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(2023) Best Easter Egg Hunts & Events: Columbia, SC

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Are your kids excited to search out some colorful Easter Eggs at the Easter Egg Hunts in Columbia, SC this year? Maybe you’re looking for more Easter things to do, like catching up with the Easter Bunny for a special bunny photo. Or, maybe an Easter craft activity is more to your liking. Either way, we have a totally huge list of Columbia’s Easter Egg hunts and Easter events to help you out.

We hope it’ll help you make the most of the Easter season in Columbia, SC with your family!

We’ll be adding to this list throughout the Easter season, so check back soon for all the best Easter events in Columbia, SC!

Easter Egg Hunts in Columbia, SC

What do you want to do for Easter in Columbia, SC?
Easter Egg Hunts Columbia, SC
Easter Bunny Photos
Brunch with the Bunny
Everything! ALL the Easter Events: Columbia, SC
Bonus: Parent Tips for Easter Egg Hunts

Easter Egg Hunts: Columbia SC

Clinton Sease Farm Easter Egg Hunts

April 8, 2023: 10 am to 1 pm- Children’s Easter Egg hunt that includes a cow train, wagon rides, bubbles, playground, obstacle course, and photos with the Easter Bunny. Tickets are $15 or $10 for those not participating in the egg hunt.

Read our review of Clinton Sease Farm

Clinton Sease Farm also offers an adult Easter Egg Hunt on April 1st at 6:30 pm.

The Great Lexington Egg Hunt

And now for a different kind of egg hunt! Visit Lexington parks and match each egg to the correct location.

Print your form or pick one up at the Lexington Town Hall.

Submit your form by April 10th for a chance to win!

More Egg Hunts in Columbia, SC



Easter Bunny Photos: Columbia, SC

Photos with the Easter Bunny are a time-honored tradition. Where can you can get a photo with the Easter Bunny in Columbia, SC?

Visit these events to snap a picture with the Easter Bunny.

Easter Bunny Photos at Columbiana Centre

100 Columbiana Circle, Columbia, SC 29212
Bunny Photo Experiences run March 17th, 2023 through April 8th, 2023 
Photo package costs range from $40 – $50. You need to either pay $20 at booking and select photo package at your appointment or select the desired package at booking. (Your $20 booking fee will be applied toward the package purchase.)

Book in advance! Easter Bunny at Columbiana Centre

More Photos with the Bunny



Free Easter Bunny Photos at Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops

See the Easter Bunny at Cabela's

Head up to Greenville, SC or Charlotte, NC for an opportunity to get a free professional, printed 4×6 photo with the Easter Bunny at Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops. Registration opens March 25th, 2023, and you will definitely want to register in advance.

  • Saturday, April 1st, 11 am to 6 pm
  • Sunday, April 2nd,  11 am to 4 pm
  • Monday, April 3rd, 5 pm to 8 om
  • Tuesday, April 4th, 5 pm to 8 pm
  • Wednesday, April 5th, 5 pm to 8 pm
  • Thursday, April 6th, 4 pm to 8 pm
  • Friday, April 7th, 11 am to 6 pm
  • Saturday, April 8th, 11 am to 6 pm
  • Sunday, April 9th, 11 am to 3 pm

Visit the Cabela’s Easter Event page to find the location nearest you and to register.

Columbia’s Bunny Brunches and More

Who doesn’t want to have breakfast or brunch with the Easter Bunny himself? Or maybe you can catch the bunny and share a special cupcake, cookie, or Easter treat.

Make plans to head to one of these places and you can spend some time with the Easter Bunny and enjoy some yummy food, too!

Riverbanks Zoo Breakfast with the Bunny

Riverbanks Zoo Breakfast with the Bunny on Sunday, April 2nd, 2023 is sold out.

More Easter Brunch and Bunny Meals



More Easter Events: Everything happening for Easter in Columbia, SC



Easter Egg Hunt Tips For Families

Choose Your Egg Hunt Wisely.

Choose a hunt that fits the age of your children and their temperaments. A fast, competitive child might enjoy a free-for-all egg hunt, but some children might find the same hunt frightening and sadly leave without a single egg.

No one wants tears at an Easter Egg hunt, right?

So, find out . . . What are the rules for this egg hunt?

  • What are the ages of kids hunting together?
  • Is there a limit of eggs per kid?
  • How large is the event? (The larger the number of kids hunting at the same time, the greater chance there will be some aggressive behavior from the kids hunting.)
  • How much waiting is involved?

Dress Appropriately

Easter is mid-April this year which means the day could rapidly go from a cool early morning to a hot late morning or afternoon depending on the weather.

  • Think layers. Keep them on if it’s cooler, or take off a layer if it gets warm or if your kids get hot from running around.
  • Remember the sunscreen. The UV index can catch you by surprise this time of year.
  • Footwear should be something kids can run in. Tennis shoes are best. Keep those toes covered so they don’t get stepped on or bit by ants.
  • Many of the public hunts offer bounce houses for the kids to play in so be sure your kids wear socks.

Plan ahead

Plan time to park. Give yourself at least 30 minutes before the hunt is scheduled to begin for parking and registration. If your egg hunt has an age requirement for a specific time, your child will likely only be allowed to hunt at that time.

