90+ Classes & Activities for Kids in Columbia, SC (2026 Guide)

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What’s Inside 👀: Looking for classes for kids and kids’ activities in Columbia, SC? Explore 90+ classes and programs, including sports, baby/toddler classes, gymnastics classes, horseback riding, and more.

Wondering where to find kids’ activities in Columbia, SC? Right here! Whether you’re hoping to fill your child’s schedule with something creative, hands-on, or to help boost their confidence, this guide has you covered. We’ve researched it all, from art and sports to science, swimming lessons, and more, and found something for every kid in Columbia! Scroll down to search by category.

Columbia, SC Kids Activities and Classes: Navigation

Kidding Aroun® Columbia Classes and Activities guide

How to navigate this guide: Click the blue buttons above to help you search this page, where you will find classes and activities for kids, sorted by category. You can also use the buttons to preview featured classes and activities that give you more detailed information about those sponsored offerings. Not sure what you are looking for? Check out all the listings we have by choosing the “All Columbia Kids Activities” button above to scroll to the bottom!

What Kids’ Activities are Available in Columbia, SC? Search by Category!

Columbia, SC, offers a wide range of kids’ activities, from dance and gymnastics classes to sports leagues, art studios, nature programs, and horseback riding, suitable for toddlers through teens. Sort Columbia’s classes and activities for kids by category using the orange buttons below.


Questions Parents Have about Classes for Kids near Columbia

Click the questions below to find answers to readers’ questions about kids’ classes nearby.

How much do kids’ classes and activities cost in Columbia, SC?
Costs vary widely depending on the type of program. Some community and library programs are free, while structured classes like dance, gymnastics, or horseback riding typically range from $40 to $120 per month, depending on how often you go and the type of lesson. We recommend contacting the studio directly. Sports leagues and specialty programs may have seasonal or registration fees.
What ages are served by kids’ activities in Columbia, SC?
Kids’ activities in Columbia can be found for any age, from babies and toddlers and preschoolers to elementary through teens. Many programs clearly list age ranges, and plenty offer parent-and-child classes for younger children as well as advanced programs for older kids and teens.
Are there open play or drop-in activity options for kids?
Yes. Several kids’ activity providers in Columbia offer open play or drop-in options, including indoor play spaces like EdVenture and art studios like The Mad Platter. These are great for families who want a flexible schedule or a fun one-time activity without committing to a full session.
Do kids’ activities in Columbia, SC require advance registration?
Many structured classes and sports programs require advance registration, especially for seasonal sessions. Kids classes at Sesqui State Park and other SC State Parks, including Harbison State Forest, also require registration ahead of time. Open play options, workshops, and special events (found on our events calendar) often allow same-day or walk-in participation. When in doubt, it’s always best to check ahead of time.
Are there affordable or free kids activities in Columbia, SC?
Yes. Columbia has a great range of free and affordable options. Library programs offer arts and crafts, storytime, maker times, and more at no cost. Kroger Chef Junior classes are available for a low fee. The Columbia Museum of Art has free programs like Gladys’ Gang monthly. And Home Depot and Lowe’s both run free kids workshops monthly throughout the year. These are all great ways to explore new activities without spending a lot.


These featured listings offer a more detailed look at these local sponsor’s classes for kids! Scroll down to see more.

Horse Crossing Farm

SPONSORED 803.960.3680 horsecrossingfarmsc@gmail.com 210 Railroad Avenue , Lexington, SC

Horse Crossing Farm 2026

We are a family-owned mini farm in the heart of Lexington, SC. We offer horse riding lessons, toddler equine exposure, farm camps, private tours, birthday parties, field trips, music/art/storytelling classes and photography sessions. We have a large variety of animals.
We are open by private appointment only, so please contact us to book a service!

  • Ages: All ages
  • Animals: Horses, ponies, goats, sheep, alpaca, llama, pig, mini horse, mini mule, cow, hedgehogs, chickens, ducks, turkey, peacocks, emu, guinea fowl, geese, rhea, cats, and bunnies
  • Farm Shop: Open daily 10 am–7 pm
  • Booking: Open by private appointment only, contact us on Facebook to book
  • Pro Tip: Horse lesson slots are currently full; message them now to get on the waiting list for future openings!

Programs Offered:

  • Horse Lessons (ages 5+): Complete instruction including groundwork, brushing, tacking up, riding, hoof care, and horse health; English and Western styles offered. $40/hour semi-private lesson. Offered daily except Fridays.
    No prior experience required.
    Currently waitlist only; message to be added.
  • Tiny Trots (Up to age 5): 30-min equine exposure sessions including grooming, tacking up, a pony ride, and treat time. $25 per lesson. Offered weekday mornings and afternoons. Register here
  • Animal Meet-and-Greets (all ages): 1-hour private farm tour with hands-on animal interaction, horse brushing, treat feeding, petting pens, and a horse lead ride. $70 for 1–2 participants | $10 each additional. Weekday mornings & Saturdays by appointment. Book here
  • Old MacDonald Music Classes (4 years and under): Toddler classes focused on music and farm animals. $15 per child | Minimum 2-class signup required. Register here
  • Paint & Pet Classes (all ages): Create your own animal portrait under an art teacher’s direction, then pet and interact with the farm animals. All art supplies provided. $35 per participant.
  • Special Events: Birthday parties (Saturdays, $350 for up to 8 kids), farm-themed photography sessions, and holiday events for every major holiday. Book here
  • Field Trips available

