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South Carolina is a beautiful state with a lot of history to discover and explore. In fact, you may be surprised at just how historically significant the state really is. Almost everywhere you turn, you'll find some sort of monument or landmark with notable importance pertaining to both South Carolina and the United States as a whole. Here's a quick breakdown of some interesting places where you can get a dose of history in South Carolina. more Charleston No list of this nature would be complete without mentioning Charleston. The entire city is basically a huge historic landmark. With so many things to see and learn, it would be impossible to do it all in a single day. Spend as much time here as you can and discover sites such as: The Dock Street Theatre The Charleston City Market (one of the most popular shopping and tourist spots in the state) Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum The Old Slave Mart Museum Magnolia Plantation The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon Fort Sumter National Monument Charles Towne Landing Middleton Place House Museum Edmondston-Alston House Fort Moultrie Drayton Hall Avery Research Center For African American History and Culture Additionally, you can tour houses that were once owned by former United States presidents, take carriage tours around the city, and even walk down the infamous Dueler's Alley, where the gentlemen of old used to settle disputes by participating in sword fights. Harbour Town Lighthouse The Harbour Town Lighthouse is a lesser-known historic attraction. The location includes a museum and offers insight into the world of maritime navigation before modern tools became available to sailors. Interestingly, even with all of the advanced equipment in use today, beacons like the Harbour Town Lighthouse are still critical for guiding sailors safely through dangerous waters. Learn all about this and more by visiting this beautiful site as soon as you get a chance. The Peachoid in Gaffney The Gaffney Peachoid is an unique landmark with an equally unique origin. This particular attraction doesn't have nationally historic significance, but it is very important to the local population and has become a popular photo op for visitors. The Peachoid is actually a large water tower that was designed in the shape of a peach. Constructed in 1981, the idea to make it look like the official state fruit was originally brought up by Jack Millwood, who was known at the time as the "Peachiod King." The concept arose because the Board of Public Works was working late one night. Jack was so tired that he simply said the first things that came to his mind. Eventually, the proposal caught on and what started as a joke turned into a local historic landmark. South Carolina is filled with historic sites of national significance like those found in Charleston and others that are equally important to the locals. With so much to explore, it's time to hit the road and see what you can discover. Image by James Willamor, Licensed via CC BY-SA 2.0

Whether you're planning to make a visit to the beautiful city of Columbia, South Carolina, or you're new in town and trying to get your bearings, there's plenty about this beautiful and historic city to discover and explore. In fact, there's so much to see and do in Columbia, many people who've lived in the area their entire lives still haven't experienced it all. With so much to explore, it can be a bit daunting to decide where to begin. To make things a little easier, you may want to begin with one of these three walking tours. more City Orientation Walk This is a self-guided walking tour offered by the GPSmyCity mobile application that will take you through some of Columbia's most popular destinations for people who are trying to get the lay of the land. Using this application, you'll be guided through several must-see locations, including places like: The South Carolina State House Trinity Episcopal Cathedral The University of South Carolina Memorial Park These are just a few of the stops you'll make along the way and the tour is designed to take you on a route that helps you explore interesting and unexpected things along the way. You never know what you'll discover on this tour. Museums and Gallery Tour If you're interested in learning about the rich and interesting history of the Columbia area, the Museums and Gallery Walking Tour will be right up your alley. This route, also offered on GPSmyCity, will take you to popular destinations such as: The Columbia Fire Museum Mann-Simmons Cottage The Columbia Museum of Art The South Carolina State Museum This is one of the best ways to discover the origins of the city and the role it played in shaping American history. There are also plenty of sight-seeing and dining opportunities along the way and, because it's a self-guided tour, you're free to take all the time you need to enjoy the experience at your own pace. Religious Buildings Tour Columbia's history extends far beyond that of American culture. In fact, a lot of modern American religious culture has close ties to houses of