Downtown Columbia Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
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.
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.
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.
Activities
Our pick of the best Downtown Columbia Hotel Deals
Tru By Hilton Columbia Downtown
"The breakfast was amazing and the location was perfect!"
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Downtown at USC
"Our absolute fav in Columbia! Great pool, food, bar and people. Love the big window rooms. Clean and roomy."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Hyatt Place Columbia/Downtown/The Vista
"Very clean"
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Graduate by Hilton Columbia SC
"It’s a fun hotel to stay at!"
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
Cambria Hotel Columbia Downtown The Vista
"Third visit to this property, and I am still impressed."
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbia Downtown/The Vista
"The property was right across the street from Publix in a nice, clean, quiet and safe area with a McDonald’s near by. Also, the entire staff were absolutely great — the hotel is well worth the money especially for a weekend with family and friends with an in house full bar, continental breakfast ..."
Reviewed on 26 May 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 Columbia Urban League and South Carolina State House 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? Columbia Urban League and Township Auditorium 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 Columbia Urban League and Township Auditorium.
Lyon Street
While Lyon Street isn't home to many top sights, Columbia Urban League and Township Auditorium are some notable places to visit nearby.
