Looking for a kid-free date night or just need some alone time but can’t find a sitter? Parent’s Night Out programs in Columbia, SC are the perfect solution! Check out our list for places to choose from. We’ve got gymnastics to cooking options; there’s something for everyone. Your kids are sure to have a great time, all while you enjoy the quiet. See details below for times, dates, and specifics that each program offers.
Empire Gymnastics
Known as “Kid’s Night Out” here, Empire Gymnastics offers great fun for your kiddo – including pizza, free play, games, and crafts. Space is limited, and pre-registering is a MUST. So be sure to get on their list ASAP. They generally offer this program on the 2nd Friday of each month, but occasionally it changes. Check out Empire Gymnastics for more information.
Location: 116 South Lake Court, Lexington Phone: 803.359.2420 Time: 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm Cost : $25/child ($5 off if you bring a guest) Ages: 5+ years
Palmetto Athletic Center
Palmetto Athletic Center offers everything from bounce houses to rope swings for their “Saturday Night Out” fun! Your kiddos are sure to get their energy out and have loads of fun while you enjoy a much deserved night away. They offer this program on select Saturdays throughout the school year. So check out Palmetto Athletic Center here for more information.
Lake Murray Gymnastics offers a 10,000 sq. ft. facility for your child to run, jump, and play in on Friday nights. Your child is sure to laugh and have fun while getting their wiggles out. Enjoy your evening, knowing that your child is safe and well-cared for – and filling up on some yummy pizza! Visit Lake Murray Gymnastics for more information.
Location: 110 Hunter Village Drive, Irmo Phone: 803.233.1460 Time: 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm (Fridays) Cost: $10 – Members/$15 – Non members Ages: 4+ years
Flour Power Cooking Studio
Your child will enjoy all sorts of fun, themed cooking and baking activities when attending one of Flour Power’s “Kid’s Night Out” events on Friday nights! From whipping up a breakfast dinner to baking muffins and cookies, your child is sure to find a yummy treat to enjoy making. These tickets sell out fast, so be sure to get yours soon. Visit Flour Power Cooking Studio for more information.
Location: 4517 Forest Drive, Columbia Phone: 803.231.9635 Time: 6 pm – 8 pm Cost: $52 Ages: 5-12 years
Here’s an example of one of Flour Power’s Kid’s Night Out events.
Kids Play Garden
Ready for your child to be able to play, learn, discover, and be creative? Kids Play Garden is the perfect spot! Not only do they offer Parent’s Night Out on Saturdays, but they also offer drop-in afternoon enrichment classes, summer camps, birthday parties, and more. The Columbia location is open now.
Are you looking for something new and exciting to do with your significant other for date night? There are lots of things to do in Columbia, SC for couples. It can be hard to decide! So, we’re highlighting some awesome and unique ways to spend the day, or even just a few hours, with your loved one right here for a date night, Columbia, SC-style! Whether you’re interested in art, theater, ax throwing, outdoorsy activities, or cooking classes, just to name a few, we’ve got you covered for your next date! Let the date night ideas planning begin!
Date Nights Are Important!
We get it, between your kid’s school, extracurricular activities, family get-togethers, and work, it’s so hard to plan a date night with just you and your spouse. Now is a great time to make your significant other feel like a priority.
It can be hard to come up with new and unique date ideas, but we are here to help! We hope you enjoy a little one-on-one time in Columbia using our list of date night ideas!
1. Take a Cooking Class
Looking for something new to do for date night? One thing’s for sure, taking a cooking class together sounds super fun and unique! Let’s Cook Culinary Studio offers so many great classes, one being a Friday night class specifically for couples. This class is offered twice a month and you will follow a recipe, and the guidance of a chef, to create your own delicious meal. You are even allowed to bring your own wine to complement your meal!
These classes have limited availability and usually fill up quickly. If this is something you’re interested in, be sure to book your spot well in advance!
2. Go Paddle Board!
It’s not as hard as it looks, really! And you rent paddleboards for just $25 at California Republic SUP on Lake Murray. Rentals are for two hours, which is just the right amount of time to enjoy the beautiful Lake Murray on the water. Then you can enjoy a picnic on the grassy lawn by the lake.