worship in the area. If this is something that interests you, the Religious Buildings Tour is definitely worth your time. This self-guided walking tour will take you to iconic religious buildings like: The Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church St. Peter's Catholic Church Trinity Episcopal Cathedral Ebenezer Lutheran Church Even if you're not interested in historic houses of worship, the beauty and architecture of these buildings are certainly worth checking out. Some of them are truly a sight to behold, so if you're interested in seeing some of the city's more interesting buildings, this is a great place to start. Columbia, South Carolina, has so much to see and do, it's impossible to fit it all into one day of touring the city. These three tours, though, are a great place to start and you're sure to find even more to explore along the way. Image by Kevin Oliver, Licensed via CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Spring is here, and summer is right around the corner. In South Carolina, that means plenty of great weather and lots of beautiful scenery to enjoy. If you're looking for some creative ways to spend some quality time outside with your family and friends in the Orangeburg area this season, taking at least one trip to the Edisto Memorial Gardens should definitely be on your list of things to do. Here are just a few of the many things you can enjoy while there. more Centennial Park Centennial Park is the epitome of South Carolina's natural beauty. This park features an upper and lower plaza, connected by a gorgeous set of Victorian-style steps that also serve as a sitting area. The upper plaza offers a beautiful place to walk with convenient paving stones, raised planters, and plenty of benches where you can sit and enjoy the view or the beautiful fountain that is there. On the lower plaza, you'll find a spacious gazebo if you'd like to just sit and take in the natural beauty around you. This is a nice place to set out a blanket and enjoy a nice, relaxing picnic or just walk the grounds and take in the scenery. The Butterfly Garden South Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful butterfly species in the country. The Butterfly Garden at Edisto Memorial Gardens is filled with nectar-producing flowers that have been specifically procured to attract many of the area's butterflies and is an amazing spectacle, particularly in the spring and early summer months when most butterflies begin to emerge. If you time your visit right, the Butterfly Garden can resemble something out of a fairy tale and will enchant visitors of all ages. The Disc Golf Course If you're more interested in physical activities, swing by the disc golf course and start a friendly game with family and friends or even make some new friends. The disc golf course at Edisto Memorial Gardens makes excellent use of the area's natural elements and includes signs pointing the way to special disc golf challenges, goals, and more. The Spray Park If you've got kids (or kids at heart) that need to cool off on warmer days, the spray park is the perfect place to stop. This is a 6,000 square-foot area that features water jets and play areas that are suitable for almost every age. There are plenty of restrooms, sitting areas, and a picnic area for parents to relax and enjoy the sights and watch children play from a safe distance. This year, make it a point to avoid spending the entire day indoors while the weather is nice. There's too much to see, do, and enjoy together with family and friends to miss out on the natural beauty of South Carolina. Places like Edisto Memorial Gardens offer an amazing opportunity to get out of the house and make memories that will last a lifetime with the people that matter most. Image by R.A., Licensed via CC BY 2.0

In the heart and surrounding areas of Columbia and Orangeburg, you can find some of the best golf courses in South Carolina, ranging from beautiful public clubs in Orangeburg itself to privately owned greens in Santee. This spring, hit the links at these five golf courses near Orangeburg. more Hillcrest Golf Club Rated as the top public club in the state, the 72-par Hillcrest Golf Club features beautiful greens for players of any skill level. During the summer months, you can also enjoy the tennis courts, which makes for a great day out with the whole family. A professional golf shop sells an assortment of accessories and golf wear. No need to worry about safety since there are locker rooms where you can store your personal items. Calhoun Country Club The Calhoun Country Club features a 71-par course and offers a challenging game for the more avid and experienced player. This golf club is beautifully landscaped and well maintained, set between rolling hills and exquisite hardwood pine trees. Located in Saint Matthews, it's one of the top clubs just outside of Orangeburg. You can grab a bite to eat at the local restaurant or visit the golf shop on the course, where you can upgrade your equipment or buy new accessories to improve your game.  