Southern Charm: A Weekend Travel Guide for Columbia, South Carolina

Until recently, I’d only ever driven through Columbia, South Carolina.

The capital of The Palmetto State is the closest major city along the route we take to visit family in Florida, and until a month ago, mostly symbolized that we were nearly home. As part of our commitment to visiting more destinations in our region this year, we intentionally made Columbia the terminus of a June Saturday drive and stayed for the weekend.

The drive from Charlotte was over in the blink of an eye; soon after we passed Carowinds at the South Carolina border we reached the outskirts of Columbia. All-in-all, it’s about ninety minutes from one city center to the other.

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This trip was generously hosted by the team at Experience Columbia SC - the experts in planning a travel itinerary to the Unexpected Urban South - but as always, all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links, and I may receive a small commission at no cost to you if you make a purchase after clicking one of these links.

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Armed with a weekend itinerary full of great food and local gems, we primarily took to the city by foot. Columbia’s downtown area is ultra-walkable – even in the peak summer heat. I highly recommend parking your car and leaving it whenever possible. Ready to hit the city? Here’s how to spend a fun food- and activity-filled weekend in Cola (and I bet if you’re anything like us, by the end of the weekend Columbia will no longer be a pass-through city for you either):

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COLUMBIA SIGHTS + ATTRACTIONS

Soda City Market

Soda City Market | 1300-1600 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201

There’s no better way to kick off the weekend than by visiting the Soda City Market on Saturday morning (Fun fact: the nickname Soda City is derived from Columbia’s abbreviation of Cola. Cola = Soda, get it?). Rain or shine, a section of Columbia’s Main Street is closed to vehicular traffic every Saturday from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. With an average of 150 local vendors each week selling produce, crafts, and more, there’s bound to be something for you. During our visit, the food vendors were selling a world of flavors – from paella to noodles. But being in Columbia, we couldn’t resist a biscuit with pimento cheese for breakfast from Rambo’s Fat Cat Biscuits as the city lays claim to one of the oldest recipes for the Southern staple. Visitors can even complete a Pimento Cheese Passport for swag!

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Columbia Museum of Art

Columbia Museum of Art | 1515 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201

Little did we know that a visit to the Columbia Museum of Art would transport us back to France! Our visit coincided with the exhibition of In the Shadow of Monet: Giverny and American Impressionism, on display through September 2022 (head here to view current exhibits) – but even without any special exhibits, the museum’s collection is worth the cost of admission alone. Spanning both centuries and continents, the general collection contains a diverse assortment of priceless works. You might be surprised that you’re not in a museum in New York, Paris, or London when you leave.

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Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden | 500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29210

After working at a college with an accredited zoo, I better understand the importance of only visiting zoos and aquariums that have been vetted to ensure proper care of their animals. Columbia’s Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is accredited through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is transparent about its animal care and conservation efforts. The property is sprawling, spanning both sides of the Saluda River – with 350 species of animals on one side, and 5,700 species of plants on the other. We split our visit between the two sides of the park, visiting the zebras, giraffes, and otters (okay, we visited the otters twice since they’re my favorite) and then the botanical and vegetable gardens across the river. There is a lot of ground to cover and visitors should expect to do a lot of walking, although there is a tram available to take guests up to the Botanical Gardens (if you’re able, I recommend walking as it’s a bit faster). And if you think your kids might be bored in the gardens, guess again – Waterfall Junction offers young guests a chance to play in the splash pads, unearth dinosaurs (replica, of course!), and more.

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COLUMBIA FOOD + DRINK

Market on Main

Market on Main | 1320 Main St #150, Columbia, SC 29201

You can probably guess where Columbia’s Market on Main is located – right in the heart of Main Street. This bar and restaurant serves an incredible weekend brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, and thankfully for non-breakfast-lovers like my partner, the menu is pretty evenly divided between breakfast and lunch items. I particularly love how MOM incorporates local and seasonal ingredients throughout their offerings. The Spicy Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich is now my touchstone for all future BECs, and Michael’s Texas Tajima Wagyu Burger put a decadent spin on a classic dish. And while side dishes are usually just supporting acts for the main course, the ultra-fresh fruit and (mountain) of truffle fries can hold their own. Even if you’re not around for brunch, Market on Main’s weekly specials and expansive patio are reasons to visit (I definitely picture myself enjoying a cocktail on the patio in the future).

