Blog

Need some caffeine? You probably do (don't we all?), and when you do, skip those chain coffee shops and try one of these great places in Orangeburg, SC. These are the places we go when we need to a pick-me-up. 4 Favorite Local Coffee Shops Near Orangeburg, SC more Coffee & Things This local shop offers great pastries, high-quality coffee, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a conversation, getting some work done, or just stopping to relax. Coffee & Things opens at 7 AM on weekdays and at 9 AM on Saturdays. They're closed on Sundays. Expect to find all kinds of coffee flavors here. There's really something for everyone. They even have a drive-thru if you're in a hurry. Choose from lattes, mochas, macchiatos, and cappuccinos in a lot of different flavors. They also have caramel, hazelnut, and strawberry frappucinos, a great line-up of smoothies, and Coke products for those who don't like their caffeine in coffee form. We also love their apple turnovers, so don't forget to order one of those. Drip Coffee Drip is dedicated to bringing customers the very best in pour-over coffee, with each drink handcrafted to provide the perfect experience. While they have all your usual favorites, you'll also want to try some of their custom creations. Don't forget to check out the breakfast menu: we love their ribeye and egg, the egg and tallegio, the Nutella french toast, and the duck confit. The coffee is out of the world, and, again, you have to try their special offerings. Here's just a taste of what they have: The Vade, which is Coke on ice with vanilla syrup and a shot of espresso (talk about the Dark Side...). They have all your usual coffee drinks, along with a unique tumeric ginger latte. Cleveland Street Cafe This is a friendly little place that's great to visit with friends. The coffee is good, but the sandwiches are really the star here. And, you just have to try their homemade ice cream, with flavors like rocky road, ginger, and butterscotch. Don't miss their homemade baked goods, either, like the pumpkin roll and the brownie. Speaking of brownies, they also come in chocolate brownie shake form, which is something you don't want to miss. Their coffee is always made right, and there are plenty of flavor options to try. Krafty Koffee This one is a little out of the way, but it's got amazing coffee and a staff that will keep you coming back. The owner takes time to get to ensure everyone who comes through the doors is served well, and you'll be hard-pressed to get more coffee flavors anywhere. In addition to the normal coffee drinks, be sure to try their seasonal favorites. At certain times of the year, you can get their Fire in the Hole, which is orange blossom vanilla with Carolina Reaper. The Flight of the Bumblee is elderberry syrup, honey, vanilla bean, and a honey drizzle. Great coffee isn't too far away, and while you can grab a quick cup at the normal chain places, we recommend giving one of these places a try when you want something special. Stop by Burns Kia to get a special new vehicle for all your coffee explorations! image courtesy of pexels.com

It's great to visit Hartsville, SC! With plenty of great amenities, attractions, and a thriving community, this little town is one of the best in the state. Top 5 Things to Love About Hartsville, SC more 1. Kalmia Gardens These beautiful botanical gardens are a great place to enjoy reconnecting with nature. The 35-acre site is located on the S.C Cotton Trail. Featuring gardens brimming with ornamental plants including tea olives, wisteria, azaleas, and camellias, it's an oasis of color and pleasant scents. There are woods and a pond as well, along with the stunning historic Thomas Hart House, built in the 1820s. The gardens are open every day of the year, dawn til dusk, and are completely free to enter. Located on the west side of town, easy access to this gorgeous green space might be the best thing about living in Hartsville. 2. Great City Parks There are plenty of other places to enjoy the outdoors across Hartsville! With green spaces spread nicely across the town, it's likely you'll have a park to enjoy within easy walking distance of your home. Lawton Park offers access to the nearby lake along with a fishing pier. The Vista Park has a fountain and smooth walking trails. Meanwhile, the likes of Burry Park, Pride Park, and the City of Hartsville Dog Park offer local residents the chance to access nearby greenspace for exercise or relaxation. 