Downtown Columbia Travel Guide
Columbia
Visit Downtown Columbia
Popular places to visit
University of South Carolina
Explore the campus of University of South Carolina, a top university in Columbia. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene or attend a sporting event.
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 Museum of Art
Bring kids to this fun gallery with a focus on medieval, Renaissance and Baroque art and fascinating traveling exhibits.
Finlay Park
Play sports with your kids in this scenic park, wander along the woodland paths and see the extraordinary fountain and cascades.
Three Rivers Greenway
Explore the great outdoors at Three Rivers Greenway, a lovely green space in Downtown Columbia. While in this walkable area, you can savour the lively bars.
Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens
Tour the premises and learn about the aristocratic residents who lived in this impressive mansion with a restored landscape garden.
Top hotels in Downtown Columbia
Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Downtown at USC
"The front desk gentleman was very nice and professional, The only thing was that he announced my room number with male guests behind me. I was traveling alone so it took me back a little. Usually, the front desk person will just said your room number is on your card."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Tru By Hilton Columbia Downtown
"Breakfast had nice variety. The room was spacious and modern. Ms. Lillie at the welcome desk was gracious and over-the-top helpful! It was walking distance to downtown and the Amtrak station."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Hyatt Place Columbia/Downtown/The Vista
"Everything was really good, except the swimming pool. It had a lot of “stuff” floating all over the top."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Cambria Hotel Columbia Downtown The Vista
"My daughter and I stayed for her USC orientation and everyone was so welcoming and helpful. The room was very nice and the hotel allows for easy access to the University."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Graduate by Hilton Columbia SC
"Check-in was easy, but I wasn't aware of the additional $15 parking fee prior to arriving, not a huge deal but just unexpected. Once I got into the room, I proceeded to take a shower, but when I turned on the water the floor of the shower began to turn orange, which tells me it wasn't cleaned properly. ..."
Reviewed on 10 Jun 2026
Moxy Columbia Downtown
"Small room. OK for 1 night/1 person"
Reviewed on 11 Jun 2026
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Where to stay in 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.
Rosewood
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Rosewood and surrounding area, you can visit South Carolina Military Museum and South Carolina State Fairgrounds.
Seven Oaks
Seven Oaks is noteworthy for its coffee shops, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Saluda Shoals Park and Three Rivers Greenway.
Eau Claire
Travellers like the parks in Eau Claire, and Three Rivers Greenway is a top attraction you might want to visit.
Shandon
While Shandon may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Columbia Urban League and Township Auditorium.
