Discover Columbia, SC: A Perfect Blend of City and Nature

Day 1: Explore Downtown

Columbia, SC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Marlin

Start your day with a delicious Lowcountry breakfast at Blue Marlin, known for its shrimp and grits.
Located in the Congaree Vista area.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit South Carolina State House

Take a guided tour of the beautiful State House, rich in history and architecture.
Just a 5-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Stroll through Finlay Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk and the scenic views in this lush urban park.
5-minute walk from the State House.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Motor Supply Co. Bistro

Try farm-fresh and locally-sourced dishes at this eclectic downtown restaurant.
10-minute walk from Finlay Park.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Museum of Modern Art (MOMAs)

Explore vibrant contemporary art pieces at this unique museum.
5-minute drive from Motor Supply.
USD10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at The Vista

Discover boutique shops and unique finds in Columbia's arts district.
10-minute walk from MOMAs.
Varies, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The War Mouth

End the day with delicious Southern barbecue and craft brews.
15-minute walk or 5-minute drive from The Vista.
USD25, 2 hours
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Day 2: Nature Day at Congaree

Congaree National Park, SC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Strudel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at this local favorite before heading out of town.
About a 30-minute drive from downtown Columbia.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Congaree National Park

Immerse yourself in the beauty of one of the largest intact old-growth bottomland hardwood forests in the U.S.
Continue to the park entrance, which is a scenic 20-minute drive.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's serene spots surrounded by nature.
There are picnic tables available around the park.
USD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Canopy Walk

Take the boardwalk trails and experience the higher elevation of the trees like never before.
Follow signs in the park; designated trails are available.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Bird Watching

Look for various bird species native to the area while enjoying the serenity of the park.
Bring binoculars and visit the designated birding areas.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Drive back to Columbia

Relax as you travel back to the city after a day of adventure.
Return to your car for the ride back, about 30 minutes.
Free, 30 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at The Cotton House

Treat yourself to Southern-inspired dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Located back in Columbia.
USD28, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Columbia, SC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Waffle House

Enjoy a classic Southern breakfast, complete with waffles and coffee.
Waffle House is located throughout Columbia.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Columbian Museum of Art

Wander through art galleries featuring both local and international artists.
Just a 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk.
USD12, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunchtime at Pearlz Oyster Bar

Dive into seafood delights, especially the fresh oysters.
A short walk from the museum.
USD20, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit the Governor's Mansion

Explore the beautifully preserved Governor's Mansion and its gardens.
Less than a 10-minute walk from Pearlz.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the South Carolina State Museum

Discover exhibits that tell the story of South Carolina's history, culture, and science.
10-minute walk or short drive.
USD10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Trenholm Plaza

Check out the retail shops and grab an afternoon snack.
15-minute drive from the State Museum.
Varies, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Saluda's

Delight in contemporary Southern cuisine with an upscale twist in a cozy setting.
Nearby Trenholm Plaza.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 4: Lake Murray Adventure

Lake Murray, SC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Brunch Time Café

Savor pancakes and fresh fruit before heading to the lake.
About a 30-minute drive from downtown Columbia.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Water Activities at Lake Murray

Enjoy boating, fishing or simply relaxing lakeside at this stunning destination.
Follow signs to the lake's recreation areas.
Varies (boat rental USD50), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Rusty Anchor

Dine with a view of the water and feast on seafood specials.
Located nearby, right by the lake.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Hiking at Lake Murray

Hit the trails for some breathtaking views of nature around the lake.
Designated trails are marked, close to the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax by the Lakeside

Spend some downtime soaking up the serene atmosphere at the lake.
Choose your favorite spot by the water.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Marina's Grille

Wrap up your day with flavorful dishes at this charming lakeside eatery.
Easy walk from your relaxation spot.
USD28, 2 hours
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Day 5: University Life & History

Columbia, SC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panera Bread

Grab a healthy breakfast with fresh pastries and sandwiches.
Conveniently located downtown.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Tour the University of South Carolina

Explore the beautiful campus and learn about its rich history.
Just a 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at D's Wings

Enjoy casual dining with tasty wings and a fun atmosphere.
Nearby the campus.
USD15, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit the McKissick Museum

Discover Southern culture and heritage through various exhibits.
On the university campus.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Check out the War Memorial Garden

Take a peaceful stroll through this serene garden dedicated to veterans.
Just a short walk through the campus.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Afternoon Coffee at Coffee Underground

Unwind with a warm beverage in this cozy café known for its local vibe.
A 10-minute walk from the garden.
USD5, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Oyster Bar

End your day with fresh seafood dishes and great service.
Just a short drive or 15-minute walk.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 6: Wildlife & Gardens

Columbia, SC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Another Broken Egg Café

Indulge in a creative breakfast menu featuring Southern flair.
Short drive from your accommodation.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

Spend the morning exploring the incredible wildlife and picturesque gardens.
15-minute drive from breakfast spot.
USD24, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Garden Restaurant

Enjoy a lovely meal within the zoo's grounds, overlooking the gardens.
Located within Riverbanks Zoo.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Botanical Gardens

Wander through beautiful themed gardens just outside the zoo.
Follow signs to the garden area within Riverbanks.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the 1900s Historic House

Learn about the local history at this charming house museum.
Located within the zoo's premises.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Return to Downtown Columbia

Head back into the city for an afternoon of relaxation.
15-minute drive back.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at The King’s Pub

Wrap up your trip with pub favorites and cold brews in a lively atmosphere.
Downtown Columbia, nearby local attractions.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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