Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wondered what secrets it holds? If you’re a lover of all things space, then the Melton Observatory at the University of South Carolina is definitely worth a visit. This totally free, educational opportunity is located on USC’s Columbia campus, offering visitors a chance to explore the wonders of the universe in a unique and immersive way.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting this distinctive destination.
What is the Melton Observatory?
The Melton Observatory is an astronomical observatory located on the Columbia campus of the University of South Carolina. The observatory is named for the late Dr. William Davis Melton, who was the president of the University of South Carolina in the 1920’s. The observatory features a dome and a 16-inch Cassegrain telescope, which is used for viewing the stars, planets, and other objects in space.
What can you see at the Melton Observatory?
Visitors can use the telescope to view a wide range of objects, including planets like Jupiter and Saturn, as well as star clusters, and galaxies. The observatory also offers a livestream during the hours of their public viewing for free. The Melton Observatory livestream can be accessed on Monday nights from 9:00 pm until 11:00 pm.
I’ve also taken advantage of viewing their past livestreams, available on their website, and admired some of their previous videos of the moon, stars, and planets around us.
The recorded livestreams are a great options for families with young children who can’t quite stay up late enough for a visit to the observatory!
Visit the Melton Observatory for Free!
The Melton Observatory is located at 1429 Greene Street in Columbia and is open to the public on Monday nights from 9:00 pm – 11:00 pm on clear nights. During these public observing nights, visitors can use the telescope to view the night sky and learn more about the stars and planets. If you’re interested in visiting the observatory, be sure to check the Melton Observatory website for the most up-to-date schedule of events and to ensure the skies are clear for viewing.
Mom Review: Free, Educational, and Recommended!
Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just looking for a unique and educational experience, the Melton Observatory at the University of South Carolina is definitely worth a visit. With its state-of-the-art telescope and knowledgeable staff, this observatory offers visitors the opportunity to explore the wonders of the universe and galaxies around us.
The observatory does welcome children, but particularly due to the expensive equipment, children must be supervised!
I can confidently recommend a visit to the Melton Observatory – it’s a unique and educational experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and complexity of our universe. And we love that USC brings this experience FREE to the public.
Our family of adventurous natural world explorers really appreciates all that they have to offer. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure that combines nature, education, and beauty; add a trip to Melton Observatory at USC to your list and share your experience with us in the comments!
Have you been thinking about a family trip to the Columbia Marionette Theater? Are you looking for something “new” to do with your kids? No matter what time of year it is or how old your children are, you will love it at the Marionette Theater! It is such a unique and wholesome opportunity for fun with puppets, bright colors, lights, music, and smiles to be had by all. We’ve got all you need to know to make your trip to the next puppet show a terrific one!
The Columbia Marionette Theater is somewhere that I have wanted to go for a long time. When my family and I finally got the opportunity to go to a show, it did not disappoint, and I left asking myself why we hadn’t gone sooner!
The building itself is so charming – painted to look like a castle and oh so welcoming. Neither of my kids, but especially my toddler, could get enough of the magic, and the whole way home he was asking when we could go again!
Marionette Theater in Columbia
It’s Showtime at Columbia’s Marionette Theater!
The Marionette Theater is a non-profit organization that specializes in puppetry. They host puppet shows every Saturday at 11 am and 3 pm and every third Monday of the month at 10 am. The Saturday shows last about 1 hour – the PERFECT length of time before littles start to get too wiggly!
The Monday shows are a bit more hands-on than the Saturday shows. At “Marionette Monday”, your kiddos not only get to see the production, but also learn more about the puppets and behind-the-scenes work, try out a puppet, see various puppet demonstrations, and more!
Tickets for the shows cannot be purchased in advance. Have no fear, though, there are 200 seats within the theater, and shows rarely sell out.
Tickets to Marionette Theater are $7 per person and children under 2 years old are free. Senior citizens and active duty military can purchase tickets for $6.
