COLUMBIA COOL As the capital city, Columbia effortlessly marries urban vibrancy with the allure of the great outdoors, making it a perfect destination for a family-friendly weekend. Fun Weekend of Day 1: Friday Kick off the weekend with something sweet from The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli in the posh Devine Street neighborhood. Then, go on a wild adventure at the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden , home to more than 3,000 animals including otters, koalas and gorillas — plus all kinds of sea creatures at its Darnall W. and Susan F. Boyd Aquarium & Reptile Conservation Center. park with wetland boardwalks, scenic lake views, a splash pad and two playgrounds. In the evening, return to The Vista , Columbia’s arts, dining and entertainment district on the Congaree River. Explore 45-plus restaurants and bars, 60 artists' galleries, specialty shops and a diverse mix of businesses. Day 3: Sunday Day 2: Saturday Take in culture and creativity at the Soda City Market , which transforms Main Street into a hub of local vendors. Then stop by The Gourmet Shop in Five Points for freshly baked bread and to-go containers of their famous chicken salad and pimento cheese to enjoy for an afternoon picnic in Sesquicentennial State Park , a 1,419-acre For brunch or lunch in West Columbia, treat yourself to Hawaiian pineapple bread French Toast at the art-filled Cafe Strudel , or go for brisket chili and slaw-topped hot dogs at the James Beard-nominated City Limits Barbeque . Then, cheer on the Columbia Fireflies baseball team at Segra Park (which offers sensory bags equipped with Puro Sound Labs noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools and other sensory-friendly items). 1/2 PG AD Soda City Market, Columbia DiscoverSouthCarolina.com 63
South Carolina Vacation Guide SC 2025: Page 63
