From fun and free to special-occasion fee-based experiences, we chatted with our Experience Columbia SC Ambassadors who have littles in their lives to compile the ultimate list of unexpected things to do with kids in Columbia, SC. How many can your family check off the list this year?
1. Enjoy the playground, splash pad and walking paths at Elmwood/Roy Lynch Park
2. Take a Guided Nature Walk lead by a park ranger at Saluda Shoals Park
3. Experience health benefits of a Salt Cave at Shavaas Spa
4. Make succulent bouquets at Plant House
5. Practice movement and self-awareness with a Kids’ Mindful Yoga class at FIT Columbia
6. Select and decorate ceramics in the open studio at Mad Platter
7. Immerse yourself in the world of books at Richland Library Story time
8. Get your game on at Transmission Arcade. Try early Sunday mornings for a family-friendly vibe.
9. Pick a lane on Main and try some bowling at The Grand
10. Owens Field Skatepark, Pump Track and Disc Golf offers three ways to get outside and be active in one location
11. Engage in hands-on projects and activities in the Cross Hatch space after taking in the lasted exhibit at Columbia Museum of Art
12. Story time in the Garden at Historic Columbia’s Hampton Preston Mansion offers songs, games and stories in an outdoor setting
13. Columbia Children’s Theatre offers professional performances for youth as well as programs featuring local youth talent
14. Pokemon Go (yes, it’s still a thing) walks around the State House or along the Saluda River Greenway
15. Picnic on the UofSC Horseshoe (pick up a sandwich at nearby Beezers and a milkshake from Tio’s)
16. Go fishing at Sesquicentennial State Park and enjoy the big playground and walking trail
17. Leo’s Landing inclusive playground at Saluda Shoals fosters inclusion among people of all abilities with a Treehouse Village, swing area and sound garden
18. Many of Columbia SC’s breweries have kid-friendly menu options and areas to romp like Hunter Gatherer Brewery at Curtiss-Wright Hangar, Savage Craft Ale Works and more
19. For your future stargazer, explore the Telescope Gallery at South Carolina State Museum
20. Frolic at a festival (from to Cola Jazz in the fall to Rosewood Crawfish Festival in the spring, festivals are family-friendly fun). Use the Experience Columbia SC Calendar to filter by your family’s interests or date preferences for the perfect match
Special thanks Experience Columbia SC Ambassadors Rita Patel, Mark Rapp, Anthony Goldman and Lee Snelgrove for their input on this list.