South Carolina Vacation Guide - SC 2025

Rising from Gervais and Main streets in all its granite glory, the South Carolina State House in Columbia is the epicenter of the state’s political power and a testament to its journey through pivotal moments in American history. This is where the state’s legislative and executive branches meet, and the surrounding grounds tell stories of the past.

Construction on the present-day State House began in 1854 but was interrupted by the American Civil War, when General Sherman and the Union Army captured Columbia in Sherman’s famous March to the Sea. The Capitol building was finally completed in 1903, and numerous monuments and features have been added throughout the decades.

Explore the stunning architecture and rich history of the grounds on a free guided or self-guided tour, available Mon.–Sat. Visitors may enter the State House through the public entrance on the Sumter Street side of the building. Take in the towering granite columns, ornate lamp posts and shiny copper dome before venturing inside to marvel at even more grandeur, including ornate twin staircases, pink marble parquet floors, carved wood and mosaic stained glass.

Don't miss the gift shop for South Carolina-themed gifts, plus apparel and home décor sporting the iconic palmetto and crescent symbol.

30+ Monuments

From war monuments to commemorative sculptures of South Carolina’s leaders, each piece reveals a facet of the state’s past and present.

7 Buildings

Along with the State House, the Complex is home to numerous government offices and courtrooms.

6 Bronze Stars

Marked by bronze stars, see where General Sherman’s cannons shelled the blue granite walls of the Capitol in 1865, shortly before the city surrendered to Union troops during the Civil War.

Scan the QR code to download free brochures, a State House scavenger hunt and to see the schedule of free tours.