Shopping Districts
Whether you’ve come to town for a day of shopping, socializing, and dining or you just need to run a few errands and find one perfect gift for someone special, you can count on this vibrant city. It helps to know the lay of the land before you arrive, and locals and savvy travelers flock to these shopping districts to make a day of browsing and buying:
The Divine District’s tree-lined streets are dotted with dozens of chic shops. Tap into your quintessential Southern side by browsing Lilly Pulitzer collections, monogrammed towels and kitschy bow ties and timeless children’s clothing. Or prep for your next adventure by stocking up on outdoor gear, swimwear and a new bike or skateboard.
Just down the hill, historic Five Points beckons. Though it’s within walking distance of UofSC and popular with students, the funky village district offers something for everyone. You’ll find local art, contemporary clothing, barber shops, home goods, and quirky décor.
The Vista has long been home to art galleries, upscale restaurants, and antiques stores. Today the destination has even more to offer. You’ll find national retailers alongside local shops original to the district offering art, jewelry, antiques and home furnishings. The area is also host to the South Carolina State Museum and EdVenture (attractions with their own fun gift shops) and the Columbia SC Visitors Center, with Columbia SC swag and local finds.
Nearby Main Street is bustling 24/7 with students, professionals and activity from the nearby State House. There are clothing boutiques for men and women, a classic general store, gift shops, jewelers and more. On Saturdays, Soda City takes over several blocks near the Columbia Museum of Art with open air vendors selling unique items and local favorites.
Head West across the Gervais Street Bridge to West Columbia find an eclectic group of local businesses, including the region’s most robust antiques district.
In northeast Columbia, the Village at Sandhill—an outdoor plaza lined with wide sidewalks—offers shoppers loads of options, from national retailers and a regional department store to small, locally-owned purveyors of art, jewelry, and clothing.
Columbiana Centre, Columbia’s largest mall, is in Irmo, a reasonably quick drive up Interstate 26 and, well worth it for shoppers on a mission who want to get it all in one place. In addition to the mall, the Harbison area boasts a large number of stores, where you can find everything from sporting goods and camping gear to clothing and cosmetics.
Main Street in Lexington has a small-town feel, where shoppers can find men’s and ladies’ clothing boutiques and enjoy the warm weather as they window shop.
Nearly all of Columbia SC neighborhoods include opportunities for retail therapy, so visit our shopping listings for more ways to fill your tote.