Seating Within the Theater
All seating at the theater is general admission. Because of this, we suggest arriving a few minutes early to secure a great spot! To be sure that kids have the best possible view of the show, the first 3 rows are reserved just for them. Our family sat in the 5th row, and we had a great view the whole time. Even our 3-year-old decided to stay with us and never complained about not being able to see.
Take Home a Puppet of Your Own
The gift shop at the Marionette Theater is so charming and cute! With beautiful murals on the walls, puppets everywhere you look and the kindest staff, it will be hard to go home without a little souvenir. They have everything from large puppets to $1 finger puppets and everything in between.
Marionette Theater gift shop
Plan Your Next Birthday Party at the Marionette Theater
Around the perimeter of the stage and main seating, there are 4 rooms decorated in different themes: dinosaur, underwater, Wizard of Oz, and Medieval Castle. These are their birthday party rooms and can be rented for $75 plus $6 per child. Birthday parties are 2 hours long and come with a special prize for the birthday boy or girl, priority seating for attendees, and more.
The SC State Museum is not only huge but so entertaining, educational, and fun! Here’s why you should consider a trip to Columbia, SC to explore it.
The South Carolina State Museum has been on my list as a homeschooling parent (actually, before that since my daughter was supposed to go as a third-grader and then the pandemic hit). I had heard it was cool but did not know the extent of exactly how amazing it would be. So I hauled my kids out there for a truly fun day trip.
Have you visited EdVenture? Columbia, SC has a wonderful children’s museum that is the perfect combination of hands-on play and educational fun for your family! Keep reading as we will share all the tips and info you’ll need to make your trip to Edventure: Columbia, SC perfect!
From babies to pre-teens, EdVenture Children’s Museum is sure to have something for all! Several exhibits make up the two floors of wonder and include activities ranging from science and engineering to pretend play and everything in between. Before we discuss the exhibits, let’s start with some helpful tips to get you prepared for your “edventure.” This children’s museum is closed on Tuesday’s, but is open every other day of the week.
Admissions and Fees to Columbia’s EdVenture
Tickets can be purchased at the museum or online before you go for $13.00/person (children under 2 are free). Yearly memberships can also be purchased with various price ranges and package deals. EdVenture has a strong belief that EVERY child should have the opportunity to engage in educational fun within the museum. Because of this, they have discounted admissions options for families who receive SNAP, WIC, or Medicaid for $3 entry per person.
Once tickets are purchased, you can leave and re-enter the museum throughout the same day for no extra fees.
Camps, Classes, and Regular Events at EdVenture
EdVenture offers several extra programs throughout the week and during different seasons including:
Spring Break & Summer Camp
ages 4-10
$198 weekly per child, $30 discount for members for Spring Break Camp
$249 weekly per child, $40 discount for members for Summer Break Camp
I was very impressed by all of the thoughtful features throughout the museum for even the littlest of littles! For starters, the museum is well-planned out making it easy to maneuver strollers to and from the exhibits. There is also an elevator located in the middle of the museum that is large enough for the whole family – strollers and all!
On the second floor, in “My Backyard” (the area for those under 3 years old), there is a cozy nursing room complete with a rocking chair, bookshelf, and dark, retractable curtains.
EdVenture Children’s Museum Exhibits
More than nine different areas with endless amounts of learning and exploration can be found at EdVenture. We will walk you through each level of the museum and let you know what to expect as you wander around with your kids!
On the main level of EdVenture you’ll find the majority of the museum’s exhibits.
World of Work
What do you want to be when you grow up? A firefighter? How about a farmer? Or maybe even a chef? You can try it all throughout this exhibit! “World of Work” takes up the majority of the main level of EdVenture.
Your children can climb into a 24 foot life-size fire truck, flash the lights and even create their own fire escape plan. Across from the firetruck, you will find a dairy and produce farm. Here, your children can “milk” a cow, harvest vegetables, climb onto a tractor, and collect fruits from the fruit trees to send to the grocery store.
