Pup-Friendly
Your dog is a part of the family, shouldn’t they get to enjoy a getaway too? Pack a bag and grab the leash, because we've got a fun-filled weekend in Columbia SC for you and your pet.
Friday
Afternoon
You’ve just arrived in the heart of SC. You’ve taken in the vibrant charm of Graduate Columbia (your home away from home for the weekend), freshened up, and now you’re ready to hit the town. Make your way to the Five Points district where you can enjoy lunch outside at Jake’s Bar & Grill. Here you can kick back and order a beer on tap while your furry friend runs and mingles with the locals (local dogs, that is).
After savoring a famous Pimento Cheese Ripper, a hot dog smothered in rich, pimento cheese, head to Saluda Avenue for some shopping. Start by grabbing a sweet treat or a coffee to go from The Gourmet Shop, and then hit the shops. Pop into Wildflower or Revente for the perfect outfit for your upcoming evening, and be sure to check out Papa Jazz Record Shop, one of the largest record shops in the Southeast.
Evening
Take your newfound goodies back to the hotel, drop off your pooch, and get ready for the evening ahead. If you’re not hungry for dinner yet, head to The Aristocrat for pre-dinner snacks, like Baked Avocado Fries, and take bliss in their craft cocktails.
Once you’re ready to chow down, you’ll want to be at Motor Supply Co. in The Vista district. This Columbia favorite takes “fresh” to a whole new level. The menu changes daily according to what local ingredients they have on hand, and even the cocktail menu is farm-to-drink. Expect to savor every mouthwatering bite and sip.
If you’re not ready for the night to end, stop by West Columbia to enjoy a nightcap at WeCo.
Saturday
Morning
You’re recharged from a good night’s rest, and you and your pup are ready for day two, exploring the Main Street district. With an Indah Coffee in one hand and a leash in the other, take in the beauty and history of downtown and pop into shops like Mast General Store and Odd Bird Books, while making your way to the South Carolina State House.
Afternoon
After enjoying some fresh air at the State House, and snapping some insta-worthy pictures, take your tired pup back to the hotel. They’ll take an afternoon snooze while you head to The Grand for lunch, bowling, and games. (Psst! There’s a hidden taproom downstairs with old school arcade games and self-serving taps).
Before the afternoon comes to an end, pay a visit to the Columbia Museum of Art. Be inspired by the culture and internationally renowned collections this highly awarded museum hosts.
Evening
Tonight you’ll wine and dine in West Columbia. Starting at Black Rooster, a Italian-inspired restaurant, for a happy hour with a view. After a drink and charcuterie board from the rooftop bar, walk to Terra for your main course. With so many delicious options, you might have a hard time choosing your meal, but one thing is a no brainer, order the “Lamb Mac” as your appetizer. You can thank us later.
After dinner, get away from the buzz and stroll along the West Columbia Riverwalk. Take a moment to soak up the beauty of this pocket of nature that sits right outside the city.
Sunday
Morning
Last day, best day. Fuel up with breakfast and coffee from smallSUGAR before heading to Riverfront Park, where humans and four-legged friends alike enjoy strolling and playing.
Afternoon
The afternoon calls for craft brews and a self-guided beer tour, and of course, your pup gets to take part in the fun. Start at Columbia Craft and prepare to be surprised by the selection. A graham cracker and toasted marshmallow sour ale, and a coffee, chocolate, coconut porter, are just two of many unique offerings this local favorite serves. Local pro tip: Before you go, check their social media to see what special brews they have on tap.
Your next stop: Savage Craft Ale Works. Whether you prefer a lighter beer, or if you like your beer oh-so-hoppy, Swamp Cabbage has a brew to satisfy. Find your perfect match while you relax at this dog-friendly, Columbia spot.
To end your tour, a Coffee Lager from Steel Hands Brewing in Cayce is in order. While you enjoy a cold beer outside and try to decide what has been your favorite part of the trip so far, you might just catch some live music.
Evening
It’s only right to end this jam-packed weekend with two Columbia favorites. After dropping off the pup at Graduate, make your way over to Pearlz Oyster Bar. This electric raw bar sits on the corner of Gervais and Park Street, and it’s a perfect spot for a pre-dinner drink and snack (hello, crab dip!).
For dinner, simply walk up the street to Bourbon for a meal you’ll never forget. The black-eyed pea hummus or pimento cheese are always good options, but we can’t get enough of the Lamb Burger and the Brussel Sprouts – trust us.
Monday
Morning
All good things must come to an end, and we’re sad to see you go, but we know you’ll be back. We’ll be waiting with a glass of sweet tea, (unless of course, you’d prefer something barrel-aged or bacon-infused) and a dog treat, or two.
Before hitting the road, be sure to grab some coffee and a delicious (but massive) cinnamon roll from The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli to savor on the way home.