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Local's Guide to Day Trips From Columbia, SC

Local's Guide to Day Trips From Columbia, SC

While you love living in and exploring your town, there are times when you crave a little adventure and a fun road trip. There are many cool day trips from Columbia, SC, to boost your spirits and relieve your daily stress. Here are a few to check out: 

Augusta, GA

Less than two hours away, Augusta is home to the annual Masters Golf Tournament and a pleasant day trip from Columbia, SC. You can start your visit at the August Museum of History, where you'll learn more about the city's history and see the life-size statues of some of the greatest golfers. Don't forget to check out the restored 1917 steam locomotive. If you crave outdoor activities, you can spend some time exploring the Augusta River Walk that meanders along the banks of the Savanah River, or you can rent a kayak and spend some time on the river. If you visit on a Saturday, you can enjoy the Augusta Market on the River, where many local vendors sell a variety of jewelry, artwork, and more made by local vendors. 
A golf ball on a tee on a grassy field.

Charleston, SC

Overflowing with Southern charm and rich history, Charleston is a lovely option for a day trip from Columbia, SC, and takes around two hours to reach. While visiting this historic city, you can visit the Fort Sumter National Monument, where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired. If you prefer shopping, the Charleston City Market is one of the oldest public markets in the country. You can shop for jewelry, souvenirs, artwork, and more while enjoying a meal from one of the farm-to-table venues. At the Charleston Waterfront Park, you can enjoy a picnic or walk along the waterfront, ducking in and out of shops or stopping for lunch featuring fresh seafood. 

Myrtle Beach, SC

In less than three hours, you can be soaking up the sun and dipping your toes in the Atlantic in Myrtle Beach. This exciting beach town features miles of sandy beaches and a vibrant boardwalk to grab a snack or pick up something you forgot to bring, such as sunscreen. For stunning views as far as the eye can see, you can hop on the SkyWheel Myrtle Beach or check out what lives under the waves at the Ripley's Aquarium at Myrtle Beach. Grab the best burger you've ever had at River City Cafe before making your way home. 

A sandy beach with a clear blue sky and calm sea.

Asheville, NC

Tucked away in the mountains around two and half hours from Columbia, Asheville, NC, provides an eclectic vibe and stunning views. When you arrive, enjoy authentic North Carolina barbecue at Luella's Bar-B-Que and indulge in a basket of hush puppies and scratch-made banana pudding. You can see how the other half lived with a tour of Biltmore Estate. In the downtown area, you'll find unique shops and national chains. You can check out the studios of numerous local artists and stop at one of the many cafes for an afternoon snack.

Congaree National Park 

If you love spending time outdoors, the Congaree National Park is less than half an hour from Columbia and features more than 26,000 acres of land to explore. The park features one of the largest sections of an old-growth bottomland hardwood forest, and you can bring your dog to explore with you. There are more than 10 different hiking trails rated from easy to difficult for you to explore based on your experience. You should plan to pack water, lunch, and a snack since there aren't any options available in the park. When you prefer paddling to hiking, you'll find that both the Congaree and Wateree Rivers sweep through the area. You can bring a canoe or kayak for a day on the water. 

A wooden walkway leads through a forest with sunlight shining through the trees.

Sesquicentennial State Park

Also half an hour's drive, the Sesquicentennial State Park is an outdoor lover's day trip from Columbia, SC. It's also a great one if you're looking for a way to cool off because the park has a splash pad to cool off in the summer heat, two playgrounds, and a dog park for your pup. At the park, you can rent a kayak, canoe, or padel boat for some time out on the water. If you prefer, you can hike the Sandhills Hiking Trail or bring your mountain bike for the six-mile, blue diamond mountain bike trail. As the day winds down, rent one of the three picnic shelters or four picnic pads for a cookout. 

After Day Trips From Columbia, SC, Unwind in Your New Townhome

Road trips are great, but coming home at the end of one is pure bliss. With community walking trails, manicured landscapes, and a community fire pit, West Winds Townhomes is a welcoming environment where you can get to know your neighbors. Contact us today for a tour of the property and to find your new home in Columbia, SC.