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Welcome to

Columbia

At the convergence of the Saluda, Congaree, and Broad Rivers, the capital city of Columbia is situated in the heart of South Carolina’s Midlands region. Curiously, in the late 18th century, the state’s capital was moved from Charleston to Columbia as a compromise between the Upstate and the Lowcountry. Today, the city is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, college sports fans, business travelers, history buffs, and more!

Locals affectionately refer to South Carolina’s capital as “Soda City” or “Cola Town,” not because of any carbonated legacy, but rather as a nickname from the abbreviation of Columbia to ‘Cola’. Of note, Columbia was the first city in the U.S. named after Christopher Columbus.

With its renowned Riverfront Park, Soda City comes alive in the spring and fall with outdoor festivals, plenty of sunshine, and the #1 Farmers Market in the country. Moreover, hikers and explorers can enjoy the numerous parks surrounding Columbia, such as the opportunity to capture incredible memories amidst the towering trees at Congaree National Park.

Cola Town is also known as being famously hot, with the heat turned up during the peak summer months of July and August. That’s when nearby Lake Murray, a.k.a. The Jewel of South Carolina, shines even brighter as the go-to-cool-off spot. But honestly? There’s never a bad time to visit Cola Town. It’s just about what kind of vibe you’re after!

Locally Owned & Operated

Columbia, SC

Columbia, SC

Casago Franchise Owner

For Brandon King, the real magic of hosting guests is the opportunity to meet awesome people while providing spaces for creating memories. The laid-back, vibrant city of Columbia, SC is a welcome destination for this magic to shine.

With its Southern charm, college town energy, and endless possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts, Columbia is more than a state capital, it’s the best of both worlds – big city perks with small town appeal.

Brandon’s passion for vacation rentals stems from an extensive background in real estate, having managed long-term rentals in New England before expanding into short-term rentals all along the East Coast. With more than a decade in building a solid portfolio of homes and even stronger relationships with homeowners, Brandon helps ensure properties are in top shape and thriving.

When you book with Casago Columbia, you’re not just getting a place to stay — you’re getting a team that’s available 24/7, ready to anticipate your needs and make your experience seamless.

Locally Owned & Operated

Things to do

What you need to know

Aside from being the State Capital, Columbia offers many attractions and activities. From top-rated golf courses and Lake Murray to museums and restaurants, it's a vacationer's paradise!

Recommended by locals

If your ideal vacation includes golfing, exploring the area's history and culture, or sampling local cuisine, Cola Town won't disappoint. You'll find a wide range of attractions and restaurants to appeal to everyone.

EdVenture

EdVenture

With a mission to inspire children, youth, and adults to experience the joy of...

Restaurants

What you need to know

When you're ready to dine, Columbia will deliver the best! From pit-style BBQ, farm-to-table menus, and fine dining venues, there's a cuisine and a budget for every vacationer.

Recommended by locals

Diverse culinary flavors abound in Columbia, ranging from hickory-smoked Low Country BBQ to farm-to-table and upscale steak houses. International flavors and dishes are also available, ensuring something for every palate.

Terra

Terra

An exciting culinary adventure awaits just across the bridge from downtown...

DiPrato's

DiPrato's

For the past twenty years, DiPrato’s delicatessen in Columbia, SC has been...

The Bistro

The Bistro

When out for a day of adventure at Lake Murray, be sure to stop by The Bistro...

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Sightseeing

What you need to know

A vacation to the Palmetto State isn't complete without visiting Columbia's landmarks. From the 22 Corinthian columns at the State House to gardens and museums, you're never short of sightseeing options.

Recommended by locals

If you enjoy the outdoors, visit Congaree National Park or Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park. The zoo is another top attraction, as is catching a Gamecocks game at Williams-Brice Stadium.

Lake Murray

Lake Murray

One of South Carolina's most beautiful and significant landmarks is Lake...

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Frequently Asked Questions

Situated in the heart of the Midlands region, 3 major interstates run through Columbia, SC (I-26, I-20, and I-77). This makes it an easy-to-access drive-to destination from anywhere on the Eastern corridor.

If you choose to fly, the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) is located just eight miles from downtown and has more than 25 daily non-stop flights to 11 major cities, plus easy connections to over 400 destinations.

The best times to visit Columbia, SC are hands down in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). This is when you can expect warm, sunny days and cool, breezy nights. If you are a fan of hot weather, then you may enjoy the area’s sultry summers. Not to worry, lake days at Lake Murray and backyard barbecues await. Winter is more mellow, with mild temps and fewer crowds, which is ideal for a quiet weekend getaway.

Columbia, SC is a little city with a lot of personality and plenty of attractions for the whole family to enjoy. Among the top attractions are:

  • Riverbanks Zoo & Garden – Not only is this a top Columbia attraction, it is one of the largest mid-sized zoos in the country and South Carolina’s leading must-visit attraction.
  • Congaree National Park – With towering trees creating a lush forest canopy overhead, the park preserves the largest tract of remaining old-growth bottomland hardwood forests in the country. The park’s synchronous firefly habitat from mid-May to mid-June is so popular, be sure to get in on the vehicle pass lottery in advance.
  • Lake Murray – Located just west of the city, this Jewel of South Carolina offers 650 miles of shoreline and a wide range of outdoor fun, from swimming or boating to fishing, and water sports to private tours.
  • South Carolina State Museum – The state-of-the-art facility is housed within its largest artifact, the building itself, the historic 1894 Columbia Mill textile building.
  • USC – Williams-Brice Stadium: College sports fans flood in for big Gamecock games and tailgates. Dine out before the big game or enjoy tailgating. Tip: Pimento cheese, a South Carolina staple, is a must at any Gamecock tailgate.
More questions

More questions?

Feel free to send us an email with any and all questions you might have regarding the start of a Casago Franchise!

We'd love to help answer your questions!