Bring water and snacks if you think the kids will get hungry waiting for the hunt to start. 

Stash some backup eggs in the car. If your kiddo isn’t able to collect any for whatever reason, you’ll be glad you did!

50+ Free Things to Do in Columbia, SC

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Looking for free activities in Columbia, SC? You can fill up a day in Columbia without spending a dime! We’ve compiled a list and it is packed full of free and cheap ideas for you. Grab your family and make some fun-filled memories together for free. Here’s our list of free things to do in Columbia, SC with kids!

Free Things to Do in Columbia, SC

This article includes:
Free Things to Do Outdoors in Columbia, SC
Kids Eat Free
Free Things to Do Indoors in Columbia, SC
Free Events in Columbia, SC

Free Things to Do Outside in Columbia, SC

Go on a walk: Head to Columbia’s Riverwalk for a walk with your family. With more than 20 miles of riverwalk and trails, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors. You can find shade under the trees and bridges, and parking is free!

Paved path at West Columbia Riverwalk

Have a picnic at the Horseshoe at the University of South Carolina: The Horseshoe at USC is a perfect place to have a family picnic and spend the afternoon. Bring some outdoor toys and bikes and enjoy the weather together. While there’s plenty of shade, you will need to bring a little money to park.

Play tennis: Head to one of Columbia’s public recreational tennis courts.

Cool off at a pool or splash pad: One of the most fun things to do in the summer is taking your kids to a pool or splash pad. While the Maxcy Gregg and Greenview Pools have a small fee ($3 – $4 depending on age), the splash pads and spray pools are free and open to the public. 

We have a huge list of 30+ places to cool off, swim, and splash in Columbia, SC. Many of them are totally FREE!

Elmwood Roy Lynch Park Splashpad
Splashpad at Elmwood Roy Lynch Park in Columbia, SC

Spray Pools and Pads in Columbia *Be sure to call the Columbia Parks and Recreation Department at 803.545.3100 or check online for operating hours.

  • Anna’s Park – 1315 Liberty Hill Avenue
  • Drew Park – 2102 Walker Solomon Way
  • Edisto Discovery Park – 1914 Wiley Street 
  • Emily Douglas Park – 2500 Wheat Street
  • Heathwood Park – 800 Abelia Road
  • Hyatt Park – 950 Jackson Avenue
  • Lorick Park – 1600 Lorick Avenue
  • Mays Park – 4100 Trenholm Road
  • Melrose Park – 1500 Fairview Road
  • Pacific Park – 200 Wayne Street
  • Pinehurst Park – 2300 Pinehurst Road
  • Roy Lynch Park – 900 Abbeville Street
  • Sims Park – 3500 Duncan Street

Play at one of the local parks or playgrounds: What kid doesn’t love to run around at a cool playground? There are plenty of beautiful parks with great playgrounds in the Columbia area.

The Community Park of Irmo, Elmwood/Roy Lynch Park, and the Owens Field Skate Park & Pump Track are all great parks with playgrounds and other amenities such as walking trails, ball fields, zip lines, and splash pads.

If you are looking for a great park with shade to avoid those famously hot Columbia days, Hollywood Park is an excellent choice. For the days you’re wanting to be more immersed in nature, check out Doko Meadows Park.

If you are needing an all-inclusive playground, then Leo’s Landing is definitely the park to go to.

In West Columbia, Carraway Park has an amazing playground space!

The playground at Carraway Park in West Columbia
Carraway Park

Sesquicentennial State Park has lots of amenities, including $5 kayak rentals. Park admission is required unless you have SC State Park Annual Pass. If you do, admission is free.

Check out all the parks and playgrounds in Columbia

Ride bikes: Grab your bikes and go on a bike ride. Download the Sprocket app, an app created by The Cola Town Bike Collective, to help you find the perfect, safe bike route for you and your family.

Go fishing: Enjoy free fishing thanks to the South Carolina Fishing Tackle Loaner program where you can borrow a rod, reel, and tackle box for FREE. Some fishing spots to consider are Lake Murray (head to Dreher Island State Park) or Saluda Shoals Park.

Go Swimming at Lake Murray: Pay $5 to park at the closest parking lot or use the free parking and walk. Either way, enjoy the beach and swimming area on a sunny day with your family.

Playing at Lake Murray Park
Lake Murray Park

Go see an outdoor movie: The Icehouse Amphitheater in Lexington shows movies every now and then. Be sure to check their schedule for upcoming shows and other events. You can also enjoy a summer movie for free at Doko Meadows park.

Or, check out this list of free and cheap movies this summer in Columbia.

Head out for a hike: There are plenty of hiking trails in Columbia. From paved multi-use trails to longer, more rugged trails, you’ll find something for you and your family to enjoy. Check out our list of some of the best hiking trails with free admittance in the Columbia, SC area.

