Game Day Itinerary

Gamedays become full-fledged weekends in Columbia SC, where the tailgating, live music and food scene is legendary. Plan your gameday getaway like you've been around the Willy B a time or two. 

FRIDAY 

Afternoon 

Roll into town with spirit blazing and prep for the weekend ahead. Purchase tailgate staples like Cromer’s boiled peanuts and sip on local craft brews from Savage Craft Ale Works. Check in to your home-away-from-home at The Graduate Columbia by Hilton for major college vibes or The Courtyard at USC by Marriott for that on-capus center-of-it-all location. 

Shop for a new game day outfit at Oops! in Five Points, Addams Gamecock Gear in The Vista, or, if you’re cheering for the home team, Miss Cocky. 

Evening 

Live music abounds in Columbia, so check out the schedule for Tin Roof, The New Brookland Tavern, or The Senate to catch a local band or one of your favorite headliners passing through. 

SATURDAY 

Morning 

After a night on the town, start the day with a sweet treat and a steaming cup of coffee. From legendary staples like The Original Pancake House and Cafe Strudel, there’s enough to go around.   

Stroll Soda City Market for a true sense of what being in the heart of SC is like. Filled with 200+ vendors, you are as likely to find vintage clothing as you are your new favorite flower vendor. 

Afternoon 

Get your tailgate on or pregame at one of our local breweries. Make a pit stop at Hunter-Gatherer at the Hangar, which is uniquely located in a former airplane hangar and is just a few minutes from Williams-Brice Stadium. 

Evening 

Celebrate post-game like you’re in college again at Jake’s in Five Points or grab a night bite from one of our open-late spots or sweet treat at Insomnia Cookies in Five Points. 

SUNDAY 

Morning 

Sleep in, then grab breakfast and coffee from Small Sugar, The Gourmet Shop or Drip Coffee and stretch your legs with a walk by the water at one of the regions numerous stretches of river walk. 

Afternoon 

Take in public art with a city stroll, then dive into something delicious at one of Columbia’s local delis with a giant sandwich from Groucho’s or a classic sub from Beezer's before hitting the road.