Support Us Button Widget
Sponsored Content

Road trip: Columbia, SC for the solo traveler

Looking to see more of SC this year? Columbia offers all you need for a solo vacation.

Sponsored by
Sideshow of sights around Columbia, SC.

From open air, artisan markets to elevated, Southern fare and cozy cocktail lounges, there are more things to do in Columbia, SC than there are hours to do them.

Photos provided by Experience Columbia

Table of Contents

A new year calls for new experiences. Maybe you’ve resolved to travel more, exert more independence/confidence, or you’re just feeling ready for an adventure. Here’s an idea: Take yourself on a trip to Columbia, SC, a ~2-hour drive from CHS.

From outdoor adventure to a buzzing culinary scene and vibrant public art, there’s plenty for the solo traveler to explore and enjoy.

Here are four itineraries we’ve bookmarked to treat ourselves to this year:

For the outdoor adventurer

Explore outdoor attractions from high-energy activities to parks and gardens.

Looking for a few self-care options to wind down? Get ready to relax at your pick of nail salons + spas.

For the craft beer connoisseur

From lagers and IPAs to sours and seasonal pours, Columbia is a hub for all things hoppy and delicious (thanks to its breweries + brewpubs aplenty). There’s no shortage of restaurants and bars, either. Pro tip: Bookmark these new + noteworthy spots for your next visit.

Need a cool spot to crash after your adventures? Take your pick of local hotels or bed and breakfasts or pack your bags for one of these unique places to stay.

For the arts + music lover

From diverse public art and local galleries to nationally renowned exhibitions, the capital city has something for the art enthusiast and novice alike. Be sure to catch a show at Trustus Theatre and the Koger Center, the SC Philharmonic + more, make time to stroll through the Columbia Museum of Art, and bookmark these live music venues to see who’s playing during your stay.

For the history buff

As the center of state government, Columbia is central to South Carolina’s history, and you’ll find evidence of that everywhere you turn. Take a free, self-guided tour of the South Carolina State House or a full tour via Historic Columbia — however you stack your itinerary, you won’t be disappointed.

Pack your bags for Soda City

More from CHStoday
Our series highlights local nonprofits, what support they may need (think: donations, volunteers, board members), and the organizations they collaborate with and admire.
Whether you’re planning to dine in or carry-out, we’ve rounded up some options for Thanksgiving dinner in Charleston that don’t involve getting the kitchen dirty.
Throughout the 19th century, the home on East Bay Street was home to several prominent families, including the Lowndes family.
Beyond the three Michelin-starred restaurants, several restaurants were recommended and earned Bib Gourmand honors.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
From composting events to feeding farm animals, there are several sustainable ways to dispose of your pumpkins.
This spring, The Cooper, the city’s first luxury waterfront hotel, will open just steps away from Joe Riley Waterfront Park.
The Coastal Carolina Fair returns to Exchange Park with concerts, food, exhibits, and rides — use this guide to prepare for your visit.
Around a dozen new luxurious townhouses in the new The Inlet community are set to debut on Seabrook Island.
The Italian spot on King Street is warming this up this fall with a handful of new dishes that will have you coming back for seconds.