Columbia prides itself on its old-school hospitality and Civil War history. The city is chock full of opportunities to feel like a local—like the state fair or taking a quiet stroll through Sesquicentennial State Park, so indulge yourself in southern charm as you get to know South Carolina’s capital, Columbia.
Columbia Climate
The steamy summer climate here is exactly what you'd expect in the South—hot and sticky with a chance of showers. Be sure to pack an umbrella. You're going to sweat, no matter the season, so dress in humidity-friendly, breathable cotton layers. Don't underestimate the power of hurricanes that occasionally slam South Carolina during the June to November storm season. Despite Columbia’s inland locale, hurricane-force winds can still leave their marks on trees and buildings.
Southern Charms
The coolest things to do in Columbia are ageless and, at the South Carolina State Museum, timeless. Pick a clear evening to gaze at the Southern sky in the rooftop observatory, or walk through Columbia's colorful past at numerous exhibits. The Riverbanks Zoo along the Saluda River adds something wild to your days—with activities including playtime among the animals for the kids—or your nights, with cocktail mixer events for the adults. If you visit in October, you've got an excuse to gorge on funnel cake and deep-fried everything at the annual State Fair. It draws some half a million people over its 12-day run with concerts, cute pigs, carnival rides and exhibitions sprawled over more than 100 acres.
Closing the Deal in Columbia
Health care, insurance firms and high-tech manufacturing keep the economy humming in South Carolina's state capital, as well as green-energy development and the Port of Charleston. Gamecocks—the gridiron kind—are also big business in Columbia, which is home to the University of South Carolina with its celebrated academic programs and legions of die-hard football fans. Much of Columbia’s population is in the business of serving the country; tens of thousands of soldiers receive intensive instruction at the Army's Fort Jackson each year, from basic to advanced training.
All Roads Lead to Columbia
You could say all roads lead to Columbia, or at least the region's interstate highways all do: I-77 curves through the east side before heading north, I-26 connects Columbia to Charleston on the coast, and I-20 passes along the northwest side of the city. If you're flying into the city, several major domestic airlines can take you into Columbia Metropolitan Airport. The Comet, a tech-savvy transit system with an optional app to pay your fare and track bus locations, shuttles riders around town for daily commutes or special events such as a Gamecocks football game. Or, you can simply hop on a horse-drawn carriage to clip-clop through the historic downtown.
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