Weekend in Columbia, SC what to do and see and where to stay

In 2020, Columbia, South Carolina was number 87 on a list of 100 of the best places to live in the United States by Livability.com. This coupled with the fact that there’s so much to see and do, makes it the perfect destination for a quick getaway. If you’re looking for things to do, here are some itinerary ideas for a weekend in Columbia, SC.  

Weekend in Columbia Arrival Day 

Assuming you’re arriving for your weekend in Columbia, South Carolina late on a Friday afternoon, you’ll likely want to check into your hotel and relax for a while before heading out to dinner. There are a wide variety of accommodation options in Columbia; many of which are centrally located. The Hotel Trundle makes a great home base for exploring Soda City on the weekend. Just steps away from restaurants, entertainment and shopping, it’s the perfect place to stay. Located on Taylor Street, in the heart of the city, the hotel is in close proximity to the Columbia Art Museum and the South Carolina State House.

Once settled into your spacious room, take time to relax and explore the boutique hotel grounds before venturing out for a delicious dinner at Cowboy Brazilian Steak House. Just a short 3-minute walk around the corner, a delicious ‘churrascaria style restaurant awaits. Cowboy Brazilian boasts an all-encompassing salad bar featuring over 30 items plus 6 Brazilian entrees. 

The crowning glory of this unique restaurant is the parade of 16 USDA Prime cuts of meat. Choices like lamb, chicken, beef, and pork are carved and served right at your table by the restaurant’s infamous Gauchos.  A meal at Cowboy Brazilian is not only a feast for your tastebuds, but an experience to appreciate. After dinner, head back to the Trundle Hotel for an amazing night’s sleep before embarking on a fun-filled Saturday.

Day Two of Your Columbia South Carolina Weekend Itinerary

A Saturday morning in Columbia affords you some spectacular options when it comes to breakfast, brunch, and exploring. Each week, year-round, rain or shine, Soda City Market features vendors, food, artisans and so much more to see and do, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It’s the perfect way to start off your weekend in Columbia, immersed in the creative culture of this unique capital city.

Once you’ve had your fill of the market, grab a coffee and take a walk through Finlay Park on Laurel Street; just a 15-minute walk from the festivities. Here you’ll find a park spanning over 18-acres featuring picnic tables, walking paths, a waterfall, and its very own cafe. If you’re lucky, you may get to experience one of the many community events that occur in the park throughout the year. Check the Finlay Park website before your weekend in Columbia getaway, to see what’s going on in town when you visit.

Afterward, grab a quick lunch at either Mellow Mushroom or East Bay Deli or head back to the hotel for a rest before spending an afternoon exploring the spectacular Columbia Museum of Art. The 2-story museum features works from artists like Monet and Andy Warhol and regular changing exhibits. Explore the Columbia Museum of Art website for information on upcoming exhibits.

 Note: From September 2021 through January 2022, the museum will feature the 30 Americans Exhibit. The traveling exhibit highlighs works from some of the most influential African American artists over the last thirty years. 

Close out your evening by heading to The Grand for dinner and bowling before heading back to the hotel for the night.

Weekend in Columbia Day Three

On your last day in Columbia, spend a leisurely brunch at Main Street Public House from noon to 3 p.m. Try the Shrimp and Grits. On your final day, peruse the city on foot, duck into shops, and explore nearby parks.

Finally, while exploring Columbia, don’t forget to make note of the installment art of local Columbia artist, Blue Sky. You’ll find his chain installment at the Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse and the largest fire hydrant piece near Hotel Trundle.

Additional Things to Do on a Weekend in Columbia South Carolina

If you’re traveling with kids or simply have other interests, there’s plenty to keep you busy on your weekend in Columbia South Carolina. Most destinations are easily accessible by the city’s public transportation, COMET Bus Service.  Some must-see attractions in the area include:

The South Carolina State Museum

EdVenture Children’s Museum

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

The Governor’s Mansion

Robert Mills House and Garden Tour

According to Livibility.com, several other things about Columbia make it one of the best cities to live in. Consider some of their ideas if you’ve got some extra time on your hands.

• For the best Carolina barbeque, Livibility.com suggests Midwood Smokehouse, a ten-minute drive from Hotel Trundle.
• If you like beer, River Rat Brewery is just 8 minutes away.
• Get out in the great outdoors and explore Congaree National Park.

A weekend in Columbia is the perfect quick getaway. Friendly people, inviting activities and delicious food of the city will make you wonder why you hadn’t visited sooner.