Let Love bloom
Things To Do
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Home to over 2,000 animals, lush botanical gardens, and even a splash zone, Riverbanks is a Columbia favorite for guests of all ages. Feed a giraffe, wander through kangaroo country, or simply enjoy a sunny stroll surrounded by beauty—it’s the perfect way to spend a few hours before the big day!
Soda City Market
Every Saturday morning, Columbia’s Main Street transforms into a lively open-air market filled with local vendors, live music, and mouthwatering eats from around the world. Grab a coffee, browse unique handmade finds, and soak up the festive atmosphere—it’s the perfect way to start your weekend in the city!
Congaree National Park
Just a short drive from Columbia, Congaree offers towering trees, winding boardwalk trails, and peaceful waterways perfect for a kayak or canoe. Whether you’re up for an adventurous paddle or a leisurely stroll, it’s a beautiful escape into South Carolina’s wild side.
Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Kaminsky’s is a must. Known for its decadent cakes, warm cobblers, and over-the-top milkshakes, this cozy spot is Jason and I’s favorite dessert café—we’ve shared multiple date nights here! Bonus: they’re open late, so dessert can be your nightcap.
Columbia Craft Brewing Company
Located in the heart of downtown Columbia, Columbia Craft Brewing Company is a local favorite known for its wide variety of creative craft beers, from hazy IPAs to refreshing lagers and unique sours. With a laid-back atmosphere, outdoor seating, and regular food truck rotations, it’s the perfect spot to relax, grab a pint, and enjoy the local flavor of Columbia.
South East Park & Tennis Center
Step into one of Columbia’s hidden gems: a shaded, tree-canopied escape with 16 lighted courts (12 hard, 4 clay) tucked into a beautiful 62-acre park. This is one of Jason’s favorite places to play tennis with all of his best friends—and with its scenic views, peaceful trails, and plenty of areas to walk around, it’s the perfect place to enjoy fresh air before or after the festivities.
Ruby Slipper & Ruby Sunshine
Start your morning with a Southern twist at Ruby Slipper Café. Famous for its creative brunch dishes, indulgent pancakes, and signature cocktails like the mimosa flight, it’s the perfect spot to fuel up before a day of exploring. With locations in Columbia, SC, as well as West Ashley and Downtown Charleston, it’s an easy (and delicious) stop no matter where you’re staying.
The Historic Charleston City Market
A must-visit in the Holy City, the Charleston City Market stretches through the heart of downtown with rows of local vendors, sweetgrass basket weavers, and unique Lowcountry treasures. It’s a regular day date spot for Jason and me—we love wandering the aisles, sampling local treats, and taking home a little piece of Charleston charm.
Charleston Sports Pub
Casual, lively, and full of hometown flavor, Charleston Sports Pub is a go-to for burgers, wings, and ice-cold drinks. It’s not just any pub to us—Jason and all his groomsmen ate here every week while they attended The Citadel, making it a place full of great food and even better memories.
The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina
Known as “The Military College of South Carolina,” The Citadel is steeped in tradition, history, and Southern charm. Its beautiful campus—marked by stately white barracks, parade grounds, and views along the Ashley River—offers visitors a chance to stroll through one of Charleston’s most iconic landmarks. This is where Jason earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering, met all of his best friends (now his groomsmen), and where our own love story began when we met in college.
Cypress Gardens
A breathtaking Lowcountry treasure, Cypress Gardens is a maze of blackwater cypress swamps, blooming gardens, and scenic walking trails. Visitors can take a romantic flat-bottom boat ride through the moss-draped trees—just like a scene from The Notebook, which was filmed here. This magical place is especially close to our hearts, as it’s where Jason got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. If you have time during the wedding weekend, it’s well worth the visit.
Rainbow Row
No trip to Charleston is complete without a walk past Rainbow Row, the city’s most photographed street. This charming stretch of pastel-colored historic homes along East Bay Street perfectly captures Charleston’s beauty and romance. Whether you’re snapping photos, enjoying a leisurely stroll, or simply soaking in the charm, Rainbow Row is a must-see that feels like stepping straight into a postcard.
Angel Oak Tree
Standing tall for centuries, the Angel Oak is one of Charleston’s most magical sights. This magnificent live oak, believed to be over 400 years old, stretches its massive branches like something out of a fairytale, creating a canopy of shade and wonder. Visiting the Angel Oak feels like stepping back in time and experiencing the quiet beauty and strength of the Lowcountry—it’s a must-see for anyone looking to capture a little piece of Charleston’s magic.