  • Cayce Riverwalk | Main Entrance: 201 Naples Avenue, Cayce, SC 
  • Columbia Canal and Broad River Trail | 312 Laurel Street., Columbia, SC
  • Saluda Riverwalk | Candi Lane, Columbia, SC
  • Guignard Clay Quarry Loop | 634 Old State Road, Cayce, SC
  • Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve | 2207 Conservancy Road, Kershaw, SC
  • Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve | 883 Peachtree Rock Road, Lexington, SC
  • Congaree National Park Hiking Trails | 100 National Park Road, Hopkins, SC

Stroll down Main Street for Soda City Market: Every Saturday from 9 am – 1 pm, vendors gather on Main Street for a European-inspired street market for the Soda City Market. Everything sold is unique, hand-crafted, and produced in the Southeast. While strolling and perusing what the vendors have to offer, you’ll hear music and be able to do a lot of people-watching.

Throw a frisbee around at one of the disc golf courses: Grab your disc golf frisbee and play disc golf for free. Udisc has a list of courses in the area.

Go on a public art tour: You can treat this as a scavenger hunt if you’d like, but there are plenty of public art installations around Columbia that you can visit for free. One Columbia has an interactive map for you to find art spots.

The art in Columbia includes the “world’s largest fire hydrant” sculpture located on Taylor Street in Columbia, SC, between Marion and Bull Street.

You can also visit the Interactive Art Park in West Columbia. It’s free!

West Columbia Interactive Art Park with South Carolina art

Grab the family and head to one of the many Columbia area farmer’s markets! One of the most popular, The Soda City Farmers Market in Downtown Columbia, has tons of vendors and is a lot of fun for the entire family. You can also check out The Market at Icehouse, located at the Icehouse Amphitheatre in Lexington.

First Thursdays on Main: First Thursdays on Main include free live music and even free admission to cultural venues, like the Columbia Museum of Art on select First Thursdays. Food and other items are available for purchase.

Attend a FREE event at Congaree National Park, like the Ranger Guided Owl Prowl hike. You might get a chance to see or hear one of these amazing creatures in the wild! But even if you don’t, you’ll learn a lot and have some fun!

Play pickleball: Pickleball has become quite a popular hobby in the last few years! There are several public pickleball courts all throughout Columbia that operate on a first-come, first serve basis:

Go Geocaching: Have you ever been geocaching? We can assure you that this is an activity that your whole family will get hooked on! Geocaching is an outdoor game, very similar to a treasure hunt, where you use GPS to locate different “treasures” hidden by others.

Richland County has set up an interactive geocaching game where you can learn how to keep our waterways clean, experience local art, and hunt for geocaches! Start by downloading a “Drains Aren’t Dumps Passport” and you will quickly be on your way to discovering awesome treasure.

Decorate, Hide, and Find Painted Rocks: Most of us are familiar with discovering painted rocks hidden throughout the city, but what you might not know is that there is a Facebook group called Columbia-SC Rocks! People will post pictures of their decorated rocks and give hints as to where they can be found. Along with hunting for them, it’s super fun to paint a few with your kiddos, go around to some of their favorite places, and hide them for others to enjoy.

Visit the Sandhill Children’s Garden: The Sandhill Children’s Garden is located near the Farmer’s Market on Clemson Road, across from the Sandhill Shopping Center. Here you will find beautiful gardens, birdhouses, neat flowers, and much more. There are sometimes even small events that take place here. Looking to introduce your children to volunteer work? The Sandhill Children’s Garden is almost always looking for new volunteers to keep the gardens looking spectacular!

Eat Free

Kids Eat FREE in Columbia: While you’re out and about on your free things to do adventure, grab a cheap meal by taking advantage of these kids eat free deals.

Kids Eat Free in Columbia, SC

Free Things to Do Inside in Columbia, SC

Go Bowling: There are several bowling alleys in the Columbia area where kids up to age 15 can bowl for free in summer. You’ll still need to rent shoes or bring your own.

Anchor Lanes – 1000 Columbia Avenue, Irmo
Royal Z Lanes – 8512 Two Notch Road, Columbia
Stars and Strikes – 700 Columbiana Drive, Irmo

Head to the library: Richland County Libraries and Lexington County Library both have children‘s programs you can participate in, which include storytime, crafts, and movies.

Grab a free DIY Kit from Home Depot: Home Depot has free Kids Workshop kits that you can pick up on the first Saturday of each month from 9 am – 12 pm while supplies last. 

Don’t miss 10+ FREE Things to Do for Kids Across the USA.

Participate in a DIY-U Lowe’s Event: Lowe’s has both in-store and online DIY workshops that are completely free! Workshops for kids usually take place once each month and are led by Red Vest experts. This is a GREAT hands-on activity that your kids will love! Be sure to register in advance for these events!

Tour the South Carolina State House: Want to get a little education with your activity? Head to the State House for a free guided or self-guided tour. Tours are given every half hour from 9:30 am – 3:30 pm Monday through Friday when the chambers are not in session. The State House is also open for tours each Saturday. You do not have to make a reservation, but you can call ahead if you’d like to.

Visit Fort Jackson’s military museum at the U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Museum for an educational trip in disguise. Guests can directly interact with soldiers, ask questions, and learn about the history and evolution of combat training.

Bonus! Are you a homeschooling family? The SC State Museum offers FREE admission to homeschooling families. The South Carolina State Museum is a great place to go explore and learn something new!

