10 Fun Things to Do in Columbia, SC With Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide
Planning a family trip to Columbia, South Carolina? Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway, a family reunion, or just looking for somewhere new to explore, Columbia has plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained.
From hands-on museums and outdoor adventures to baseball games and one of the Southeast's favorite zoos, there's something for kids of just about every age.
At Heartwood Furnished Homes, we love helping families feel at home while they explore everything Columbia has to offer. We've rounded up some of our favorite family-friendly activities to help you make the most of your visit.
1. Spend a Day at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
No family trip to Columbia is complete without a visit to Riverbanks Zoo & Garden!
Home to thousands of animals, Riverbanks is one of Columbia's most popular attractions, and for good reason. Kids can get up close to wildlife, explore interactive exhibits, and enjoy a full day of adventure.
Beyond the animal exhibits, the Botanical Garden offers beautiful walking paths and Waterfall Junction, a play area where little ones can cool off and burn some energy.
Why families love it: There's enough to see and do to fill an entire day, making it a great outing for kids of all ages.
Plan your visit to Riverbanks Zoo
2. Let Their Imaginations Run Wild at EdVenture Children's Museum
If you're traveling with younger children, EdVenture Children's Museum is a must-visit.
Located in downtown Columbia, this interactive museum is designed to make learning fun through hands-on exhibits, creative play, and exploration.
One of its most recognizable attractions is Eddie, a giant child-shaped exhibit that kids can climb through while learning about the human body.
From imaginative play areas to science-based activities, EdVenture gives kids plenty of opportunities to learn something new without even realizing it.
Why families love it: It's a fantastic indoor activity, especially when Columbia's summer heat or a rainy afternoon calls for a break from the outdoors.
Explore EdVenture Children's Museum
3. Explore the South Carolina State Museum
Right next door to EdVenture, you'll find another great family attraction: the South Carolina State Museum.
With four floors of exhibits covering art, history, science, and technology, there's something to catch everyone's attention.
Kids can learn about South Carolina's natural history, explore fascinating exhibits, and even experience the museum's planetarium or 4D theater.
It's a great way to mix a little education into your vacation while keeping things fun and interactive.
Why families love it: It's an easy activity to pair with EdVenture, and it's especially enjoyable for school-aged children who love science and discovery.
Visit the South Carolina State Museum
4. Enjoy the Outdoors at Saluda Shoals Park
Sometimes the best family activities are the simplest ones.
Located along the Saluda River, Saluda Shoals Park is a wonderful place to spend a morning or afternoon enjoying the outdoors.
Families can explore scenic walking trails, pack a picnic, or let the kids play at Leo's Landing, an inclusive playground designed for children of different abilities.
During warmer months, Saluda Splash offers another fun way for kids to cool off.
Whether you're looking for an active afternoon or just a little fresh air, this park is a great option.
Why families love it: There's plenty of room to run around, explore nature, and enjoy some quality time together.
Learn more about Saluda Shoals Park
5. Catch a Columbia Fireflies Baseball Game
Looking for a fun family evening? Head to Segra Park to cheer on the Columbia Fireflies!
Columbia's Minor League Baseball team offers an entertaining outing for both baseball fans and families who simply enjoy the atmosphere of a ballpark.
Grab some snacks, find your seats, and settle in for an evening of baseball. Depending on the game, there may also be special promotions or themed entertainment.
Even if your kids aren't huge sports fans, there's something special about spending a summer evening at the ballpark.
Why families love it: It's a relaxed, family-friendly way to experience a little local Columbia culture.
Check the Columbia Fireflies schedule
6. Explore Soda City Market on a Saturday Morning
If your family is visiting Columbia over the weekend, make sure to save some time for Soda City Market.
Held on Main Street in downtown Columbia, this lively Saturday market brings together local vendors, food trucks, artists, and small businesses.
Grab breakfast from one of the vendors, browse handmade goods, listen to live music, and enjoy the energy of downtown.
Kids will love exploring the different booths and picking out a special treat, while parents can enjoy locally roasted coffee and shopping.
Why families love it: It's an easygoing way to spend a Saturday morning and get a feel for the local community.
