5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Columbia, USA

Day 1: Explore Columbia

Columbia, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Strudel

Start your day at Cafe Strudel, famous for its delicious breakfast burritos and vibrant atmosphere that kids will love.
5-minute drive from downtown Columbia.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the South Carolina State House

Explore the historic South Carolina State House, where the kids can enjoy the beautiful gardens and interesting architecture.
A quick 10-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Play at Finlay Park

Take some time to relax at Finlay Park, where the children can play in the playground and you can have a picnic.
Just a 5-minute drive from the State House.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Motor Supply Co. Bistro

Enjoy a seasonal lunch at Motor Supply Co. Bistro, known for its farm-to-table concepts and kid-friendly menu options.
Another quick 5-minute drive.
USD60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the EdVenture Children's Museum

Spend the afternoon at EdVenture, the largest children's museum in the Southeast, with hands-on exhibits that will captivate your kids.
Just a 3-minute drive away.
USD40 (for family tickets), 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The War Mouth

Savor some BBQ at The War Mouth, family-friendly, with laid-back seating and delicious homestyle dishes.
A 10-minute drive from the museum.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Lake Murray Fun

Lake Murray, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Company

Start the day with coffee and pastries at The Coffee Company for a light, energizing breakfast.
30-minute drive to Lake Murray.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Water Activities at Lake Murray

Enjoy a day filled with fun water activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, or just relaxing by the beach area.
Multiple rental locations along Lake Murray.
USD100 (for rentals), 4 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch on the Lake

Pack a picnic from local grocery stores and enjoy lunch near the water, soaking up the sun.
Just find a good spot in the designated picnic areas.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Lake Murray Dam

Take a scenic walk along the Lake Murray Dam, where the kids can learn about the dam and enjoy stunning lake views.
A 15-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Capital Grille

Enjoy a fine dining experience at The Capital Grille, which offers a children’s menu and a relaxed atmosphere.
A 30-minute drive back to Columbia.
USD120, 2 hours
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Day 3: Nature Exploration

Congaree National Park, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Diner

Fill your belly with a hearty breakfast at The Diner, famed for its classic American breakfast options.
30-minute drive to Congaree National Park.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking in Congaree National Park

Embark on a family-friendly hike through Congaree National Park, where you can appreciate lush landscapes and unique wildlife.
Entrance via the main park road.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Park Picnic Area

Pack a lunch to enjoy in the picnic area of the park, savoring the beauty around you.
Bring your meal from your accommodation.
USD20 (for food supplies), 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visitor Center Exploration

Learn about the park's ecology at the Visitor Center, where educational exhibits are designed for children.
Short walk from the picnic area.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Scenic Drive

Enjoy a peaceful drive around the park, experiencing the sights from your vehicle before heading back.
Use the park loop road.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Melting Pot

Delight in a unique dining experience at The Melting Pot, where you can enjoy fondue and watch your kids have fun cooking.
30-minute drive back to Columbia.
USD80, 2 hours
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Day 4: Military History

Fort Jackson, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Fin Seafood & Bar

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Blue Fin with amazing seafood-inspired breakfast options.
20-minute drive to Fort Jackson.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Fort Jackson Museum

Discover military history and heritage at the Fort Jackson Museum, which has engaging displays for all ages.
Located on base; ID required for entry.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Observation of Basic Training (if available)

If timing allows, observe the soldiers in training, a unique experience your kids will never forget.
Check base schedule beforehand.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Subway on Base

Grab a quick and easy lunch at the Subway on base for a family-friendly meal.
Inside the base.
USD50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Exploring Fort Jackson

Wander the base and spot different military vehicles, making it a fun and educational experience.
Walk around the designated public areas.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Ice Cream at The Java House

Cool off with some ice cream at The Java House, a perfect sweet treat after an exciting day.
10-minute drive from Fort Jackson.
USD15, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at P.F. Chang’s

Celebrate your adventurous day with a delicious Asian dinner at P.F. Chang’s, catering to all taste buds.
15-minute drive to the restaurant.
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 5: Zoo Day!

Riverbanks Zoo, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Eggs Up Grill

Indulge in a hearty breakfast at Eggs Up Grill, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and vast menu.
20-minute drive to Riverbanks Zoo.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Riverbanks Zoo

Spend the day enjoying the exhibits and animal encounters at Riverbanks Zoo, a beloved destination for families.
Easily accessible from the parking area.
USD90 (for family tickets), 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at the Zoo Café

Have lunch right at the zoo at the Café, known for quick meals that satisfy hungry little mouths.
Located within the zoo premises.
USD50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Animal Encounters

Participate in special animal encounters where kids can learn about and meet some of the animals up close.
Guests should check the schedule for availability.
USD30, 2 hours

4:30PM

Souvenir Shopping

Don't miss the gift shop to grab some fun souvenirs to remind you of your Columbia adventure.
In the zoo gift shop.
USD20, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Old Mill

Wrap up your Columbia adventure with a casual dinner at The Old Mill, enjoying the serene views of the landscaping.
20-minute drive from the zoo.
USD70, 2 hours
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