Farm at EdVenture
Next, make a “grocery list” and send your littles out on an errand – the Neighborhood Market is always a popular place to be! With small shopping carts, 2 check-out lanes, and realistic foods and goods, your family is sure to have a fun time playing pretend.
Be sure to also check out the Little Spot Diner (situated right outside of the grocery store) and let your kids make you a delicious meal. My favorite thing about “World of Work” is watching my kid’s creativity and imagination come to life in these real-world settings sized just right for them!
Eddie at EdVenture in Columbia, SC
Eddie!
You can’t miss him, he’s the world’s largest child measuring in at over 40 feet tall with a heart weighing over 500 pounds! Eddie is his name, and he will help teach your children all about body organs and their functions!
You can climb up a set of stairs that will take you into his stomach, intestines, heart, and brain. Eddie is the perfect combination of fun and education as his insides are set up like a jungle gym, but with realistic organs – You can hear his beating heart, the electricity inside of his brain as well as his stomach growling when you listen carefully.
As you make your way up, take a tunnel slide back down to his large shoes (which are each about the size of a car, might I add), and start your exploration again! I love that Eddie opens up a door for parents and caregivers to talk to and teach their children about the wonderful things our bodies can do at such an age-appropriate level.
The News Room
Has your child ever wanted to be on TV? If so, head on over to the “News Room.” Here, your child can pretend to be a news anchor or even a producer. With realistic equipment and large TV screens to look up at, this exhibit is sure to be a treat. Be mindful that to get here, you will have to go up a small flight of stairs!
Wags & Whiskers
Get ready to put your children’s pet care abilities to the test! In this area, they will be able to care for a variety of different animals with x-rays, grooming and veterinary tools, and basic pet care needs. Wags & Whiskers teaches your child how to care for the health of their pets through interactive play.
Biolab at EdVenture
Let your child explore their inner scientist in the Biolab, designed to teach kids about biomedical science in a fun way! With teaching laboratories, this exhibit and programming is geared toward kids ages 5 – 14 to spark a lifelong interest in the biomedical field.
Cooking Lab at EdVenture
Enjoy cooking and preparing real food in the Cooking Lab, all while learning about the body, how nutrition is important, and tie all the information together with what is taught in the Biolab.
Outdoor Fun at EdVenture
The outdoor area at EdVenture is made up primarily of water play which is great in the warmer months, but be mindful that your kids may get pretty wet so an extra shirt or full change of clothes isn’t a bad idea! There are also several tricycles and a small, model airplane in this area that kids can climb into and “fly.”
Seasonal Exhibit
The seasonal exhibit changes frequently to match whatever is going on during . . . well, each season! EdVenture often has holiday characters such as Santa and the Easter Bunny set up here. You will also find holiday-specific activities, education on different cultural and traditional beliefs, and goodies throughout the year!
Fly an Airplane on the Second Floor of EdVenture
The second level of the museum is home to all things science, engineering, and technology, but with a closed-off room dedicated to the tiniest explorers.
EdVenture
Flight
This part of the museum is full of flight simulators and educational, hands-on displays that teach children about gravity, the solar system, and how/why some things can take flight while others can’t.
My son’s favorite part of this exhibit is the Boeing 757 cockpit where you can sit in the pilot’s seat, explore the gears, and look out of the windshield at a view of the city.
In this area, you can also create and launch your own paper airplane, climb and play in a rocket ship, read interesting facts about aeronautics, and learn to fly in the Boeing 777 flight simulators.
Maker Works
In this area, your children will be able to create and build. In the “Open Make” center, there are several recycled materials where your kids can cut, glue, fold and color their own creations. There are also several different styles of blocks that can be found – magnetic, large Legos, KAPLA blocks, waffle blocks, etc. that will put your child’s problem-solving and engineering skills to the test!
This part of the museum is best suited for children 5-10 years old, however, with extra assistance, younger children might also be able to engage in some of the play (especially with the building blocks).