3. Neptune Island Waterpark We all love to cool off on hot days. Luckily for Hartsville residents, the city offers the perfect opportunity to do just that. With a huge range of slides, pools, and splash pads, you can enjoy plenty of water-based fun with the family at this amazing attraction. Whether you feel like getting the adrenaline pumping on Neptune's Revenge Speed Slide or relaxing in the lazy river, there's something for you at this family favorite. 4. Rich Heritage Inhabited by Native Americans since ancient times and chartered in 1891, it's only natural Hartsville has plenty of history. Thanks to the work of locals throughout the century, that rich heritage has been carefully preserved. With a range of historic structures preserved across the city, residents can enjoy learning about the history of their town. One of the most interesting historic sites is the Coker Experimental Farms historic site. Housed in a replica of a period dairy barn, an interpretive center tells the story of experimental farming in the area which later had a major impact on agriculture and industry across the world. 5. Convenience There are so many amenities in Hartsville, it rivals big cities for convenience. With a variety of schools available, parents can enjoy great school choice. The Caroline Pines Regional Medical Center offers world-class healthcare. With plenty of businesses in the area, there are so many jobs available right here in the city. And if that's not enough for you, big cities like Columbia are just over an hour's drive away. Living in Hartville, you truly have everything you need right here on your doorstep. Want to experience some of that small-town spirit for yourself and support a local business? Stop by Burns Kia today for a great deal on a new or used vehicle.     image courtesy of pexels.com

If you're looking for some fresh air, then look no further! Here are seven great outdoor activities that you can enjoy near Orangeburg, SC and Columbia, SC. Whether you want to explore nature or play a round of golf, we've got it all covered in this blog post! 7 Great Outdoor Activities to Enjoy Near Orangeburg, SC and Columbia, SC more 1) Kayaking and Canoeing at the Congaree River The Congaree River offers everything that you could want in a destination for kayaking and canoeing. It runs through the heart of Columbia, SC, and eventually feeds into Gills Creek near Cayce, South Carolina. The area has unspoiled nature at its best, with wooded islands where marsh deer make their homes. 2) Boating at Lake Murray Lake Murray—which is considered the "Jewel of South Carolina—is the largest lake in the state. The lake offers many different water activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, skiing, and more! There are three public boat launching ramps on Lake Murray, so it's easy to get out on the water at your convenience. 3) Hiking at Congaree National Park South Carolina is a nature lover's paradise, and Congaree National Park—which was just named one of the most improved parks in America—is a great example. It is very easy to reach this hiking trail with an elevated boardwalk that can be accessed from a gravel parking lot along State Route 601. 4) Golf at Stoney Point Golf Club For those who enjoy hitting the links, Stoney Point Golf Club is a great option! Built on former rice fields, this 18-hole championship course was designed to be challenging for all levels of golfers. Twenty bunkers surround the greens, so putting your best game on display will be necessary to avoid landing in one of them! 5) Fishing at Lake Strom Thurmond Lake Strom Thurmond—located on South Carolina and Georgia border—is one of the best-kept secrets for fishing near Orangeburg and Columbia. This 35,000-acre lake is home to catfish, crappie, large and small-mouth bass, striped bass, white perch, and yellow perch. Bring your boat or rent one at any of the marinas that are located on Lake Strom Thurmond. 6) Biking at the Three Rivers Trail The Three Rivers Trail is an excellent option for bikers looking to spend some outdoor time in South Carolina. The trail contains over miles of paved paths that meander alongside the Saluda River and Broad River. You can also use it as part of a more extensive exercise and transportation network that connects multiple communities! 7) Fly Fishing on the Saluda River The Saluda River is a great destination for fly fishing. It's very scenic and offers some of the best trout fishing in South Carolina. If you're looking to get out on the river but don't have your equipment, you can always head over to one of the many shops that offer guided fly fishing tours so that you can enjoy all of the perks of fly fishing without any of the hassles! You can enjoy a myriad of activities near Orangeburg and Columbia, South Carolina. If you need a new car for your adventures, head over to Burns Kia today and check out our incredible inventory!     image courtesy of pexels.com

