Explore Columbia

Minutes from Everything

You’re just minutes away from a vibrant and rapidly evolving downtown. Grab a coffee, enjoy our buzzing food scene, or check out our indie theater. Plus, Columbia also has an exciting outdoor scene—with a river, lake, and national park near our city center. 

Something new every weekend, in every season

Columbia is a college town with a never-ending roster of festivals, concerts, and sporting events. We're home to annual gatherings like the Greek Festival, Oyster Festival, and Gervais Street Bridge dinner party.

Study breaks are better in a Capital City.

70 Restaurants & Shops in Downtown Columbia

Behind the Stat

An intimate campus meets bustling capital city life—both on Main Street.

Behind the Stat

Living in a college town means countless activities catered to you.

"Factor in a pleasant climate, award-winning local restaurants, lively . . . music scenes, and a spirited festival schedule, and the popularity of Columbia is no surprise . . ."

— Travel + Leisure Magazine

Foodie Finds & Local Goodies

Our Soda City Farmer's Market on Saturdays is not to be missed. Students love a leisurely stroll through the outdoor tents. You'll find art, jewelry, gifts, homemade foods, and plenty of sweet pups accompanying their owners. 

Let Your Creative Side Wander

The Columbia Museum of Art boasts an internationally renowned collection, and it's nestled right on Main Street. People watch from their spacious green spaces or check out their revolving exhibitions and events catered to college students. 

Plenty of Ways to Unwind

The Congaree River is just a few blocks from Main Street. Our students love to kayak the river, relax the day away on tubes, or grab a classmate and run along the riverwalk. 

Road Trips to Remember

Pile in the car with your friends and head to the beach. Coastal tourist destinations like Charleston, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach are just a couple of hours away. Prefer the mountains? The Appalachians are 90 minutes in the other direction. 

Koalas on the Weekend

  • Farmers Market Strolls
  • Art Museum Outings
  • Adventure Outdoors
  • Spontaneous Getaways

Capital City Connections

It's not uncommon for the mayor to stop by campus to advocate for us. Or even teach a class, for that matter. Our students have interned for influential state agencies and advocacy groups like South Carolina Law Enforcement, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Hospital Association, and more. Get the capital city advantage at a small college. 

Plan Your Visit

The best way to experience the College and our capital city is by scheduling a campus visit. Come see all we have to offer you!