Free Events in Columbia, SC

What’s free and happening soon in Columbia, SC? This is a list of upcoming events that are free! That means there is no admission cost to attend these events, and may mean there are free crafts, entertainment, food, and more! However, there may be charges and fees for activities or food at some of these events so do check event websites for details.

Just click on each event for more information.



Bonus: Cheap Things to Do in Columbia, SC

Looking for a few more fun things to do for cheap? If you’re looking for some great family activities that won’t break the bank, we have a couple more ideas for you!

Two Girls and a Farm in Lexington, SC

Petting Zoo Meet & Greets

Ready for animal fun? Bring the family to Two Girls and a Farm for just $20 for a family of 4. That even includes a bag of animal feed.

More Fun, Free Things to Do

McPherson Park mini golf

There are more free things to do in Greenville, SC.

Take a day trip, for free.

Looking for more fun things to do in Columbia, SC? We’ve compiled the ultimate Columbia list for you.

Spring Guide to Columbia, SC

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Spring has arrived! So, what is going on this spring? Columbia, SC is full of springtime fun and ways get out and enjoy some of the most beautiful weather. And, we’re covering it all right here so you don’t miss a thing!

Happy Spring Columbia!

Get Outside: Springtime in Columbia, SC

A paved trail for walking and bike riding? Yes, please! Load up those scooters and helmets or grab that stroller and go enjoy that fresh air. Your to do list can probably wait a couple of hours, right?

The riverwalk trails in Columbia are a great place to enjoy spring.

We know the perfect place to play.

Our guide to the best parks and playgrounds in Columbia, SC.

Parks and Playgrounds in Columbia, SC

Playgrounds and spring go hand in hand. Bring the kids out to enjoy the spring weather with slides, swings, and all kinds of things to climb.

Move those feet and enjoy nature. Pack a bag with water and some trail mix, pull on those sneakers, and go enjoy one of Columbia’s great family hiking trails.

Spring Means Strawberries!

Strawberry PIcking Cottle Strawberry Farm

Pick some strawberries!

Everything you need to know about Cottle Strawberry Farm.

Spring Sports

Head to the ballpark for All-American, traditional baseball fun. You have two fabulous choices in Columbia, SC!

Easter Time

Yep, spring means Easter. This year Easter falls on April 9th, 2023. That means all Easter Egg hunts and community events will be happening soon. We created a Columbia Easter Egg Hunt and Events list so you don’t miss anything!

You’ll want to bookmark this one and check back throughout the Easter season as more events are added.

Go find those Easter Eggs.

The biggest list of 2023 Easter Egg Hunts in Columbia, SC.

Easter Egg Hunts in Columbia, SC

Springtime Showers Bring Indoor Play

Indoor Guide to Columbia, SC

Here’s where to play indoors in Columbia, SC

Spring Break Things to Do

Spring break is coming! Our spring break guide is full of ideas for indoor and outdoor fun, plus day trips, spring break camps, and lots more!

Spring break guide to Columbia, SC

Fill your spring break with lots of fun!

Spring Break Things to Do: Columbia, SC

St. Patrick’s Day (2023): Family-Friendly in Columbia, SC

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Do you want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Columbia, SC? This season of all things Irish means festivals, food, parades, crafts, and all kinds of events. Here’s what’s happening around Columbia for Saint Patrick’s Day 2023. 

St. Patrick's Day in Columbia, SC

Irish Fest Camden

222 Broad Street, Camden, SC Historic Camden Revolutionary War Park
Irish Fest Camden Website

Irish Story Telling

Thursday, March 2nd, 2023 Camden, SC Books on Broad in Camden is hosting Irish Story Telling with Christina Neely at 6 pm. This event is part of Irish Fest Camden which will have it’s main event on March 4th.

Irish Fest Camden: Main Event

Saturday, March 4th, 2023 Camden, SC Lots of Irish music, pipes, dance, food, and even Irish history presentations. Tickets to Irish Fest Camden are $15 per person, $5 per child ages 2- 12. Free under 2.

St. Pat’s in Five Points

Saturday, March 18th, 2023 Celebrating 41 years in 2023, St. Pat’s in Five Points has become a Columbia, SC St. Patrick’s Day tradition. The event features a St. Patrick’s Day parade, lots of music, food, and a children’s play area. General Admission tickets purchased in advance are $25, and $30 at the gate on the day of the event.

Purchase tickets for St. Pat’s in Five Points online.

St. Pat’s in Five Points 2023 Schedule of Events

  • 7:30 am Get to the Green 5k, 10k and 1-mile family fun run
  • 10 am Gates open
  • 10 am St. Pat’s Parade along Devine Street (beginning at Sims Avenue)
  • 11 am Children’s Playland opens (Pot O’ Gold Playland)
  • 12 pm Live music begins on multiple stages
  • 6 pm Children’s Playland closes
  • 7 pm Live music concludes

Tartan Day South: Celtic Festival

March 30th – April 2nd, 2023 Cayce, SC Tartan Day South So, it’s technically not for St. Patrick’s Day as this huge Celtic Festival takes place at the end of March. However, if you want to enjoy Celtic heritage, this is an event you’ll want to check out. Tartan Day South features live music, Celtic and traditional concerts and dance, as well as Highland Games.