There are two great places in Columbia that offer pottery making and painting: HalfMoon Pottery and Mad Platter. Both of these businesses offer classes, walk-ins, and take reservations. You will be able to choose your art piece, design, and decorate, then return to pick up your project after it has been glazed and dried. Talk about a statement, or conversation piece for your home!
4. Go Ax Throwing
Not long ago, ax throwing was all the rave, and for good reason! If you haven’t had the chance to go I HIGHLY recommend giving it a try. Craft Axe Throwing is the only business in Columbia that offers this fun activity, but there are two locations: downtown Columbia and Lexington.
My husband and I went for the first time about a year ago and it was so much fun figuring it out together, getting competitive with the games and scorekeeping, and of course, snacking on some delicious food and drinks! They are known to be quite busy on the weekends so it would be a good idea to book a lane online in advance!
5. Get Artsy at a Paint & Sip Studio
Put your art skills to the test at a “Paint & Sip” studio! Here are the two canvas painting studios we recommend for a date night:
Studio Cellar – currently in the process of changing locations, but offering pop-up events and travel party services until the move is complete. Stay tuned for updated address and opening information!
Both of these studios offer classes where an instructor will walk you through each step of painting a pre-chosen picture or freestyle painting where you can choose your own artwork, be given a set of instructions, and work at your own pace. You can even bring your own wine, beer, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks to munch on as you paint!
6. Test Your Skills at an Escape Room
If you’re looking to have a group date night with some of your other couple friends, an escape room might be just the place for you! The main idea is that you get 60-minutes to solve a mystery using clues all around you. It really puts your mind to the test and works on your communication and team-work skills.
Most of these escape rooms change out their mysteries frequently so you can always go back more than once. There are several fantastic escape rooms throughout Columbia, here are a few of our favorites:
My husband and I recently went to Great Escape SC with another couple and we all had such a great time!
7. Enjoy Bowling
There are several places to go bowling all throughout the Midlands, however The Grand on Main Street is like no other! At The Grand you will find a restaurant in the front of the building and bowling lanes in the back. Enjoy a delicious meal with your spouse then continue the night with a fun game of bowling!
If you don’t want to have a full meal, you can order small plates and drinks while you bowl and they will be brought right to you. This is much smaller than a traditional bowling alley so the atmosphere is a lot more cozy and intimate.
Top Secret: Dessert Bar
Pssst! Not many people know about it, but there is also an underground cocktail and dessert bar called The Robinson Room found here. You and your spouse can continue your night by enjoying unique cocktails and desserts!
8. See a Show at the Theaters
Another great date night idea is to head to a local theater and enjoy a performance, musical, or movie. Columbia is home to many theaters that all have calendars FULL of monthly events:
The Nickelodeon Theater has been in business for more than 40 years. It offers all the charm and coziness of an old-school movie theater with both matinee and evening showtimes. They usually show about 3 – 4 movies at a time which change as new movies are released.
The Township Auditorium often hosts up-and-coming musical artists, bands, comedians, and more. Already on the list for this year are performers such as STYX, Kountry Wayne, and Jill Scott.
Another great place to go to view performances is the Koger Center. You can often find ballets, musicals, orchestras, and more! On the 2023 schedule, you can find Annie, Hairspray, and Romeo and Juliet, just to name a few.
Get out your University of South Carolina gear and cheer on the Gamecocks! While sporting events can double as a fun family activity, they can also be a fantastic date idea! No matter what time of year, there is always some kind of college sporting event happening in Columbia – baseball, basketball, soccer, and football, and more. You can check out the full sports schedule for USC.
Do you or your significant other love art? Touring the art galleries at the Columbia Museum of Art could be a fun date! They have rotating exhibits, guided tours, and monthly events that would be perfect for couples.
11. Enjoy a Romantic Evening Outdoors
Pack up a picnic basket, large blanket, pull out your tennis shoes, and take a romantic stroll with your loved one to see a beautiful Columbia sunset!
