This article collects the best date ideas and romantic things to do in Columbia for couples based on major travel, blogs, reviews, and social media sites.
There are numerous romantic activities available in Columbia. The city’s biggest attractions are listed below, along with ideas for romantic dates. These activities, which range from fine dining to sightseeing throughout the city, are free to attend.
Imagine surprising your loved one with a last-minute trip to Columbia?
Imagine what it was like when you two first met.
Bring those emotions to the forefront as you read this article.
Here are 30+ romantic things to do in Columbia with your partner.
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Table of Contents
Outdoor / Adventurous Date Ideas in Columbia To Have Fun
Ride through the picturesque Saluda Shoals Park
- Cost: $3 – $5 (Ticket)
- Location: 5605 Bush River Rd, Columbia, SC 29212
- Phone: +1 803-772-1228
“The gate attendant was helpful and friendly, giving us advice based on our needs. We enjoyed the river and the paths for the rest of the afternoon.” -James
Imagine yourself biking along a path lined with tall, green trees that stand in front of a sizable lake that sparkles in the late-afternoon sun. Right, that sounds like a dream.
A trip to Saluda Shoals Park can make that fantasy come true. This 400-acre (161.9-hectare) park, situated alongside the Saluda River, has some of the nation’s most beautiful running and biking routes.
Away from the bustle of the city, this is the ideal location for a casual and pleasant date. You have to pay the price of the ticket.
Even a sweet lunch by the riverside is a lovely way to round off the afternoon.
Sail along the spectacular coastline at Saluda Riverwalk
- Cost: N/A
- Location: Candi Ln, Columbia, SC 29210
- Phone: +1 803-365-3235
“We went on the parking lot’s inaugural weekend. There are many paved areas. Restaurants close by. This part, which brings you very close to the water, is one of my favorites. Taking a plunge in the river is made possible by dirt trails.” -Edward
Kayaking on the Saluda River is at the top of the list of fun dates in Columbia.
Imagine yourself sailing along the stunning coastline while taking in the breathtaking sights.
Such an experience leaves a lasting memory.
A crucial piece of advice is to have breakfast before river rafting because it uses a lot of energy and is also enjoyable.
Put on your hiking shoes at Congaree National Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061
- Phone: +1 803-776-4396
“boardwalk that is well-kept through the park. There are several places to sit if you wish to relax. fantastic park rangers extremely knowledgable and helpful.” -Rebecca
If you’re outdoorsy, this is the place to go. The largest deciduous forest in Southeast the United States is found in Congaree National Park.
In such locations, nature awes with its magnificence and beauty. Impressive tranquility is provided by the serene green of the mountains and forested valleys.
You can enjoy biking, hiking, or unwinding by the lake that has been filled. Who knows, perhaps one of those beautiful, fat rainbow trout will bite!
Get acquainted with exotic animals at Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden
- Cost: $11 – $14 (Ticket)
- Location: 1300 Botanical Pkwy, West Columbia, SC 29169
- Phone: +1 803-779-8717
“Lovely and well-maintained Everything is spotless and well-maintained. The displays are expertly put together. Pleasant and competent park staff. I wish I had more time to explore the Botanical Gardens because they are magnificent. -Jason
Love the outdoors and animals?
The zoo and botanical park are also nearby, so you can visit them at once. You have to pay for the ticket.
This is a beautiful chance to get to know exotic creatures worldwide. Take a stroll through the Rose Garden or gaze into the tranquil Asian Garden.
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Gear up for the Scavenger Hunts
- Cost: $10 – $20 (per Activity)
- Location: 100 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: N/A
Up for an adventure?
Grab your companion and take part in one of the scavenger hunts. You have to pay the activity price.
It’s a terrific way to explore a lot of the city in a short time because walkable and driving-required scavenger hunts are available.
Plus, who doesn’t love a riddle?
Music, Art, Historic, Cultural Date Ideas in Columbia
Admire the art at the Columbia Museum of Art
- Cost: $5 – $8 (Ticket)
- Location: 1515 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: +1 803-799-2810
“Despite living in Charleston, I am a member of this museum because I adore it so much. Every time a new exhibit opens, I drive the two hours there, and I’ve never been let down.” -Sharon
Abundant with immaculate paintings and sculptures, a museum trip to the Columbia Museum of Art is always guaranteed.
