Why Columbia?

In the heart of South Carolina, tradition and tomorrow pair perfectly in Columbia. It's a modern city where stately buildings buzz with new businesses, and centuries-old sites give rise to fresh perspectives. It's got all the charm you'd expect from a Southern destination - without all the "bless your hearts."

With dynamite food, shopping and world-class attractions, event attendees can look forward to exploring this capital city beyond the main event. Bonus: Our mild climate is perfect for hosting year-round sporting events.

Accessible, Affordable Destination

With three major interstates that intersect the city and a regional airport, getting here is straightforward. And travelers find that the logistics are as friendly as the people. With a mix of downtown and regional hotels, there's an affordable option for everyone.

Fit for Foodies

With mustard-based barbecue and pimento cheese on almost every menu, we've got more Southern cuisine than we can name. But we've also got our fair share of unexpected eats. From Korean to Vegan to Mexican and upscale farm-to-table dining, you'll find something for everyone here. And the locals here have never met a stranger. Strike up a conversation at one of these spots and they're likely going to welcome you with a glass of sweet tea, unless of course you'd prefer something barrel-aged or bacon-infused.

Manageable Urban

A number of our venues are near our walkable restaurant districts, like our vibrant Main Street as well as our Vista entertainment district. You'll find everything from museums to art galleries to sports bars and farm-to-table dining, all a walk or short drive from the hotel. 

For All Ages

With a never-ending roster of live music events, festivals, college sporting events and world-class attractions (like one of the top 10 zoos in the country), it's hard to be bored in Columbia SC. When you've had enough sightseeing and shopping (or the little ones have), head for free play in the wilderness. It doesn't take long to get from the middle of town to what seems like the middle of nowhere with a river running through the city and plenty of parks around the region. 

Visitor Information

Looking for more info or personal recommendations? The Columbia SC Visitors Center is here to help you plan the getaway you've been looking for. Need help getting around? We've got maps for that. From a regional overview to specific neighborhoods, you can see street names and proximity to other neighborhoods to help you plan. Or check out our virtual tour of downtown Columbia, where you can explore different neighborhoods and zoom in on important landmarks. With these resources, we'll have you walking around like a local in no time.