There are SO MANY fantastic places to walk and enjoy fresh air, but some of our date night favorites include Saluda Shoals, Columbia Canal & Riverfront Park, West Columbia Riverwalk, and the SC State House grounds.
Overall the romantic, mushy gushy date night ideas? Here’s one that is quite the opposite! At Trash the Smash Room you will be able to smash, crash, and demolish as many things as your heart desires! There are different sessions and rooms to accommodate the number of people you’re going with, so this one would make a fun group date night out with some other couples. One important thing to note is that closed-toed shoes are REQUIRED!
13. Visit the Melton Observatory
This one is free! On Monday nights with clear skies, the Melton Observatory on the USC campus opens up to the public for free. Learn from the knowledgeable staff and get a chance to look through the observatory’s huge telescope.
14. Visit Riverbanks Zoo
It’s not the usual date idea, we know. But if you have a few daytime hours to spend together, heading to the zoo can be a great way to spend that time. Visiting the Riverbanks Zoo as a couple, sans kids, is a totally different experience. Grab a coffee, stroll, you may even get a chance to actually read the exhibit signs and learn something new since you won’t be chasing around the kiddos.
15. Tube the Saluda River
Ready for a fun, hot-day, water activity? Grab your partner and head down to Palmetto Outdoor for some tubing down the Saluda River. Cost ranges from $15 – $85 depending on the type of tube you choose. They offer this activity May through September as long as the weather and water levels permit. Reservations can be made online the day before. Walk-ups are welcome for cash only. They also offer other activities such as kayaking and canoeing. There are fun rapids to enjoy, but there are also calm spots along the way. So bring a camera and enjoy taking in some of the beautiful scenery. Don’t forget a dry bag and some snacks! Check out their what to bring/not to bring list here.
16. Transmission Arcade & Bar
Class arcade games mix with burgers, salads, wings and adult beverages at Transmission Arcade and Bar on Main Street in Columbia. Relive your youth for a few hours with some classic arcade games and good food. Transmission Arcade & Bar Menu 1712 Main Street, Columbia
17. Epic Treehouse Overnight
On Lake Greenwood in Waterloo, SC, you’ll find the most romantic treehouse. Check it out!
Old Soul Treehouse: This treehouse on Lake Greenwood in Waterloo, SC is completely stunning and the perfect place for a romantic getaway!
More!
Lula Drake Wine Parlour
BONUS idea! Check out Lula Drake Wine Parlour. It’s the perfect spot for some wine, small plates, and good conversation.
Bring along a favorite game or deck of cards, you won’t be rushed!
In conjunction with the first Thursdays at the Columbia Museum of Art, you can also enjoy live music free at Boyd Plaza. Bring some snacks, or purchase something to eat at the on-site food trucks.
You can enjoy live music for free at several places throughout the capital city including parks and breweries. Check out Jazz on the River for free jazz concerts at West Columbia Riverwalk Amphitheater.
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!
We love the South Carolina State Museum for its huge amount of exhibits and hands-on learning. In the winter, they offer a live 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 all of the cold months. Book your planetarium tickets Live Sky Tour online in advance if you want to be sure to get in at your chosen time!
Additional shows currently available at the Planetarium are Arora, Mars, James Webb Space Telescope and We Are Stars. You can book your tickets at the link above.
Dine-Out, Literally: Heated Outdoor Dining in Columbia, SC
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
Home Team BBQ Classic BBQ with a kids’ menu, plus a patio with panels that keep it toasty.
Hours: Monday – Closed, Tuesday and Wednesday from 3 pm – 8 pm, Thursday from 3 pm – 10 pm, Friday and Saturday from 12 pm – 11 pm, Sunday from 10 am – 8 pm
Upper Crust The Gourmet wood-fired pizza place is in the process of setting up dome dining for these cold winter months. The domes will be heated in the winter and cooled in the summer. They also serve brunch and offer “take and bake” pizzas if you prefer dining at home. Check back for official dome completion update!
Location: 843-4 Polo Road, Columbia
Hours: Monday – Closed, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 am – 3 pm, Thursday from 10 am – 8:30 pm, Friday from 10 am – 9 pm, Saturday from 10 am – 8:30 pm and Sunday 10 am – 2:30 pm
Backstreets Grill of Columbia Enjoy the beautiful outdoor atmosphere here while dining on soup, salad, choice meats and seafood!
