Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Columbia?

Should you spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Columbia?

Not sure how much time you'll need in Columbia, South Carolina? Most people spend one to two days in Columbia during their visit. After all, the friendly city will let you tour the famous sights and museums, take advantage of the local nightlife, and go shopping.

Columbia is the capital city of the state of South Carolina. The city has some trendy shopping areas as well as some interesting museums. Most people don't spend much time visiting Columbia, but there are a number of ways to pass a day or two.

Do you have 3, 4, or 5 days to visit Columbia? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.

Is 3 days enough time in Columbia?

Three days is more than sufficient for an in-depth trip to Columbia, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. The museums and landmarks, the nightlife, and the many shops on your own schedule. Then, unwind at your hotel or use Columbia as a hub for some nice day trips in the surrounding areas.

How to spend 3 days in Columbia

You'll find a few good museums and historic landmarks here, so it's worth your time to spend a day exploring a few of them. As the state capital, there are some decent museums around town like the Columbia Museum of Art, the South Carolina Military Museum, the South Carolina State Museum, and the U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Museum.

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. You'll find live music venues as well as low key bars and more trendy cocktail lounges.

Shopping in Columbia is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. You'll find independent and locally owned shops along Devine Street and in the Five Points area. Also interesting are the Vista, which is a warehouse district, and Trenholm Plaza.

After you've explored most of Columbia, take a day trip to one of the many beautiful destinations nearby.

Is 4 days enough time in Columbia?

Four days is more than enough time to see everything that Columbia has to offer. After all, it's not such a huge city. Many visitors prefer to spend one to two days here, so you'll be able to take in all of the museums and landmarks, the nightlife, and the many shops at your own pace. We have a few suggestions of things to do while you're visiting, and then you can take a day trip if you're looking to explore further around the area.

Columbia, SC

How to spend 4 days in Columbia

Having 4 days in Columbia will provide you with more time to take in the best activities in the city.

With so much time here, you should absolutely take another day trip to one of the many nearby destinations around Columbia. Plenty of amazing options are available.

Is 5 days enough time in Columbia?

Five days is more than enough time to see pretty much everything in Columbia, as it's not as large as some other cities. You can move at your own pace and relax in your hotel. Tour the famous sights and museums, take advantage of the local nightlife, and go shopping. You could also use Columbia as a base for exploring the nearby destinations. You'll find some great day trips in the region.

How to spend 5 days in Columbia

With 5 days in Columbia, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy everything the city has to offer at your own relaxed pace. You'll want to spend plenty of time perusing the musuems, hopping around the bars and clubs, browsing the shops, and dining at local restaurants. You can also relax at your hotel, or casually explore this city looking for hidden gems. Also, consider taking some day trips to nearby destinations where you can explore more of the region.

More Info

If you're looking for more information about Columbia, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.