Ball out for the big game

South Carolina Men’s Basketball faces Gonzaga on Saturday at 6:09 p.m. for the first round of Final Four play. And if you’re like us, you’re too broke for the $1000+ flight to Phoenix after Greenville + NYC.

So: Where to go out downtown to witness Gamecock sports history? (Win or lose.)

Our picks from where to watch:

  • Craft & Draft // Get there early to grab a spot at the bar for optimal game time viewing.

  • Henry’s in Cayce // Hopefully, since this Hank’s location just opened, you can fly under-the-radar + avoid the crowds.

  • Thirsty Fellow // Pizza + a porch-view of Colonial Life Arena.

  • Five Points // You saw Twitter last weekend.

Our picks from where to avoid the madness:

  • The Whig // While the city above ground cheers for the Gamecocks, you can cheers to your PBR + hot dog.

  • Lula Drake // Drinking *garnet* Pinot Noir counts as moral support, right?

Free Times

More from COLAtoday
Bluetile’s first Nike SB Dunk arrives in Columbia with a butterfly-inspired design and a Five Points block party on Saturday, May 2.
Richland Library is marking National Library Week with a collectible ND Stevenson card and a behind-the-scenes nod to library workers.
The Gervais Street Bridge Dinner is back this fall, returning as the newly renamed Three Rivers Bridge Dinner.
Columbia’s Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli will open a second location in Lexington, taking over the former Café Strudel space.
Columbia and SCDOT are seeking public input on plans to improve safety and connectivity along Assembly Street in downtown Columbia.
Riverbanks Zoo welcomes endangered cotton-top tamarins, including a young female rescued from the pet trade and now on view.
Long lines, exclusive vinyl, and live performances bring crowds to Papa Jazz and Scratch N Spin.
When the sun is shining and the weather is perfect, pack a bag and head out to one of the many spots great for remote work in Columbia. From coffee shops to public parks, we have a plethora of places to refresh your mind and step away from your home desk.
Pack your reusable shopping bags, because we’ve rounded up 10 farmers markets around Columbia, SC.