The 1950-founded Columbia Museum of Art is home to numerous well-known works worldwide. Some of these works are from the ancient Mediterranean and display early Greek culture.
The museum recently debuted galleries featuring contemporary painters like Andy Warhol and Van Gogh. you have to purchase the ticket.
The museum contains a public park and sculpture garden in addition to several highly valued art exhibits, making it the ideal place for a romantic stroll.
Catch a delightful movie at the Nickelodeon Theater
- Cost: $8 (Ticket)
- Location: 1607 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: +1 803-254-8234
“On our date nights, we frequently visit Nickelodeon. Excellent independent films, small venue, and a really cozy vibe! The employees are polite and helpful! close to a number of good restaurants on Main Street. makes for a wonderful date. I heartily endorse it!” -Jeffrey
Enjoy a lovely film at Columbia’s iconic Nickelodeon Theater, and don’t forget the classics.
In contrast to regular movie theaters, this theater is a non-profit venue that offers a carefully chosen collection of indie films, series, and unique community films.
The University of South Carolina students founded this theater on Main Street and hosts various film festivals. You have to purchase the ticket.
The Nickelodeon Theater is ideal for learning about film history and finding interesting upcoming films.
Experience stargazing at Melton Memorial Observatory
- Cost: Free
- Location: 1429 Greene St, Columbia, SC 29208
- Phone: +1 803-777-8105
“Monday nights are free and open to the public, weather permitting. The older, cool-to-use enclosed reflector is still functional despite being older. Additional telescopes will be set up outside on the balcony. A really enjoyable and educational experience.” -Laura
Stargazing is always a romantic choice for a romantic date night.
On the University of South Carolina campus lies the astronomical observatory known as Melton Memorial Observatory.
An advanced telescope at the observatory offers a stunning night sky view.
Nothing compares to stargazing and exploring the solar system.
One of the most original dates you could embark on.
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Discover the city’s arts and culture at The Vista
- Cost: Free
- Location: 807 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: N/A
“Great Pumpkin Ale, sliders, and onion rings. A must-have are pub potatoes. Fantastic service from bartender Katie who found our football game and recommended food and beer! Excellent value and service.” -Timothy
There is no better way to cap the evening than with a round of exploration and drinks at The Vista, the city’s primary center for arts and entertainment.
The Vista, a market square on the banks of the Congaree River, is a lively gathering place.
Explore the galleries, specialty stores, clubs, and pubs scattered throughout the square.
The Vista, the center of the city’s arts and culture, is a magnificent place for a thrilling and enchanting nighttime promenade.
Discover the true spirit of Columbia as you stroll through the city’s most energetic neighborhoods.
Make a wish for a shooting star at South Carolina State Museum
- Cost: $8 – $20 (Ticket)
- Location: 301 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: +1 803-898-4921
“I’ve visited this museum twice (I live 600 miles away) and will do it again if I’m in the region. There are many unique exhibits there that are uncommon in other museums (telescopes, optical illusions etc)” -Ryan
Visit the South Carolina State Museum for a unique cultural date idea.
In addition to having extended hours on Tuesdays, there is also a discount on entrance. You have to pay the price of the ticket.
Make a wish for a shooting star while gazing at the planets and stars in the observatory through a telescope for other romance.
Traverse back in history at South Carolina State House
- Cost: $12 (Ticket)
- Location: 1100 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29208
- Phone: +1 803-734-5049
“Beautiful grounds and a rich history surround the state capitol here! Paul delivered an excellent tour! A well-done introduction before the start of the trip was the 12-minute movie. A nice gift shop is there. It’s worth your time to stop in Columbia!” -Cynthia
The South Carolina State House is one of the most well-known attractions in Columbia and the surrounding area.
It is a famous monument with remarkable Greek Revival architecture and one of the most visited places in the state. You have to pay the price of the ticket.
The building’s construction started in 1851 but wasn’t finished until after the war, by which point the Greek architectural style had been rendered outdated.
Nevertheless, the building’s historical significance and exquisite design make up for this.
A few examples include the President George Washington Memorial, the American-Mexican War Monument, the Revolutionary War Generals Monument, the African-American History Monument, and several other monuments.