You’ll see sheep dog and bird of prey exhibitions, enjoy traditional foods, pipe bands, kids’ rides and play area, drum circle, car show, learn about Scottish Military History, and much more. Ticket prices will vary depending on what days you’d like to attend. The main event is April 1st. Tickets for that are $15 per person, ages 12 and up. Under 12 is free. The Friday, March 31st Celtic Concert tickets are $10 per person ages 12 and up. Under 12 is free. Purchase Tartan Day South tickets online.  

Columbia, SC St. Patrick’s Day Events and Things to Do

We covered the big festivals already, but here are some more ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with crafts, music, food, story times, and more.  

March 19th, 2023: St. Patrick’s Day Event with Soda City Bounce at Krafty Draft Brew Pub. Unlimited bouncing, crafts, and activities. $15 inclusive wristband covers all activities. 



19+ Best Parks and Playgrounds Near Columbia, SC

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Are you looking for fun parks or playgrounds near Columbia, SC? If you’re looking for the best places to play outdoors in or near Columbia, you’ve come to the right place. Our list includes parks with playgrounds, walking trails and hiking tails, nature parks, art parks, splash pads, parks with picnic areas and picnic shelters, and a whole lot more about our favorite places to play!

Parks and Playgrounds in Columbia, SC

There are so many options when it comes to parks and playgrounds. These parks have great playgrounds, wide open spaces, basketball courts, picnic tables, walking trails, or just amazing outdoor spaces. We have reviewed some of our absolute favorite places to play, but we also have lots more coming soon!

Great Parks and Playgrounds Around Columbia, SC

Looking for playgrounds in or near Columbia where the kids can play? There are so many cool options in the Midlands! Pick one of these fun playgrounds and get playing outdoors!

Columbia’s Most Unique Parks and Outdoor Spaces

Have you visited Sesquicentennial State Park?

With a beautiful little lake, playground, easy hiking, free splash pad, and cheap boat rentals, Sesquicentennial State Park is the ultimate family day kind of park! Pack a picnic and get going! Enjoy the shaded picnic tables and benches beside the lake.

Visit Sesquicentennial State Park in Columbia, SC

Experience local art for free at West Columbia Interactive Art Park

What’s at the West Columbia Interactive Art Park? Kids and grown-ups will enjoy walking along the paths of this interactive art park in West Columbia. Play the drums, and enjoy the murals, sculptures, and time together. There are even some very family-friendly places to eat out in the park and nearby

Drums at the West Columbia Interactive Art Park
Drums at the West Columbia Interactive Art Park

Lake Murray

In the summer Lake Murray Public Park is the place to be for outdoor play in the water and sand. There’s also a great picnic area to enjoy the fresh air and lake view.

Lake Murray swimming at Lake Murray Public Park in Lexington, SC

Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park is a unique park with old-growth forests for hiking, cool boardwalk trails to explore, and out-of-this-world kayak trails.

Want to walk or hike on Columbia’s hiking trails?

These walking trails and hiking trails near Columbia are perfect for a little hiking or getting out those bikes and strollers.

Splash Pads at Columbia Parks

Here are all the parks where you can splash, swim, and cool off in Columbia, SC

Looking for more of the best parks in Columbia?

Our coverage of parks and playgrounds is growing and we’ll have more on Columbia’s best playgrounds soon. But you’ll also find great information on the area’s outdoor places to play at websites for local town and city recreation departments.

Which park or playground in Columbia is your favorite?

It’s Winter! 20+ Things to Do in Columbia, SC

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You’re looking for things to do this winter in Columbia, SC? The holidays have come to an end, and January and February stretch out in front of you long and cold-ish and boring.

But, there’s so much to look forward to! The winter season offers lots of unique opportunities and things to do in Columbia. Plus, there are some seriously epic winter day trips nearby. You can read that as “Yes, there are day trips for snow tubing near Columbia, SC.” So, have no fear. We have loads of ideas to keep your winter lively and put a bounce in your step that’ll last all the way to Spring. The only thing you’ll have to do is figure out which Columbia, SC winter activity you want to do first!

This article includes:
Winter Sky- Planetarium Shows
Heated-Outdoor Dining
Snow tubing Columbia, SC: Find the snow day trips
Winter Things to Do Inside
Outdoor Things to Do in Winter: Columbia, SC
Free Things to Do in Winter
Winter Events in Columbia, SC

Winter Guide to Columbia, SC

Winter Planetarium Shows at SC State Museum

We love the South Carolina State Museum for its huge amount of exhibits and hands-on learning. In the winter, they offer a winter sky planetarium show where your family can learn about the constellations, stars, and planets that make up Columbia’s winter sky. How cool is that!? Shows are about 30 minutes and should run through mid-February. Book your planetarium tickets Live Sky Tour online in advance if you want to be sure to get in at your chosen time!

Also in January, look for the Penguins 4D show in the planetarium at the SC State Museum. Nothing says winter like waddling penguins.

Dine-Out, Literally: Heated Outdoor Dining in Columbia, SC

We have ideas for great family restaurants in Columbia, and we also have a huge kids eat free list, but what restaurants let us dine outdoors no matter the weather?

Who has a heated outdoor dining space in Columbia, SC?