My Backyard
Strictly reserved for children 3 years old and younger, here you will find tons of toddler and baby-safe play! There is a treehouse-styled jungle gym, a boat where kiddos can dress up in rain boots and large yellow jackets, puzzles, soft play mats, a ball pit, and several ways to meet the sensory needs of your tots!
As mentioned before, there is also a nursing area and large, family-style restroom within.
Party Room at EdVenture
Looking for the perfect place to host a birthday party? You might want to check out the EdVenture party room! Parties are $300 for non-members and $260 for members. The birthday packages come with several incentives including all-day admission for 35 guests, discounts in the gift shop, downloadable party invitations, 90-minute private party, and more! You can visit the EdVenture Birthday page to check for dates and find out more.
Are you thinking about a visit to Frankie’s Fun Park in Columbia, SC? We got a chance to visit and had so much fun with family. Come along on our visit and find out all the things Frankie’s Columbia, SC offers, plus some local parent tips to help you make the most of your family’s visit.
Watch: Come Along On Our Visit
Things to Do at Frankie’s Fun Park: Columbia, SC
Inside at Frankie’s in Columbia
Laser Tag
Arcade
XD Dark Ride
VR system
Snack bar
Large dining area, with space for birthday parties
Outside at Frankie’s in Columbia
The outside space at Frankie’s feels very open, pleasant, and not crowded. When you’re on one of the mini-golf courses, you really wouldn’t know you are so close to 2 other courses. They’ve done a beautiful job with the space and it feels very private and tropical.
There are 3 mini-golf courses outdoors at Frankie’s all with an island, tropical theme. We played course number 2 because we were told it was the most lush of the three courses. It was beautiful and tropical with bright blue fountains throughout, and all the courses are sprinkled with South Carolina charm from the “Sullivan’s Island Watchtower” to the Shem Creek Seafood Co. and Isle of Palms Boat Shop. How many South Carolina gems you can find on your trip?
Go Karts
There are 3 Go-Kart tracks outside at Frankie’s: Road Course, Drifter & Rookie Track. Each track has different specifications that are based on age and size, providing karts of different sizes and speeds.
Tips for Parents: Bringing Kids to Frankies
The Arcade: Inside can get crowded and there are lots of flashing lights and noises. Some parents might find trying to keep track of the kids and supervise them a little stressful. 1 on 1 supervision for little ones might be best.
Plan ahead for your activities to maximize your time and make sure you get to do the things most important to your family, in case you find lines at the activities.
Budget before you go. There is no admission fee to enter Frankie’s but rather you pay per activity. Having a plan will help you stick to a budget and avoid overspending.
Thinking about taking your family to the movies soon? There are several movie theaters in Columbia, SCthat offer a range of experiences for moviegoers. Whether you’re looking for a large, modern theater, a drive-in movie experience, or even a smaller, independent cinema, there’s something for everyone! We’ve even got helpful tips for making your family movie outing a more budget-friendly one! So, let’s get started. Here are the 7 best movie theaters in Columbia, SC
Best Movie Theaters: Columbia, SC
Nickelodeon Theatre
This Nickelodeon Theatre is located in the heart of downtown Columbia and offers a unique movie experience for all. In business for more than 40 years, locals love to go here for the cozy, nostalgic vibes. The theater showcases a wide variety of movies including new releases, documentaries, shorts, and classics in an intimate space that seats just over 100 people. They offer both matinee and evening showtimes.
Be aware that “The Nick” offers membership deals starting at just $25. Depending on the membership package you decide on, this could include benefits such as complimentary and discounted tickets.
Address: 1607 Main Street, Columbia
Regal Cinemas Columbiana Grande 14
Located in the Columbiana Mall, Regal Cinemas theater offers comfortable seating and all the modern-day amenities. It also features an IMAX screen for a larger-than-life movie experience!
Address: 1250 Bower Parkway, Columbia
AMC Classic Harbison 14
The AMC Classic Harbison 14 theater offers amenities such as a MacGuffins Bar, which serves beer, wine, and cocktails. There is also a concession stand with a wide variety of snacks and drinks.
