Fun Things to Do in Columbia, SC: Activities in Columbia for Homebuyers

There are lots of fun things to do in Columbia, SC, throughout the year, regardless of the weather. From visiting local landmarks to exploring the natural beauty surrounding this city, there’s something for everyone and every occasion. Discover the many Columbia, SC, attractions and activities, including the zoo, state parks, restaurants, and rooftop bars. Which of these fun activities will you try first? 

Summary:

• Best Fun Things to Do in Columbia, SC, Overall

• Indoor Things to Do in Columbia, SC

• Columbia, SC, Outdoor Activities 

• Fun Things to Do in Downtown Columbia, SC

• Romantic Things to Do in Columbia, SC

• Family Things to Do in Columbia, SC

• Free Things to Do in Columbia, SC

• Conclusion

Best Fun Things to Do in Columbia, SC, Overall

While the list of fun stuff to do in Columbia, SC, could fill several pages, these are our top picks, including must-visit attractions and locations: 

• Lake Murray: The shore of Lake Murray is less than 15 miles from the heart of Columbia. Here, you can hike, bike, paddleboard, boat, fish, sail, birdwatch, swim, as well as visit several islands around the lake. Lake Murray is also home to Dreher Island State Park, where you can camp and roam the trails. This stunning spot is just seven miles from Pulte new construction homes in Lexington, SC, offering residents easy access to one of the best things to do and see in Columbia, SC.

• Three Rivers Greenway: The aptly named Three Rivers Greenway, which includes the Broad River, the Saluda River, and the Congaree River, spans 15.5 miles and is a riverfront trail system that stretches across West Columbia, Columbia, and nearby Cayce. The trails are ADA-accessible and offer lighting at night. Whether you want to get your steps in with a picturesque view or pack a picnic and watch the sunset, experiencing the Three Rivers Greenway is one of the most fun activities to do in Columbia, SC.

• Riverbanks Zoo & Garden: A day among wildlife is fun for all ages, and the Riverbanks Zoo combines animal exhibits with a botanical garden. Situated along the riverbank, you can enjoy a beautiful view while observing the birds, mammals, and reptiles throughout the site’s 170 acres. The zoo is home to over 3,000 animals, and it offers educational opportunities to learn more about their lifestyle and conservation efforts to protect them, helping make this destination one of the top things to see in Columbia, SC. 

Indoor Things to Do in Columbia, SC

Whether you need an escape from the summer heat, a place to go on a rainy day, or a unique idea for Columbia, SC, stuff to do, here are a few of our favorite spots for indoor activities: 

• Indulge in a spa day: Looking to relax? Treat yourself to one of Columbia’s several spas or salons. Whether you want a manicure, facial, or massage, you’ll find an abundance of places to choose from. A day of serenity and self-care awaits. 

• Transmission Arcade: Grab a bite and get your game on! This spot offers food, beer on tap, and plenty of pinball and video games to challenge your skills. Be sure to check out their Sunday brunch. 

• The Grand on Main: Fun for all ages, bowling is one of the most fun things to do in Columbia, SC, and The Grand on Main is the place to be. Secure a lane, order some food, and then just have fun. The alley even features live music some nights.

• South Carolina State Museum: One of the best things to do in Columbia, SC, is to experience this museum, which has a planetarium, observatory, 4D theatre, and four floors of exhibits. The Cotton Mill Exchange, the museum store, offers items relating to South Carolina, from jewelry to furniture, with many of them locally made.

Columbia, SC, Outdoor Activities

Columbia has an incredible range of outdoor attractions. Sitting at the intersection of two major rivers, with a lake nearby, and surrounded by forests and nature preserves, outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate these fun things to do around Columbia, SC: 

• Harbison State Forest: This stunning and sprawling state forest is only about nine miles from Downtown Columbia. Bikers, joggers, and hikers can use the 18 miles of trails weaving throughout the more than 2,000 acres. In fact, Harbison State Forest is one of the largest green spaces east of the Mississippi River, according to the South Carolina Forestry Commission. Our new construction homes in Chapin, SC, are just over 10 miles from Harbison State Forest and Lake Murray.

• Congaree National Park: Exploring national parks can be an especially unique adventure, and Columbia is lucky enough to be less than 20 miles from Congaree National Park. The Congaree contains incredibly tall trees and a remarkable range of biodiversity. Visitors can camp for free or explore the area on foot, by bike, or on the water via kayaks, paddleboards, or canoes. 

