WHY COLUMBIA

1.    Accessibility

With three interstates that intersect the city and a regional airport, getting here is straightforward. I-77, I-20 and I-26 feed right into our downtown and the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) is located only 15 minutes from the action. 

2.    Affordability

Get the big city experience without the big city price tag. Enjoy exquisite venues, accommodations and dining on a budget that’s as friendly as the service you’ll receive every step of the way.

3.    Manageable Urban

The connectivity in Columbia makes it easy to navigate between districts on foot. Additionally, the 142,500 sq. ft. Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center is within walking distance to over 1,700 hotel rooms, more than 60 restaurants and nightlife options, shopping and more.

4.    Fit for Foodies

If there’s one thing we know in the South, it’s the importance of a good meal. From pulled pork barbecue and pimento cheeseburgers to fine dining and authentic ethnic cuisine, Columbia runs the gamut on culinary offerings and makes sure that no visitor goes hungry.

5.    Vibrant Diversity

As home to both the state’s capital and its largest university, it’s a vibrant city and creative hub that’s bursting with ideas, forward thinkers and modern attitudes.

6.    Attractions

Come early, stay late and bring the family. Columbia is home to a number of world-class attractions such as Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina State Museum, EdVenture children's museum and the Historic Columbia properties.

6.   Hospitality Partners

Let us welcome you to our family with open arms. Not only do you have the Experience Columbia SC team to help you find the right venue and hotel for your event, but our close relationships with our hospitality partners makes it easy for all of us to plan and communicate together. 

7.    Sustainability

Host a large event with a small carbon footprint. The Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center has implemented a number of sustainability initiatives such as locally sourcing food items, composting, recycling, LED lighting and more. Find out more here.

9.    Nightlife

With more things to do than there are hours to do them, your attendees will have no problem filling their schedules beyond the main event. Check out our neighborhoods, each with its own personality, for a lively evening of dinner, drinks, outdoor seating and live music.

10.    Weather/ Outdoors

With temps often reaching the 70’s in winter, year-round outdoor activities are plentiful. Get some fresh air on the Three Rivers Greenway, by biking through the city, or at nearby Congaree National Park.