Here you'll also find fully-equipped practice areas, and rental carts are available on the green. Orangeburg Country Club The privately-owned Orangeburg Country Club encompasses an impressive 6,692 yards and is beautifully landscaped. Members can also access the swimming pool to cool off on hot summer days or exercise their skills on the tennis court. Make sure you take advantage of the designated practice area to improve your swing. Lake Marion Golf Course Lake Marion Golf Course in Santee is a popular choice for more skilled golfers thanks to its uneven surfaces and valleys that present a challenge during play. Lake Marion Golf Course is also a great destination for a spring weekend away. You can purchase a golfing package and stay on the course in one of the villas available for rent. Kountryside Golf Course Located 20 miles from Orangeburg and spanning across 180 acres, The Kountryside Golf Course in Cope is lined with pine trees and features manmade lakes, so you can enjoy the scenery while you play. It's best to visit the course in the early spring to summer when the warmer weather brings the lush green fields and trees to life. Since it just opened in 2003, this is a relatively new club, but its unique and sloped design presents a new challenge for many experienced golfers. Keep in mind that the downhill green may be too difficult for beginners. South Carolina is known for its picturesque landscapes and bustling city life, but when it comes to exceptional games on the greens, it also offers an array of wonderful golf courses. Visit these popular golf clubs near Orangeburg, enjoy the warm weather, and practice your swing! Image by Udo Schröter, Licensed via CC BY-SA 2.0

With spring and summer fast approaching, there is no better time to plan your recreational activities to take in the blue sky and crisp, fresh air. Columbia, South Carolina offers many opportunities to get outdoors for families and people of all ages, including hikes on the natural trails through forests, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Now is the best time to plan an exciting outdoor trip and work on those fitness resolutions! more Fishing Is Always a Good Idea Get active this spring and go fishing at Lake Murray. Access the shallow waters from Dreher Island State Park. Bring your gear along and relax on the water while you wait for the catch of the day. Boat rental is available at Saluda Shoals Park, and once out on the lake, you'll have the chance to capture smallmouth bass. For something a bit more challenging, schedule a deep-sea boat trip and experience action fishing for an adventure you won't easily forget. Hike at Congaree National Park If you prefer to stay on land, Congaree National Park features one the most spectacular hardwood forests in the whole country. Congaree is a self-sustaining ecosystem of dense skyscraper trees, and the beautifully constructed trails through the forest provide the opportunity to get up close to these natural masterpieces. Bring the whole family with you for a stroll through the woods--the kids will love it! Sleep Under the Stars If you love the outdoors or have never experienced sleeping under the stars, consider hiking and camping in Columbia. Congaree National Park provides a range of camp sites to choose from, whether you wish to explore the park from the comfort of an RV or you want to get away from it all by sleeping in a tent. Remember that the campgrounds are the only area where you can light a fire, and there is nothing better than roasting marshmallows with fellow campers after a long day out hiking in the countryside. Canoeing, Kayaking, and Tubing In Columbia, you will find plenty of canoeing, kayaking and tubing opportunities. These adventures are for avid water lovers, offering everything from calm water to rushing rapids in Saluda. These physical activities will have you enjoying the beautiful blue water while getting fit in the warmer weather, whether you're a beginner or an experienced kayaker. For a relaxing journey in your kayak or canoe, choose the Cedar Creek paddle trail in Congaree Park. The path guides travelers along the still water for up and close encounters with the surrounding wildlife. Beginners will find another easy kayak trail at Sesquicentennial State Park, or you could rent a canoe at Saluda Shoals Park for a chance to see birds of all kinds, eagles, and turtles. Columbia is known for its many water activities, forest paths, and adrenalin-pumping activities. No matter your fitness level, you'll find something to do in one of the best destinations in South Carolina. Go on an outdoor adventure this week, and get that much needed release from the confines of winter!   "Congaree National Park Visitor Center boardwalk" by Miguel Vieira, Licensed via CC BY 2.0