The theater is located near the Harbison shopping district, making it a convenient destination for shopping and entertainment.
Address: 122 Afton Court, Columbia
BTM Cinemas Dutch Square 14
Located in the Dutch Square Mall, the BTM Cinemas Dutch Square theater features all of the modern-day amenities: large concession stand, comfy seating, big screens, and more!
Address: 421 Bush River Road, Columbia
Regal Sandhill Stadium 16
Located in the Sandhill shopping district, this theater features IMAX, IMAX 3D, and Regal Premium Experience (RPX) screens. RPX offers a larger screen, custom sound, and luxury seating. The Regal Sandhill Stadium 16 theater also offers a range of concessions, including popcorn, candy, and soft drinks.
Address: 450 Town Center Place, Columbia
Regal Northlake Village
Regal Northlake Village has both regular and 3D movie options! They also feature very comfortable reclining seats, a full concession stand, and a clean environment. A great place to go see a new movie!
Address: 929 North Lake Drive, Lexington
Discounted Movies: Columbia, SC
Spotlight Cinemas
Let’s face it, taking your whole family out to the movies isn’t super budget-friendly. However, Spotlight Cinemas makes going to the movies with littles a bit more cost-efficient. This is a “second run” theater offering movies with a HUGE discounted price! As in they have tickets for just $3!
Even better news, there are two locations in Columbia – one in West Columbia and the other in Northeast Columbia!
Address: 527 St. Andrews Road, Columbia Address: 201 Columbia Mall Boulevard, Suite 211, Columbia
Summer Movie Discounts
Don’t forget that additional theaters in Columbia offer discounts on summer movies for families. Find all that info in our post on summer movie theater deals in Columbia. SC.
Outdoor Movie Theater Near Columbia, SC
The Big Mo
The Big Mo began in 1951 as a single-screen drive-in theater. It is now home to three movie screens and is a popular place to enjoy a fun evening with your family and friends!
They’ve got a full concession stand offering things such as hot dogs, pizza, sweet treats, drinks, and much more. Within about an hour’s drive from Columbia, this should definitely be added to your family’s bucket list!
The Big Mo will open on March 1st for its 2024 season!
As a child, I can remember going to the movie theater was such an exciting treat! It was so much fun deciding which movie to go to, picking out our favorite candy, and loading up on buttery popcorn. While going out to the theaters is much less popular these days, there is still something so thrilling about it that keeps us going back time and time again. Let’s be honest, however, sometimes taking your whole family out to the movies can feel like an overly expensive task. Here are some ways you can save money at the theaters:
AMC Theaters – save money on discounted tickets every TUESDAY
Ask about student, military, and/or senior citizen discounts
Eat a meal before going, share popcorn, limit kiddos to just 1 snack
Skip on IMAX or 3D options
Purchase tickets at the box office – sometimes buying online will add a few dollars for “site charges”
Always double-check promos before heading out
Promos can often be found on the theater’s website and usually include special meal deals or ultra-discounted kids movies
With summer just around the corner, be sure to keep an eye out for summer movie programs
Where is your favorite place to go see a movie?
What? There’s More Fun?
Don’t forget, we have more indoor fun! It’s not quite a movie, but if you’ve never been we highly suggest giving the Columbia Marionette Theater a try!
And, if that’s not enough. Head over to our huge list of things to do in Columbia, SC. It has over 50 ideas about things to do and places to visit in the Columbia area. Fun in Columbia starts right there.
Are you wondering about the bowling, dining, and desserts at The Grand on Main in Columbia, SC? If you have any bowling enthusiasts in your family and you’re looking for a new place to score some strikes or you’re looking for that unique boutique dining spot for a date night or to meet friends, you’ve come to the right place. The Grand on Main houses a large, full-service restaurant, quaint bowling alley, and a top-secret dessert lounge, The Robinson Room – don’t worry we’ll share ALL the details!