Check out this list of heated outdoor dining options we found, or, if you’re bringing the kids along, here are a couple of restaurants and breweries from our big Columbia family restaurant list that also have heated outdoor dining!

Family-friendly heated outdoor dining in Columbia, SC

Family-Friendly Heated Outdoor Dining in Columbia, SC

  • Home Team BBQ Classic bbq with a kids’ menu, plus a patio with panels that keep it toasty.
    • Location: 700 Harden St., Columbia, SC 2920 Hours: Daily from 11 am – 12 am (midnight)
  • Cantina 76  The Devine Street location offers a heated outdoor dining space, and all the delicious Mexican-inspired cuisine you could hope for.
    • Location: 2901 Devine St., Columbia, SC 29205
    • Hours: Sunday and Monday from 11 am – 9 pm, Tuesday and Wednesday from 11 am – 9:30 pm, Thursday – Saturday from 11 am – 10 pm
  • River Rat Brewery  The outdoor space at River Rat has heaters, so you can enjoy your beer of choice plus tacos, salads, sandwiches, and quesadillas together outside. If the weather is warm the kids can plan on the greenspace, too!
    • Location: 1231 Shop Rd., Columbia, SC 29201
    • Hours: Monday and Tuesday – Closed, Wednesday from 4 pm – 9 pm, Thursday from 4 pm – 10 pm, Friday from 3 pm – 10 pm, Saturday from 12 pm – 10 pm, Sunday from 11 am – 6 pm 
  • Steel Hands Brewing Co. Load up the kids for pretzels, sandwiches, and nachos around the fire pits outdoors at Steel Hands Brewing Co.
    • Location: 2350 Foreman St., Cayce, SC 29033
    • Hours: Monday – Closed, Tuesday and Wednesday from 3 pm – 8 pm, Thursday from 4 pm – 10 pm, Friday and Saturday from 12 pm – 11 pm, Sunday from 10 am – 8 pm 

Parents: don’t forget to keep a close eye on kids around outdoor heaters and fireplaces. Both can get very hot and accidents can happen quickly!

Chase the Snow: Day Trips Snow Tubing and More

I know. We aren’t likely to see many snowflakes in Columbia. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t head out on one (or two) totally epic winter day trips and chase after that snow.

Snow Tubing Near Columbia, SC

Go skiing, go snowboarding, go snow tubing. You can do it all just a couple of hours away in Western North Carolina. You’ll want to start here: 13+ Places to Ski, Snowboard, and Snow Tube: North Carolina & Beyond

If snow tubing is your aim, check out Black Bear Snow Tubing in Hendersonville, NC. We just visited and had a blast. It makes an amazing family day trip!

Sliding down in a tube at Black Bear Tubing
Black Bear Snow Tubing

Sledding: Where is there snow?

Last but not least, if you’d rather just go see some snow and maybe find a good hill to sled down, you are in luck. Load up that sled. Here are spots in Western North Carolina where you can sled and go play in the snow! from our sister site, Kidding Around Greenville.

Things to Do Inside

Have you seen our Indoor Guide to Columbia? It has all the ideas for family fun indoors.

This winter we recommend:

Children's Area in Richland County Libraries

The Weather is Beautiful: Go Outdoors

So, we may have to travel to see that snow, but that probably means things are looking pretty temperate and sunny out there. That means you can go for a hike or explore the zoo comfortably, and not even break a sweat. Anyone who has been to the zoo in the middle of July knows what we’re talking about.

Riverbanks Zoo

Free Winter Things to Do in Columbia, SC

Build projects with your kids for free at Home Depot. The Free Kids Workshops at Home Depot are awesome. January’s project is particularly perfect for winter!

January 7th, 2023: Snowball Game
February 4th, 2023: Valentine’s Vase
March 4th, 2023: Pinball Game

Or, head to Lowe’s Home Improvement Store for their free kids’ kits. They have an equally wintery project in January!

Winter Events in Columbia, SC

Check out these winter-themed events happening over the winter months in Columbia. If you’re looking for more activities and events, don’t forget to check out our full Columbia events page.

 

Winter Break from School

Our winter break bucket list will fill that school break with lots of family fun.

20+ Ideas: Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Columbia, SC (2023)

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Do you need some ideas for Valentine’s Day in Columbia, SC this year? How will you celebrate with the kids? What about a date night, or a friend’s night out? Whether you’re celebrating love for your family, your friendships, or romantic love for your spouse or significant other, there are so many ways to celebrate the holiday. And of course, at Kidding Around, we have some great ideas!

So, without further comment, here is our guide to celebrating Valentine’s Day in Columbia, SC for everyone!

Valentines Day

This article includes:
Valentine’s Day Date-Night Ideas in Columbia, SC
FREE and Inexpensive Date Ideas for Valentine’s Day in Columbia
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with kids in Columbia: Family events & more

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12 Local Favorites for the Best Pizza in Columbia, SC

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Are you searching for where to get the best pizza in Columbia, SC? We have found some fantastic locally-owned pizza joints that offer woodfire ovens, a variety of pizza styles, and some that even have vegan and gluten-free options! Whether you’re looking to meet up with friends, take your family out for a relaxed meal, or even just try someplace new, we’ve got you covered on this list of amazing pizza options in the Columbia area.