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Black Rooster

Black Rooster | 201 Meeting St, West Columbia, SC 29169

Black Rooster proudly proclaims they are “Frenchish” – but their approach to food is definitely wonderful. This hip spot in West Columbia offers a well-edited menu of shareable plates and main courses that will feed vegetarians, pescatarians, and carnivores all on one table. A half-dozen oysters is the perfect way to start the meal – indulgent, but won’t leave you too full for your main course. As usual, we argued over who ordered the better meal: my Salmon Wellington (paired with a summer ratatouille, brown butter noisette, smoked tomato romesco, Marcona almonds, and salmon cracklins) or Michael’s Royale with Cheese (two patties of chuck and brisket, topped with gruyere, caramelized onions, and dijonnaise, and served with beef tallow fries). Our squabble resulted in a draw – but ultimately, I’d recommend the salmon for its uncommon approach. And though the restaurant has ample seating in the lively dining room, outdoor patio, and rooftop bar (with a great view!), reservations are recommended.

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The Gourmet Shop

The Gourmet Shop | 724 Saluda Ave, Columbia, SC 29205

The Gourmet Shop has been serving locals in Columbia’s Five Points neighborhood since 1979. Equal parts upscale market (with an astounding selection of cooking tools, hard-to-find ingredients, and a wine section you could get lost in) and all-day café, we lingered way longer than anticipated. But I’m glad we didn’t hesitate to grab a table for breakfast, because soon after we did a line formed. The menu boasts all the Southern lunchtime favorites including, of course, pimento cheese. Since you’re dining on the weekend, you’ll likely have the opportunity to choose from both the lunch menu and the brunch menu. Again, we chose one meal from each, and it was the correct decision. Michael ordered their famous chicken salad croissant, which indeed lived up to the hype (and is made perfectly simply, without any fussy ingredients). And I watched so many breakfast bowls exit the kitchen that I wound up being influenced to order one myself. I can see why it’s such a favorite!

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Za’s on Devine

Za's on Devine | 2930 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205

While I think its official name is Za’s Brick Oven Pizza, it seems as though everyone calls it Za’s on Devine. But if you’re asking me, I think they should be calling it Za’s on Divine instead, because the pizza is heavenly (who cares if you have to rename the street it’s on?). The Pick Four pizza is the way to go – and we just barely finished the 8″ size, leaving a few pizza bones behind. The kitchen is mostly-open, and it’s a treat to watch the pizzas being made and fired. I know if we lived closer, Za’s on Devine would be our weekly pizza spot.

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Boku Kitchen and Saloon

Boku Kitchen and Saloon | 916 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201

A relative newcomer to the Columbia dining scene is Boku Kitchen & Saloon, dishing up scratch-made Pan-Asian fare in trendy surroundings. While sure, everyone can order their own entree, it’s really the kind of place you’ll want to bring a few friends who love sharing plates. We nabbed a few of our favorites to start: Pork Potstickers, Vietnamese Rolls, Crab Rangoon, and Char Siu Pork Bao Buns. But by the time we were finished with that round, we were both far too full to order more. And sadly we were teetotaling as it was our last meal before heading back to Charlotte – but I bet Boku would be a great place for a drink and appetizer if you’re in the mood for a lighter meal. Have an Ube’bay for me, okay?

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Savage Craft Ale Works

Savage Craft Ale Works | 430 Center St, West Columbia, SC 29169

We were torn between visiting a few breweries on Saturday afternoon, so we did what any good traveler should do when in a similar predicament: stop and ask a local. The answer was overwhelmingly Savage Craft Ale Works, and after visiting their taproom, I can see why. It’s located just across the river from downtown in West Columbia’s former city hall and fire department building, and it has a sizeable lawn, indoor seating area, and a popular rooftop bar. My go-to beer is almost always a Hazy IPA (if you’ve read my Charlotte breweries post, you probably figured that out!), and that’s what I chose at Savage Craft. The Galaxy Banger is described as “Hazy, Dank, and Tropical” – and I agree. I regret that it was so hot on the day of our visit because the rooftop bar looks perfect for lounging. Next time!

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Coa Agaveria y Cocina

Coa Agaveria y Cocina | 823a Lady St, Columbia, SC 29201

I recently returned from a trip to Tequila with a newfound respect for the spirit (and for its cousin, mezcal), and there’s no better place to further your education than at Coa Agaveria y Cocina. Sure, you could get a margarita, but where’s the fun in that? Coa offers over twenty cocktails made from the agave distillates, and countless others for sipping. The atmosphere feels a little cool and dark, like being in a cava, and symbols of the tequila-making process are everywhere. With a delicious dinner ahead of us, we opted to skip any botanas (a decision that felt almost painful to make). Next time, we’re making room in our schedule and our stomachs for Tlayudas, Tamales Oaxaqueñas, and Guacamole.