Bring your kids or bring your date, either way, The Grand on Main in Columbia, SC is the boutique-style bowling alley, restaurant, and dessert bar that you’ve got to try!
Have you visited the Ballentine Branch of the Richland Library System yet? If you haven’t been there recently, now is the time. They have lots of special features and public programs, most of which are free. The staff is beyond helpful and there is so much to explore beyond the books (which are awesome too!).
Start with a library card
Library cards are free for residents and property owners of Richland County and Education cards are available free for students (Pre-K through college), K-12 teachers and daycare employees in Richland County educational institutions.
Ballentine Library Features
Children’s Area
Nature Walk & Raised Garden
Patio
Pick-Up Window
Reading Nooks
Teen Area
Meeting Spaces
Library of Things
Living Room
Makerspace
Peek Inside Ballentine Library
Free Programs at Ballentine Library
Family Story Time
Family Story Time occurs twice weekly on Thursdays and Saturdays at 10 am and is intended for families with young children from birth to preschool but of course, older children are welcome as well. Families will listen to stories, sing songs, and have fun together while building literacy skills with their early learner.
Monday Morning Makers
Monday Morning Makers is on Monday mornings from 9:30 – 11:30 am and you can drop on anytime within those hours. The projects, which are designed for those 6 years old and up, are different each week and all ages and abilities are welcome.
This program takes place in the Makerspace which is packed with art supplies to fuel your creativity! The Makerspace also features a corner of windows that stretch to the ceiling and allow for some amazing birdwatching! Seventy-two different species of birds have been sighted here.
Read to a Dog
The Read to a Dog program typically occurs once a month and allows children to spend 10 minutes, one-on-one, practicing reading aloud to Bailey The Therapy Dog. There are only 10 spots available to read to Bailey, so this program is first come, first served. The handler will be with the dog and child at all times.
Birding at Ballentine
Birding at Ballentine is a monthly program led by the Ballentine Library Staff where you will learn how to use binoculars to identify local birds, plus how to help the birds in your own backyard beyond bird feeders.
Come see how many of the 72 different species you can spot!
Career Ready: Resume Help
Career Ready: Resume Help provides community members with individual help in building a resume from one of the library’s Career Coaches. This is recommended for both adults and teens, whether you are creating your first resume to transition into the workforce for the first time or refining an existing resume, the Career Coach is available to answer your questions.
Make and Create: Adults Get Crafty (Adults Only)
With all the time you can spend here as a family and with the kids, you may be craving some alone time. That’s okay too. They have several adult-only classes available also. Every Friday, adults gather to create some really fun projects.
Every other week the craft typically incorporates some form of crochet to give a variety of projects and plenty of opportunity to use different crafting materials and techniques. There is a wall in the Makerspace that features examples of past (and some future) projects and inquiries into the techniques used in each are welcome.
Benefits of Free Library Programs
Not only are these programs a great way to bond with your child and make learning fun but they provide an excellent opportunity to make new friends as well.
Let’s be honest, being a parent isn’t always easy and sometimes it can even feel isolating. Getting out, connecting with others, and taking advantage of the FREE library programs is beneficial in so many ways, plus you may even discover a skill or interest you never knew you had.
Additional Ballentine Library Info
Seed Library
Be sure to visit the Seed Library after your program! They have flower seeds and Non-GMO vegetable seeds. You can take up to 10 packets. Each packet is labeled with details and instructions so you’ll know exactly when to plant, how long until harvest, and how to grow your new seeds.
Nature Trail
Grab a scavenger hunt sheet at the seed library for the kids and head out back to the large patio and nature trail.
Library of Things
The staff at Ballentine Library is super helpful, friendly, and excited to share about the resources the library has to offer.
Ballentine is one of 4 Libraries within the Richland Library System that has a Library of Things. Baking supplies such as stand mixers, cake pans, cake decorating tip set, bread and scone kits, and cookie cutters are available to check out.