Orangeburg is a fairly small town in South Carolina that is also known as the Garden City. Sometimes, it is difficult to think of things to do with your crawling baby, especially outside of a city. However, there are some great things to do with your baby in the Garden City and in nearby towns on the way to Columbia, South Carolina. Knowing some good places to take your little one makes life a lot happier when you want to get out of the house. more Edisto Memorial Gardens Enjoying time with your baby is easy at Edisto Memorial Gardens. The blooming flowers in the themed gardens are perfect for sparking your little one's senses. There are more flowers than you can imagine, and the air smells beautiful and fresh. Babies love to be outside where there is so much to see. Plus, there are lots of picnic areas. So, you share lunch with your baby in the crisp, fresh air. Orangeburg County Aquatic Park Orangeburg County Aquatic Park is a favorite for babies and children of all ages. There are slides and rides for bigger kids and adults, and a tot pool for little ones. Babies love to splash in the water and watch other kids. It is amazing to watch your baby's face light up at the sight of children laughing and having a good time. The aquatic park is at the Orangeburg YMCA, which also offers free childcare for children 8 weeks to 11 years old for a maximum of two hours per day with a family membership. The childcare center has fun activities for your baby to enjoy while you work out or take a water aerobics class. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia is a big treat for babies. They love to watch the animals do funny things, and the zoo is full of families and parents who understand if your baby gets fussy. Plus, there are plenty of places to let your little one explore. Your little one might even try to walk with all of the exciting things to see and kids around. The zoo has animals from Africa, Asia, Australia, and North America. Plus, there are eight gardens and the Waterfall Junction to explore. So, there is plenty to see just make sure you bring a stroller and blanket. It is also a great place for both personal and business family functions, like company lunches and family reunions. Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens offers event planning and picnics, so if you need a family-friendly place for an event near Orangeburg, this is a great idea. Spending time with your baby outside of the home is important. They see how other people interact and seeing other children helps your baby develop better social skills. Being active helps your baby's body properly develop, so it is important to keep your baby active even before they are able to walk. These activities give your baby plenty of space to crawl and explore. "The shark ate my baby" by Ken Hawkins, Licensed via CC BY 2.0

Although many people now prefer to read their books using a tablet or their phone, there is nothing like holding an actual book. If you still enjoy the process of turning a page while you read, there are some great bookstores in the Columbia area along with excellent libraries. Here are some of the places to go for an old-fashioned book. more Main Richland Library The main branch of the Richland library is a wonderful place to browse for books and spend some time relaxing and reading. The large building has three levels filled with books, and there is a huge periodical section. On the third level, the history room is great for research, and there is even a career center. The staff at this branch is very friendly, and you'll find state-of-the-art equipment to make research or browsing during your visit easier. This library has everything from traditional books to audiobooks, and access to e-books. You can also find digital magazines, and there is a large children's area. The children's room features lots of comfy places to sit, and the library color coded all the books according to age making it easier to find what you want. The Book Dispensary The Book Dispensary is a used bookstore and a wonderful place to spend time exploring. Comfortable chairs throughout the store encourage shoppers to sit and relax while they take a look at the books, and there are sections for all readers. The children's room has a wide variety of books to choose from, and there is also a section of rare books. Head in on a Monday for special markdowns and get an additional half off clearance hardback books, and Tuesdays are senior citizen's day. The Book Dispensary will also repair your books with their binding or rebinding services. Ed's Editions Ed's Editions on Meeting Street is a fantastic used bookstore. There is a little something for everyone, and the reasonable prices make it easy to stock up whether you need summer reading or something to get you through the winter. Ed's has vintage books and new selections, and everything is well organized making it easy to browse and find what you need. The owner is very friendly and helpful, and the resident cat even might make an appearance. Books A Million Books A Million is a large chain bookstore filled with new books, electronics, gifts, and a coffee shop. You can spend a whole afternoon looking through the books at this store relax at Joe Muggs while you read the paper or do homework. There is also a large music selection, periodicals, and toys and games. Bring the kids on a rainy afternoon, and they can look at books in the children's section while you find a new book to take home. Books A Million sits on Forum Drive in Columbia. These are some of the best libraries and bookstores in the Columbia area. Whether you like to just browse or you need a specific book, you can find it at one of these Columbia places. Image by GoToVan, licensed via CC BY 2.0

