take on 24 hours tucked away in Forest Acres. 

DAY 1

Start with Local Shopping 

With designers ranging from Ulla Johson, Halston and Veronica Beard to Celia B, Hunter Bell and LoveShackFancy, at Coplon’s you can outfit yourself for everything from a night sipping wine at nearby Tazza to a powerhouse meeting at the South Carolina State House.

Also stop by Cottage & Vine for on-trend artwork, accessories and home décor with a distinctly Southern flair.

Find traditional deli favorites at Groucho's Deli for lunch, along with super-welcoming service and family-friendly atmosphere. Order like a local and go for the STP or the Apollo with a side of 45 and thank us later. 

Afternoon About Town

Browse gift items with a distinctly Southern flair Cottage and Vine. Needing a pick me up? Indulge in a healthy sweet treat a Morelia Paletas, a Mexican style popsicle made from fresh, natural ingredients with allergens listed for every flavor. Feel free to top it with chocolate, nuts, sprinkles and more! Worried about cross contamination? Employees will happily provide one fresh from the wrapper for you! 

See, be seen, and see some more from Tazza’s perfectly positioned patio and outdoor seating. Order a house cocktail from the seasonal cocktail menu and sip while you wait for your mouth-watering small plates.

Evening Suited For You

Tuck in to neighborhood hideaway, Tombo Grille for a seriously delicious dinner and top-notch bar. This cozy spot has been a favorite for over 25 years.  Locals swear by the Chicken Parmesan and the Boneless Pork Chop, and their Fried Brussels Sprouts are hard to beat. Pro tip: Snag a reservation ahead of time – this place stays packed for a reason.

Or Asian-Fusion cuisine at food at Co where will leave you full and happy whether you get sushi, noodles, or share small plates with your friends.

 

DAY 2

Sweat it out! 

Forest Acres is also home to a location of popular Orange Theory Fitness as well as CycleBar, so you can start your day with plenty of endorphins.

Next up? Breakfast all day!

Fuel up after your workout with classic breakfast favorites like French Toast, Steak & Eggs and new favorites like Avocado Toast & Eggs or a Biscuit-Wich at Eggs Up Grille. 

Afternoon shopping

It's time to “do” Trenholm Plaza, We're talking Anthropologie, Fabrik, Ivy & Leo, Kendra Scott and  Scout and Molly provide a full afternoon of retail therapy all within the open-air Trehnolm Plaza shopping center. Freshen up with a manicure at POSH or a massage at Urban Nirvana before you hit the road.