You can’t visit the University of South Carolina without visiting the city that we call home. Our city is made for exploration. From delicious food to invigorating activities in a city that inspires, Columbia, South Carolina, has something for everyone.
While we could make an entire list of noteworthy places to visit when you come to Columbia, we’ve made it a little easier for you. If you love a blast into the past, this history lover guide is meant for you.
Food
Columbia Food Tours, LLC
The best way to bite into history is through food. In this three-hour tour of Main Street, you’ll explore our city’s history and local cuisine through five to seven local restaurants. Make sure you come hungry!
Campus Spot
The Historic Horseshoe
One can’t visit our campus without at least strolling through the Historic Horseshoe. Our quad is where our university began and has become a place to relax and enjoy the sunshine for students and guests alike. You can also get a peek into the past by reading the personalized bricks that adorn the walkways on the ‘shoe.
Recreational
Take a Historic Columbia tour
So much history, so many ways to tour. Historic Columbia is your go-to destination for learning about our city’s history. From semi-guided house tours to garden tours, you will be immersed in Columbia’s past in places where people actually lived!
Visit the State Museum
The South Carolina State Museum is a location that every Gamecock will experience at least once. This museum is chock full of unique permanent and travelling exhibits to keep you entertained for years to come. A few current favorites are the Apollo 50: Journey to the Moon, the 4D theater and the Science of Sound.
Free Options
Visit the Richard T. Greener Statue
One of the iconic statues on campus is the Richard T. Greener Statue. This statue commemorates the first African American professor at UofSC. During his time at South Carolina, he served as a librarian and helped reorganize the library’s holdings after the Civil War. He also earned his law degree at our law school. After his time at UofSC, he became the dean of the Howard University School of Law.
Longstreet Theatre
From plays, dance performances and great photo-ops, Longstreet Theatre is a favorite historical building. Built in 1855, it was intended to be a college hall for commencement and worship services. Then, during the Civil War, it served as an arsenal and military hospital for both sides of the war. Now you can catch the fantastic work of the dance and theatre departments each semester!
Walking around the State House
The South Carolina State House is the home to the state’s government officials. Located right by our campus, you can stroll around the grounds to see the historic buildings, statues and greenery that adorn the complex. While on your walk, don’t forget to try to locate all six bronze stars that are scattered around the building that commemorate where cannonballs struck the building during the Civil War.
Check out the Hootie and the Blowfish Monument
If you’re a music and history buff, you need to explore the Hootie and the Blowfish monument that is nestled in Five Points. The statue was unveiled as part of the band’s 25th Anniversary celebration in honor of its founding at UofSC. As an added challenge, try to find the band’s Horseshoe bricks on the same day!
Accommodations
Graduate Columbia Hotel
You have to book the perfect place to stay when you visit Columbia – the Graduate Columbia Hotel is just that! Just steps from the Horseshoe, this hotel is in the heart of the city. It is filled with southern charm offering unique, cozy rooms and amenities such as wi-fi. Be sure to check out the cute little café right within the hotel.