What to do in Columbia SC with family on vacation?

  • Riverbanks Zoo & Garden – A top-rated zoo with over 2,000 animals and beautiful botanical gardens.
  • South Carolina State Museum – Interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a 4D theater for all ages.
  • EdVenture Children's Museum – Hands-on learning and play areas for young kids.
  • Congaree National Park – Family-friendly hiking, canoeing, and wildlife spotting.
  • Saluda Shoals Park – Outdoor fun with splash pads, trails, and river activities.
 
Begin at the iconic Santa Fe Plaza, a National Historic Landmark surrounded by adobe architecture. Nearby, visit the Palace of the Governors and browse Native American arts under its portal. Don't miss the Loretto Chapel with its famous spiral staircase.
 
Columbia, SC offers plenty of family-friendly activities perfect for a vacation. Explore Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, home to hundreds of animals and beautiful botanical gardens. Discover hands-on exhibits at EdVenture Children’s Museum, or dive into science at the South Carolina State Museum. Take a stroll along the scenic Congaree River or paddle through Congaree National Park. For history lovers, the South Carolina State House and Historic Columbia sites offer engaging tours. With parks, museums, and outdoor adventures, Columbia has something for everyone in the family.
 
Visit Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, one of Columbia’s top attractions. It offers animal exhibits, botanical gardens, zip lines, and kid-friendly play areas.
 
Explore the South Carolina State Museum with your family. It features hands-on science exhibits, a planetarium, and a 4D theater.
 
Stroll through Congaree National Park, just outside the city. Hike the boardwalk trails, canoe the waters, and enjoy wildlife spotting.
 
Check out EdVenture Children’s Museum, a huge interactive space with engaging exhibits focused on learning through play—perfect for young kids.
 
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