Location: 2400 Devine Street, Columbia
Hours: Monday – Friday 11 am – 10 pm, Saturday and Sunday 11:30 am – 10 pm
Publico Kitchen + Tap Located in Five Points, Publico serves Latin-Asian inspired cuisine, craft beer, margaritas, tacos and Sunday Brunch. They have heaters on the patio as well as heated dome dining available for reservation. They also offer an extensive and festive mocktail menu, vegan menu and most uniquely, a VIP (Very Important Puppy) Menu – Yes, puppy menu! They have a menu specially for dining with your dog! The puppy portion sizes are served based on weight and all profit from the VIP menu go to help a local rescue.
Location: 2013 Greene Street, Columbia
Hours: Monday through Saturday 11 am – 10 pm
Publico at Bullstreet Features Latin-Asian inspired dishes including tacos, ramen, salads and sandwiches. They also offer a vegan and brunch menu plus the VIP Menu (Very Important Puppy) incorporates your dog as part of your family while dining here! They have heaters on their patio to keep you warm in these cold winter months!
Location: 2180 Boyce Street Suite A, Columbia
Hours: Sunday through Thursday 11 am – 11 pm, Friday & Saturday 11 am – 12 am
BOKU Kitchen & Saloon Serves Pan-Asian cuisine and uses locally sourced ingredients. They have heaters on their outdoor patio to warm you up while you enjoy outdoor dining.
Location: 916 Gervais Street, Columbia
Hours: Monday-Wednesday 11 am – 10 pm Kitchen, 11 pm Bar Thursday & Friday 11 am – 11 pm Kitchen, 1 am Bar Saturday Brunch 11 am – 3 pm, Dinner 4 pm – 11 pm Kitchen, 1 am Bar Sunday Brunch 11 am to 3 pm, Dinner 4 pm – 10 pm, Kitchen, 11 pm Bar
Market on MainVoted 2023’s Best Place to Dine Outdoors, they have a Jumbotron TV outside, live music and offer dome dining on their outdoor patio! They allow your dog to dine with you on the outdoor patio and offer a variety of family friendly events throughout the year. Specializing in gourmet Americana cuisine, this restaurant provides an atmosphere the whole family, even Fido, will enjoy!
Location: 1320 Main Street #150, Columbia
Hours: Monday – Closed, Tuesday & Wednesday 11 am – 10:30 pm, Thursday through Saturday 11 am – 12 am, Sunday 10:30 am to 9 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.
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.
Outdoor Ice Skating
Head up to the Whitewater Center in Charlotte for epic outdoor ice skating. They have several skating spaces and ice trails, it’s much more than an oval rink! Skating is open through mid-February. Find out all about it in our Whitewater Ice Skating Review!
So, we may have to travel to see that snow, but that probably means things are looking pretty temperate and sunny out there, perfect for some outdoor winter activities. Columbia, SC has a whole heap. 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.
Visit Riverbanks Zoo: The animals are likely to be more active in the cooler temperatures, and so are you. Take advantage of Free Fridays – Free admission for Richland and Lexington County Residents in January and February of 2024.
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.
Looking for things to do when you’re stuck at home? Whether you’re home because of illness in the family, school closings, or because gas is too expensive, you need ideas to help you not lose your sanity and entertain your kids. If you’re looking for things to do at home with kids, we have lots of ideas (because that’s what we do here). This may be the perfect time to cross off some of your bucket list items.
What’s so great about winter hikes? Columbia, SC offers lots of places to get out and enjoy the outdoors on a hike, and the surrounding area particularly towards the mountains brings beautiful winter hiking opportunities just a day trip away. This winter hiking guide will help you choose your winter hiking destination and pack your bag so you’re prepared for a fun adventure.
Expect to see things as you haven’t before. Fewer leaves on the trees means that you can see through them for a view usually hidden. Expect to walk along trails that feel much more open, and expect more lookout stops and panoramic mountain views, even from the valley trails.
