Must See Sights and Landmarks in Columbia Area

"One of the most visited tourist attractions in the state, the South Carolina Statehouse is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture that was in style during the pre-Civil War period in the South (construction started in 1851, but wasn't completed until after the war). The highly-regarded design work of John Niernsee, the capital towers 180 feet high with a patinaed copper dome. Visitors exploring the vast capitol grounds get a sense for the complex state history here, viewing the Revolutionary War Generals Monument, American-Mexican War Monument, the African-American History Monument, the Confederate Monument, and other statuary honoring George Washington, S.C. Senators, and fallen State Law Enforcement Officers."

"Back in the center of town is another of Columbia’s standout symbols and sights – the stunning South Carolina State House. Home to the state’s seat of government, it exhibits some absolutely exquisite Classical Revival-style architecture with lush grounds lying all around it. Built in 1855, the important and impressive building showcases a fantastic facade with a distinctive copper dome resting atop of its humongous portico."

"History and architecture lovers will enjoy a visit to the South Carolina State House, a refined 19th-century building established in 1851, and a structure that took over half a century to construct. Today it houses the state government of South Carolina, and until 1971 it was home to the Supreme Court of the USA. Originally designed by architect P."

"McKissick Museum, located in the middle of the University of South Carolina's campus, has vibrant exhibitions of Southern culture throughout the ages.|© University of South Carolina. Situated at the top of the University of South Carolina’s historic horseshoe, in the center of campus, McKissick Museum houses a permanent collection and holds rotating exhibitions that showcase a Southern culture and environment. The museum works with scholars in the university and the community to preserve the traditions and folkways of the state and the region so people can learn about the lives of their predecessors and relate it back to our modern existence."

"If you’re looking for a super centrally located hotel in downtown Columbia, SC, check out the Courtyard Columbia Downtown at USC. It’s close to the University of South Carolina campus, the Colonial Life Arena, and Five Points, and guests have access to an onsite restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool. One perk of staying at Courtyard Columbia Downtown is that they have a free parking structure and a complimentary shuttle that you can take to popular attractions."

"Tunnelvision was created by Blue Sky, an artist from South Carolina who is also responsible for a number of other famous modern artworks in Columbia; you’ll read about some of them in a little while!. He was inspired to create it based on a dream, and the result is a whimsical, almost otherworldly sort of masterpiece that looks like a portal to a different world. Located in downtown Columbia in an unassuming parking lot, Tunnelvision is painted across a large wall measuring 50 by 75 feet."

"Although it is located in a car park, the mind-boggling Tunnel Vision Mural is certainly well worth visiting if you are in the area. Painted on the side of a large blank wall, the arresting artwork and its amazing optical illusion make for some fantastic photos and lies just a short walk from downtown. Painted over the course of 1974 and 1975 by Blue Sky, arguably the city’s most famous artist, it depicts a road and tunnel leading to a glowing sun off in the distance."

"If instead of history and culture it is sports and entertainment that you are after, you’ll certainly want to attend an unforgettable game at the massive Williams-Brice Stadium. Routinely praised for its electrifying atmosphere and fun and festive pre-game tailgates, it is the home of the Gamecocks – the University of Columbia’s college football team. Sometimes called ‘The Cock Pit’ by local fans and media, it was opened in 1934 with action-packed sporting spectacles having taken place ever since."

"Sports Stadiums (Professional)1127 George Rogers Blvd, Columbia, SC 29208MoreLess Info. Located just off campus, Williams-Brice Stadium is home field to the University of South Carolina's South Carolina Gamecocks, a football club boasting such alumni as the Heisman Trophy-winning George Rogers. The stadium also hosts concerts and other athletic events and tournaments."

"Sports Stadiums (Professional)801 Lincoln Street, Columbia, SC 29208MoreLess Info. With an events calendar that includes family shows, concerts and sporting events, Colonial Life Arena is also home to the men's and women's basketball clubs of the University of South Carolina."

"In 1865, Trinity wasspared of burning by General Sherman (a Roman Catholic) because they removed all their “Episcopal” signs + placed papier-mâché crosses on the church’s roof. The sanctuary was modeled after the York Minster Cathedral in England."

"St. Peter’s is the oldest Catholic church in the Midlands, dating back to 1821. The original sanctuary was designed by Robert Mills, but the church outgrew it by the early 1900s. The current structure was built in 1906 and features art nouveau-style Tiffany stained glass windows."

"The Governor’s Mansion, situated in Colombia’s historic district, is home to the actual governors of the state of South Carolina. It’s a stately, impressive mansion set upon nine well-cared-for acres of magnificent land. Not only do all 30 of the state’s governors genuinely reside in this large and imposing manor to be near their offices, but it’s also a crucial public space to Columbia residents."

