Support Us Button Widget

Parks and Recreation

TodaysBest-NominateNow-NL-06.25.24_COLA.png
City
Spread the local love with COLAtoday’s Best
From coffee shops to event venues, we’re asking for your insight on the top-tier spots Columbia has to offer.
July 28, 2024 11:59 PM
 · 
Bella Rainey
2.jpeg
Play
Your how-to guide for tubing down the river in Columbia
If you’re planning a tubing trip with friends or family, this guide is for you and highlights everything you need to know about tubing down the river in Columbia
May 9, 2024
 · 
Samantha Robertson
Saluda Shoals Park
Play
25 parks in the Midlands of South Carolina
We’re highlighting 20 parks around Columbia, SC.
April 28, 2024
 · 
David Stringer
Sneakers on pavement.
Culture
Walking trends in Columbia
Average daily walking trips dropped by 36% in the US between 2019 and 2022 — see how Cola compares.
December 1, 2023
 · 
Emily Shea-Owen
Leash Laws
City
Understanding Leash Laws in Columbia
Here’s your guide to leash laws in Columbia so you can keep your pets and surrounding community safe.
July 18, 2023
 · 
Samantha Robertson
4Y3A6152-Enhanced-SR.jpg
Parks and Recreation
Explore Boyd Island in Columbia
Boyd Island is located in the confleunce of three rivers, the Broad, Congaree, and Saluda Rivers near downtown Columbia. The island offers spectacular views on the confluence.
July 11, 2023
 · 
David Stringer
ringoretriever__219538612_1298756973876081_4494481342680904495_n
Play
Dog-friendly businesses guide for Columbia
Explore these dog-friendly businesses in Columbia that span from places to eat, drink, shop, exercise, and stay the night.
August 22, 2021
 · 
Samantha Robertson
Leo’s-Landing-sign-in-columbia-sc
City
The ground breaking to expand Leo’s Landing
August 12, 2021
riverwalk
City
Which walks are Riverwalking again?
September 7, 2017
 · 
Free Times
Good news for Columbia.
Get the best local news & events sent to your inbox each morning, for free.
The Buy

Shop The Buy
Latest News
More from COLAtoday
Gervais Street Columbia-8497.jpg
City
Columbia’s 25 questions for 2025
For the new year, we’re asking readers to submit their top questions about the Soda City for us to answer.
December 16, 2024
 · 
David Stringer
IMG_1502

Where to ski, snowboard, and tube near Columbia, SC this winter
We’re crossing our fingers for some Midlands snow, but the good news is we’re a short drive from spots to ski, snowboard, and tube near Columbia, SC.
December 16, 2024
 · 
Stephanie Freeman
Cayce courts.jpeg
Sports
A new pickleball tournament is coming to Columbia
Calling all pickleball players — the Professional Pickleball Association is partnering with local organizations to host a tournament for amateur and aspiring professional pickleball players over the weekend of March 28-30.
December 13, 2024
 · 
Samantha Robertson
snow
Weather
The history of snow in Columbia, SC
From snowstorms to memorable snowfalls and winter weather locals can expect to see later this season, we’re recapping the history of snow in Columbia.
December 13, 2024
 · 
Samantha Robertson
Big Apple-4891.jpg
Culture
Which locations around Columbia deserve a historical marker?
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Columbia?
December 13, 2024
 · 
Jessalin Heins-Nagamoto
Gamecock WIlly B.JPG
Sports
5 nuggets of Gamecock news you may have missed
From awards to NIL deals, coaching staff changes, and more, here is recent Gamecock news you may have missed this week.
December 11, 2024
 · 
Samantha Robertson
Woman duct taping a box closed at a food drive.
Play
35+ volunteer opportunities in and around Columbia
It’s the holiday season and a perfect time to help a neighbor. This list of volunteer opportunities in Columbia, SC includes everything from Sistercare to the Columbia Museum of Art.
December 11, 2024
 · 
Samantha Robertson
IMG_0475.JPG
Food
Meet the Midlands social media foodies
Discover local food influencers shaping the Midlands dining scene. From trending new openings to hidden gems, these accounts showcase must-try dishes, event highlights, and foodie adventures. Whether you’re craving comfort food or something new, these insiders have recommendations for everyone.
December 10, 2024
 · 
David Stringer
Fireworks at Famously Hot New Year
Events
How and where to celebrate New Years in Columbia, Sc
Whether you want to be home before Midnight or be out on the town at Midnight, there are several ways to ring in the new year around Columbia.
December 9, 2024
 · 
Samantha Robertson
IMG_7031.JPG
Events
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden’s Wild Lights ranked for best zoo lights
Riverbanks Zoo’s Wild Lights dazzles with over 60 glowing lanterns of animals, plants, and pollinators. Enjoy nightly snowfall, Santa visits (through Dec. 23), cozy igloo rentals, and more through Sunday, Jan. 12.
December 6, 2024
 · 
David Stringer