What’s better than a day in Columbia? Free activities in Columbia. If you’re looking for something to do in the Soda City — but don’t want to open your wallet — we’ve got fun things to do that will suit every interest.
Free tours
Anne Frank Center | The Anne Frank Center at USC also offers free tours. Explore the life and legacy of Anne Frank through photos and original artifacts.
Historic Columbia | Residents of Richland and Lexington County can tour a house museum for free every third Sunday of the month. Can’t make it? Try a self-guided tour instead.
Sally Salamander Walking Tour
Embark on a self-guided adventure through downtown Columbia with the Sally Salamander Walking Tour. Follow bronze statues of South Carolina’s state amphibian, the spotted salamander, to discover 20 notable landmarks and historic sites.
The State House | Take a free guided tour from Monday through Friday. Walk the 100-year-old floors and witness history in the making.
Family time
Richland Library | First stop? Check out the events page for storytimes, craft hours, and classes. There’s something for all ages.
Columbia Fire Museum, 1800 Laurel St. | Take your aspiring firefighter to this one-room exhibit with displays and antiques commemorating the history of Cola’s fire department.
Lexington County Public Library
Explore free programs for all ages, from Preschool Explorers and Afternoon Art to LEGO Club and monthly Historically Speaking history talks.
McKissick Museum | Located on the historic Horseshoe at USC, this free museum explores Southern culture and natural history through rotating exhibitions and permanent collections.
Soda City Market | This Main Street market happens every Saturday morning and was recently nominated as one of USA Today’s 10 Best Farmers Markets. Browse local produce, handmade goods, and street performances, no purchase is necessary to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Get outside
Congaree National Park | With its free entry, Congaree National Park is the obvious choice. Check out our guide to the park for everything from getting there to where to fish.
Midland’s public parks | With over 60 parks and green spaces across the city, Columbia offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors for free. Stroll riverfront trails, let the kids loose on playgrounds and splash pads, or enjoy a picnic in the shade.
Self-Guided Public Art Tour | Columbia is full of murals, sculptures, and installations. Download a public art map from One Columbia and explore creative works scattered across downtown and surrounding neighborhoods.
Three Rivers Greenway | Explore miles of paved trails along the Broad, Saluda, and Congaree Rivers. Walk, run, or bike through Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Cayce Riverwalk, and West Columbia’s Riverwalk — each offering scenic views and access points to nature.
Or maybe you’re beach-bound. In that case, take a day-cation to any one of these five beaches within driving distance.
