There's no place like home
Posted on: March 1, 2019; Updated on: March 1, 2019
By Mia Grimm and Catherine Jobe, stucomm@mailbox.sc.edu
Spring break, the blessed one week off we get this semester to sit back, relax and enjoy the warm weather is almost here. While this week has for generations meant wild fun at some sunny beach location, we know that many of you will be staying in Columbia, so we have compiled the perfect staycation to keep you entertained in Soda City.
One with Nature
With it finally warming up outside, take this time to bask in the sun. Have a picnic on the Horseshoe or set up an Eno to relax with a good book. The Strom will be open throughout the break, so you can hang out by the pool all week long.
Stroll along the banks of Columbia’s three rivers with many access points along the Saluda, Broad and Congaree, as well as the Columbia Canal. Check out the Three Rivers Greenway website for more information.
Want to really get out of the house? Go for a hike at Sesquicentennial State Park or Congaree National Park, maybe pack a bag and a tent and stay overnight. But remember to make a reservation if you are camping.
Day Tripper
Columbia’s central location makes it a good jumping-off point for exploring the rest of the state on day-trips. You can go to Greenville, Charleston or Charlotte, North Carolina, for the day. No wheels? Check out the university’s carshare program and its daylong rental option.
Even closer to the capital city are Camden — the state’s oldest interior city — Newberry and West Columbia. Camden is a historical treasure trove with Revolutionary War sites and antique shops flanked by restaurants catering to all tastes. Newberry’s downtown has seen a rebirth recently with its own shops and restaurants around the Opera House, which hosts many nationally touring acts. Right across the Gervais Street Bridge in West Columbia, you can support some UofSC alum-owned businesses like Catitude Cat Café and Messie’s Closet.
Catch a Show
Haven’t been able to make it to the movies since the semester started? Well now you have a whole week to go. For something more mainstream, head out to Harbison to catch a movie at the Regal Cinemas Columbiana Grande and take advantage of those reclining seats. Meanwhile, on Main Street see an art film at the Nickelodeon and afterward get a cup of joe at Indah Coffee’s new location in the Arcade Mall.
If you’re feeling nostalgic, visit The Big Mo drive-in to see a double feature. Pile all your friends in the car and be sure to get there early to get a spot. Remember to take cash for the box office and have all your money pooled together when you get there. You can use your plastic at the concession stands.
Looking for more of a live performance experience? Weezer is playing at Colonial Life Arena on March 10, and The Koger Center of the Arts is hosting the South Carolina Philharmonic on March 16.
Homebody
You can still have a fun time just chilling in your apartment over break. Host a game night or potluck dinner at your house. Travel back to your childhood by building a blanket fort and having a movie marathon with your roommates. If you must be productive, spring break would be an excellent time to do some spring cleaning or work on long-term projects to make the rest of your semester a little less stressful.
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