7. Take a Family Adventure to Congaree National Park
Just outside Columbia, Congaree National Park offers a completely different kind of family adventure.
Known for its towering trees and unique floodplain forest, the park is a beautiful place to experience South Carolina's natural landscape.
The Boardwalk Loop is a popular option for families, offering an opportunity to explore the forest without venturing too far off the beaten path.
Keep an eye out for birds, wildlife, and the impressive trees that make this national park so special.
Why families love it: It's a chance to unplug, spend time together outdoors, and experience one of South Carolina's most unique natural attractions.
Be sure to check trail conditions before visiting, as flooding can affect accessibility.
Plan your trip to Congaree National Park
8. Spend a Sunny Afternoon at Lake Murray
When the weather is warm, there's no better place to enjoy some time outside than Lake Murray.
Located just outside Columbia, Lake Murray is a favorite destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and relaxing by the water.
Families can enjoy a picnic with a lake view, spend time at a designated swimming area when open, or plan a day on the water.
If you're visiting during the summer, it's an especially great way to enjoy the sunshine and make some family memories.
Why families love it: Whether your family enjoys water activities or simply relaxing by the lake, there's something for everyone.
9. Get Creative at the Columbia Museum of Art
For a quieter afternoon, head downtown to the Columbia Museum of Art.
While an art museum might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning activities with kids, the Columbia Museum of Art offers family-friendly ways to experience creativity.
Depending on the schedule, families can explore interactive activities, special programs, and exhibits that encourage children to look at art in a new way.
It's a great option for families with curious kids who enjoy drawing, creating, and discovering new things.
Why families love it: It's a fun way to introduce kids to art while enjoying an indoor activity right in the heart of downtown Columbia.
Visit the Columbia Museum of Art
10. Enjoy a Day at Sesquicentennial State Park
Known locally as "Sesqui," Sesquicentennial State Park is another great spot for families who love spending time outdoors.
Located in northeast Columbia, this peaceful park features wooded trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a scenic lake.
Families can take a nature walk, enjoy lunch outside, or spend the afternoon exploring the park.
It's a nice change of pace after a busy day of sightseeing downtown.
Why families love it: It's a relaxing, affordable way to enjoy the outdoors and let the kids burn off some energy.
Explore Sesquicentennial State Park
Where to Stay in Columbia, SC With Kids
After a full day of exploring, there's nothing better than having a comfortable place to come home to.
And when you're traveling with kids, having a little extra space can make a big difference.
While hotels can be convenient, sharing one or two rooms with the whole family isn't always ideal. Between early bedtimes, snack requests, and trying to find enough room for everyone's belongings, things can get crowded pretty quickly.
That's why many families choose a vacation rental instead.
At Heartwood Furnished Homes, we offer a variety of furnished vacation rentals throughout Columbia, Forest Acres, Lake Murray, Lexington, and surrounding areas.
Depending on the home, your family can enjoy:
- Room to spread out: Multiple bedrooms and comfortable living spaces give everyone a little more breathing room.
- A full kitchen: Make breakfast before heading out, prepare meals together, and keep everyone's favorite snacks on hand.
- Convenient locations: Stay close to the attractions, restaurants, and activities you came to enjoy.
- Space to spend time together: Enjoy movie nights, family dinners, and downtime without being confined to a hotel room.
- The comforts of home: From laundry facilities to comfortable bedrooms, our furnished homes make traveling with family a little easier.
Whether you're planning a weekend trip with the kids, visiting relatives, or bringing the whole family together for a special occasion, we're here to help you find a place that feels like home.
Make Your Next Family Trip to Columbia One to Remember
Columbia, SC has so much to offer families, and you don't have to travel far to find something fun to do.
Spend the morning exploring Riverbanks Zoo, enjoy lunch downtown, or head out to Lake Murray for an afternoon on the water. However you choose to spend your time, there's no shortage of ways to make memories together.
And when the day's adventures are over, Heartwood Furnished Homes has a comfortable place waiting for you.
Planning a family trip to Columbia, SC?
Browse our Columbia vacation rentals and find the perfect home base for your next family getaway.
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