Whether you want to find a beautiful backdrop for an engagement photo or family photo shoot, or you just want to take pictures of beautiful scenery, there are some places you can go in and around the Columbia,  South Carolina, area. This state has mountains upstate, and beaches on the coast, so you are sure to find just the right setting for your photos. Here are some gorgeous places to shoot a photo near Columbia. more Riverwalk The Riverwalk area in Columbia has some beautiful places for pictures. Head over to the canal side for photos of the old waterworks building. This has huge red barn door that makes a wonderful backdrop for family photos. You can also get some great shots of the Blossom St. bridge or the Gervais Bridge. The Gervais Street bridge is an iconic sight in the Columbia area, and there are a few places where you can get pictures of it. Head down on the riverbank along the Riverwalk, and aim your camera up toward the bridge for a picture, or you can even stand up on the bridge and get some images of the surrounding area. Riverbanks Botanical Gardens The Riverbanks Botanical Gardens is a beautiful place for pictures. It features over 70 acres of flowers and plants with something blooming no matter what time of year you go. The springtime or during the fall is the best time to go since most of the flowers are at their peak, but this is a beautiful place anytime. Congaree National Park Congaree National Park is just a short drive from Columbia. This park has trails that wind through the forest with little bridges to get you over the rivers. It is home to the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the country. Look up through your camera lens to see the tallest trees in the eastern part of the U.S. and one of the highest canopies you'll find anywhere. The park stays open seven days a week, 24 hours a day so you can explore and take pictures whenever you want. South Carolina State House The South Carolina State House is an elegant building with a lot of history. The massive columns and iconic dome of the building create a beautiful image, but the grounds around the state house are also beautiful. There is always something blooming at every time of the year, and there are many places to catch a good photo whether it is just the scenery or you use the beautiful gardens as a backdrop for a special picture. For a unique view, head to Main Street right before the sun sets and take some photos of the State House. You'll see it slowly light up as the sun's rays go down over the horizon. These are just a few of the beautiful places around Columbia where you can take pictures. There are also several other local parks, and even the downtown streets have some interesting and photo-worthy sights. "Columbia, SC" by brandon walker

When the weather is nice, there's no better way to spend a day than at a park. For parents in Columbia, South Carolina, there are lots of parks that make excellent choices when you want to spend some time in the sunshine with your little ones. We've listed our top five favorite local Columbia parks to help you plan your next outside outing and get pumped about some quality time in the fresh air. more Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park Located alongside the Columbia Canal, this park runs from the river diversion dam all the way up to Gervais Street. The trail is well-maintained and paved, perfect for little ones still unsteady on their feet. There are also plenty of benches along the way for rests, and it is well-lit at night. If your kids are a little older, they may enjoy fishing on the canal: there are multiple access points along the trail. Geocaching is popular in this area as well, which makes for a fun weekend adventure. There's plenty of parking and admission is free. The park can be found at 312 Laurel St. Granby Park The southernmost section of the Three Rivers Greenway, Granby Park is a 12-acre park with a paved walking trail that provides an easy walk for visitors, as well as substantial green areas for games of tag or imagination. The park also has public access to the Congaree, Saluda, and Broad Rivers, perfect for kids interested in fishing. The park is located at 100 Catawba Street. Restrooms are available on site. In addition to the paved walkway, there are a number of trails available for a more adventurous afternoon. Finlay Park Located in the bustling heart of downtown Columbia, Finlay Park encompasses 18 beautiful acres. There are two different playground areas, a lake, waterfalls, public fountain, and a seasonal snack bar open during the summer. In addition, it's one of the largest handicap accessible parks in the area and the gravel-lined sidewalks make easy rolling for strollers. The park's address is 930 Laurel Street. Free parking is available. Saluda Shoals Park One of the most popular local destinations during the summer, Saluda Shoals Park is a great place to explore South Carolina's beauty while enjoying quality time with your