University South Carolina Map

Introduction

Located in the heart of Columbia, South Carolina, the University of South Carolina is a bustling campus that offers visitors a plethora of activities and attractions to explore. From its beautiful green spaces to its vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone to enjoy. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that the University of South Carolina has to offer.

Top Attractions

Williams-Brice Stadium

Home to the South Carolina Gamecocks football team, Williams-Brice Stadium is a must-see attraction for any sports fan. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 80,000 and is known for its electric atmosphere on game days.

Horseshoe

The Horseshoe is a historic landmark on the University of South Carolina campus. The area is lined with oak trees and historic buildings, including the President’s House and the South Caroliniana Library.

Hidden Gems

McKissick Museum

The McKissick Museum is a hidden gem on the University of South Carolina campus. The museum features exhibits on Southern history, art, and culture.

Longstreet Theatre

The Longstreet Theatre is a beautiful historic building on the University of South Carolina campus. The theatre hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including plays, musicals, and dance performances.

Food Scene

The Vista

The Vista is a popular dining and entertainment district located just a few blocks from the University of South Carolina campus. The area features a variety of restaurants and bars, including sushi, pizza, burgers, and more.

Farmer’s Market

The Farmer’s Market is a great place to grab a bite to eat on a budget. The market features a variety of local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and other homemade treats.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Campus Tours

The University of South Carolina offers free campus tours to visitors. The tours are led by current students and provide a great opportunity to learn more about the university’s history and culture.

Happy Hour Specials

Many restaurants and bars in the area offer happy hour specials, making it a great time to grab a bite to eat or a drink on a budget.

Outdoor Adventures

Columbia Riverfront Park

The Columbia Riverfront Park is a beautiful park located just a few blocks from the University of South Carolina campus. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.

Saluda Shoals Park

Saluda Shoals Park is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and fishing. The park features several trails and a beautiful river.

Historical Landmarks

South Carolina State House

The South Carolina State House is a beautiful historic building located just a few blocks from the University of South Carolina campus. The building features a stunning dome and is open for tours.

Robert Mills House

The Robert Mills House is a historic home located in downtown Columbia. The house was built in the early 19th century and is now a museum.

Family-Friendly Activities

EdVenture Children’s Museum

The EdVenture Children’s Museum is a fun and educational museum for kids. The museum features interactive exhibits on science, technology, and math.

Frankie’s Fun Park

Frankie’s Fun Park is a great place to take the kids for a day of fun. The park features go-karts, mini golf, laser tag, and more.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Nickelodeon Theatre

The Nickelodeon Theatre is an independent movie theater located in downtown Columbia. The theater features a variety of independent and foreign films.

The Congaree Vista Guild Art Walk

The Congaree Vista Guild Art Walk is a monthly event that showcases local artists and galleries. The event is held on the first Thursday of every month.

Natural Wonders

Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park is a beautiful park located just a short drive from the University of South Carolina campus. The park features hiking trails, canoeing, and camping.

Lake Murray

Lake Murray is a beautiful lake located just a few miles from the University of South Carolina campus. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming.

Vibrant Nightlife

The Whig

The Whig is a popular bar located in the heart of downtown Columbia. The bar features a variety of craft beers and live music.

The Senate

The Senate is a popular music venue located in the Vista. The venue hosts a variety of concerts throughout the year, featuring both local and national acts.

Local Markets

The Soda City Market

The Soda City Market is a weekly farmers market held in downtown Columbia. The market features local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.

The Midlands Plant and Flower Festival

The Midlands Plant and Flower Festival is an annual event held in Columbia. The festival features a variety of vendors selling plants, flowers, and gardening supplies.

Beaches and Mountains

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a popular beach destination located just a few hours from the University of South Carolina campus. The beach features miles of sand and plenty of activities, including water sports and amusement parks.

Blue Ridge Mountains

The Blue Ridge Mountains are a beautiful mountain range located just a few hours from the University of South Carolina campus. The area is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and skiing.

Cultural Immersion

The South Carolina State Museum

The South Carolina State Museum is a great place to learn about the state’s history and culture. The museum features exhibits on art, science, and history.

The Columbia Museum of Art

The Columbia Museum of Art is a beautiful museum located in downtown Columbia. The museum features a variety of exhibits on contemporary and classic art.

Art and Music Scene

The Koger Center for the Arts

The Koger Center for the Arts is a beautiful performing arts venue located on the University of South Carolina campus. The center hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts.

The Columbia Jazz Festival

The Columbia Jazz Festival is an annual event held in downtown Columbia. The festival features live music from local and national jazz musicians.

Walking Tours

The Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park

The Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park is a great place to take a walking tour. The area features walking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the river.

The Historic Columbia Walking Tour

The Historic Columbia Walking Tour is a great way to learn about the city’s rich history. The tour takes visitors through historic neighborhoods and landmarks.

Architectural Marvels

The South Carolina State House

The South Carolina State House is a beautiful building with a stunning dome and impressive architecture. The building is open for tours.

McKissick Museum

The McKissick Museum is a beautiful historic building with stunning architecture. The museum features exhibits on Southern history, art, and culture.

Historical Sites

The Horseshoe

The Robert Mills House

The Robert Mills House is a historic home located in downtown Columbia. The house was built in the early 19th century and is now a museum.

Biking Routes

The Three Rivers Greenway

The Three Rivers Greenway is a beautiful biking route that runs along the Congaree, Broad, and Saluda Rivers. The route features stunning views of the river and plenty of opportunities for picnics and other outdoor activities.