Commemorate the military history at the South Carolina Military Museum
- Cost: Free
- Location: 1 National Guard Rd, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: +1 803-299-4440
The South Carolina Military Museum commemorates South Carolina’s military history and is the largest museum of its kind in the country.
Its goal is to honor national guard members as citizen warriors and to preserve their history through a sizable collection of artifacts, exhibits, and displays.
Visitors can view accurate rifles, armor, artillery, clothes, and even armored battle vehicles.
The displays, staff, and volunteers bring South Carolina’s military history to life. They cover everything from the 1670 founding of the South Carolina Militia to its current role.
In addition, they cover the time that the first British troops set foot on Carolina land to the present day’s international endeavors.
Explore the architecture and arts at Robert Mills House and Gardens
- Cost: $7 – $12 (Ticket)
- Location: 1616 Blanding St, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: +1 803-252-1770
The Robert Mills House and Gardens are unique spots for sightseeing, especially if you enjoy architecture and arts.
The residence is a townhouse designed in the elegant Classical Revival style by the namesake Robert Mills. You have to pay the price of the ticket.
It was created in 1823 for Ainsley Hall, a prosperous Columbian merchant, and his wife.
Take in some inspiration on a public art tour
- Cost: Free
- Location: North Village Arts District, 1019 East Walnut St., Columbia, MO 65201
- Phone: N/A
There is art in Columbia, South Carolina, wherever you look, from murals on murals to the enormous fire hydrant in the world.
Check out One Columbia’s extensive collection of public art, and let us know how many you manage to see in a single day.
Think more like paintings of nearby sites, sculptures made of light-catching glass, and abstract landscapes by regional artists!
You may occasionally feel as though you are wandering through a living, breathing art exhibition because of how beautifully the breathtaking murals blend in with the city’s traditions.
Indoor / Relaxing / Foodies Date Ideas in Columbia
Indulge in sweet treats at Scoopy Doo Gelato Shop
- Cost: $3 – $10 (Food)
- Location: 725 Saluda Ave, Columbia, SC 29205
- Phone: +1 803-765-6999
Scoopy Doo Gelato Shop, known as the best gelato place in the entire city, is the perfect place for a particular dessert date.
Scoopy Doo Gelato Shop is an authentic Italian gelato shop with various flavors in the center of Columbia.
The shop’s gelatos, a popular local favorite, are entirely produced in-house using organic and regional ingredients. You have to pay for the meals.
You can enjoy a delightful afternoon by selecting from their various inventive and delectable flavors. This is, without a doubt, one of the sweetest dates you’ll ever be on!
Enjoy a relaxing night at Hunter-Gatherer Brewery & Alehouse
- Cost: $7 – $18 (Drink and meal)
- Location: 900 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: +1 803-748-0540
Hunter-Gatherer Brewery & Alehouse, a local brewery that serves traditional beers and ales, is ideal for a laid-back but romantic meal.
The brewery was founded in 1995 and offered a superb range of homebrewed beers and ales and a curated menu of indulgent foods.
Expect a calm atmosphere and live music at this popular venue. You have to pay for the food and drinks.
Spend some quiet time away from the hectic city while enjoying a romantic dinner and extraordinary beverages.
Spend quality time at Ruth’s Chris Steak House
- Cost: $31 – $35 (Food)
- Location: Columbia Center, 924-A-Senate Street Hilton, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: +1 803-212-6666
Ruth’s Chris Steak House is considered one of the most luxurious, upscale steakhouses.
This restaurant is the perfect place for lively discussion and quality time. They are well known for their butter-topped steak.
This restaurant, in the center of Columbia, has a classy décor and a rich, cozy environment. You have to spend money on food.
Enjoy a delectable menu that includes salads, seafood, and a selection of steaks. Finish your meal with a fine glass of wine to complete the evening.
Browse the abundance of food at Soda City
- Cost: $15 – $40 (Food)
- Location: 1300-1600 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: N/A
Ready to satisfy your appetite?
Come to Soda City for delicious food, live entertainment, and pre-made conversation starters.
All year long, Soda City welcomes locals and visitors and provides various entertainment options. You have to pay for the food.
At the same time, it’s a terrific chance to spend time with the individual exploring the area and visiting tourist attractions.