The best pizza in Columbia is on this list!

Pizza in Columbia, SC
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5 Skating Rinks In Columbia, SC Offer Memory-Making Family Fun

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Are you looking for a skating rink in or near Columbia, SC? Not only is skating a great way to stay indoors this winter, but also a thrilling activity that the whole family can enjoy! We’ve found both ice skating and roller skating options all throughout Columbia.

Most of these places include more than just skating with options for mini golf, trampoline add-ons, inflatables, lessons, and more! 

Skating in Columbia, SC

Ice Skating in Columbia, SC 

Flight Adventure Park – Irmo 

Address: 1019 Broad Stone Road, Irmo
Cost: Ice Skating prices – $10/ person and $4 skate rental 
Details: Flight Adventure Park – Irmo, is home to the only public ice skating around Columbia! They offer open, freestyle skating as well as ice hockey and skating lessons. Along with ice skating, your family can also enjoy a trampoline park, inflatables, an arcade, and more! 

*Please be aware that the ice rink is currently closed to the public due to maintenance. Be sure to check online for updates as they hope to reopen soon! 

Flight Adventure Park – Irmo

Roller Skating in Columbia, SC 

Skateland Fun Center 

Address: 800 Bookman Road, Elgin 
Cost: Price based on age – from $6 to $15 
Details: In business for more than 30 years, Skateland Fun Center is the perfect indoor roller rink for you and your family! They have a huge monthly calendar with fun, daily activities, and events such as adult skate nights, teen night skating and pizza nights, after-school care, summer camps, birthday party packages, and more! 

Skateland Fun Center

Three Fountains Recreation 

Address: 2724 Emanuel Church Road, West Columbia  
Cost: From $6 to $10
Details: At Three Fountains Recreation you can play mini golf AND roller skate! Be sure to ask about the “Frequent Skater Miles” card. After 10 stamps, you will get a free admission pass during your next visit. They also have birthday party options, homeschool skating, and more! 

Three Fountains Recreation

Sports & Skate Station USA 

Address: 129 Oak Drive, Lexington 
Cost: $6 admission, $3 skate rental; under 5 is free 
Details: Keep it rollin’ at Sports & Skate Station USA! Here you will find tons of family fun, an after-school program for $75/week, roller derby, group packages, and great concessions. They also run weekly deals such as:

  • Monday – Family Night
    • From 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm 
  • Thursday – Adult Night
    • From 7 pm to 10 pm
    • From 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm – Adult lessons 
  • Friday – Teen Night
    • From 7 pm to 11 pm
    • Ages 12 and older 

Sport & Skate Station USA

Flight Adventure Park – Sandhill

Address: 741 Fashion Drive, Columbia 
Cost: $5/person
Details: There are SO MANY opportunities for family fun at Flight Adventure Park – Sandhill! Along with an indoor skating rink, they’ve also got a trampoline park, arcade, laser tag, and inflatables!

To find out more, head to our Flight Adventure Park review article.

Flight Adventure Park – Sandhill

Day Trip Ice Skating Options 

While Columbia doesn’t have many options for ice skating, there are a few ice skating rinks within a few hours of here. If you find yourself near any of these cities listed, or maybe if you’re just really wanting to give ice skating a try, these could all make for a super fun day trip with your fam! 

Carolina Ice Palace 

Address: 7665 Northwoods Boulevard, North Charleston 
Cost: Weekends & Holidays – $12/person, $5 skate rental; Weekdays – $10/person, $4 skate rental
Details: The Carolina Ice Palace is a HUGE facility featuring 2 full-sized ice rinks, concession stands, a lounge, pro shop, and more! Along with public skating, they also offer figure skating classes, hockey, curling, and birthday party packages. 

Only about 2 hours from Columbia, Charleston is a great option for a day trip! Head to the Carolina Ice Palace for some great family fun then continue your adventure by strolling through downtown, sightseeing, or even planning a trip to the aquarium!

Carolina Ice Palace

The Pavilion Recreation Complex 

Address: 400 Scottswood Road, Taylors 
Cost: Ice skating rates – $7 ages 12 and under; $9 ages 13 and older; $4 skate/walker rentals
Details: Head to The Pavilion for ice skating, tennis, sports fields, bounce houses, and more! There are several opportunities for public skating, but be sure to double-check their monthly schedule for open-skating dates and times. 

If you find yourself in Greenville, The Pavillion might be the perfect place for you and your family to go! While there, be sure to check-out our Kidding Around Greenville page for more ideas on kid-friendly fun! 

The Pavilion Recreation Complex

Does your family enjoy skating? Where is your favorite place to go for ice or roller skating fun?

Lots of Winter Family Fun at Black Bear Snow Tubing in Hendersonville, NC

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Are you thinking about snow tubing at Black Bear Snow Tubing in Hendersonville, NC? Western North Carolina has great snow tubing and Black Bear Snow Tubing is a stellar option for families! They have a huge mountain to get your winter in high gear with a fun snow tubing trip for the whole family! We took a trip up to try out that snow-tubing mountain and it was so much fun! Now we have all the details to share so you can plan your trip!