young ones. Tubing is one of the more popular attractions and is available on site; tubes can be rented for as little as $10. There's also a splash pad, educational exhibits, and a paved jogging trail along the river. Entrance to the park is $5 and a shuttle is available to take tubers back to their vehicles. The park is located at 5605 Bush River Road. South East Park Sprawling across 62-acres, there's plenty of room for fun at South East Park. This is the newest park in Columbia and it heavily features tennis courts but also has a play area and walking trails for interested parties. Restrooms are available on site and you can find the park at 951 Hazelwood Road. With plenty of room to play plus fascinating scenery and pleasant walks, these five parks are a great way to spend some time with your kids while enjoying the great outdoors. Image via Pixabay

Independent stores have quickly become more popular as an emphasis on local business has swept the shopping industry. For residents of Columbia, there are a number of fun, interesting local businesses that specialize in unique wares for everyone, from adventurers to homemakers. We've listed our top five favorite stores in Columbia to help you plan your next shopping outing. more Old Mill Antique Mall Filled with fascinating items, from antique furniture to textiles to crafts and more, Old Mill Antique Mall is a great place to pick up new decor or a unique gift for a friend. Located at 310 State Street, this store gets new items in daily, all reasonably priced. It's a great place to spend a few hours exploring the many different wares available. The store is open from 10 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Saturday and 1:30 to 5:30 pm on Sunday. There are items sold by over 75 vendors, so be sure to check back regularly to see what's new. Mast General Store Mast General Store is a fascinating shopping destination with an incredible range of items for sale. Located in a historic landmark building, there are items for everyone at this general store. Kids will love the candy section, with over 500 types sold, while adventurers will appreciate the range of outdoors items, from clothing to camping accessories. As its name implies, Mast General Store sells a little bit of everything. You can browse their inventory online, but it's better to visit the store in person to see what's available. Be sure to check out the artisanal wares: Mast is dedicated to including items by local craftsmen in their store. Hipwazee Specializing in costumes and vintage clothing, both for sale and rent, as well as accessories and reproduction dresses, Hipwazee is a hip store with plenty of unique clothing to browse. It's an especially popular spot for shoppers interested in vintage and one-of-a-kind clothing. Hipwazee is located at 940 Harden Street and the hours are 11 am to 6 pm, Monday through Saturday. Papa Jazz Record Shoppe With the best selection of vintage and modern vinyl in Columbia, Papa Jazz Record Shoppe is a must-visit for music lovers of all ages. They also sell other music-related items, making it a popular destination across the southeast -- after all, the store claims to be the largest in the region! Located at 2014 Greene Street, Papa Jazz Record Shoppe is open Monday through Saturday 10 am to 7 pm and Sunday from 12 to 5 pm. The Gourmet Shoppe The Gourmet Shoppe is a dream store for foodies. The store offers gourmet cookware, high-end spices and ingredients, and a stunning range of wines. A variety of cheeses are also available for purchase, as well as a ton of pantry items like preserves, honey, pasta, spreads, and dips. In addition, there's an onsite cafe and bakery serving up yummy meals and confections. The shop is located at 724 Saluda Avenue and is open from 9 am to 6 pm from Monday to Saturday, and 10 am to 5 pm on Sunday. These five shops are just a sample of the many fantastic shopping destinations in Columbia. records by antonfortunato, licensed via CC BY-ND 2.0

The Congaree Vista is a popular cosmopolitan area of Columbia, South Carolina, close to the banks of the Congaree River. The Vista was built around the old Gervais Street Train Station and includes many independently owned, upscale restaurants, spas, quaint hotels, charming shops, and trendy restaurants. Columbia's Congaree Vista neighborhood continues to be an epicenter for both history and culture to locals and tourists alike. Burns Kia recommends these five great waterfront restaurants in the Vista. more Pearlz Oyster Bar Pearlz Oyster Bar is a fun and fancy restaurant serving the best in fresh local seafood. Pearlz is best known for its variety of raw shellfish, assorted seafood, and tasty regional favorites. The bar offers a delicious array of Lowcountry and Gulf oysters, as well a great assortment of cold beers and refreshing cocktails. Some people consider Pearlz the heart of The Vista's lively restaurant environment. Longhorn Steakhouse If you like your steaks tender and juicy, you're going to love South Carolina Longhorn Steakhouse. Experience steak that is grilled to perfection and uniquely seasoned with their top-secret signature blend of