Downtown Columbia Travel Guide
Columbia
Visit Downtown Columbia
Popular places to visit
South Carolina State House
Inspect the many monuments and political symbols that decorate the grounds and majestic mansion of the state’s most important structure.
Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park
Explore the great outdoors at Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, a lovely green space in Columbia. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene or attend a sporting event.
Finlay Park
Play sports with your kids in this scenic park, wander along the woodland paths and see the extraordinary fountain and cascades.
Columbia Museum of Art
Bring kids to this fun gallery with a focus on medieval, Renaissance and Baroque art and fascinating traveling exhibits.
Trinity Episcopal Cathedral
Marvel at the stunning architecture and stained glass and examine the Civil War graves in this remarkable sanctuary in Columbia.
Fort Jackson
After visiting Fort Jackson, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Columbia. You can attend a sporting event while in the area.
Things to do
Top hotels in Downtown Columbia
Graduate by Hilton Columbia SC
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Reviewed on 25 Mar 2026
Hyatt Place Columbia/Downtown/The Vista
The third year we have stayed here on our way down to Florida. Great hotel, great location!
Reviewed on 22 Mar 2026
Cambria Hotel Columbia Downtown The Vista
Clean
Reviewed on 22 Mar 2026
Marriott Columbia
Room was great! Staff was very nice!
Reviewed on 23 Mar 2026
The Lantern Columbia
First time staying at this hotel. Easy walk to Colonial Life Arena. Exceptionally friendly staff at both check-in and in the bar/restaurant. Safe. Clean. Will book again.
Reviewed on 25 Mar 2026
Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Downtown at USC
I SHOULD HAVE KNOWN WHEN I SAW THE COMPLIMENTARY EAR PLUGS AND THEN THE NOISE MACHINE WHEN I WENT IN THE ROOM THAT SOMETHING WAS AMISS. AND, WHEN THE FRONT DESK SAID THAT "SOME PEOPLE ARE LIGHT SLEEPERS, SO WE OFFER THESE AMENITIES," I SUPPOSE I SHOULD HAVE RUN. BUT THE PLOT OF THE STORY IS THAT ...
Reviewed on 21 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Columbia
The Vista
The Vista is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Colonial Life Arena and Koger Center for the Arts while in the area.
Arsenal Hill
Unique features of Arsenal Hill include the restaurants and live music. Make a stop by Governor's Mansion or Matthew J. Perry, Jr. U.S. Courthouse while you're exploring the area.
University Hill
Visitors to University Hill appreciate its restaurants. A visit to South Carolina State House and Township Auditorium might round out your trip if you're looking to see more of the area.
Five Points
The bars and live music are a few reasons travellers visit Five Points. Want to see more of the surrounding area? Township Auditorium and South Carolina State House are a few top sights nearby.
Waverly
Though Waverly may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Township Auditorium and Charlie W. Johnson Stadium.
Lyon Street
While Lyon Street isn't home to many top sights, Charlie W. Johnson Stadium and Township Auditorium are some notable places to visit nearby.