The profusion of cuisine, gift shopping, and hand-made goods will undoubtedly delight you.
Try out the excellent Italian cuisine at The Villa Tronco Italian Restaurant
- Cost: $25 – $31 (Meal)
- Location: 1213 Blanding St, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: +1 803-256-7677
Villa Tronco is Columbia’s oldest Italian restaurant and one of the oldest in South Carolina.
This place stands out for having a cozy, country cottage atmosphere. They will serve delicious food prepared in the most acceptable Italian way.
We suggest the cheesecake made by chef Carmella and the chicken parmesan. It is praised as the finest restaurant in town. You have to pay for the meal.
Taste the delicious beer at River Rat Brewery
- Cost: $10 – $50 (Food)
- Location: 1231 Shop Rd, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: +1 803-724-5712
Great beer is the catalyst that makes everything better: food, parties, conversation, and fantastic date ideas Columbia offers.
This brewery is a great spot to visit all year round for a genuine taste of delectable beverages and discover a lot about brewing culture.
They maintain a large selection of seasonal beers and have numerous beers on tap year-round. You have to pay for the food.
Soothe your muscles with a spa treatment
- Cost: $63 – $75 (Ticket)
- Location: 245 Championship Way, Harrisburg, PA 17101
- Phone: +1 803-708-6671
A spa treatment will put you in a relaxed state of mind if you’re looking to “treat yourself.”
You can find the most effective massage in Columbia at Master’s Touch Massage Therapy LLC. This spa provides numerous massage, facial, and other body treatment options.
The spa’s techniques will be adapted to meet your inner self, leaving your body and mind at ease and relaxed.
You’ll instantly relax and release any tension accumulated from work and home.
Celebrate your next anniversary at Suishaya Asian Restaurant & Bar
- Cost: $63 – $75 (Ticket)
- Location: 245 Championship Way, Harrisburg, PA 17101
- Phone: +1 803-888-6850
This Pan-Asian eatery off Killian Road is the ideal little spot to commemorate a special occasion.
Their menu is diverse and features outstanding dishes from Japanese and Chinese cuisine that are well prepared.
Private booths are available for sitting, and the décor is upscale with linen tablecloths.
Active and Youthful Date Ideas in Columbia
Exercise at Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 312 Laurel St, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: +1 803-545-3100
The Riverfront Park is a great place to work out. The miles of paved pathways are perfect for taking long strolls or bike rides.
Additionally, you can do a complete workout there.
The park has a spacious area with free exercise equipment. You will undoubtedly enjoy the nicest mini-vacation ever, that much is certain.
Compete in a game of paintball at TriggerTyme
- Cost: $11 – $27 (Game)
- Location: 429 Koon Store Rd, Columbia, SC 29203
- Phone: +1 803-979-8285
If you enjoy working in a group, using flanking techniques, and skulking through marshes and woods, you’re at the right place!
At TriggerTyme, a paintball game day typically begins just before 10:00 am with a safety briefing and a warm-up game to ensure everyone is familiar with the paintball guns, masks, rules, etc.
Each paintball match begins with a brief planning period for each team before the whistle sounds and the plans are implemented. You have to pay for the game.
Games might last anywhere between 20 and 25 minutes. Each game is often played without time or space restrictions.
Typically, participants hike to a location and play three to five games back-to-back before returning to the compound.
Step inside your private adventure at Escapology
- Cost: Free to visit
- Location: 717 Lady St D, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: +1 803-900-4144
Escapology offers the city’s most exciting escape game experience, and all reservations are private (no mixing with strangers).
To assist you in forming and strengthening the ideal team, they provide team-building workshops and immersive escape rooms.
You can practice problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking as you work to fulfill your objective in a time-constrained manner.
Twelve escape rooms, meeting rooms, and a welcoming and roomy lobby are all featured in their 8,000-square-foot facility, which also has a business-friendly atmosphere.
There can fit 90 people inside the room, and we can accommodate parties of up to 180 individuals.
Now only one question remains….have you got what it takes to escape?
Stretch your muscles at Craft Ax Throwing
- Cost: $23. 75 (Per Guest/Hr)
- Location: 700 Gervais St b2, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: +1 803-281-3803
Hatchet tossing, a standard component of lumberjack competitions, is a fun way to spend an afternoon or evening.
