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Your Ultimate Guide to Columbia

Live

Discover Columbia’s late-night dining spots, from Tex-Mex and pizza to pub fare and desserts, perfect for post-11 p.m. cravings.
Make the most of the cooler weather with this list of the best local events and activities happening this fall.
With a history dating back thousands of years, museums in the Midlands showcase the history of the area, from the earliest settlers to the the trains that transformed cities and towns.
Explore these dog-friendly businesses in Columbia that span from places to eat, drink, shop, exercise, and stay the night.

Work

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.
The Columbia metro area covers Calhoun, Clarendon, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lexington, Newberry, Orangeburg, and Richland counties.
If you don’t have coffee already in hand, consider this your sign to grab some with our coffee guide, featuring 25+ local coffee shops.

Play

Got a hot new fling? Hoping to spice things up with your longtime partner? We’re here to help plan your next date night in Soda City.
Check out these 11 hiking trails catering to all skill levels in and around Columbia, SC, for outdoor adventures.
Pack your reusable shopping bags, because we’ve rounded up 10 farmers markets around Columbia, SC.
Check out our guide to the many meaningful murals you can find around our city.

COLAtoday's Best

At COLAtoday, we share hyper-local and need-to-know information about your Columbia faves. Now, it’s time for you to tell us the best biz in the city. Meet: COLAtoday’s Best. From coffee shops to event venues, we’re asking for your insight on the top-tier spots Columbia has to offer.

Nominations open September 15, 2025 and will close October 3, 2025. Voting for each category’s top nominations will begin October 20, 2025 and end on November 25, 2025.
Check out our other Guides
Class is in session — become familiar with how Columbia’s City Council works, and explore your role as an active citizen.
We’re highlighting the 28 best parks the Midlands has to offer — complete with scenic trails, splash pads, riverfront views, and plenty of space to play, picnic, and relax.
Stevie Nicks? Check. Jerry Cantrell? Check. It’s not a bad idea to triple check this list of upcoming concerts and get your tickets before they sell out in Columbia, SC.
Parking can be frustrating, especially while living in a city, so we’ve put together a handy go-to guide on how to park in Columbia.
We’ve made a concerted effort to orchestrate this roadmap, so you can focus on finding the artists you adore.
Dig into Columbia’s must-try pizza shops including local legends, fancier fare, cross-country crusts, and more.
From lifting weights, indoor rock climbing, personal training, dance fitness, boxing classes, and martial arts programs — we’ve rounded up 30+ gyms and fitness offerings around Columbia.
We’re highlighting the best kid-friendly activities that Columbia, SC has to offer — complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
Check out winter and holiday-themed events happening in and around Columbia in this seasonal guide.
Becoming a new resident is easy with these tips.