Travel and Outdoors

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Outdoors
Best places to work outside in Columbia
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.
April 14, 2026 03:25 PM
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Ben McBee
Two Army soldiers in fatigues evaluate a hole at Fort Jackson Golf Course
Culture
Fort Jackson Golf Club is now open to the public
Check out all the details of this club heralded as “the finest golf operation the military has to offer.”
August 17, 2023
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David Stringer
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Travel and Outdoors
Goat Daddy’s Farm: a viral sensation in our backyard
Goat Daddy’s Farm in Elgin, just outside of Columbia, opens its doors to visit it’s array of rescue animals and dairy goats. Plus, you can pick up some cheese and raw goats milk for the road.
August 16, 2023
 · 
David Stringer
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Travel and Outdoors
Phase 1 complete in Congaree River Cleanup
Crews are working to remove tar like material and clean up the Congaree River, and the first phase is now complete. Keep an eye out for phase II coming soon.
August 14, 2023
 · 
David Stringer
A couple looking at the Blue Ridge Mountains from the patio of The Omni Grove Park Inn.
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Pack your bags, grab your favorite person, and save 15% on an end-of-summer getaway at The Omni Grove Park Inn.
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Travel and Outdoors
A refreshing road trip to Healing Springs
Natural springs in the Midlands of South Carolina are rare, making Healing Springs, also known as God’s Acre Healing Springs, a unique destination.
July 31, 2023
 · 
David Stringer
Old Mill Pond Trail
Development
The Old Mill Pond in Lexington will be refilled after eight years
Word on the boardwalk is that the town of Lexington will also build a walking trail encircling the pond, adding bridges and boardwalks.
July 24, 2023
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Samantha Robertson
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Travel and Outdoors
Take an accessible hike on one of these trails in Columbia
These are three of our favorite local accessible trails that are wheelchair-friendly.
July 17, 2023
 · 
Trevor Peters
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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
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Sponsored
Win a choose-your-own-adventure Wild Dunes vacation
Here’s how to enter to win an unforgettable trip to the Lowes Foods House.
Sponsored by
Fireworks over Segra Park
Events
Where to watch fireworks on the Fourth of July in Columbia, SC
Check out these local events to see fireworks and celebrate Independence Day in and around the Soda City.
June 28, 2023
 · 
Samantha Robertson
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More from COLAtoday
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Arts
Where to take music lessons in Columbia
From toddlers to retirees, explore local schools and programs that keep Columbians learning and playing music.
September 25, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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Food
Late night food in the Soda City
Discover Columbia’s late-night dining spots, from Tex-Mex and pizza to pub fare and desserts, perfect for post-11 p.m. cravings.
September 24, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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Events
Columbia’s fall bucket list
Check off each of these bucket list items to make the most of the fall season in the Midlands.
September 23, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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Play
Fall events happening around the Midlands
Make the most of the cooler weather with this list of the best local events and activities happening this fall.
September 23, 2025
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David Stringer
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Food
7 Oktoberfest events in the Midlands
Oktoberfest is almost here and luckily you don’t have to travel far to join in on the celebrations — we complied seven festivals in the Midlands to break out your lederhosen for.
September 23, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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History
Do you remember the 21st night of September in Columbia?
Do you remember the 21st night of September? Join us on a trip down memory lane to see what was happening in Columbia this week throughout the years.
September 18, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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Live
A Guide to Midlands Museums
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.
September 17, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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Arts
25 concerts to see in Columbia this fall
From rock and R&B to country and rap, some big tours are coming through the Midlands this fall.
September 16, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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City
Spread the local love with COLAtoday’s Best
Make your voice heard, nominate your favorite local biz and they could win COLAtoday’s Best Competition.
September 15, 2025
 · 
Staff
A tray of In-N-Out Burger menu items — including two burgers and a fry basket.
Food
So close, but so far: Chains readers’ wish were in Columbia
Sure, you could take an hour drive to your favorite chain restaurants — but wouldn’t it be better if they were right down the road?
September 11, 2025
 · 
David Stringer