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Transmission Arcade

Transmission Arcade | 1712 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201

We found Transmission Arcade just a few blocks away from our hotel (more on that in a minute!) on Saturday night, and it’s the best spot for a nightcap with a competitive edge. The arcade bar serves cocktails, local beer, and the perfect late-night munchies (I’m assuming, at least – they all sounded delicious but sadly I was far too full). You’ll need tokens to play the pinball machines and other games, but luckily there’s an ATM and change machine on site. Just don’t ask me who won at Super Off Road…

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Art Bar

Art Bar | 1211 Park St, Columbia, SC 29201

Once you step inside this quirky bar, you’ll probably forget which city you’re in. It honestly feels like it could be in any city around the world – or perhaps even outer space. Thankfully it’s here in Columbia and fortunately, our visit coincided with Y’all Mart, a curated eclectic market featuring local makers. From jewelry to taxidermy, the market had it all. But even if your visit happens to fall on a different day, it’s still a really cool spot to cool off and grab a beer – and I suspect things kick into high gear after dark or at their many other events.

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WHERE TO STAY IN COLUMBIA

Hotel Trundle

Hotel Trundle | 1224 Taylor St, Columbia, SC 29201

Hotel Trundle is a “Unique Boutique” hotel in the heart of downtown, and it unequivocally lives up to both of those descriptors.

It’s hard to believe that the hotel has only been open since 2018 (with a pandemic in the mix!), as it feels very much like a staple in the city. Stepping through the lobby doors is a bit like stepping into your chic cousin’s home – it’s tastefully decorated with local art and photos, you’re offered a welcome drink upon arrival, and you start to feel like a weight has been removed from your shoulders so you can just relax (plus it smells so nice).

That feeling carries you right to your room, which, if it’s anything like our Trundle King Room, skews industrial without feeling cold. Although the inclusion of a ceiling fan in the room was a very cool thing (seriously? When is the last time you stayed at a hotel with a fan? It’s such a nice touch for light sleepers). Other in-room amenities include robes and slippers, an open wardrobe with an iron and ironing board, a large television, a mini-fridge and microwave, a single-serve coffeemaker, and MOMO Shampoo and Conditioner from Davines (which I definitely regret not asking housekeeping if they could slip me a second set…). And I loved the little quirky touches like the dinosaur keys, the shadow-puppet wallpaper, and the do not disturb sign. If you happen to get a room near the lobby, don’t skip strolling through the rest of the hotel to check out the artwork.

Breakfast is delivered to your room each morning – just make sure you place your order online the night before (Hotel Trundle helpfully texts you a link!). You’ll get to choose your meal and your delivery window, which is so convenient – except when you accidentally sleep through your alarm, because you’re in a cozy sleep cocoon thanks to the comfortable bed and blackout shades. I don’t envy the sight of my groggy and confused self receiving breakfast at the door! If you happen to find yourself in the same position, you can  be grateful that there’s fresh coffee just steps away in the lobby.

Our stay at Hotel Trundle was really such a highlight of this trip – and it will be the first place we look when searching for accommodations in Columbia (especially as they are adding a new wing, delightfully called the Flutter Wing!). If you’re looking to book as well, here are just a few more things to know before you do: Parking is $18 per day, and at peak times they offer complimentary valet parking. The lot behind the hotel might be a little bit of a tight squeeze if you’re self-parking a larger vehicle. The hotel offers several ways for guests to enhance their stay through add-on packages; head here to learn more. And if you’re just looking for a good deal, they run specials from time to time. Check out their offers page before you hit submit!

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WITH MORE TIME IN COLUMBIA

With more time in Columbia, you’ll have the chance to visit more museums (like the South Carolina State Museum or the EdVenture Children’s Museum), get outdoors and explore (say, at Congaree National Park or just spend a relaxing day tubing with Palmetto Outdoor), enjoy more meals at restaurants with local and global flavor, both in casual digs and upscale surroundings (just a few I’ve added to my list for next time: 929 Kitchen and Bar, Il Giorgione, Bourbon, DiPrato’s, Terra, Duke’s Pad Thai, Bernie’s Restaurant, and Sahara on Main), and relax at more of the city’s breweries (Columbia Craft, Steel Hands, and River Rat are on my radar!). Personally, I’m marking my calendar for the city’s annual festivals, and planning on earning all the stamps on the Pimento Cheese Passport – and making Columbia my destination, not just part of the journey.

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No matter the length of your stay, be sure to visit Experience Columbia SC before you leave for the latest happenings in the Soda City. A huge thank you to the team and destination partners for making this visit possible, and allowing us to showcase your city.

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Looking for more? You may also enjoy:

• Packing List: Columbia, SC
• Weekend Guide: Beaufort, SC
• Weekend Guide: Wilmington + Wrightsville Beach, NC
• Weekend Guide: Charlotte, NC
• Weekend Guide: Dunwoody, GA
• Weekend Guide: Chapel Hill, NC
• City Guide: Asheville, NC
• Carolina Day Trip: Davidson, NC
• Carolina Day Trip: Lexington, NC
• Carolina Day Trip: Winston-Salem, NC
• Carolina Day Trip: York County, SC
• Day Trip: Tallahassee, FL

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What’s first on your list of things to do in Columbia?