A locals’ guide to a picnic in Columbia SC

If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, after Elsa lets it go, pack a basket, summon your inner Yogi Bear + head outside for a picnic. We’ve got all the local spots that you should put on your list next time you’re looking to take lunch outside. ☀️

First step— making the perfect basket. Start with a to-go charcuterie board from Abundant Graze (because who doesn’t love cheese). From there, grab lunch from the Gourmet Shop (we’re talkin’ pesto pasta salad, a BLT croissant + more). Don’t forget to hydrate with a juice from Vista Nutrition or The Groove Smoothie Juice Bar. Finally, treat yourself to something sweet from Silver Spoon Bake Shop or Blue Flour Bakery.

Once you have your basket prepped, Cola has plenty of beautiful spots to head to set up your lunch. Catch some water views of the Congaree with a picnic table at the West Columbia Riverwalk Park. Looking for some more shade? Plant yourself at UofSC’s Horseshoe under one of the historic oak trees. If you’d rather be people watching, spread your blanket out on the State House grounds + take a self-guided tour while you’re there. If you’re looking for something new, check out Page Ellington Park, Bull Street’s latest development, which is complete with paths, a dog park, shelters + a 2-acre pond.

If you’d rather skip the steps and have your picnic prepped for you, Cola’s got options for that, too. Check out Picnic Pop-Up SC + keep an eye on their upcoming events to get tickets. They’re hosting a pop-up 1 Sunday each month and will provide a curated spot, a charcuterie board, live entertainment, games, a bar + more.