As the capital of this great state, it's only natural that Columbia, SC features some of the best museums in the region. Whatever your background and whatever you're interested in, you'll find something to appeal to you within city limits. 4 of the Best Museums to Visit in Columbia, SC 1. Columbia Fire Department Museum Most of us hear the sound of fire truck sirens on a daily basis, but we probably don't think too much about the background and history of our local fire departments. But the Columbia Fire Department Museum, located within the modern-day Fire Department's city headquarters, offers visitors the chance to dig deeper behind the scenes into the history of firefighting. more On display, there is a wide variety of historic firefighting equipment, with some dating from the 19th century. It's an interesting look at the days before firefighters were protected by modern safety equipment. The Columbia Fire Department Museum is open from 8:30am to 5pm, Monday through Friday, and is free to visit. 2. The Cayce Museum Housed in a full-scale replica of a colonial trading post, the Cayce Museum is the number 1 destination for folks looking to learn more about the history of the region. A wide variety of expertly curated artifacts and exhibits take visitors on a journey through time, documenting everything from the Native Americans who once occupied this land, through the Colonial and Civil Wars and beyond. Located on 12th Street in Cayce, this excellent museum is open from 9am to 4pm, Tuesday through Friday and from 2pm to 5pm on weekends. Admission is normally $3 for adults, $2 for seniors, and $1 for children, but admission is completely free on Sundays. 3. EdVenture Children's Museum If you're a parent and you're looking for a great day out with the kids, EdVenture Children's Museum is the place for you. One of the largest children's museums in the country, EdVenture is home to several interactive and hands on exhibits, allowing kids the opportunity to experiment in laboratories, roleplay as a firefighter or police officer, and even explore a giant mockup of a human being's insides! The museum is easy to find, located on Gervais Street, right next to the South Carolina State Museum. EdVenture Children's Museum is open from 9am to 5pm, Tuesday through Saturday, and from 12pm to 5pm on Sundays. 4. Columbia Museum of Art At the heart of the downtown area lies the Columbia Museum of Art. Originally opened over 100 years ago, the museum is dedicated to inspiring visitors with its amazing collection of artworks from around the world. There are paintings, drawings, sculptures, installations, and much more, ranging from classical pieces to modern favorites. The museum is open every week from Tuesday to Sunday. Hours vary from day to day, so check the website before you go. General admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Inspired to visit one of these museums? To explore all of them and discover more fascinating cultural and historical sites, you'll need a quality vehicle to get around in. Come on down to Burns Motors Kia today for all your automotive needs.   image courtesy of pexels.com

One of the best ways to spend a weekend is with a visit to one of the amazing state parks near the cities of Orangeburg, SC and Columbia, SC. There's always something to do here, whether it's exploring hiking trails to beautiful waterfalls or enjoying an afternoon on or near the water. Here are a few of our favorites that you can get to, and they're all only a short drive away. 3 Great State Parks to Visit Near Orangeburg, SC and Columbia, SC 1. Poinsett State Park This unique state park lies at the intersection of two of South Carolina's most important ecosystems. It's located right where the sandhills of the Midlands region meet the coastal plains region, and as a result is a hotspot of biodiversity, with some of the most unique natural sights in the area. It's home to the amazing Palmetto Trail, which winds through the Manchester State Forest, and also includes a ten-acre lake that makes for a beautifully tranquil setting. more Naturally, Poinsette is a favorite park for hikers, but that's not all there is to do here. The lake is a favorite for fishing, with a healthy population of catfish, bream, and bass (you'll need a South Carolina fishing license), and several types of boats are available to rent, including canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats. 2. Aiken State Park While Aiken State Park has natural beauty in spades, it also features an equally enthralling history. Much of the park was built during