"The governors of South Carolina live in a magnificent mansion on nine acres of nicely manicured land in the historic district of Columbia. However, the mansion is not only their home (all thirty of them so far), but it is also an important public space. The rooms open to the public feature all sorts of treasures used by previous governors, which are now permanent parts of the space."

"Built in 1855, this stately, gracious mansion has served as home to the state's governor since 1868. Prior to that time, it was used as officers' quarters for the Arsenal Military Academy. The beautifully landscaped grounds are often used for receptions and special events."

"Pinehurst Park has a baseball diamond and a playground area. There is also a spray pool and a community center. Off-street parking is available as well as water fountains and restrooms in the community center."

"Greenview Park is a multi sport complex that offers recreational amenities inside and outside of the park. The park consists of multiple ball fields, 9-court tennis facility, outdoor swimming pool, water slides, walking trail, playground area and a picnic shelter. Indoor amenities consist of a game room, multiple meeting rooms that include a ceramics room, computer room, teen room, three meeting rooms, full-size kitchen, fitness room and a gymnasium that seats 299 persons."

"Greenview Park is a multi-sport complex that offers recreational amenities inside and outside of the park. The park consists of multiple ball fields, 9-court tennis facility, outdoor swimming pool, walking trail, playground area and a picnic shelter. Indoor amenities consist of a game room, multiple meeting rooms that include a ceramics room, computer room, teen room, three meeting rooms, full-size kitchen, fitness room and a gymnasium that seats 299 persons."

"Marshall Park is located on the edge of Earlewood amongst historic homes. This wooded neighborhood park features a playground and a large wooded area with a well-worn walking path perfect for families and pets to get out and play."

"Cold Stone Creamery offers the Ultimate Ice Cream Experience. Ice Cream, Cakes, Shakes, Birthday Cake the Way You Want It"

"Baskin-Robbins, the world's largest chain of ice cream specialty shops, has created more than 1,000 different ice cream flavors and a variety of delicious treats. More flavors, more fun."

"Sweet Cake House promises its customers quality, attention to detail, and friendly personalized service. They specialize in cakes and pies but they are also currently featuring a wide selection of French, Greek and Italian desserts made fresh daily."

"Earlewood Park is located in the heart of North Columbia and features a new Community Center, one-of-a-kind playground, amphitheater, disc golf course, baseball/kickball fields, basketball courts and tennis courts. Many community events are held here including the First Tuesday Music Festival. Earlewood Park is also home to NoMa Bark Park, a two-acre off-leash dog park."

"Originally opened in 1859 as Sidney Park, this historic site experienced a rebirth in the early 1990s when it was given a complete overhaul and re-dubbed Finlay Park. The Vista district's green space features playgrounds, a lake, waterfalls, a fountain and playing fields, plus plenty of paved pathways for strolling and grassy areas for picnicking. The city hosts the free Sizzlin' Summer Concert Series here each year."

"This beautiful 18-acre city park has one of the most photographed views of downtown Columbia. Located in the Vista entertainment district, the park sits just a few blocks from the Capitol and across from the Governor's Mansion. From its highest point above the fountain you can see the skyline rising over the park's lush green landscape and signature lake."

"At the heart of Columbia, South Carolina sits Finlay Park, a huge verdant expanse that hosts most of the city's fairs, festivals and other large-scale outdoor gatherings. The park is open every day between sunrise and sunset, and many events held there last long into the night."

"One of the most visited tourist attractions in the state, the South Carolina Statehouse is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture that was in style during the pre-Civil War period in the South (construction started in 1851, but wasn't completed until after the war). The highly-regarded design work of John Niernsee, the capital towers 180 feet high with a patinaed copper dome. Visitors exploring the vast capitol grounds get a sense for the complex state history here, viewing the Revolutionary War Generals Monument, American-Mexican War Monument, the African-American History Monument, the Confederate Monument, and other statuary honoring George Washington, S.C. Senators, and fallen State Law Enforcement Officers."

"Back in the center of town is another of Columbia’s standout symbols and sights – the stunning South Carolina State House. Home to the state’s seat of government, it exhibits some absolutely exquisite Classical Revival-style architecture with lush grounds lying all around it. Built in 1855, the important and impressive building showcases a fantastic facade with a distinctive copper dome resting atop of its humongous portico."

"History and architecture lovers will enjoy a visit to the South Carolina State House, a refined 19th-century building established in 1851, and a structure that took over half a century to construct. Today it houses the state government of South Carolina, and until 1971 it was home to the Supreme Court of the USA. Originally designed by architect P."