Top Questions Parents Ask about Horse Crossing Farm

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, Horse Crossing Farm is open by private appointment only. All sessions are booked in advance and require a half-down deposit, with the remaining balance due the day of.
What age is appropriate for a visit? Programs start as young as 18 months. Tiny Trots and Old MacDonald Music Classes are designed specifically for toddlers, while Animal Meet-and-Greets and Paint & Pet Classes are great for all ages.
Are horse lessons still available? Lesson slots are currently full; message them on Facebook to be added to the waiting list for future openings.

Horse Crossing Farm Lexington Facebook: www.facebook.com/horsecrossingfarmsc/
Phone Number: 803.960.3680
Email: horsecrossingfarmsc@gmail.com

Special Offer for Kidding Around Families!  Use the promo code KIDDINGAROUND to get your first two swim lessons free when you enroll in lessons!

Goldfish Swim School is now in Lexington! Goldfish Swim School is South Carolina’s premier learn-to-swim program offering indoor, year-round swim instruction to children ages 4 months to 12 years-old in a safe, fun and family-friendly setting with highly trained instructors, small class sizes and shiver-free 90-degree pools. Goldfish offers perpetual lessons and families can enroll at any time. Goldfish Swim School highlights include flexible class times, free make-up lessons and a proven, confidence-building curriculum.

  • Ages: 4 months to 12 years
  • Cost: Starting at $34 per lesson | Visit pricing page for full details
  • Schedule: Tue–Thu 8 am–8 pm | Fri 12–8 pm | Sat 8 am–3 pm | Sun 8 am–5:30 pm | Enroll anytime
  • Pool: Indoor, shiver-free 90-degree pool | 4:1 student-to-teacher ratio
  • Facility: Air-conditioned viewing gallery | Private changing rooms | Blow-dry station | Snack bar | Retail shop | Tropical décor
  • Makeup Lessons: Free makeup lessons available | Flexible scheduling
  • Pro Tip: Use promo code KIDDINGAROUND at checkout to get your first two swim lessons free — exclusive offer for Kidding Around families!

Top Questions Parents Ask About Goldfish Swim School

When can we start? Anytime, Goldfish offers perpetual enrollment so you don’t have to wait for a new session to begin. A free swim assessment is available to place your child in the right class.
What programs are available? Mini (4–35 months), Junior (3–4 years), Glider (4–12 years), Pro (4–12 years), and Swim Force (5–12 years) for those ready for swim team. Family Swim and Jump Start Clinics also available.
What should my child bring? Just a swimsuit and a towel. Reusable swim diapers are required for children who are not yet potty-trained.

For more information, please visit the Goldfish Swim School Lexington website.


Swimming lessons in Columbia SC
Looking for swimming lessons for your kids? Here’s a list of 9 places in Columbia, SC with swim lessons for kids!

All Activities and Kids Classes: Columbia, SC

Scroll through the listings of classes for kids below to discover something new! Or, use the buttons in the orange box above to view these listings by category. Try dance, gymnastics, a new sport, or develop some cooking skills. Maybe a martial arts class or STEM program is something your child would love.

Masquerade Designs Face Painting and Characters

We are a family business that provides face painting using a clean technique to prevent the spread of germs. We are rated 5 stars across all platforms. We also offer characters , mascots, body art, and concessions.

Elite Soccer Training

803.404.9361 Multiple Locations, Columbia, Lexington, Irmo, SC

Classes: Youth soccer programs based on skill and age. Programs are available for ages 2 through 6th grade.

Elite Soccer Training is offered at:

Polo Road Elementary, Lake Murray Elementary, Pontiac Elementary, St John Neumann Catholic School, Lake Carolina Lower Campus, Irmo Elementary School, Lake Carolina Upper Campus, Bookman Road Elementary, Lake Murray Child Development Centre, Joseph Keels Elementary, JKES 21st Century Club, Langford Elementary

Tony Thomas Family Karate

803.754.2333 130 Fontaine Drive, Columbia, SC

Classes: Tony Thomas Family Karate offers after-school, children’s karate, advanced children’s karate, and teen/adult karate.

Programs are offered on various days of the week in late afternoon/evenings.

The Karate Dojo

803.739.9494 2225 Sunset Boulevard, West Columbia, SC

Classes: The Karate Dojo offers classes for kids and adults beginning at age 3.

Summer Camps: The Karate Dojo offers a Summer Karate Kamp that focuses on martial arts instruction, skill, and training. Campers will leave camp with newfound confidence.