the Great Depression by two companies of Civilian Construction Corps workers. Their work has more than stood the test of time and can be seen in many of today's structures. Interpretive signage is available throughout the park to help visitors learn about the fascinating history of the area. In addition to the history of the park, it's also very popular with birdwatchers, with several areas that are ideal for birders. Herons, egrets, and several birds of prey can all be spotted here. Several hiking and biking trails are available, including the three-mile Jungle Trail loop. 3. Santee State Park Located along the shores of the expansive Lake Marion, Santee State Park is a great spot for camping and fishing. A campsite is located right on the lakeside, but for those who prefer to spend the night indoors, there are also several rondette cabins, ten of which are located on piers over the lake. On the lake, pontoon boat tours are available of the flooded cypress forest, while those who prefer dry land can enjoy miles of hiking and biking trails. For many, the lake's main draw is its large catfish population, which can be caught from the shore or a boat. Largemouth bass, bream, and crappie can also be caught here. Other activities available include tennis, birding, and geocaching. For the latter, several caches are located throughout the park. We always love to hear about your adventures in the local parks. Head down to Burns Kia today and let us know which is your favorite state park.     image courtesy of pexels.com

If you're looking for fantastic pastries, pies, cakes, and bread, you'll discover lots of great bakeries in and around Columbia, SC. Whether you want to indulge in a quick snack for the road or order a custom cake or dessert, there are plenty of terrific places to visit when you drive through town. 8 Favorite Bakeries in Columbia, SC more 1. Buttercream Dreams This local bakeshop features delicious, custom-made sweets and baked goods seven days a week. It's the ideal spot to order signature cupcakes, birthday cakes, and other treats for your special occasion. If you're passing by the shop, there are plenty of tasty treats to pick up for a quick snack for home or the road. All pricing is reasonable and based on the size and design of your dessert. The shop offers an incredible selection of cupcake flavors and many other specialty desserts. 2. Ally & Eloise Bakeshop Ally and Eloise Bakeshop is one of the top places to order incredible cakes for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and other special occasions. You'll love this shop's impressive assortment of treats, including macarons, cookies, cake pops, muffins, cupcakes, and more. The shop operates out of two locations, with a small cafe and fresh coffee to enjoy with your dessert of choice. 3. Main Street Bakery & Gift Shop This family-owned business offers excellent homemade deli sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. The shop features southern-style recipes and custom-designed cakes for special occasions. You'll enjoy the warm atmosphere and friendly staff at this bakery, which offers everything you need for a quick meal and treat on the go. 4. Silver Spoon Bake Shop The Silver Spoon Bakeshop is a local gem that offers freshly baked desserts, leave, pies, macarons, and croissants. It's a fantastic spot to enjoy all your favorite treats and high-quality custom cakes. You'll find a fabulous selection in the shop daily and place an order for your next birthday party or shower. All baked goods are prepared with natural ingredients for takeout. 5. Crust Bakehouse You'll find a new favorite baked dessert when you visit the Crust Bakehouse. This shop features sourdough bread, savory and sweet scones, ciabatta bread, and lots of sweets. Pecan financiers and red velvet petit fours are among some of the favorite treats at this bakery. It's a wonderful place to enjoy high-quality treats with the family. 6. The Pastry Place This local bakery is conveniently situated downtown and offers specialized cakes and desserts made to order for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and corporate events. You can customize your cake with handcrafted layers that include fillings, flavors, and icing, with various options for each layer. Pastry Place has been open for almost forty years and offers expert baking and beautiful desserts for every occasion. You'll find many terrific bakeshops and pastry cafes in and around Columbia on your next drive through town. Visit us at Burns Kia to view our amazing showroom and learn more about our deals on new and pre-owned vehicles. We offer great options for every lifestyle and budget.