What you won’t see many of? Bugs. And snakes (usually). And while it’s colder and you’ll want to layer up (more on that later), you also won’t be dripping sweat and hiking through summer humidity. That right there makes winter hiking a lovely alternative.
Take a peek at winter hiking
Spoiler alert: It’s gorgeous
Winter Hiking Tips
Bring water and snacks. It can be tempting to bring less water when it’s cooler but don’t. It’s better to have too much than not enough, and the dryer winter air will make you thirsty!
Consider bringing hot chocolate in a thermos. The tasty treat will taste even better accompanied by gorgeous views, well earned. And, it can work as a bit of an encouragement for little legs that might want to stop hiking before the end of the trail!
Pack a first-aid kit and emergency supplies. Chapstick, hand warmers, and an emergency blanket are what we’d pack on a mountain winter hike.
Dress in layers. Start with a tank or t-shirt, layered with something long-sleeved and then a jacket on top of that.
Wear or bring hats, gloves, and wool socks.
Winter Hikes: Close to Columbia
If you want to find panoramic mountain views you’ll want to head up towards the Upstate of South Carolina for your winter hike. But if you can’t dedicate a whole day to your adventure, there are still several spots for winter hiking right in and near Columbia.
Pick a place on our Columbia Hiking Guide. Any of those trails can be enjoyed in the cooler winter temperatures.
If that’s too many choices, we recommend one of these three spots!
There are over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails in Harbison State Forest, including and ADA-accessible trail so everyone can enjoy a winter trail hike together.
Sesquicentennial State Park
Enjoy a light hike around the lake at Sesquicentennial State Park. In the winter you’ll avoid insects and humidity, and likely enjoy a much less crowded park. The trail is only half a mile, so the whole family can enjoy it together.
Winter Hikes Near the Upstate
For a longer winter hike in the mountains, you’ll want to plan a day trip to the Upstate.
In winter, the strenuous trail offers an incredible view. While the hike to the top of Table Rock is tough, it’s definitely more doable in the cooler temperatures. The panoramic view is a huge pay-off.
If temperatures are below freezing, we do not recommend going to the top since the steps to Governors Rock will be frozen over. Instead, hike the Carrick Creek loop.
This hike is great in winter because you can see a whole lot further and you can’t play in the falls anyway. The waterfall is a long distance away from the overlook, you may want to bring binoculars.
Crowders Mountain is near Kings Mountain on the SC/NC border, about 2 hours from Columbia. You can do a five-mile moderate loop trail that gives you incredible views in winter. We could even see Charlotte from the top!
Looking for “Mommy and Me” classes in Columbia and nearby areas? Well, look no further. We have compiled a great list of things for you and your little one to enjoy! “Mommy and Me” time is a great way to give your child that one-on-one attention that is so needed, and it’s a great way for them to release their built-up energy. So pick out a few and give them a try. Be sure to look them up before you go to verify days and times since some may be subject to change.
Where to find Mommy and Me Classes in Columbia
Tinkergarten
Young children learn through playing. Tinkergarten provides outdoor and nature playing for children ages 1 – 8. From weekly sessions to activities that continue the fun at home, there’s something for children and parents the whole year long. This program provides three levels of monthly plans. You’re welcome to try a class for free or enroll in a class for the season.
Learn rhythms and harmonies with your child through this fun music class! Be sure to bring a blanket or towel to sit on. You can sign up for individual classes or pay for a Tempo Membership. Individual classes must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.
Is there anything more magical and dreamy than singing nursery rhymes, reading children’s books and riding miniature horses all in one place? At Horse Crossing Farm’s Old MacDonald Mommy & Me Musical Farm Class, you’ll experience exactly this…and more. More information is coming for spring classes.
Got a tumbler on your hands? The Parent and Me class at Carolina Gymnastics will introduce basic gymnastic skills to your little one. You will also get to be involved and learn how to safely spot your child. This program includes many cognitive development learning opportunities too; such as, color sorting, counting, etc.
Looking for a fun way to let your little get their wiggles out? Check out Lexington County Library for locations and times near you. You and your little will enjoy singing, dancing, and fun stories together!
