- The list below includes 37 free or cheap things to do in or near Columbia, South Carolina, including 35 different types of inexpensive activities like Parks, Movie Theaters, Military Museums and Nature & Wildlife Areas.
- From University of South Carolina to Saluda Shoals Park, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Columbia and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Irmo, West Columbia and Winnsboro.
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0.0 Miles
Combatants wage a paintball war on fields with airstrips, Jeeps, radar towers, planes, sandbag foxholes, and two-story village huts
0.6 Miles
Famous for its sports programs, the University of South Carolina is also a respected state-run research university. Its most popular programs include health sciences, medicine, biology, physics, chemistry and engineering.
9.4 Miles
There are many appealing amenities at the Saluda Shoals Park in Columbia, South Carolina. Its launching docks accommodate canoes, kayaks, rowboats and light, single-motor watercraft. The park also has a large gazebo and a huge event pavilion.
2.2 Miles
92%
261 votes
312 Laurel Street, Columbia, SC 29201
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The breathtaking Columbia Canal & Riverfront Park are a main attraction in Columbia, South Carolina. Picnicking, strolling and outdoor relaxation are the most popular visitor activities. The park's canal views are most impressive at sunrise and sunset.
8.1 Miles
Encompassing over 2,000 acres, Harbison State Forest is an educational expanse of land. The forest is used as a getaway and venue for learning for children and adults alike.
9.4 Miles
Known locally as Sesqui, Sesquicentennial State Park offers 1,400 acres of heavily wooded terrain with nature trails, green space and a lake. The park provides camping sites, a dog park, picnic facilities, a children's playground and boat rentals.
9.4 Miles
83%
6 votes
5605 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC 29212
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From wooden boardwalks to water playgrounds, The River Center At Saluda Shoals Park offers visitors a riverfront park with swimming and hiking areas. The park features large, covered picnic areas with dozens of picnic tables and grills.
0.6 Miles
At the heart of Columbia, South Carolina sits Finlay Park, a huge verdant expanse that hosts most of the city's fairs, festivals and other large-scale outdoor gatherings. The park is open every day between sunrise and sunset, and many events held there last long into the night.
0.6 Miles
A downtown park spanning 18 acres, Finlay Park was originally dedicated in 1859 as Sidney Park. Renamed in 1992, the park was revamped with two playgrounds, waterfalls, a man-made lake, sports fields, and a fountain.
2.3 Miles
Located in Columbia, South Carolina, the Riverbanks Zoo & Botanical Garden is a favorite destination for animal lovers. It features animals from throughout the world, exotic plants and plentiful concessions. It also has a zipline course.
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The State House in Columbia, South Carolina is the seat of the state government. Visitors are welcome. Free walk-in tours are given several times daily. Tours are also complimentary for groups of more than ten people, but advance notice is required.