When you're looking for a new SUV for your family, there are a ton of factors to consider. From size, safety, and performance, the all-new 2020 Telluride delivers. It's Kia's largest vehicle, and it offers plenty of high-tech capabilities and a slew of performance-oriented features. Here are four top reasons why this Kia SUV is the perfect pick. Handsome, Spacious Cabin This three-row vehicle boasts an elegant cabin and seating for up to eight on synthetic leather upholstery. That's plenty of room for all the kids and grandma too. Standard equipment such as power-sliding-and-folding second-row seats makes it easy to get inside and get comfortable. For families traveling with little ones, the Telluride offers two complete sets of car-seat connectors in the second-row outboard seats, plus one set in the third-row. Opt for more niceties such as premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated first- and second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Telluride offers a large cargo hold too, to transport all your family's groceries, the kid's sporting gear, and luggage for that annual summer road trip. Fold-down both rows of rear seats and get a class-leading total of 87 cubic feet. more It Delivers on Performance This Kia SUV deserves a spot on mom and dad's shortlist, especially if your family enjoys some light adventuring. Standard equipment on the 2020 variant ranges from skid plates and 8-inches of ground clearance to the available all-wheel-drive lock system for improved grip. Thanks to the robust power of the Telluride's 3.8-liter V-6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, it can tow 5,000 pounds and produces 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It's easy on your family's budget too, earning a fuel-efficient 20 mpg in the city and 26 highway. Loads of Advanced Safety Features Keep your precious passengers safe with an abundance of safety features from Kia. The Telluride earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's coveted designation as a "Top Safety Pick" and comes with a generous list of driver aids. You and your family will appreciate a rearview camera, lane keep assist, and a blind spot monitor to help avoid a collision. Also included standard is forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and rear cross-traffic alert. There's a driver attention monitor, adaptive cruise control, and safe exit assist. This handy feature alerts you of approaching cars, so the kids won't open the door when it's unsafe. If that's not enough protection for your brood, add available options like automatic high beams and a surround-view parking camera. It's a Reliable Choic e The Telluride earned an above-average predicted reliability rating from JD Power: an impressive four out of five stars. For the new model year, it touts Kia's industry-leading warranty. Parents will appreciate the basic, five-year/60,000-mile coverage, as well as Kia's extended 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. These perks make it a solid choice in this segment for budget-conscious shoppers. The all-new 2020 Telluride is a breath of fresh air in the midsize SUV class. Load up the kids and head to your local Kia showroom for a test drive today.   Image Via Kia.com

Local festivals offer residents a variety of ways to celebrate. They're a hotbed of varied entertainment from celebrating arts and crafts to many flavors of food. Some are downright quirky, while others feature a local flair that you won't find anywhere else. Here's a quick list of the top, fun festivals near Orangeburg, South Carolina. Orangeburg Festival Of Roses The Orangeburg Festival of Roses is a town-wide celebration that's been running since 1971. Marking the beginning of the rose blooming season, the activities take place in Edisto Memorial Gardens near the banks of the Edisto River at 200 Riverside Drive SW. See thousands of roses in bloom and gaze at the longest blackwater river in the world at this one-of-a-kind local event. There's no cost to get into the garden, and parking is also free. The exact date of the event is to be determined, so start checking the website for times as May approaches. There's plenty of food to eat, three stages of music and live performances, sports tournaments, games for the kids, and a road race. more St. Patrick's Day Festival Gather your Irish friends and the whole family, and wear some green to the fourth annual St. Patrick's Day Festival. The event takes place on Friday, March 13, 2020, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. downtown at 152 Market Street. It's the only festival of its kind in Orangeburg. Bring your lawn chairs and your dancing shoes and pay homage to the patron saint of Ireland. There will be live music, food, and beer for purchase. Don't skip out on this fun event, or you might get pinched by a leprechaun. Lakefest 2020 Where can you find a festival with music, amusement rides, and arts and crafts? Why at the second annual Lakefest 2020 in the Santee town hall complex. Head to 194 Municipal Way and bring the whole family. The event kicks off on Saturday, March 28, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. and runs until 6:00 p.m. There's a car show for dad, fun and games for mom and the kids, and plenty of food, beer, and wine. Admission is just five bucks per person, and kids 12 and under are free. Governor's Frog Jump Hosted every year on Easter weekend, the Governor's Frog Jump at Frog Jump Park in nearby Springfield is one attraction you don't want to miss. The holiday falls on April 11, 2020, and this event features a carnival, a parade, food vendor, crafts, games, a cow drop competition, and an egg hunt all at the Springfield Town Hall located at 1505 State Road. The winner of the classic frog jump event will represent the state of South Carolina at the Calaveras County Frog Jump tournament in sunny California. Stick around all day for a fireworks finale. Make lasting memories at a festival near you. Get involved with Orangeburg's local history and culture while enjoying yourself. Which event will you hit first? Use our guide to narrow down your choices and get out there and have fun.   