2026 info TBA
Dates:
May – July 
Ages: 
Price: $187
Full day available

Star Music Academy

803.252.8133 | 803.699.5200 Two locations, Columbia, SC

Classes: Star Music Academy offers private musical instruction half time (30 minutes once per week) or full-time ( 60 minutes once per week) for students. They work with beginner, novice, and expert musicians. A recital in fall and winter allows students to perform what they have learned.

They teach a multitude of band and orchestra instruments.

Locations:

Downtown Columbia- 1322 Assembly Street, Columbia | 803.252.8133
Northeast Columbia- 9810 Two Notch Road, Columbia | 803.699.5200

Classes: Empire Gymnastics offers the following classes:

  • Parent and Tot Gymnastics
  • Pre-school Gymnastics
  • Girls’ Gymnastics
  • Boys’ Gymnastics
  • Tumbling
  • Ninja

Summer Camps: Empire Gymnastics offers a Summer Camp for rising kindergartners – 8th graders. Activities include crafts, games, field trips, gymnastics, outdoor time, and more. Visit their website for more information.

Dates: May – July
Ages: 3 – 12
Price: $40 – $250
Full and Half day available

 

Mad Platter

3101 Millwood Avenue, Columbia, SC

Classes: Mud Club, art classes for kids after school.

Summer Camps: Mad Platter offers camps for young kids ages 3-6 and older kids age 7 and up.

Kroger Chef Jr.

1028 Roberts Branch Parkway, Columbia, SC

Classes: Offers cooking and baking classes for children. Class themes change regularly.
Classes are offered at various Kroger Grocery stores.  Registration is required.

Classes: Offers private volleyball lessons to ages 13 – 18 years old.

Check out their website for more information and programs that they offer.

Workshop Theatre

803.799.1009 wtactingschool@gmail.com 1301 Columbia College Drive, Columbia, SC

Classes: Workshop Theatre offers classes for all ages in Audition Workshop for Beginners, Private Voice Lessons, and Private Acting. Classes for ages 16 and older include Private Directing.

Suzuki Academy Columbia

803.397.3214 info@suzukiacademycolumbia.org 400 State Street , West Columbia, SC

Classes: Offers instruction in musical instruments to ages 3 and older. Instruments include violin, viola, cello, and classical guitar.

Soccer Stars

Soccer Stars offers soccer classes from 12 months up to 5 years old. Classes are specifically designed to improve your child’s soccer skills while also building their social skills and self-confidence.

Pony Gang Riding Academy

Discover a fun, safe, and nurturing horseback riding school offering English and Western lessons, homeschool classes, and Tiny Tot programs in a family-friendly, nature-based setting.

Monarch Ranch Butterfly Conservatory, LLC

Monarch Ranch Butterfly Conservatory in South Carolina offers:
• Magical, memorable birthday parties and garden tea parties
• Immersive butterfly encounters with pollinators
• Enchanting photography sessions and unicorn experiences
Educational workshops, tours, and garden consulting for families and schools fun

Great gym in a great location!

Youth Aerial Silks Summer Camp! Your child can learn the basics of a fun circus art that gets their blood pumping! Taught by Ellie Blackwell, a certified aerial silks instructor!

Dates: June – July
Ages: 9 – 16
Price:
Half day available

Celestial Stars Arts Academy

Offers dance classes in hip hop (ages 8 – 18), ballet (ages 5 to adult), contemporary (ages 8 – adult), and Creative Movement (ages 3 – 6).
They also offer the Celestial Stars Dance Company for ages 8 – 18. An audition is required.

Shelby Nord Piano Studio

505.504.8247 Shelbynord2017@gmail.com 500 South Kilbourne Road, Columbia, SC

Classes: Shelby Nord Piano Studio offers private lessons for piano. Shelby Nord is a Nationally Certified Teacher of Music in piano.

The Southern Strutt

(803) 781-3980 90 Ashbourne Road, Irmo, SC

Classes & Programs: ACRO B.O.S.S., Broadway Baby, Performance Company, The Company, Musical Theater, Tiny Rockstars, and Star Dance Classes.

Camps: They offer a variety of camps throughout the year, see website for details.

 

Brussell's Gymnastics

Brussell’s Gymnastics offers several classes for children of all age levels as well as programming throughout the year. They also have Sprouts Morning Out for crawlers through 5 years old where kids can play and bounce around in the padded play areas.

Summer Camp: Brussell’s Gymnastics is offering a Summer Day Camp for rising kindergartners – 7th graders. Activities will include Arts & Crafts, Science & Cooking, and Games & Fitness. 2026 registration is open

YMCA of Columbia

The YMCA of Columbia is a charitable organization working toward a better community for all. We strengthen the foundation of community through: Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility.

Capital City Gymnastics

803.509.2857 1831A Airport Blvd., Cayce, SC

Classes: Offers preschool, recreational, and team gymnastics. They also offer a free trial class.

Summer Camp: Capital City Gymnastics offers a summer camp experience that’s sure to be unforgettable. Activities will include games, crafts, science, mobile library, snacks, and of course, gymnastics!

Dates: May 26 – July 31 
Ages: 5 – 13 
Price: $155 per week
Full day available

Columbia Chess Club

Chess tournaments, casual play, and chess coaching.

