Looking for some sizzling summer date ideas in Columbia SC? From cheering on the Fireflies to exploring art and culture on Main Street, we've rounded up six unforgettable date nights to make this season one to remember.

 

Nothing says summer quite like an evening at the ball park. With the Columbia Fireflies’ season underway and running throughout the summer, and the Lexington Blowfish gearing up at the end of May for their summer season, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a game under the lights.  

 

Kick up your traditional movie and ice cream date night with a visit to The Nickelodeon, South Carolina’s only nonprofit arthouse cinema, followed by a treat at Sweet Cream Co. just down the street.  

 

Weeknight dates are underrated, and we love the idea of a Thursday date kicking off with a visit to the Columbia Museum of Art followed by an evening at First Thursday on Main, celebrating the city’s arts and culture with Main Street businesses open late, offering food and drink specials.  

 

Venture to Congaree National Park for an Owl Prowl -  a guided evening hike along the Boardwalk and Sims trails to learn about the unique attributes of owls and enjoy a balmy summer night in the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest in the country. Tours are offered on various evenings throughout the summer. Registration is required.  

 

Add some clout to your restaurant date by visiting one of the James Beard Award semi-finalists in the region. Visit City Limits Barbeque in West Columbia for a weekend lunch date, Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles for brunch or Lula Drake Wine Parlour for an upscale evening on the town. 

 

On Friday nights between June 7 and August 11, enjoy live music and craft beer at Steel Hands Brewery in Cayce during their Nashville Nights series. The series features singer/songwriters traveling from Nashville. Many of these artists are up-and-comers who are currently touring with some of music’s biggest stars. Catch them in town while you can! 

 

For more date-night inspiration, including a variety of restaurants, festivals, events and more, explore ExperienceColumbiaSC.com.