🛬 How to Get to Columbia

✈️ By Flight:
Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) – The primary airport, just 15 minutes from downtown.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) – A larger airport, about 1.5 hours away.
Transport Options from CAE:
Shuttle & Rideshare: Uber, Lyft, and taxis available.
Car Rentals: Recommended for getting around easily.

🚗 By Car:
From Charleston: 2-hour drive via I-26 W.
From Atlanta: 3-hour drive via I-20 E.
From Charlotte: 1.5-hour drive via I-77 S.

🚆 By Train & Bus:
Amtrak (Columbia Station): Direct service from major East Coast cities.
Greyhound & Megabus: Affordable bus options from surrounding areas.

🚍 How to Get Around Columbia
The COMET Bus System: Public transportation covering downtown and surrounding neighborhoods.
Rental Cars & Rideshares: Uber, Lyft, and taxis available for easy travel.
Biking & Walking: Downtown Columbia is pedestrian-friendly with bike lanes.

🏨 Where to Stay in Columbia

Luxury (5-Star Hotels):
Hotel Trundle – A boutique hotel blending modern style with historic charm.

Mid-Range (4-Star Hotels):
Graduate Columbia – A stylish hotel near the University of South Carolina.
Hilton Columbia Center – A great location near restaurants and attractions.

Budget-Friendly (3-Star & Local Stays):
Hampton Inn Columbia-Downtown Historic District – A reliable and comfortable stay.
Local Inns & B&Bs: Charming accommodations with Southern hospitality.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Columbia

Casual & Local Favorites:
Zesto – A retro-style diner serving famous fried chicken and soft-serve ice cream.
Big T’s Bar-B-Que – A must-visit for classic Southern BBQ.

Fine Dining & Special Experiences:
Terra – Farm-to-table dining with an upscale touch.
Halls Chophouse Columbia – A premier steakhouse with Southern elegance.

Diverse Dining Options:
Motor Supply Co. Bistro – A top-rated restaurant offering globally inspired dishes.
The War Mouth – A casual spot known for whole-hog barbecue and craft cocktails.

🎭 Things to Do in Columbia

🏛️ Historic Landmarks & Museums:
South Carolina State House: A historic government building with guided tours.
Robert Mills House & Gardens: A beautifully preserved neoclassical home.

🌳 Outdoor & Scenic Attractions:
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden: One of the top zoos in the Southeast, featuring giraffes, koalas, and botanical gardens.
Congaree National Park: A stunning national park with hiking trails and kayaking opportunities.
Finlay Park: A scenic downtown park with a waterfall and picnic areas.

🎶 Arts, Entertainment & Shopping:
Columbia Museum of Art: A diverse collection of European and American art.
The Vista: A lively district with bars, galleries, and boutique shops.

🏀 Sports & Events:
Williams-Brice Stadium: Home to the University of South Carolina Gamecocks football team.
Colonial Life Arena: Hosting concerts, basketball games, and major events.

🦁 Zoos & Aquariums:
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden: A nationally recognized zoo featuring lions, pandas, and tropical gardens.