You are also able to check out games like corn hole, a giant wooden Connect Four set, Bean Bag Bucketz, Croquet Set, and a Giant Tumbling Timber Toy. Tools, including an electric tiller, electric pressure washer, electric earth auger, push reel mower, and lawn maintenance kit are also available to rent at Ballentine.
Some other noteworthy items are a film-to-digital converter, binoculars (and birdwatching kit), monoculars, trail cam kit, sewing machine, and Cricut Maker Machine which are also available here.
There are rules and restrictions associated with checking these items out so be sure to read those in detail beforehand. You must have a library card to access the Library of Things and check items out. Main, Lower Richland, and Edgewood locations also have a Library of Things which includes an unbelievable variety of items from tents and telescopes to projection screens and a Stop-Motion Animation Kit.
More to Love at Richland County Libraries
There are programs for every age, ability, and interest across the Richland Library Branches. Programs they offer across the branches include family storytimes, Read To A Dog, Make & Create, Bilingual storytime, Crafternoon (babies, toddlers, teens, and adults all welcome), Teen Gaming Night and so much more.
Each branch also has a unique feature like the Print Studio at the Eastover Branch, Bike Repair Station at Edgewood, and Recording Studio at North Main. The Richland Library Main Branch has a Makerspace, Fiberworks Studio, Production Stage, Post-Production Lab, Theater, Artist-in-Residence Studio, and more. That’s just to name a few of the unique features they each offer.
We highly recommend you take advantage of the many free and fun resources the Richland Library has to offer. There is literally something for everyone. We highlight some of the upcoming events on our calendar.
Which is your favorite Richland Library location to visit and why
Wondering what it’d be like to go to a University of South Carolina basketball game? Thinking about bringing the kids along? Whether you’re a die-hard Gamecock fan or planning your first trip to Colonial Life, we hope to answer all of your questions. We’ve got all the helpful hints you’ll need for bringing kids, information on parking, ticket purchases, tips for entering Colonial Life Arena, and more from a mom who recently went to a game with her family.
Fans Love Colonial Life Arena: Gamecocks Basketball Stadium
Colonial Life Arena is home to both the women’s and men’s Gamecock basketball teams. It holds a whopping 18,000 fans, making it the 10th largest on-campus basketball arena in the nation! Before entering the arena itself, you will be greeted with a beautiful fountain and statue of A’ja Wilson, a Gamecock women’s basketball legend.
Upon entering through the main doors, you will see a beautiful mural of a Gamecock on the floor. As you continue your walk around the arena, you will see vintage jerseys and other memorabilia from some of the most well-known Gamecock basketball players and teams.
College basketball games are a great event for couples, families, or even groups of friends to enjoy! Not only is it thrilling to cheer on your team to victory alongside thousands of other fans, but the Gamecocks also have some note-worthy players that you won’t want to miss seeing on the court.
You will also have the chance to hear the Carolina Band, also known as the “Mighty Sound of the Southeast” play. During the halftime show and timeout segments, the USC cheerleaders and dance team come out to perform and keep the crowd involved as well.
Gamecock Basketball Teams
The Lady Gamecocks: USC Women’s Basketball Team
The Gamecock women’s basketball team has been in the spotlight for several years now and rightfully so! They are coached by Dawn Staley and have won the NCAA National Championship in 2017 and 2022. They have also won the SEC Championship 5 times! There are usually around 10,000 fans who show up to cheer on the Univesity of South Carolina women’s team, “The Lady G’s,” making it an atmosphere that you just can’t find in any other college basketball arena!
Gamecock Men’s Basketball
The men’s team is coached by Lamont Paris. Throughout the last 3 seasons, the men’s team has sold out Colonial Life Arena 5 times! My family and I recently went to a men’s game and had a fantastic time cheering on all of the players and watching their coach in action!
Purchasing USC Basketball Tickets
If you’re looking to go to a specific game, your best option is to purchase those tickets well in advance. This way you will not have to worry about them selling out AND you might be able to find the tickets for a bit cheaper. Both teams are known to have large crowds in attendance, but this is especially true for the women’s team, particularly when they play against other SEC teams.