Puretone Academy

201 Columbia Mall Boulevard, Columbia, SC

Classes: Puretone Academy offers private and semi-private voice lessons, as well as keyboard/piano lessons. Additionally, the Puretone Vocal Arts Academy offers artist development programs and a summer music video school.

 

Tiger Rock of Columbia

803.865.9603 tigerrockcolumbia@yahoo.com 9557 Two Notch Road, Columbia, SC

Classes: Offers martial arts classes to preschool to adult students. Classes are broken into age groups, including ages 4-5 years old, 6-10 years old, 11-13 years old, and adult classes.

South Carolina Christian Dance

803.609.4777 736 St. Andrews Road, Columbia, SC

Classes: Biblical based dance classes. Instructors are professionally trained dancers. Classes are available for ages 3 and up, with Tutu’s and Tippy Toes, Beginner Levels, Building Technique, and Graded Technique offered.

Classes: H. Haney Golf Academy offers lessons for juniors (kids 6 to 16), groups, and adults. Lessons are offered during the week and on Satrudays.

Summer Camps: H. Haney Golf Academy offers one-week camps for ages 6-16. Campers learn to improve their golfing skills through assessments, drills, and training.

Cayce Gymnastics Center

803.794.6158 2122 Platt Springs Road, West Columbia, SC

Classes: Cayce Gymnastics Center offers classes in recreational and competitive gymnastics for youth. Contact the gym for more information about age grouping and specific classes.

Soda City Gymnastics

803.828.4850 925 Huger Street, Columbia, SC

Offers: Preschool and recreational gymnastics classes for ages walking to 6 and up.
Classes available include beginner, intermediate, advanced, tumbling, and ninja. Classes are 45-55 minutes in length.

They offer a free trial class.
The gym is open Monday – Saturday

Magnolia the Nature Club

We offer hands-on nature-based workshops for children of all ages.

Chapin Academy of the Performing Arts

830 Columbia Avenue, Chapin, SC

Classes: Offers classes various days throughout the week. They have a spring and fall schedule.
Class themes include Musical Theatre Dance, Group Voice, Acting, and more.
Ages are 8 and up (some classes are for older students only).

Iconic Sport Performance

Classes: A Basketball specific training facility that offers training groups for youth ages 6 and older that are based on skill level to improve basketball skills through confidence building, fitness training, strength and conditioning, speed and agility, sport-specific training, and massage therapy.

Classes are offered in 1-hour increments,

Freeway Music

844.537.7661 Multiple Locations, Columbia, SC

Offers private music lessons, Rockband class, Theatre classes, and Mommy and Me style music PLAY.
Music lessons are offered for all ages, skill level, and almost any instrument.

They offer six locations throughout the Columbia area.
Locations: Cayce, Downtown, Lexington, Irmo, Northeast, and Sims Music.

Tinkergarten

302 Senate Street, Columbia, SC

An outdoor class for little ones to roam, explore, and learn about the outdoors.

Classes: Capital Karate offers Family Martial Arts, Krav Maga/ Self defense classes. A free trial class is offered.

Birthday Parties: Set-up to clean-up is all covered. Capital Karate provides fun activities and more for the party.

Art Smart Academy

803.667.9912 571 Chapin Road, Chapin, SC

Fine Art and Pottery studio

Classes: Art classes for kids and teens, adult classes, family events, and private art lessons.

After School: After-school program with pickup for all District 5 schools. After school helps with homework assistance and math tutoring.

Camps: Offers summer art camp, both half-day and full-day, pottery wheel camp, and teen camps.

Long Creek Equestrian Centre'

803.786.8400 2000 Longtown Road East , Blythewood, SC

Classes: Offers horseback riding lessons and equine education to all ages. The facility is open Monday – Friday, and Sunday.
Contact the facility for additional information about pricing, age groups, and specific information about lessons.

Lexington Soccer Academy

Lexington Soccer Academy offers programs for ages 7+, from recreational and youth development to competitive teams, camps, goalkeeping, and college-prep training.
They also offer free summer play times on select days and  summer camps.

Culinary service that offers full-service catering, private chef, meal prep/prepared meals, and cooking classes for groups. Classes can be held at The Food Academy, or they can come to you! Please contact 803-404-8618 or email  thefoodacademy15@gmail.com for booking information.

ReCreation Athletics

ReCreation Athletics is a youth sports training & recreation club serving kids and teens of all ages with camps, after-school programs, and multi-sport development. Contact them to learn specific age offerings and enrollment details.

The Finishing Touch Soccer Training

Yearly soccer training program that offers private training, camp, futsal.

Charismatic Dance Studio LLC

803.866.2745 3040 McNaughton Drive C, Columbia, SC

Offers recreational, competitive, and company competitive dance. Trial classes are available.

The studio also offers studio rental for small engagements for $45.00 hourly for instructors for clinics, workshops, pop-up shops, and dance parties.

