Where to splash and swim: Columbia, SC

30+ Places For Your Family to Cool Off, Splash Around, and Swim Near Columbia, SC

Looking for a place to splash around and beat the heat this summer in “famously hot” Columbia, SC? With temperatures quickly approaching the mid-90’s and only getting hotter, it’s almost impossible to not be around water for much longer. Whether you’re looking for splash pads, public pools, lake and river access, or water parks we’ve got it all! Below you will find an extensive list of outdoor places in and around Columbia to cool off with your family this summer and the good news is, the majority of them are FREE!

Featured image for Party Barn Play Adventure in Camden, SC showing arcade games, indoor playground, and baby play zone

Party Barn Play Adventure in Camden, SC: A Coworking Space with Indoor Play for All Ages

Looking for an indoor play place near Columbia, SC? Party Barn Play Adventure on Broad Street in downtown Camden is a two-story play place with something for all ages—from soft play for toddlers to arcade games for big kids, plus excellent coworking spaces for parents! If you’re looking to escape the heat around Columbia, this will be worth the visit.

Iris Festival in Sumter, SC at Swan Lake

Sumter Iris Festival: FREE Family Fun in Sumter, SC

Have you attended the Sumter Iris Festival? Celebrating the gorgeous Iris flower and the onset of summer, the Sumter Iris Festival brings many opportunities for totally FREE family fun. That’s one reason among many that the Sumter Iris Festival is on our summer bucket list. Is it on yours? It should be! Here’s what we love about the Sumter Iris Festival and its home, Swan Lake in Sumter, South Carolina.

Summer Guide to Columbia,, SC

25+ Summer Activities in Columbia, SC (2026)

School break is here and you need some super fun summer things to do in Columbia? We have some great ideas! From where to swim, to the perfect splash pad, amazing summer day trips, and even the best indoor places to play, summer is full of fun in Columbia, SC! Use our list as a springboard to all the amazing adventures you will have this summer!

VBS Columbia, SC, the answer to "Where is a free VBS near me?"

2026 Vacation Bible Schools: Free VBS Columbia, SC

Are you looking for 2022 summer VBS programs near Columbia, SC for your children? VBS programs bring together summer fun, crafts, games, and friends often without any cost. If you’re looking for VBS programs in the Columbia area, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve pulled together the important details for VBS programs happening this year. We’ll keep updating this list as we get closer to summer, so bookmark and check back frequently.

Where to Eat Out With Kids in Columbia, SC

Our Favorite Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Columbia, SC

Are you looking for a restaurant in the Columbia, SC area that is kid-friendly? Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly place to grab breakfast or even enjoy a sit-down dinner, we’ve got you covered! With restaurants that include built-in ice cream or dessert shops, arcade games, and endless kid-friendly meals, this list will have the perfect spot for you!

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

Lake Murray Public Park: The Perfect Swimming Spot This Summer in Lexington, SC

Are you planning a trip to Lake Murray Public Park in Lexington, SC? If you are looking for a family-friendly place to take a swim this summer, Lake Murray might be just the place. At Lake Murray Public Park you’ll find both a beach area and lake swimming access that’s the perfect place to play, then jump in and cool off. We recently visited Lake Murray Public Park and have all the details you need to know from a mom’s perspective.

coffee shops in columbia sc

22+ Standout Coffee Shops: Columbia, SC in 2025

Are you on the hunt for a delicious coffee shop in or around the Columbia area? We gathered a large list of our favorite coffee shops, most of them being locally owned, not only in Columbia, but Irmo, Blythewood, Chapin, and Lexington! Whether you’re in need of a midday pick-me-up or even a staple coffee shop to add into your morning routine, we’ve got you covered!

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