Explore Columbia

Things to Do in Columbia

Welcome to Columbia, South Carolina! To help you make the most of your time here, we've compiled a list of our favorite spots:

Breakfast & Coffee:

• smallSUGAR: Indulge in the best pastries in Columbia at this charming bakery.
• The Gourmet Shop: Enjoy a delicious breakfast and explore their extensive selection of wines, cheeses, and gourmet ingredients.
• Ruby Sunshine: Start your day with a vibrant brunch experience.
• Café Strudel West Columbia: A cozy spot for coffee and pastries.
• Drip Coffee: Excellent coffee and breakfast options at reasonable prices.
• Indah Coffee: A great place to work or study with delicious coffee.
• Piecewise Coffee Co: A local favorite for coffee and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Azalea Coffee Bar: A charming spot for your caffeine fix.
• Loveland Coffee: Almost on par with the best coffee shops in St. Louis!

Lunch:

• O'Hara's Public House: An iconic Irish pub – a must-visit for Carlos!
• DiPrato's: A classic Italian-American restaurant.
• Publico: Enjoy delicious food and drinks in a lively atmosphere.
• Mr. Friendly's New Southern Café: Savory Southern cuisine with a modern twist.
• Motor Supply Company Bistro: A renowned restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
• Cantina 76: Authentic Mexican flavors with a lively ambiance.
• Mediterranean Tea Room: Explore Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxed setting.
• Barrio: Build your own tacos and enjoy a casual dining experience.

Dinner & Drinks:

• Pearlz Oyster Bar: Indulge in fresh oysters, including the famous Oysters Rockefeller.
• MOA Korean BBQ & Bar: Experience fine dining Korean BBQ with an exceptional cocktail menu.
• 929 Kitchen & Bar: Enjoy Korean street food in a more casual setting (sister restaurant to MOA).
• City Grit: Explore a rotating menu of tapas and other delicious dishes.
• Halls Chophouse: A renowned steakhouse offering an elegant dining experience.
• Blue Marlin: A classic Columbia dining spot.
• Smoked: Indulge in delicious barbecue and Southern comfort food.
• Prohibition: Enjoy craft cocktails in a speakeasy-inspired atmosphere.
• Black Rooster: Delight in Italian cuisine with a French influence and enjoy the rooftop patio.
• Masa Mexican Street Food: Authentic Mexican street food with a vibrant atmosphere.
• Coa Agaveria y Cocina: Upscale Mexican dining with an extensive agave spirit selection.
• Hendrix: A fine-dining experience with a sophisticated rooftop bar for drinks and live music.

Dessert:

• Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard: Cool off with a refreshing lemon and vanilla gelati.
• Kaminsky's Dessert Café: A sweet treat to end your evening.

Attractions:

• Soda City Market: Explore a vibrant market with numerous food vendors every Saturday morning.
• Lake Murray Public Park / Lake Murray Dam: Enjoy scenic views and outdoor activities.
• Columbia Museum of Art: Immerse yourself in a diverse collection of art.
• Riverwalk Park: A scenic riverside park perfect for a leisurely stroll.
• University of South Carolina: Explore the campus of the 2024 NCAA Women's Basketball Champions!
• Five Points: Discover charming shops and local boutiques.