Carolina Rogue Volleyball

Carolina Rogue offers soccer starting ages 3+, with fun foundational play through local rec (ages ~7–14) and a nationally competitive travel club. Older teams (U12–U14+) hold tryouts for placement and advancement.

Crooked Creek Riding Academy

803.517.5131

Classes: Crooked Creek Riding Academy offers private and group horseback riding lessons. Beginner riders are required to take private lessons until they are able to walk and trot without assistance. Lessons include how to properly care for the horse, horsemanship, safety, and proper independent riding.

Riding lessons are commitment based and require payment weekly to secure spot.

Prices: Weekly lessons are $75 per lesson; A-la-cart lessons are $85 per lesson with no commitment required

Goldfish Swim School- Lexington

Goldfish Swim School offers year-round indoor swim lessons for ages 4 months to 12 years, with small classes, warm pools, flexible scheduling, and confidence-building instruction.

Lexington County Recreation

803.359.4048 563 South Lake Drive , Lexington, SC

Classes: Offers a multitude of youth sports programs, including Dixie Youth Baseball, Youth Football, Youth Softball, Youth Soccer, Youth Basketball, Lacrosse, Track and Field, BMX, Cross Country, Wrestling, Girls Youth Volleyball, Summer Basketball, Cross Country, Little Tikes Sports Programs, Family Junior Golf Program

They also offer after-school programs, summer camps, and recreational leagues across many athletic activities. Contact them to learn age groups and registration details.

We are a cheerleading gym that offers many different programs such as all-stars, rec classes, tumbling, and camps.

ICRC Programs, Activities and Camps

(803) 772-1228 5605 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC

Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission offer a variety of programs across 4 Columbia Parks: Crooked Creek, Melvin, Mungo, Saluda Shoals and Seven Oaks Parks.  Sports rotate seasonally but include soccer, basketball, martial arts, Racquet sports, and dance just to name a few.

Carolina Blue Waves Swim Club

CAROLINABLUEWAVESC@GMAIL.COM Multiple areas, Columbia, SC

Offers private, semi-private, & groups swim lessons, a competitive swim team, spring break & summer camps & so much more!!

B-Hive Daycare and Learning Center LLC

B-Hive Daycare and Learning Center LLC offers daycare services, tutoring, summer camps, and after school care. Weekly rates are available on their website.

Horse Crossing Farm

210 Railroad Avenue, Lexington, SC

Farm Camp: Hands-on farm camp experience with daily instruction in complete horse care, horseback riding, and farm animal care. Campers will interact with a wide variety of animals, including horses, ponies, mini animals, livestock, birds, and small animals.

  • Ages: 6–12
  • Half-day available
  • Price: $275 per child, per session

Birthday Parties: Parties include up to 8 children, with additional guests added for $10 each. The total cost is $350 with a $50 deposit required.

Photography Sessions: These are farm-themed photography sessions with farm or seasonal decor and live animals. Sessions cost $75, with a 50% deposit required upon booking

Check out Kidding Around’s Review of Horse Crossing Farm

 

 

Columbia Ballet School

803.783.5258 132 Gills Creek Parkway, Columbia , SC

Ballet school offering classes for ages 3 – 20 in ballet, tap, and contemporary dance. Classes are also available for adults.

First Turns: Ages 3 -6
Emerging Artists: Ages 7 – 11
Advanced Dancers: Ages 12- 20

SOAR Columbia

Classes: Offers multiple leagues, including youth soccer, youth baseball, youth flag football, and adult soccer.

Youth soccer is offered in early fall and early spring
Youth baseball also has t-ball, coaches pitch, and kids pitch divisions
Youth flag football is offered for K5 – 8th grade.

The City of Columbia Parks & Recreation offers an after school program for children ages 5-12. The program offers recreational activities, academic enrichment, and more. Find a list of their locations on their website.

The City also offers classes inyouth sports.

Pony Gang Equestrian Services

803.374.2155 info@ponygang-farm.com 223 Hennesy Lane, Hopkins, SC

A variety of horseback riding camps focused on horsemanship, riding skills, and farm activities. Camps blend daily riding lessons, horse care, grooming, stable routines, and fun activities in a supportive equestrian environment.

Ages: 3– 12
Half Day, Full Day, and Overnight options available
Dates:
June – July 2026
Price: 
Tiny Tot camp – $395
Summer Day Camp – $495
Overnight Girl Camp – $999

Rising Star Performing Arts Studio

Classes: Join in for the Parent and tot dance classes. At Rising Star Performing Arts Studio, they’re dedicated to nurturing young dancers in a safe, joyful, and supportive environment.

Summer Camp: This summer, let your child’s imagination soar at our Creative Arts Summer Camp! Packed with dance, music, art, and theater activities.

2026 info TBA
Full and Half day available

Spartan Academy MMA

803.750.0000 3510 Bush River Road Building G, Columbia, SC

Classes: Spartan Academy offers classes for children through adults. Child and youth classes include Kids BJJ, Youth BJJ, and Kids/Youth MMA.

They offer free trial classes.

Dream Riders

803.957.7906 156 Sandy Hill Road, Lexington, SC

Dream Riders is a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship  (PATH) accredited facility that offers Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT) horseback riding lessons to individuals with special needs.