Image by Pixabay @OrnaW

Road-trips are one of the best parts of summer. Fortunately, there are many exciting destinations that are worth taking from the Orangeburg, South Carolina, area. Greenville Greenville, South Carolina, is just a short drive from Orangeburg. The city offers an abundance of entertainment including restaurants, parks, and museums. Paris Mountain State Park is a popular area for outdoor entertainment with over 1,540-acres of land. The 13.0-acre Lake Placid is also within the state park and is great for fishing, swimming, and boating. You can also rent one of the campsites within the park for an extended getaway. Fells Park on the Reedy is another great choice. This 32.0-acre park is right in the historic part of Greenville and overlooks a 50.0-foot waterfall. If you are into history, then you will want to check out The Children's Museum of the Upstate or the Greenville County Museum of Art. Complete your trip to Greenville with a meal at Sassafras Southern Bistro or the Trappe Door. more Walhalla You might have to drive a little further to enjoy the beauty of Walhalla, but the sights at the Stumphouse Tunnel and Station Cove Falls are worth it. This city sits at the bottom of the Blue Ridge Mountains, giving you breathtaking views of the waterfalls and natural scenery of South Carolina. Grab a bite to eat at the Mountain View Restaurant where you can enjoy food and exceptional outdoor views. The Kountry Kupboard is also an American-inspired diner with a hometown feel. Camden Camden is one of the oldest cities in all of South Carolina and makes for an educational and entertaining day trip. You can take a stroll around the city and enjoy the historic houses that date back to the 1800s. Make sure you check out the Historic Camden Revolutionary War museum. You can explore the museum's grounds which were once a battlefield in the Revolutionary War. The museum also offers picnic tables, a nature trail, and an on-site gift shop. Grab a bite to eat at some of the best restaurants in Camden including Blackmon's Little Midget and Sam Kendall's. If you want to fuel up before your trip back home, make sure you stop by Books on Broad and Coffee or Candy's at the Granary for a cup of fresh coffee. Atlanta Just a short drive and you will arrive at one of the most hustling and bustling cities in the south. Atlanta, Georgia, is home to the world's largest open ocean tank which is perfect for visitors of all ages. The Atlanta Botanical Garden also features over 30-acres of colorful plants and flowers.  You and your family can enjoy a retro home-cooked dinner at the Home Grown GA Restaurant. If you prefer soul food, try the Busy Bee Cafe. If you have some extra time to spare, visit The Shops at Buckhead for a unique shopping experience. This summer, load the kids in the car and explore the local area with a road trip. Each of these destinations is sure to create lasting summer memories. Image by Jason A G cc by nd-2.0

Do you have a severe case of wanderlust but no time off? Why not hop in the car and take a long drive? There is so much to discover on the open road and an almost endless number of entertaining attractions along the way. Be spontaneous, enjoy the scenery, and find that perfect destination within a few hours from home. We've put together this list of three nearby cities that are perfect for a daytime road trip from Columbia, South Carolina. Are we there yet? Charleston, South Carolina Just 114 miles south — less than a two-hour drive via Interstate 26 — is the coastal city of Charleston. Immerse yourself in the South's vibrant culture with world-class dining and thrilling nightlife. Take a sunset cruise, splash in the waves at Folly Beach, or relax with a blissful spa experience. Discover the city's vibrant art scene with numerous public exhibits, performance venues, and museums, including Corrigan Gallery, a contemporary, museum-quality fine art hall; and the Halsey Institute on the College of Charleston's campus. You can also explore lush gardens and historic plantations just minutes from downtown Charleston or get an insider's look at the city with the 42nd Annual Fall Tour of Homes, History, and Architecture launching Oct. 4. And don't miss Charleston Beer Week, which begins Sep. 8. more Augusta, Georgia Continue heading south on Interstate 26 to the charming city of Augusta. Plan your day trip to include plenty of outdoor activities such as paddle boarding on the Savannah River or enjoying a peaceful hike through Phinizy Swamp. Take date night downtown for a taste of real southern delicacies. Order a handcrafted