Flight Adventure Park
Need a rainy day activity for your kiddos? Flight Adventure Park with all kinds of trampoline activities has just the ticket! Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays they have a special hour from 10:00 am – 11:00 am that is reserved for just children ages 6 and under. The cost is $13 for that hour.
Locations:
Irmo: 1019 Broad Stone Road, Irmo; Phone: 803.732.1900
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.
On the hunt for family-friendly ways to ring in the New Year? Columbia, SC is home to several spectacular NYE events and the good news is that several of them are kid-friendly! The majority of these events will be over well before midnight, leaving plenty of time to get home before the bigger celebrations begin. We’ve found events with miniature ball drops, bowling, skating, great prizes, and more!
Happy New Year from the Kidding Around Columbia team!
Where: 4801 Forest Drive Time: 5K Run & Walk at 10 am; Snowflake Youth Fun Run at 10:45 am Price: From $15 to $50 depending on race and sign-up date Event Details: Kick-off your celebrations with a 5K and/or family fun run! This is a rain-or-shine event. Runners will receive a t-shirt!
Noon Year’s Eve Celebration at Altitude Trampoline Park
Where: Altitude Trampoline Park – 7451 Garners Ferry Road Time: 10:30 am until 12:30 pm Price: $25/jumper Event Details: Join Altitude to celebrate 2024! This includes 2 hours of jump time, a balloon drop, prizes, sparkling cider toast, and more! Be sure to purchase your tickets ASAP as this deal is limited to the first 100 jumpers.
Where: Dave & Buster’s – 100 Columbiana Circle, Suite 5 Time: 4 pm until 7 pm Price: $53.80/person Event Details: Celebrate the New Year with your family at Dave & Buster’s. Admission includes an appetizer buffet, unlimited soda, coffee & tea, Ginger Ale toast, and $20 power card!
Where: Segra Park – 1640 Freed Street Time: 5 pm until 8 pm Price: From $9 to $16 Event Details: This will be your last chance to get a glimpse of the Fireflies Holiday Lights at Segra Park. There will be a kid-friendly NYE ball drop and all children in attendance will receive a voucher for a free hot dog and fountain soda! We visited! Check out the Kidding Around Review of Fireflies Holiday Lights.
Where: Three Fountains Recreation Skating Rink and Mini Golf Time: 7:30 pm to 2 am Price: $12 in advance, $15 at the door Events Details: Advanced sale tickets get to enter early at 7 pm and a pair of skates will be given away at the event.
Where: AMF Bowling – 900 Axtell Drive Time: 9 pm until 1 am Price: Depends on package – more info below Event Details: Start 2024 off with a strike! There are two different packages to choose from:
NYE Family Package
$26.99/person
2 hours of unlimited bowling
Multiple time slots are available on both December 31 and January 1, 2024.
Will there be fireworks in Columbia for New Year’s 2024?
We have confirmed with the City of Columbia that there will be fireworks for New Year’s Eve2024.
Capital City Fireworks
2024 Where: Downtown Columbia, SC Time: Fireworks right after midnight Price: Free Event Details: For the second year in a row, this family-friendly event, Capital City Fireworks will be ringing in 2024. Families are invited to spend time in the city and stay for fireworks just after midnight. The best places to view the fireworks will be along Gervais Street and Main Street, to the north side of the SC State House.
Parties and big celebrations not your style? How about starting off the year with some fresh air and exercise? There are several places right in Columbia where you can enjoy a more relaxed New Year’s Day and get in a long walk or a hike.
Columbia’s Riverwalks are a great option for walking or bike riding with a riverfront view.
New Year’s Eve is often the last night to see holiday light displays. If you haven’t had a chance to drive through our Columbia holiday lights driving routes, New Year’s Eve is the night!
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.
Have you visited Carolina Lights at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds? We did! And, we have all the information and parent tips to make your trip to Carolina Lights spectacular.
When the lights go down in the city, and the sun sets over Williams-Brice Stadium, the Carolina Lights at the South Carolina Fairgrounds illuminate the evening sky from December 8 – 24, 2023.