They offer therapeutic fun through physical, emotional, and recreational interaction with the animals. Instructors are PATH certified.

Congaree Rapic FC

Congaree Rapid FC’s Junior Academy develops U8–U12 players with fun, technical training and game play, bridging recreation and competitive play focused on skill growth.

Columbia Dance Conservatory

803.252.0555 1545 Main Street , Columbia, SC

Classes: Offers classes in Pre-Ballet, Pre-Tap, Ballet, Tap, Pre-Jazz, Jazz, Contemporary, and Modern. Classes are for ages 3 through adult.

 

Irmo Music Academy

803.931.3495 info@irmomusicacademy.com Multiple locations, Columbia, Irmo, Lexington , SC

Classes: Irmo Music Academy offers lessons in guitar, piano, voice, singing, drums, bass, banjo, violin, ukulele, and mandolin. Lessons are available every day of the week.

Locations: 

Columbia: 3630 Rosewood Drive, Columbia
Lexington: 226 Barr Road, Lexington
Irmo: 1061 Lake Murray Blvd, Irmo

Indoor Playroom: We are an indoor playroom that has a climb on structure, infant area, soft play area, and some areas for imaginative play.

Weekly Music Classes for Kids: We also offer a music class weekly and other classes during the week as well. A place for families to come play, connect with other kids and parents, and make memories!!

Birthday Parties: Our playroom offers private birthday party/event rentals. We offer mobile rentals for inflatables & soft play!

Village Square Theatre

803.359.1436 105 Caughman Road , Lexington, SC

Classes: In addition to full-scale productions, Village Square Theatre offers Junior Arts workshops and classes. Classes include musical theatre, dialect workshops, audition workshops, performance workshops, acting for adults/teens, kids acting for a range of ages, and more.

The ages for classes are 5 and up.

City Art

803.252.3613 1224 Lincoln Street, Columbia, SC

Offers art classes and workshops from beginner to advanced. Classes are geared toward teens/adults. Classes are typically 6 weeks long, with styles such as collage, realism, use of acrylics, watercolors, oil painting, and more.

Classes are offered throughout the week and Saturdays. You must register to attend.

 

Carolina Rock & Roll Mining

One and only hands on interactive and mobile gem mining experience in SC! Pan for gems, stones and fossils. We come to you!

Premier Martial Arts

803.768.4397 275 Harbison Boulevard, Columbia, SC

Classes: Premier Martial Arts offers kids martial arts, adult martial arts, Karate, Krav Maga, and Kickboxing.

Birthday Parties: Birthday party packages include martial arts games, board breaking, and cake cutting with a sword! Contact the facility for more details about party package pricing and additional details.

Broadway Bound Musical Theatre Company

803.457.1126 1315-C Gadsden Street, Columbia, SC

Classes: Offers theatre classes in dance, voice, and drama for musical theatre. Auditions are required for the musical theatre company and occur in summer.

Additional lessons for company members include Private; Duo; Trio; Quartet; and Small Group, Junior Ballet Group Classes, Ballet/Contemporary Group Classes, and Acrobatics Classes. Private to Quartet singing lessons are also available.

Beyond Words Dance Academy

803.394.8540 BeyondWordsDanceAcademy@yahoo.com 493-3 Town Center Place, Columbia, SC

Offers dance classes with competitive teams and recreational classes. They offer a free trial class. They offer a range of pricing for classes starting at 1 class per week for $65 monthly with an unlimited class option.

USYF Affiliated futsal training program

Palmetto Performing Arts

803.760.6374 13 Calendar Court, Columbia, SC

Classes: Palmetto Performing Arts offers performing teams, Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet, Lyrical, Contemporary, Tap, and Acro. Classes are available for all ages and skill levels.

Birthday Parties: You can host your next birthday party with Palmetto Performing Arts. Contact the center for more information regarding pricing and details.

Summer Camp: Summer camps are available, and are based on themes. Camp ages range from 3- 18, and are grouped by age range.

2026 camp info TBA

 

Tempo Music and Arts

tempoclasses@gmail.com 302 Senate Street, Columbia, SC

Offers outdoor music classes with instruments for babies and toddlers through 4-year-old children. Music memberships are available.

Learn more about Tempo Music and Arts in our KA review!

USC School of Music Center for Piano Studies

803.777.4281 813 Assembly Street , Columbia, SC

Classes: The USC School of Music offers piano lessons for ages 5 and older at the Music Center for Piano Studies.

They offer beginner, elementary, young artist, and advanced young artists piano programs for K5 – 12th grade

Midland Music Makers

We offer Music Together, a music and movement class for children ages 0-5 and the grownups who love them.

Carolina Kids Co-op Lexington

We are an outdoor, academic, secular co-op looking to revolutionize the way our children are educated.

Columbia Children's Theatre

803.691.4548 1218 Batchelor Street, West Columbia, SC

Classes: In addition to theatrical productions, this professional theatre offers after-school classes, voice lessons, workshops, and summer camps for ages 3K and up in the performance arts. Classes involving various themes in drama and dance are available.

