Downtown Columbia
Columbia
Visit Downtown Columbia
Popular places to visit
University of South Carolina
Take a campus tour or just explore the area of University of South Carolina, during your travels in Columbia. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event.
South Carolina State House
Inspect the many monuments and political symbols that decorate the grounds and majestic mansion of the state’s most important structure.
Columbia Museum of Art
Bring kids to this fun gallery with a focus on medieval, Renaissance and Baroque art and fascinating traveling exhibits.
Finlay Park
Play sports with your kids in this scenic park, wander along the woodland paths and see the extraordinary fountain and cascades.
Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens
Tour the premises and learn about the aristocratic residents who lived in this impressive mansion with a restored landscape garden.
Fort Jackson
After visiting Fort Jackson, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Columbia. You can attend a sporting event while in the area.
Things to do
Congaree National Park Self Guided Audio Walking Tour
Top hotels in Downtown Columbia
Tru By Hilton Columbia Downtown
"Excellent stay!"
Reviewed on May 25, 2026
Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Downtown at USC
"Unfortunately our room was sub par as far as cleanliness. I told the front desk after checking in that the toilet seemed dirty with some type of residue on the base and floor. Although they apologized nothing was done . The next morning checking out I mentioned it again and said no one followed thru ..."
Reviewed on May 24, 2026
Hyatt Place Columbia/Downtown/The Vista
"Wasn’t told that parking is $20/day until I checked in. Rooms was not clean. However staff were friendly"
Reviewed on May 26, 2026
Graduate by Hilton Columbia SC
"Beautiful boutique hotel near USC great spot, very cool vibe ."
Reviewed on May 24, 2026
Cambria Hotel Columbia Downtown The Vista
"Very clean. Friendly staff!"
Reviewed on May 25, 2026
The Lantern Columbia
"Great service….clean rooms!!"
Reviewed on May 24, 2026
Check Downtown Columbia hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Columbia
The Vista
The Vista is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Colonial Life Arena or Koger Center for the Arts.
Arsenal Hill
Unique features of Arsenal Hill include the restaurants and live music. Make a stop by Governor's Mansion or Matthew J. Perry, Jr. U.S. Courthouse while you're exploring the area.
University Hill
University Hill is well-liked for its restaurants. You can also take some time to explore sights in the surrounding area like Columbia Urban League and South Carolina State House.
Five Points
The bars and live music are a few reasons travelers visit Five Points. Want to see more of the surrounding area? Columbia Urban League and Township Auditorium are a few top sights nearby.
Waverly
While Waverly isn't home to many top sights, Columbia Urban League and Township Auditorium are some notable places to visit nearby.
Lyon Street
While Lyon Street might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Charlie W. Johnson Stadium and Columbia Urban League.