• Sesquicentennial State Park: A long-time local favorite, this park regularly hosts events, including an artisan market and mountain bike races. Visitors can access a dog park, a splash pad, playgrounds, and trails. Our new construction homes in Elgin, SC, are approximately eight miles from all the fun at this state park. 

Fun Things to Do in Downtown Columbia, SC 

Downtown Columbia simply buzzes with activity, and the Main Street District is the center of attention. Here are some great places to visit downtown, especially if you’re looking for fun things to do in Columbia, SC, for adults: 

• Columbia Museum of Art: In addition to a robust events calendar, including literary and music programming, the city’s art museum has permanent collections and galleries, as well as rotating, themed exhibits. It’s one of the top Downtown Columbia, SC, attractions. 

• Bourbon: This bar boasts the largest whiskey list in South Carolina, plus their menu features a wide variety of Cajun-Creole dishes. 

• Lula Drake Wine Parlour: With a rotating wine list, you could potentially experience a different wine with every meal. Plus, their menu is curated seasonally to pair perfectly with the wine.

• Market on Main: For shopping and dining in Downtown Columbia, the Market on Main is one of the cool things to do in Columbia, SC. While popular year-round, sports fans really appreciate this spot during football season, when they project games on their big screen.

• Sweet Cream Co.: Cool down during the summer with handcrafted ice cream flavors, like blueberry mojito sorbet or lemon poppyseed, from Sweet Cream Co. Their menu of flavors does change, so it’s always worth a visit to see (and sample) what’s new. 

Romantic Things to Do in Columbia, SC

For date night, Columbia, SC, has you covered, whether you’re looking for some entertainment or a quiet evening of quality time for two:

• Hendrix: Sip drinks on a rooftop bar and enjoy a peaceful, romantic evening looking out over the city. Hendrix also offers a delightful dining experience. Other popular rooftop bars include Black Rooster and Savage Craft Ale Works.

• Melton Observatory: Share in a night of stargazing at the Melton Observatory. A hidden gem in Columbia, you can look into the night sky through the observatory’s telescope at the University of South Carolina campus. Stop by on Monday nights, weather permitting.

• The Nickelodeon: Affectionately known as “The Nick” by locals, this theatre offers independent films and often starts or ends screenings with talks from experts and community members.

• Let’s Cook Culinary School: Here, couples can bond over a shared meal—one you get to make together! Offering weekly cooking classes, this culinary school gets high praise from Google reviewers and has a 4.9-star rating as of April 2025.

Family Things to Do in Columbia, SC

Looking for fun family activities? Columbia, SC, offers plenty of options that appeal to all ages, such as these destinations: 

• Columbia Marionette Theatre: Experience the wonder of a puppet show at the Columbia Marionette Theatre, which performs famous stories like Snow White and Pinocchio. They also occasionally offer fun activities after performances.

• EdVenture Children’s Museum: Spend the day at the home of Eddie, the area’s renowned 40-ft statue that you can climb inside. EdVenture has several curated, interactive areas that inspire curiosity and learning, including a maker space, a grocery store, and a fire station.

• Saluda Shoals Wetland Preserve: For a more adventurous family outing, spend the day at this 350-acre park, which is home to native plants, animals, and birds. Visitors can spend the day in nature, hiking, canoeing, boating, or kayaking. The preserve also has playgrounds and plenty of space for a picnic lunch.

Free Things to Do in Columbia, SC

Some of the most fun things to do in Columbia don’t cost a dime, such as the city’s many parks. Here are a few more free activities Columbia, SC, offers that are well worth your time: 

• Explore area neighborhoods: Get to know Columbia better by exploring its many unique neighborhoods. Each spot is packed with things to do and see, and you’ll also get to discover some of the best places to live in Columbia, SC, which is ideal if you’re considering a new home. 

• Richland Library Main: Libraries can be special places, and Richland fits that description with its sprawling building and welcoming atmosphere. Located in the business district of Columbia, you not only step into a vast collection of books, but you’ll also find maker spaces and studios, a theater, children's and teen areas, and public art. Richland Library also hosts a weekly farmers market from April through October.

• South Carolina State House: The pinnacle of government in South Carolina, the State House is home to the governor’s office and the House and Senate chambers. You can do a free, self-guided tour or go on a scavenger hunt using a downloadable worksheet to learn more about the grounds and the state’s history.

Conclusion

Your next adventure awaits in South Carolina, whether it’s outdoor experiences, shopping opportunities, museums, theatres, or indoor activities. Columbia is full of perfect ways to spend your days as you explore this dynamic city. 

Explore new construction homes in Columbia, SC, today, or browse more Pulte blogs. 

Written By: Alexandra Shimalla, Freelance Journalist