The Columbia Children’s Theatre is locate inside the Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center.

Sawyer Equestrian

978.857.8109 dani@sawyerequestrian.com 300 Saddlemount Drive Hopkins, Hopkins, SC

Classes: Sawyer Equestrian offers riding lessons all year for all ages and skills. Lesson ages begin at age 2 with private lessons for 3o minutes per week. Additional packages are available for hour-long lessons for older riders.

Summer/Winter Camps: Day camps are offered and involve grooming, tacking, riding, and horse education. Art projects are made and team-building games are played. Camps are available for ages 5 – 15.

Kurious Kids Sports

We are a mobile sports business that brings qualified coaching and the required equipment to you! Want to add a gymnastics class to your daycare or church? Give us a call!

New gymnastic and ninja classes coming to Crooked Creek Park!

Sunshine Farm & Hatchery

Sunshine Farm offers hands-on chick hatching experiences for schools, families, libraries, camps, and co-ops through incubator rentals, educational materials, and full hatch support.

The official training center of Ann Brodies Carolina Ballet. CDE offers dance classes year round for infants through adults in styles such as ballet, tap, jazz and contemporary. Morning/mid-day homeschool classes also available. Summer classes available as well.

Dates: June – July
Ages: 2 – 12
Price: $105 – $275
Full and Half day available:

Celebrity Cheer and Gymnastics

803.429.9220 1051 Sparkleberry Lane Extension, Columbia, SC

Cheerleading and gymnastics gym that offers lessons for all ages. Contact the gym for additional information.

 

Offers martial arts classes for kids as young as 4, school-age kids, teens, and adults.

  • After-school program
  • Home school classes
  • Summer Camp
    • July camps available
    • Camps 8 am – 12 pm

JR Horsemanship Irmo

803.467.6705 1555 Old Tamah Road, Irmo, SC

Classes: Offers Western Riding lessons to all ages. Training is available on-site and off-site around the Columbia area. Contact the facility to learn more about pricing, schedules, and age ranges for riders.

Kelly's Gymnastics Camps & Sports

Gymnastics and Tumbling – noncompetitive/recreational programs
UMP squad ninja classes
Camps
35 years of developing happy, confident, & strong children.

Dates: May – August
Ages: 4-9
Price: $120 per camp
Half day available

BGR8 Martial Arts

130 Hunter Village Drive, Irmo, SC

Classes: Martial Arts classes for all ages, also self-defense classes for teens and adults.

Birthday Parties: BGR8 Martial Arts parties include games and a mini-lesson, cake cutting with a real sword, and a whole lot of fun!

Soccer Shots Columbia

Multiple Locations, Columbia, SC

Classes: Multi-season soccer program that offers mini (ages 2 – 3 years old), classic (3 – 5), and premier (school aged) soccer programs.

We offer mommy-and-me music classes, group piano, voice, and ukulele lessons, and private instruction—creating fun, enriching musical experiences for children and families.

Details:
Offers: Ages 0–8; Music Together mixed-age classes, Rhythm & Roots Baby classes, preschool music and movement classes, and early childhood rhythm and song classes

Months: Classes are offered year-round, with ongoing sessions held throughout the year

Pricing: Pricing varies by class type and session length; tuition is charged per session

Columbia Arts Academy

803.787.0931 Multiple Locations, Columbia, Lexington, Irmo, SC

Classes: Offers music lessons for beginners and up for Guitar, Piano, Singing, Voice, Drums, Bass, Banjo, Mandolin, Violin, and Ukulele. Lessons are offered daily.

Locations:

Columbia: 3630 Rosewood Drive, Columbia
Irmo: 1061 Lake Murray Boulevard, Irmo
Lexington: 226 Barr Road, Lexington

Classes: Offers gymnastics classes for preschoolers as well as school-aged children. In addition to gymnastics, they also offer Ninja and tumbling classes.

Birthday Parties: 1 1/2 hour long party with instructional gym time, foam pit, trampoline, and lots more. Option to add cake service.

Summer Camps: Carolina Gymnastics has a partial-day Summer Camp for children ages 3-12. Activities include gymnastics, crafts, a foam pit, games, snack, and trampoline. There are also themed dress-up days to make the experience even more fun and memorable for kids.

2026 info TBA
Dates:
June – July 
Ages: 3 – 12 years old
Price: $160 – $185
Half day available

South Carolina United FC

(877) 457-2832 455 St. Andrews Road, Building B, Suite 3 , Columbia, SC

They offer both recreational and competitive soccer programs and have multiple facilities around Columbia.

Lake Murray Gymnastics

Classes: Lake Murray Gymnastics offers gymnastics classes for all ages of children, from just walking through the 12th grade. Classes are offered during the school year and summer. They also offer Ninja, Cheer, and a parent’s night out program.

Birthday Parties: Lake Murray Gymnastics offers birthday parties that include one hour of time in the gym with balance, foam pits, trampolines, and more, plus 30 minutes in the party area.