The 5th annual Carolina Lights, a drive-through holiday light spectacular, is located at Lexington Medical Center Fair Park at the South Carolina Fairgrounds. This unforgettable show boasts over 100 individual LED light displays. With a combination of displays of both novelty and tradition, there’s something to satisfy even the biggest Scrooge!
Tickets for Carolina Lights
You can purchase tickets in advance for Carolina Lights on the South Carolina State Fair website, or you can pay cash or card at the gate. These advance purchase tickets may be used anytime between December 8 – 24, 2023.
Special Day Promotional Tickets
Active and Retired Military Day
On Wednesday, December 13, all active and retired military (with proper military identification) will be able to purchase tickets for 50% off at the gate
First Responder Day
On Tuesday, December 19, all first responders may purchase tickets for 50% off at the gate.
When is Carolina Lights?
Enjoy the light show anytime between December 8 – 24, 2024. Carolina Lights is open Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM. And Fridays and Saturdays, from 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM. Closed on all Mondays.
How Do You Get to Carolina Lights?
You may enter Carolina Lights at 901 George Rogers Blvd, Columbia, SC 29201. Please use Gate 6 of the South Carolina Fairgrounds.
Tips for Carolina Lights
Tune into FM Radio Station 88.9 for holiday music to sync with the lights.
Once you enter the fairgrounds, kindly turn off your headlights.
Stay in your vehicle at all times.
Restrooms are available halfway through the park. Look for signs for directions.
Cookies, milk, water, Pepsi products and even dog biscuits are available for purchase halfway through the light show. Follow signs to the designated lane.
Request a re-entry pass at the exit gate if you wish to re-enter the light show free of charge.
My Family’s Carolina Lights Experience
Opening night of Carolina Lights, my family turns into Gate 6 at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds. Upon entering, there are two lanes for check-in, and a designated person handing out maps at each post. We are greeted immediately and promptly handed a map of the lights and a holiday activity book for my two-year-old daughter. The gentleman then directs us ahead to the two mini houses, where each car pays with either cash or card. Again, there are still two lanes, in order to move things along swiftly.
Pay and On Your Way
My family is greeted by Kathy, the woman collecting money. She politely directs us ahead, giving us the option to turn off our headlights and tune into the FM Radio Station, 88.9. The radio station is playing holiday music of both new and old, and magically synchronized with the lights within the drive-through. Once you pay, the drive-through turns into a single-file lane only.
Not a Bad Seat in the House
Light displays line each side of the road, so no matter where you’re sitting in your car, front, back, infant car seat or third-row, you’re not going to miss a thing!
The light show begins with a giant gold-lit “Carolina Lights” archway, complete with a Carolina crescent moon and blue Palmetto tree to the left and right of the arch.
Holiday Hits of New and Old
As we weave in and out of the light show, we turn the radio station up so we can hear the carefully coordinated holiday music align with the dancing lights. My daughter is thrilled when “Let it Go,” from the Frozen soundtrack, is part of the show. From that song, to country, to both classic and current holiday hits, there’s a song to melt just about anyone’s holiday heart.
A Display for Everyone
We see every type of display as we make our way down the drive of blanketed lights. From flamingos, to dinosaurs, a carousel horse and an impressive array of characters from the Twelve Days of Christmas, my family was wide-eyed and in awe the entire ride.
Cookie Break
Midway through, there’s an option to go stay in one lane and continue driving throughout the light show, or stop for a cookies and milk in another lane. This year, they’ve even added an option to purchase dog cookies for $2, should you decide to bring your family pet along for the ride!
After you’ve been handed your snacks, in a drive-through style fashion, you simply follow the signs back to the light show route.
Holiday Lights Come to an End
As we make our rounds, the “ooohs and ahhhs” never stop. Everyone in the car points out their favorite display at one point or another. We make our way toward the end of the route, a beautiful archway with the words “Joy to the World” shine above us. Next, the words “Happy Hanukkah” and a menorah line the left side of the driveway and not far ahead a manger scene complete with wise men and animals close out the Carolina Lights.
Or Do They?
If you should choose, your night doesn’t have to end after your first tour through. Just request a re-entry pass and view the lights again on the same night.