Craft Ax Throwing in Columbia, SC, is your destination for trying this growing sport.
They have 17 targeted lanes for your throwing pleasure. In addition, they have knowledgeable personnel who can instruct you on the game’s regulations and some valuable pointers for striking the bullseye.
The HDTVs and fully stocked bar only enhance the overall entertainment experience. You have to pay the payment for each hour.
The ideal venue to organize your upcoming social or professional outing is Craft.
Play a round of mini-golf at Frankies
- Cost: $10 (Mini Golf)
- Location: 140 Parkridge Dr, Columbia, SC 29212
- Phone: +1 803-781-2342
Who doesn’t like a fun round of mini golf?
You’ll keep returning to play more and more of their three Mini Golf courses, each with 54 different holes.
Mini golf is an excellent activity for players of all ages and abilities. You have to pay $10 for mini golf.
Just keep in mind that the lowest score wins.
Hit the rink hard at Skateland
- Cost: $3 – $5 (Ticket)
- Location: 800 Bookman Rd, Elgin, SC 29045
- Phone: +1 803-736-0606
Are you looking for a skating rink near Columbia, SC?
There are plenty of places to try skating in Columbia, whether you want to put on ice skates or roller skates.
Skateland offers indoor play areas and indoor roller skating for family entertainment. You have to pay fro the skating.
There is a skate rental option. Pizza evenings, glow parties, and other special events are among them.
Nature-Inspired Date Ideas in Columbia
Take a relaxing stroll at West Columbia Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater
- Cost: Free
- Location: 109 Alexander Rd, West Columbia, SC 29169
- Phone: +1 803-791-1880
Columbia is home to one of the most romantic places in the state. The West Columbia Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater is the ideal place for a stroll with your special someone while taking in the sunset.
The Riverwalk is a 3.5-mile network of boardwalks that runs alongside the Congaree River.
It features a magnificent view that unquestionably creates a romantic atmosphere. While strolling along the river, you may watch the sun set behind Columbia’s downtown skyline.
On the other hand, you may stroll through the park and cap the evening with a romantic picnic lighted by candles.
Dive into nature at Sesquicentennial State Park
- Cost: $6 (Ticket)
- Location: 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223
- Phone: +1 803-788-2706
Sesquicentennial State Park, locally known as ‘Sesqui,’ is a state park that boasts natural and lush greenery.
Sesqui includes a stunning lake, 1400 acres of pine trees, and nature trails.
It is located in the Sandhills of Downtown Columbia. The park also offers a variety of picnic shelters where you can have a beautiful afternoon meal.
There is no better way to spend time while escaping the hustle and bustle of Downtown Columbia. You have to pay for the ticket.
Plan a picnic at the Historic Horseshoe
- Cost: Free
- Location: Sumter St, Columbia, SC 29201
- Phone: +1 (803) 777-0169
Pack your picnic blanket and some grab-and-go meals from The Gourmet Shop in Five Points and enjoy a short trip to the picturesque Historic Horseshoe in the heart of the University of South Carolina campus.
This place is worth visiting for a day picnic due to its serene atmosphere!
On your way there or back, stop by Papa Jazz Record Shoppe to find “your tune” on vinyl.
Best Things to Do in Columbia, South Carolina
Final Thoughts
South Carolina’s Columbia is a stunning city. The city’s attractions include museums, historic sites, romantic hotels, state parks, hiking trails, golf courses, and renowned restaurants.
The city of Columbia will keep you entertained whether you plan to stay a while or are simply passing through.
With so many options, it can be challenging to decide what to do, but hopefully, this list will help get you started.
We hope you will enjoy all the places on this list.
Have a beautiful time in Columbia!
Thanks for reading!
| I like to travel but also be smart with money. Below are the places where I start my planning with. – ✈️Flights, Hotel, Tours – I seek out Flash Sales to guide my planning 👉 Find good deals – 🛡️Travel Insurance – I like to go to the source like Travelex instead of paying a broker 👉Here – 🚗Car Rental – Rental will save you lots of headaches. Search, compare, and save first up to 30-50% on Discover Cars. 👉 Save Now Links from affiliated brands I like. |
