Columbia Museum of Art

About

Located in the heart of the city, the Columbia Museum of Art (CMA) is a welcoming space where visitors and residents alike can discover and be moved by art. With a mission to be inspiring, welcoming, community-centered, playful, and vibrant, the CMA has been delighting guests for over 75 years.

The museum first opened to the public in 1950, marking the beginning of its history. With a dedication to the idea of a modern museum where art can be experienced rather than just seen, it has developed over time into a thriving cultural hub.

The CMA is renowned for its proactive approach to accessibility, offering visitors of all ages a variety of exhibitions and educational programs. Additionally, with interactive workshops as a core component of its programs, the museum thrives on the ideals of inclusivity and participation.

With exciting revolving exhibitions, there’s always something new to discover. Plus, the CMA art collection is one of the most comprehensive and eclectic in the region.

The museum’s open layout and natural lighting highlight the art beautifully. This makes for a brilliant cultural space. What's more is that the museum extends its mission outdoors into Boyd Plaza. This plaza was completely renovated in 2019 and features plenty of seating and shade, offering a relaxing space to rest right along Main Street.

With its proximity to many of Columbia’s iconic attractions and dining spots, you can easily combine a visit to the CMA with a stop at the South Carolina State House and a meal at Market on Main. In addition, on Saturdays, visiting the CMA is a perfect way to continue exploring the area after a morning at the Soda City Market.

Columbia Museum of Art: Fun Facts & Cool Features

This museum is more than just a collection of art—it’s an experience. One unique feature is its dedication to interactive exhibits that spark engagement, particularly with younger audiences. Visitors can find hands-on activities within the galleries, allowing for a deeper connection to the art.

Complementing the museum’s extensive art collection, there is plenty for the entire family to enjoy while exploring—and creating—artwork. For example, the Cross Hatch at the CMA is a space that encourages visitors to be inspired and playful through colorful, hands-on projects.

Among the remarkable features of the museum are frequent events showcasing live music and art-based workshops. Moreover, through generous donors and the Museums for All initiative, the CMA provides free summer access to South Carolina residents.

The Columbia Museum of Art is like no other art museum, inviting visitors to become artists themselves. This is a terrific family-fun spot to add to your Columbia itinerary.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Columbia to the Columbia Museum of Art:

Head west on Gervais Street toward Main Street and turn right.
Take a left onto Hampton Street.
Address: 1515 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201.

Local Tips

Check the schedule for art talks and tours to enhance your visit.
The museum frequently offers free family-friendly events.
Parking is convenient with several garages nearby.
The café offers light refreshments, making it the perfect spot for a break.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get to Columbia, SC?

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.

When is the best time to visit Columbia, SC?

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.

What are the top things to do in Columbia, SC?

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.

Columbia Museum of Art

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