Fort Jackson
For more than a century, Fort Jackson has been one of the country’s most important military bases. The largest US Army training facility in the country, more than 44,000 soldiers train here each year, and more than 3,500 active duty soldiers and 12,000 family members call Fort Jackson home. The rich military presence is the backbone of a diverse community. No matter where you're experiencing the Columbia region, you’re sure to find soldiers and their families taking in the sights and bites.
Fort Jackson Museums: Like the rest of Columbia, Fort Jackson is chock full of history, equipped with four museums: the Fort Jackson, U.S. Army Chaplain, U.S. Army Adjutant General Corps, and U.S. Army Finance Corps Museums. The Ft. Jackson Museum shares the history of the base dating back to its founding during World War I, as well as examples of uniforms from the Revolutionary, Civil, Indian, and Spanish-American Wars. At the Chaplain Museum you'll learn about the first Jewish and African-American Army Chaplains, as well as chaplain history going back to colonial times. The Adjutant General Corps Museum and U.S. Army Finance Corps Museum share a home in a former movie theater. While you're there, check out the huge collection of typewriters used by Adjutant General Corps, and the largest collection of military pay certificates in the world. Families visiting for Fort Jackson graduation are welcomed to explore these historical spots. For all other civilians, call ahead to check for visiting regulations.
When looking for your home away from home for your visit, check out Fairfield Inn & Suites NE, Hampton Inn & Suites Killian Road, and TownePlace Suites by Marriott SE. You'll be minutes away from Fort Jackson, while still close to the action of downtown and everything else Columbia SC has to offer.
Moctezumas Taqueria: A local favorite serving up Mexican-American classics, Moctezumas features the freshest ingredients in classic dishes. Each morning staff cook their sopes and huaraches. Once they run out for the day they run out, so it’s best to get there for lunch.
The Palmetto Trail: Bordering Ft. Jackson, this 16.2 mile stretch of the Palmetto Trail welcomes hikers and mountain bikers on its sandy, flat surface. As you walk through the woodlands, don't be surprised if you share the trail with military personnel doing maneuvers. Parallel to Leesburg Road, the Trail is wooded enough that you’ll enjoy a serene walk, jog, or ride in nature. It’s considered an easy to moderate trail - what are you waiting for?
Julia's German Stammisch: Nothing soothes the soul on a chilly day like warm, homemade schnitzel, and at Julia's you can get just that. These delicacies are made fresh daily by Julia (of course), including crowd favorite jagerschnitzel with spaetzle and side of her secret special cheese sauce. Hopefully you'll stop in on a day when she's serving up her famous German torte, served best with an ice-cold bier. Bonus points if you can pronounce everything correctly.
Egg Roll Chen: The first Taiwanese restaurant in Columbia, Eggroll Chen’s menu includes favorites like Moo Goo Guy Pan, Pork Fried Rice, and Teriyaki Beef. We'll take everything, please.
Tacos Nayarit: What began as a taco truck on Decker Boulevard has evolved into a Percival Road restaurant where customers can get made to order tacos, burritos, and bowls. Loyal diners and new fans flock for huge portions, house made tortillas and tortas. With nine kinds of meat, no two orders need to be the same. Think - spicy pork, steak, and head and tongue for the more daring. Order a Horchata to complete your meal.
Families visiting for Fort Jackson graduation are welcomed to explore the base, pending clearance. For all other civilians, call ahead to check for visiting regulations.