Williams-Brice Stadium is known as the destination for football fans on any given Saturday in the fall, but there are plenty of concerts, events and other activities happening in and around the stadium district year-round. Here’s what to see and do when you’re in the neighborhood:
The South Carolina State Fairgrounds offers tailgate parking for football and is home to the South Carolina State Fair, happening this year from October 9-20, 2024, but the Fairgrounds also has a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year. From the Columbia International Festival to the Rosewood Crawfish Festival to the Black Expo, there is always something fun to add to your calendar. They are also offering tailgate parking for the much-anticipated soccer matchup between Liverpool and Manchester United on August 3.
The South Carolina Military Museum is one of the premiere National Guard museums in the country. There is no charge for admission or parking, and you will find artifacts from a Columbiad Cannon that once protected the Charleston Harbor to an Apache Helicopter cockpit. Guided tours are available.
Lyons General Store is a fun stop for signature Southern lifestyle brands such as Local Boy, Old Row, Simply Southern, Bogg Bags and Hey Dude, plus many more.
If you’re searching for University of South Carolina logo merch, look no further than Addams University Bookstore on Assembly Street for everything from t-shirts, jerseys and sweatshirts to bags, hats, jewelry and gifts.
If you’re hungry, just steps away from the stadium you’ll find J’s Corner with burgers, salads, quesadillas, pastas and wings. They are billed as South Carolina’s oldest continually operating bar, servicing beer and food since 1912. The 5,000 square foot spot renovated in 2018 and offers indoor and outdoor dining. (They also have a “Puppy Menu” if you are bringing your four-legged friend and don’t want to share!)
Explore the neighboring Mill District and browse works of local artists at 701 Center for Contemporary Art, learn about the historic mill and the families who lived and worked there at the Olympia Mill Village Museum or by grab a bite at a nearby eatery, like Village Idiot Pizza.
If you are looking for a plant-based meal in a fun, eclectic atmosphere, look no further than The Hoot on Rosewood for dinner and a yummy Sunday brunch.
On a warm day, try an icy treat from Pelican Snowballs, or head to Rosewood Dairy Bar for a signature ice cream cone.
For that traditional Southern meal, hit Doc’s Barbeque (open for lunch weekdays and game day Saturdays in the fall) for a full buffet with fried chicken, mac and cheese, barbeque and all the fixings, or head to Bernie’s Restaurant for chicken, burgers, sandwiches and sides (also open weekdays and gameday Saturdays).
If you have more time in our region, explore Columbia’s other neighborhoods and districts here.