City Seeker: Downtown Getaway in Columbia, SC
You won’t find our unique blend of southern charm, fresh perspectives and laid-back attitude just anywhere. Columbia is a vibrant city bursting with big ideas, forward thinkers and modern attitudes, and it shows the moment you step into our walkable districts. From Main Street to Five Points and everywhere in between, you’re smack in the middle of everything with plenty to do, all within just a few easy blocks.
Stay in the Heart of Downtown
Your home away from home this weekend is one of Columbia’s boutique hotels, like the oh-so-chic Hotel Trundle, located in the heart of the bustling downtown scene. From here, you’re just steps away from restaurants, galleries, shops and museums. After getting settled (and snapping a couple of pics for your Instagram story), it's time to get this weekend started right with a bite to eat and something to drink.
Main Street Food, Shopping & Entertainment
Head on over to The Grand on Main Street for a delicious meal, and a friendly game of bowling. A bowling alley may be the last place you’d expect to find standout food, but get used to surprises. From there, stroll the Main Street district for shopping and more.
Save room for handcrafted specialty ice cream from Sweet Cream Co. and walk over to the State House. Take in the Capital City’s sunny weather as you wander the grounds on a self-guided walking tour, soaking up a setting that’s steeped in history and character. (You can pick up a tour brochure at the Columbia, SC Visitor Center!)
Loop back through downtown’s mix of retail, restaurants and entertainment. It’s equal parts laid-back and lively, and with something to discover around every corner, it’s hard to be bored.
Saturday Market & Art Exploration
Saturday mornings are for Soda City Market, when Main Street is chockablock with local vendors, food stalls and live music. It’s a vital part of the weekend rhythm here and a perfect place to strike up a conversation with locals.
Be sure to wander into Mast General Store, where you’re as likely to find a cast iron skillet as a unique children’s toy or the latest outdoor gear. If you’re shopping with your four-legged friend, reward good behavior with a dog treat from behind the checkout counter.
Art lovers, you’re in the right place. The Columbia Museum of Art serves as a headquarters for the creative set and an anchor for Columbia’s robust arts scene. Between national exhibitions, community events like Arts & Draughts and a self-guided public art tour throughout downtown, you’ll find fresh voices and unexpected inspiration around nearly every corner.
Evenings Out in Five Points & Devine Street
Follow the locals for a night out on the town in Five Points. This walkable district is lined with some of Columbia’s most popular spas, boutiques, restaurants and home décor shops. Venture a half mile up Devine Street for even more boutique shopping.
For dinner, cozy up to a table at the upscale and refined Saluda’s, whose historic space dates back to the post-World War I era. Afterward, check out Bar None for a laid-back vibe and a game of shuffleboard. For the latest of nights, make a pit stop at NightCaps on Devine Street.
Coffee & Send-Off
Grab a coffee and small bite from Dulce Bakery and Cafe and take a short stroll through The Vista to refuel for your journey ahead. As you soak up the last bit of downtown, you get the feeling that this is more than just a place for a weekend getaway. Which just means you’ll have to come back. And when you do, Columbia will be waiting with a glass of sweet tea...unless, of course, you’d prefer something barrel-aged or bacon-infused.