Media tickets were provided for this review and the opinions are solely those of the author.

Snow tubing at Black Bear in Hendersonville, NC

While there aren’t any places to snow tube in the Upstate, SC, there are definitely options nearby and one of them is Black Bear Snow Tubing in nearby Hendersonville, NC, just over an hour from Greenville, SC. The snow tubing family-owned operation has been in business for seven years and they really have a good thing going there, which I’m going to tell you all about in this story.

Snow Tubing at Black Bear

The slope at Black Bear Snow Tubing is 600 feet long with an 80-foot drop and it’s pretty fast. They make their own snow (unless they get a big snowstorm, which doesn’t happen too often) and the hill is well-maintained by their attentive staff.

How it works is that when you get to Black Bear, you go to a little shed to watch a short safety video, where you learn how to get out of your tube on the run and not to start snowball fights, sign a waiver, and head inside the cozy lodge to pay. Then you get your tubes and head to the hill.

They have a pulley system to get you to the top of the hill, which works by slipping the handle of your tube on a cable that takes you, while sitting inside your tube, right up the hill to the top. Once at the top, you’ll wait for a few minutes before being situated into your group by the staff and then sliding down the hill.

On the snow tube pully at Black Bear in Hendersonville, NC
Black Bear Snow Tubing Pulley System

Why Black Bear is Different

I’ve snow tubed at many places in our area and I think Black Bear Snow Tubing is pretty fantastic. Here’s why:

  • You can (and should) make a reservation ahead of time, which is crucial for us in Greenville who need to travel out of state to go snow tubing. It’s quite a bummer to get to our snow tubing place and either find out that they are sold out or having to wait hours for an open slot.
  • The staff is attentive and efficient. They were always around watching the hill to make sure things were running smoothly and safely. When there was a slight backup at the top of the hill, they figured out how to manage to get us all down the hill and back up to keep snow tubing without interruption.
  • The lodge is super cozy and warm and has reasonable concessions. I got a $2 hot chocolate and it was amazing. Plus, they have food, including apple cider donuts, that is affordable and you can get warm by the wood-burning stove inside or watch on the deck if you don’t want to go tubing.
  • The setup takes into account smaller kids. There is playground next to the place where you wait in line to go up the hill so smaller kids can get out their energy and there is a big fire pit also near the waiting area where you can warm up.
  • If you forgot a hat or gloves, they have them for sale inside the lodge. I feel like us parents can relate when our kid gets out of the car to go snow tubing and forgot his or her winter hat.
  • The check-in is fast. This is important because you want to get on the hill and start having fun as soon as possible!
  • Black Bear has excellent communication. They post daily on their Facebook page about current snow conditions, which is super helpful when you’re unsure about the weather.
  • The snow is real. They don’t have any synthetic chemicals in the snow – it’s the real deal.

My kids, ages 11 and 8, and I had such a blast snow tubing at Black Bear Snow Tubing. We went down the hill about 10 times (maybe more, I lost count honestly) and had so much fun together. I really love places where adults can carelessly be kids again. My kids are already asking to go back. The hill was super fast and seeing my kids faces light up with joy was special. I love those moments.

Tips on How to Enjoy Snow Tubing at Black Bear

Winter being winter, it’s usually cold when you go snow tubing. I’ve found that bringing hand and foot warmers is a really good trick to keeping everyone warm and comfortable. You can get them at Wal-Mart, Amazon, or most drug stores and they stay warm for hours.

Sliding down in a tube at Black Bear Tubing

It’s also really important to make a reservation when you know you want to go snow tubing. This is especially true during school breaks and holidays. Snow tubing is an awesome family activity on a day off but a lot of people also have the same thought. Don’t forget to make a reservation.

You don’t need to wear snow bibs or snow pants. I had on fleece leggings, hiking boots, and a couple layers of tops with a heavy coat (it was really cold when we went!) and I was fine. I saw people wearing all kinds of clothes that worked for them like pants, leggings, jeans, and sweatpants. The snow wasn’t wet at all when we went but if you go on a warmer day, you may want to bring a change of pants in case they get wet.

There are port-a-potties outside the lodge to use and no bathrooms indoors.

Double-check Black Bear’s Facebook page before heading out. Snow tubing is very dependent on weather, which changes often in the mountains. They will post current conditions and if they are open or closed most days.

Ticket Prices and Policies at Black Bear Snow Tubing

Tickets are $30/hour or $40/two hours for snow tubing. Kids must be 4 years old in order to go snow tubing. You can either sign a waiver when you get to Black Bear Snow Tubing or print one out online ahead of time. Either is fine.

While Black Bear Snow Tubing does take walk-ups, it is much better to make a reservation ahead of time instead of getting there and finding out they are full. Online reservations are fantastic for this very reason so definitely make use of them.

And be sure to check Black Bear Snow Tubing’s Facebook page before heading out to double check they are open and running. Winter tubing runs mid-December through February usually depending on the weather, of course.

And if you want to tube during other times of the year, you totally can! They have warm-weather tubing in the fall.

Black Bear Snow Tubing
373 Kerr Road, Hendersonville, NC
828.685.1155

Want to spend the day in Hendersonville? We’ve got lots of ideas on what to do in this fun town!