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.