Visiting the University of South Carolina

History, Scale & Academic Prestige

The University of South Carolina was founded in 1801 as South Carolina College, evolving over more than two centuries into the flagship public research university of the state. Today, its Columbia campus is the largest in the University of South Carolina system. It holds an R1 Carnegie classification, indicating “very high research activity.”

The university is notable for its rich special collections. For instance, it hosts one of the largest collections of Robert Burns and Scottish literature outside Scotland and the world’s largest Ernest Hemingway collection.

Campus Character & Architecture

USC’s campus blends its historic core with modern additions. The heart of the original campus is the Old Campus District, also known as “the Horseshoe”, surrounded by classic academic buildings and landscaping, many of which are part of a designated historic district.

Meanwhile, newer residential, academic, and amenity buildings extend outward, creating a mix of old and new that’s both visually striking and functional for campus life. Part of what makes USC such a popular spot for photos is this layering of eras and styles.

Campus Tours & Visitor Center

USC offers guided campus tours multiple times each weekday when classes are in session. Each tour lasts about two hours, starting with a 20-minute presentation on admissions followed by a guided walk by a student ambassador.

If your schedule doesn’t match tour times, self-guided tours are also an option. The Visitor Center can help arrange group visits, special interest tours, and local campus and city experiences.

Best Time to Visit

Fall (late August–October) is ideal for combining campus tours and football games (if the season is running).
Spring is also nice for outdoor walks and milder weather.
Summer is busier with orientations and fewer classes, though you’ll have more flexibility.
Winter? Try to avoid exam periods or major breaks, when tours may be limited and campus activity lulls.

The Horseshoe & Old Campus District

This historic core is USC’s iconic image — a horseshoe shape of buildings and leafy quadrangles. It’s part of the Old Campus District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Walk through these classical brick and stone buildings, take photos, and soak in the university’s heritage.

Libraries, Museums & Campus Landmarks

Thomas Cooper Library & South Caroliniana Library: major academic and archival resources.
McKissick Museum: often houses exhibitions linking South Carolina history, art, and culture.
World War Memorial Building: a notable on-campus landmark.
Visitor Center/Admissions Hub: often features displays, exhibits, and helpful materials.

Arboretum & Green Spaces

USC is home to the W. Gordon Belser Arboretum, a tranquil botanical garden that’s open periodically to the public. Strolling through the tree-lined quads, shaded walkways, and campus green spaces is a pleasure, especially in spring or fall.

The Gamecocks & Their Leagues

USC’s athletic teams are known as the Gamecocks and feature 19 varsity sports. Most teams compete in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), while men’s soccer competes in the Sun Belt Conference (because the SEC doesn’t sponsor men’s soccer).

Major Venues

Catch a game at the Williams-Brice Stadium football stadium.
Colonial Life Arena is a basketball and multipurpose arena. It seats nearly 18,000 people for basketball and is among the largest campus arenas in the state.
The Eugene E. Stone III Stadium (nicknamed “The Graveyard”) is a soccer stadium, seating about 5,000.

How to Get Tickets & Gameday Tips

Check Gamecock Online and USC Athletics for schedules, ticket packages, and single-game availability.
Arrive early on game day — getting through traffic, parking, and security can take time.
Tailgating is a big part of football culture; fans often show up hours before kickoff.
Familiarize yourself with gate policies (bags, prohibited items, etc.).
For big non-conference or rivalry games, tickets tend to move fast.
For “Know Before You Go” guides (for example, vs. Kentucky in 2025), USC publishes logistics like kickoff times, schedules of events, and fan tips.

Rivalries & Traditions

One of USC’s most notable rivalries is with Clemson University, and their matchups are part of a broader Palmetto Series involving many head-to-head sports. These rivalry events bring higher intensity, more alumni presence, and often special traditions on campus and in the city.

While your focus may be USC, you’ll want to soak in Columbia too. Here are ideas:

Museums, Galleries & Culture

South Carolina State Museum
Columbia Museum of Art
McKissick Museum on USC grounds
Rotating exhibits, lectures, and campus arts events
Historic Columbia walking tours

Parks, Trails & Outdoor Activities

Congaree National Park (within reach if you have more time)
Riverwalk trails along the Congaree & Broad Rivers
City parks and greenways
Lake Murray (boating, fishing, scenic views)

Day Trips & Seasonal Events

Festivals, farmers' markets, seasonal fairs
Local arts and music events
Shopping districts & boutiques
University events open to the public (lectures, performances, exhibits) — check USC’s events calendar

One of the best places to stay near USC Columbia is Chesnut Cottage. Once the home of a Civil War general, our historic building has been lovingly updated to modern standards while maintaining the classic look and feel of an early American home. When you choose to stay at Chesnut Cottage, you enjoy:

Location & Convenience: You’re situated near campus, making your commute short and easy. You’ll avoid the crowds of hotels further away while still being within reach of campus and city highlights.
Amenities & Guest Experience: Chesnut Cottage can emphasize what makes it special: cozy charm, quiet comfort after busy days, delicious breakfasts, and a welcoming atmosphere.

One-Day Visit

Morning: campus tour, walk the Horseshoe, visit library & museum
Lunch near campus
Afternoon: explore local neighborhoods / Columbia museum
Evening: dinner + campus evening walk

Weekend with a Game Day

Day 1: arrival, campus walk, dinner nearby
Day 2: morning campus tour, lunch, tailgate + game (football or basketball)
Day 3: optional cultural or outdoor activity before departure

Evening / Leisure Extensions

Attend a performance or lecture at USC
Sunset walks along Riverwalk
Nighttime city strolls, dessert or café stops

Your Complete Guide to Visiting the University of South Carolina (USC)

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