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Logo of Chesnut Cottage Inn, established in 1890.
Columbia, SC
803-256-1718
Logo of Chesnut Cottage Inn, established in 1890.
A panoramic view of a stately building with a dome at sunset, surrounded by greenery and cityscape.

ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES

In Columbia, South Carolina

Chesnut Cottage Inn is tucked into a charming historic neighborhood with antebellum homes and mansions, yet close to local attractions, business centers, shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Aerial view of a historic government building surrounded by greenery and cityscape.

The State House

Discover nature and South Carolina's most interesting history on the Capitol grounds! 1100 Gervais Street (803) 734-2430
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Logo for Soda City Tours featuring a bus and a South Carolina outline.

Soda City Tours

Want to quickly see and learn the best of Columbia in the comfort of a private tour bus? We highly recommend SODA CITY TOURS! They are knowledgeable about the history, culture, and natural beauty of the places and provide you with a safe, fun, and informative tour of the City!
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A lone elephant stands in a doorway while another elephant is visible in the background.

Riverbanks Zoological Park and Gardens

One of America's finest zoos, Riverbanks has received numerous awards for design, animal care, and breeding of endangered species. A new botanical garden is reached via a footbridge crossing the Saluda River. 1 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC. 803-779-8717.
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Wooden pathway winding through a sunlit forest with sparse undergrowth.

Congaree National Park

The only national park in the State features the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the U.S., plus lush greenery and native species and plants.
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A row of rental boats lined up at Lake Murray with trees and water in the background.

Lake Murray Boat Rentals

Offering a variety of boats, including pontoons, fishing boats, and kayaks, Lake Murray Boat Rentals makes it easy to explore the lake's 50,000 acres of sparkling water.
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Front view of the Colonial Life Arena, home of South Carolina basketball, featuring a large glass entrance and palm trees.

Colonial Life Arena

Colonial Life Arena hosts an exciting lineup of events, including concerts, sporting events, and performances. It's also home to the University of South Carolina Gamecocks basketball teams and a premier destination for top-tier entertainment.
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A wooden walkway winds through lush greenery along a riverbank.

Riverwalk

The Columbia Riverwalks offer scenic trails along the city's beautiful rivers. With well-maintained paths and breathtaking views of the Congaree, Broad, and Saluda Rivers, these trails provide a peaceful escape just minutes from downtown.
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A young girl with short, wavy hair smiles warmly at the camera.

Anne Frank Center

Discover the life and legacy of Anne Frank at this interactive learning center. Located on the University of South Carolina campus, learn from personal artifacts and engaging displays as you gain insight into Anne's life, the Holocaust, and the importance of human rights.
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A musician playing an electric guitar on stage under dramatic lighting.

The Township Auditorium

The historic auditorium located within walking distance from Chesnut Cottage Inn is a frequent host to favorite bands, comedians, and entertainers.
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A woman in a puffy jacket browses a vibrant fruit and vegetable market.

Soda City Market

Soda City Market is Columbia's weekly Main Street event inspired by traditional European street markets. Open every Saturday 9 a.m. –1 p.m., year-round, rain or shine!
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A dimly lit theater filled with people watching a movie on a large screen.

Columbia's Main Street

Talk a walk down Columbia's bustling Main Street to check out restaurants, catch a movie at South Carolina's only independent theater "The Nick," or play a game at The Grand.
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A band performs live on stage with a guitarist singing and two other musicians playing.

The Vista

The entertainment district of Columbia is full of restaurants, exciting night life, music venues, and shopping. Located down Gervais Street from Assembly Street to Huger.
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