  • Party packages start at $225 for up to 20 participants
  • Party times available Saturday and Sunday

Parent’s Night Out: Ages 4 and up on Friday nights from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Register in advance.

Summer Camps: Lake Murray Gymnastics offers summer camps for preschoolers to school-age where campers will train in small groups and practice gymnastic skills. Kids will also participate in arts & crafts, games, and strength training.

Dates: June July 
Ages: 3 – 12
Price: $80 – $110
Half Day Available 

ICRC Children's Theatre

Classes: The ICRC Children’s Theatre offers a theatrical arts and performance program for youth. The theatre performs several theatrical productions throughout the season. Children can sign up to be in the productions, assist with technical, and more!

Stepping Out Dance Studio

(803) 526-7766 231 Cedar Crest Drive, Lexington, SC

Dance studio offering classes in tap, jazz, ballet, hip hop, lyrical, contemporary, acro, musical theater, pointe, pom and creative movement for ages 12 months to adult!

Summer Camps: Summer dance camps for kids ages 2 to 12. Partial day camps are available at a wide variety of times, including evenings. Styles of dance include ballet, jazz, tumbling, hip-hop, and creative movement.

Dates: May – July
Ages: 2 – 12 years old 
Price: $85
Half day available

Classes: Legacy Martial Arts offers classes for young children beginning at age 4, all the way through teens and adults.

Birthday Parties: Legacy Martial Arts birthday parties are fun for all kids, whether they have marital arts experience or not. Parties include some basic instruction as well as activities and all set-up and clean-up.

Summer Camp: Legacy Martial Arts offers a Summer Camp for kids with fun and active educational activities of all kinds.

After School Program: Legacy Martial Arts offers an after school program that provides a positive place for kids to spend time after school.

Four locations: 

5225-C Sunset Boulevard, Lexington, SC
7579 St. Andrews Road, Irmo, SC
494-4 Town Center Place, Columbia, SC
4711 Forest Drive, Columbia, SC – Suite 10
1056 S Lake Drive, Suite B, Lexington, SC

 

Silver Jax All-Star Cheer

803.796.7899 2122 Platt Springs Road, Suite D , West Columbia, SC

Classes: Silver Jax All-Star Cheer offers cheer fundamentals, tumbling, and flexibility. Classes are grouped by levels and age, with 6 and under, 7 to 10, and 10 and older classes available.

Additional offerings include camps, school training, choreography, and ballroom dancing.

Palmetto Conservatory of Dance

803.782.8847 ​25 Forest Lake Place ​, Columbia, SC

Classes: Offers group classes for Level 1 – Level 5 in Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Lyrical/Jazz, Adult Intermediate/Advanced Ballet, and Variation.

Summer Camp/ Summer Intensives: Summer Intensive camps are offered based on age and skill for ages 3 and older. There are multiple dates to choose from.

2026 info TBA
Dates:

Ages:
Price:  
Full and Half day available:

Toppler Branch Farm

803.420.6590 tooplerbranch@hotmail.com 1035 Lee Lane, Lugoff, SC

Classes: Equine facility that offers horseback riding lessons, including group, private, and semi-private mounted lessons for ages 4 and older.
They also offer safe fundamentals and basic horsemanship lessons.

Contact the farm for specific pricing, schedules, and more.

Carolina Show Company

803.876.9978 804 Lady Street, Columbia, SC

Classes: Offers Music, Drama, Dance, and Tumbling for babies and kids.

Carolina Show Company also offers Camps on select dates.

Carolina Playmakers

805.404.2222 1055 Sparkleberry Lane Ext T, Columbia, SC

Classes: Carolina Playmakers works with aspiring baseball players to improve their skills and player development. Private lessons are 60-90 minutes in length. Lessons focus on hitting, pitching, speed, and more.

Carolina Academy of Music

803.648.5150 913 Dougherty Road , Aiken, SC

Classes: Offers music lessons in strings, guitar, banjo, keyboard/percussion, voice, general music, folk instruments, woodwinds, and brass instruments.

Kindermusik: Carolina Academy of Music offers Kindermusik, classes geared toward young children and preschool-aged children to explore a multitude of instruments.

Summer Camp: Twinkle Camp is available as a week-long summer camp, with daily group lessons, arts and crafts projects, arts enrichment, and a final concert.

We offer aerial dance classes for adults. We have a variety of classes that suit all levels.

Mrs. Jenkins Dance Academy

803.307.3444 224 Oneil Court, Columbia, SC

Offers dance classes Monday through Friday, including tap, jazz, ballet, hip hop, lyrical, contemporary, and more.

TNT Martial Arts & Fitness

803.479.1739 tamayah.goodwin@tntcolumbia.com 1330 Knox Abbott Drive, Cayce, SC

Classes: TNT offers classes specializing in Kickboxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and MMA for ages 3+ and adults, broken into age groups. Contact the facility for specific pricing information.

 

Did we miss a great class or activity for children in Columbia? Let us know!

 

See more Kidding Around Columbia Guides. Discover great spots for birthday parties, indoor play, camps, schools, and more.

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