spices. Pair it with an ice-cold beer, freshly baked honey wheat bread, chopped salad, delicious side dishes, and decadent desserts. Empire Supper Club Empire Supper Club has become an urban icon for Carolina's premier nightlife experience. It is open only on the weekends and there is usually a line to get in, but it's worth the wait. You'll enjoy their late night gourmet appetizers, state-of-the-art sound and light system, occasional live music, amazing celebrity performances, and more. From Roaring '20s nights to hysterical comedy shows that will have you rolling in the aisles, they always have something for everyone. Carolina Ale House Carolina Ale House has become a large regional concept, but with a local feel. They are committed to first-rate service and provide the best in award-winning food at an remarkable value. Carolina Ale House is a beloved family-friendly sports-themed bar and restaurant best known for food and fun. Their extensive menu goes beyond your typical sports bar fried food, and they have one of the largest ale selections in the area. The Pot Smoker BBQ One of the sisters that helped start this family-owned business developed her own barbecue sauce years ago, and that's how the Pot Smoker BBQ got started. She served it with her famous pork chops and chicken on Sundays after church, and the rest is history. All of their side dishes are homemade the way Grandma would make them, with lots of love. If barbecue is your thing, you'll be hog heaven. The Vista is a wonderful place to for happy hour, or to waste away a lazy weekend afternoon. Stroll along the waterfront, dine, shop, and relax at some of Columbia South Carolina's best restaurants and retail stores. From steak to seafood, gourmet coffee shops, or dinner entertainment, you'll find the perfect spot for you and your friends. Regardless of the season, or whatever your mood, The Vista is always fun and family friendly.   Image via Flickr by macabrephotographer

From ox carts to food carts, to modern day smoke shops and internet cafes, Five Points has never lost its charm. Throughout its historical evolution, this village neighborhood has kept its appeal and flavor. Always focusing on consistency, diversity, culture, and class, Five Points has a unique atmosphere of its own. We at Burns Kia encourage our customers to get involved in our local community, and there's no better place to do it than The Village. It's time to get off the beaten retail path by visiting Five Points. Five Points is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of work, or to just hang out with friends on the weekend. Where else can you see artists paint, watch street musicians entertain, shop artisans' wares, and find the perfect gift for just about anyone?  From unique galleries to hip consignment shops, Five Points is fun and fascinating. more Bohemian Bohemian is the perfect locally-owned destination for the latest in women's clothing, shoes, and every type of accessory. Their staff provides a friendly, fun-loving shopping environment where you feel like you belong. For over 25 years Bohemian has offered a unique retail assortment that is hard to find anywhere else. Gentleman's Closet Gentleman's Closet is the go-to store for men's high-end consignment clothing. James Bond probably secretly shopped there to create his own special style. You'll find all kinds of hip men's clothing, from suits, to polo shirts, and rock 'n roll tees. You'll leave feeling like a million bucks, but for only a fraction of what you would normally pay for the same quality. Loose Lucy's Loose Lucy's opened in 1992 and has been thrilling hippie lovers ever since. Columbia's original mom-and-pop retro shop features tie-dyes, incense, tapestries, and all kinds of fun funky fashion. PAV Gallery PAV Gallery brings Columbia area collectors and creatives the very best in local artwork, art lessons, and painting events. PAV Gallery is a perfect place to get your creative juices flowing. Pecknel Music Company Pecknel Music has been meeting the musical needs of Columbia, South Carolina, for about 50 years. Pecknel offers a wide variety of musical instruments, pro audio sales, sheet music, private lessons, and so much more. It's your one-stop music shop. Bar None Bar None is a cozy neighborhood bar where customers enjoy shuffleboard, cocktails, delicious food, and a comfortable atmosphere. Known for being the after-hours late-night spot in Columbia, it's open from happy hour to sunrise. Bar None is a perfect example of a classic neighborhood bar. Taneyhill's Group Therapy Need some therapy? Head to Taneyhill's Group Therapy bar instead. As Columbia's oldest bar, it still manages to feel contemporary but in an old-school way. Since 1978 it has provided the best in late night entertainment, drinks, and food. You'll dig their comfortable ambiance, friendly staff, and cheap drinks. Five Points is a charming and unique shopping village with an eclectic collection of restaurants, boutiques, and services. From designer clothing to gently used fashion, to original artwork and gourmet food, there is a little something for everyone.   Image via Flickr by nelsonMZ