The Soda City Market is one of our favorite weekend treats in Columbia. Over 100 vendors line Main Street every Saturday (rain or shine) filled with food, arts and crafts! Crawl out of bed early Saturday and check out the blocks and blocks of fun.
Since graduating from the University of South Carolina, we chose to put down roots here in the capital city. We encourage you to check out the most recognizable structure in Columbia — outside of Williams-Brice Stadium, of course. Free guided and self-guided tours are available on the State House grounds on Fridays and Saturdays. To our out of state guests, be sure to visit the gift shop to take home a Palmetto State souvenir. We’re very proud of our state flag around here.
Before you spice up the dance floor with us Saturday night, check out the 31st annual Chili Cook-Off in Five Points. There promises to be over 30 chilis, live music, food trucks, craft beers, corn hole and more. Just be sure to save room for wedding cake! Five Points is an easy five minute drive from 1208 Washington Place.
Columbia boasts one of the best mid-sized zoos in the nation. During your weekend in Columbia, there’s plenty of time to monkey around at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden with over 2,000+ animals.
Many of our guests are staying downtown in close proximity 1208 Washington Place. We think you have made a great choice! There are three districts in Columbia we encourage you to explore during your visit: Main Street, The Vista and Five Points. Main Street is undergoing a huge revitalization and is one of the reasons why we chose our wedding venue downtown. It’s a charming area with something for everyone. Don’t let those parking meters be a deterrent. A FEW MAIN STREET FAVORITES FOOD -- Bourbon East Bay Deli Main Street Public House Cowboy Steakhouse The Grand - boutique bowling alley & restaurant Lula Drake - wine parlour Sweet Cream Co. SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT -- Nickelodeon Theatre The Shoppes on Main Miss Cocky Mast General Store
The Vista is within walking distance to Main Street and will offer even more shopping and dining! The Blue Marlin and Motor Supply Company are certainly the most popular restaurants in the Vista but you really can’t go wrong anywhere you choose. If you're in the mood for sushi, head over to M Vista or Tsunami. Craving a huge burger and shake? Grill Marks is sure to leave you stuffed. Didn't fill your sweet tooth while you were here? Stop by Cupcake Down South or Nonnah's before you head out of town.
If you have an itch for sports while visiting Columbia, we have a few options for you. After all, Columbia is very much a college town and there’s aways a ball bouncing somewhere. The South Carolina Gamecocks women’s volleyball team hosts Missouri on Friday, Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. Tipping off at the same time at Colonial Life Arena, the nationally ranked and ultra popular USC women’s basketball team will host Lander in an exhibition event. If you’re dragging your feet Sunday and not ready to leave our great city, the USC volleyball team hosts Auburn at 1:30 p.m. in another SEC match-up.
Don’t leave Sunday without a full belly. Columbia has plenty of breakfast and lunch spots that we hope one makes a lasting impression on your stay. We have certainly grown fond of a few favorite brunch spots scattered throughout the city. You can’t go wrong with a mini cinnamon roll Cinnamon Roll Deli, Diprato’s pimento cheese, BLD Diner’s French toast, chicken salad at The Gourmet Shop or a classic juicy burger at Pawley’s Front Porch. No matter where your appetite takes you, don’t forget sweet tea. You’re welcome, Connecticut friends.