There are several ways you can go about purchasing basketball tickets. You can do so by going to the Gamecock Ticket Office, found at 1304 Heyward Street, online at Ticketmaster, or you can purchase tickets directly from Colonial Life Arena.
The box office at the arena is open every Tuesday from 9 am to 5 pm for ticket purchases as well as on game days.
Pricing depends greatly on rankings, who the opposing team will be, and when you purchase.
Helpful Hints Before You Head to the Game
What Can You Bring? Colonial Life Arena
Outside food and drinks are not permitted within the arena. However, there are several concession stands located throughout Colonial Life with delicious options such as: pretzels (my son’s personal favorite), candy, hamburgers, nachos, drinks, and much more!
Some other things that aren’t allowed inside Colonial Life include:
Strollers
Noisemakers
Selfie sticks
Water bottles
Binoculars
Colonial Life Arena Clear Bag Only Policy
Be aware that there is a clear bag policy at Colonial Life Arena. This means no diaper bags, backpacks, fanny packs, etc. Medically necessary items are the only exception to the rule. However, they will most likely have to be inspected and tagged before entry.
Tips for Bringing Your Kids Along
The doors to the arena will open 1 hour before the game. That being said, I recommend getting there about 30 to 45 minutes before game time. This will give you and your littles plenty of time to go through security, find your seats, use the restroom, and get situated before the excitement begins.
Speaking of excitement, you won’t want to miss all of the pre-game events! This part of the game always gets my kids into it, draws their attention to the court, and gives them something stimulating to look at. During the pre-game you can expect the band to play some Carolina favorites, flashing lights, small fireworks as starting players are announced, cheerleaders, and the oh, so popular “Sandstorm” to really get the crowd going!
My kids love to look around and find the mascot, “Cocky” as he dances around the court. Pro tip: If, or better yet, when, your kids start to get wiggly, play who can find Cocky the fastest – works every time!
Some other ways to keep your kids involved during the game:
Go for a walk around the arena at halftime
Let them choose a snack from the concession stands
Keep their attention by explaining what is happening on the court
Encourage them to keep track of the score
Teach them some of the chants
Where to Park for Gamecock Basketball Games
Where can I park at the Colonial Life Arena?
There are several different parking options for Colonial Life Arena. There are parking garages, meter spaces, and public parking lots that can be found within a block or two of the arena. My family often parks at the Discovery Plaza Garage. We like this option because we can just cross over 1 street and be at Colonial Life. There is a small fee for parking in most places around the arena, usually between $10 and $20.
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!
Ice Skating Rink: Columbia, SC
Flight Adventure Park – Irmo
Address: 1019 Broad Stone Road, Irmo – 803.732.1900 Cost: Ice Skating prices – $10/person Monday – Friday at 5 pm, $13/person Friday at 5 pm – Sunday 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’s hours andtimes change weekly. Be sure to check their website or give them a call ahead of time.
Address: 800 Bookman Road, Elgin – 803.736.0606 Cost: Price based on age – from $6 to $12 (additional fee for skates) 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!
Address: 2724 Emanuel Church Road, West Columbia – 803.359.1123 Cost: From $6 to $12 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!
Address: 129 Oak Drive, Lexington – 803.356.3500 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:
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 family!
Carolina Ice Palace
Address: 7665 Northwoods Boulevard, North Charleston – 843.572.2717 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!
Address: 400 Scottswood Road, Taylors – 864.322.7529 Cost: Ice skating rates – $7.50 ages 12 and under and Seniors; $9.50 ages 13 and older; $4.25 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!
Address: 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway, Charlotte, NC Cost: $25 per skater, includes skates Details: Not your typical ice rink! Enjoy lots of unique outdoor skating spaces, ice trails, and loops. Our family had a great time when we visited in January 2024. Find out all about it in our Kidding Around Review of Ice Skating at the Whitewater Center. Skating is open mid-November through mid-February annually.