cocktail at The Bee's Knees or sample local seafood at Old McDonald Fish Camp. Experience Augusta's diverse and lively city with a calendar full of events, including Market at the River, which runs every Saturday until Nov. 17; or the Candlelight Music Concert Series that takes place at the Augusta Common every Sunday until Sep. 2. To experience Augusta's laid-back way of life, it will take almost three hours to traverse the 160 miles from Columbia — but it's well worth the drive. Charlotte, North Carolina Head north on the highway to explore the Queen City. Discover the energetic uptown, plan some time to play in artsy Noda, and then uncover the vibrant, trendy Southend. Charlotte is famous for Southern comfort food and barbeque, so make sure you stop by City Smoke to curb your craving for chargrilled meat. They even have smoked lamb on the menu. Host a Charlotte family play date at High Sea's miniature golf or ride a six-story slide at the indoor water park at Great Wolf Lodge. Go outside and explore 40 acres of produce and playgrounds at Wise Acres Organic Farm where you can pick your own strawberries or pumpkins, depending on the season. Plan to spend some time in Charlotte; It's a 109-mile drive up Interstate 78 North that will take you at least three hours. Add some extra road-trip magic and map out a few attractions along the route. Pack up your new Kia with snacks, turn on your UVO infotainment system, and buckle up for an adventure. It's time for a road trip! "The Atlantic Ocean in South Carolina" by Dougtone CC-BY SA 2.0

There are so many great places to explore within a short drive from Columbia, South Carolina. Check out these fun day trips this weekend! more Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge Only two hours southeast of Columbia is the fantastic Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge and its beautiful Boneyard Beach. The refuge has an avian sanctuary that spreads over 66,000 acres where you can spot 277 different bird species that call this refuge home. From the beach, you can sometimes see Loggerhead turtles. You can also explore the park's two different lighthouses which offer stunning views along the coastline. The park is only accessible by ferry. Walhalla Drive about two and a half hours northwest of Columbia, and you'll discover the small town of Walhalla, South Carolina. If you want to explore the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, this is where you want to start your day. From Walhalla, you can join hiking or biking trails that will lead you to waterfalls, past gorges, through forests, and along rivers. The mountains are so accessible from here and it's also a wonderful place to head to see the fall foliage in October and November. Parris Island Parris Island is located in Beaufort and is roughly two and a half hours south of Columbia. It is packed with history and beauty that is well worth a day trip. The island itself is best known now as a Marine Corps training facility, but it is open to the public to explore The history of Parris Island is long. It starts with the Native Americans and moves onto the arrival of the French in 1562. The Spanish came to the area for a brief time and the island also played a large role in the Spanish-American war. Be sure to head to the museum to learn all about the island's history and the efforts of the Marines. Camden This historic town is only 45 minutes from downtown Columbia, making it a fantastic spot for a day trip. Camden was founded in 1732 by decree by King George II, making it South Carolina's oldest inland town. While you're in town, check out the Camden Revolutionary War site. It's an open-air museum where you can learn about the American Revolutionary War. The site was a major supply post for the British during the war. You can read different plaques located around the park as well as see some buildings which have been reconstructed to look as they did during the Revolutionary War. While in Camden, you can also have a nice walk through Goodale State Park, which has a historical mill pond and a 140-acre lake where you can go kayaking or canoeing. Horse racing fanatics will love the Steeplechase Museum in Camden with memorabilia and information about the sport's rise in American culture. Whether you're looking for an educational day trip that is packed with history and fascinating sites or you're more interested in getting outside and exploring the natural beauty of South Carolina, you'll find it all within a few hours of downtown Columbia. "Garris Landing, Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge" by Todd Van Hoosear, licensed via CC BY-SA 2.0

Located where the Saluda and Broad Rivers converge to form the Congaree River, Columbia is the capital and largest city in South Carolina. Columbia is a modest sized city, but with its long history and riverfront geography, there is no shortage of interesting activities to enjoy. Whether you're a local or just visiting, be sure to check out these four must-see Columbia attractions. Riverbanks Zoo & Garden Pay a visit to this remarkable facility and you'll quickly realize why it's a two-time recipient of the Governor's Cup for South Carolina's Most Outstanding Tourist Attraction. Featuring over 2,000 animals and 4,200 native and exotic plant species on a 170-acre site, the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is sure to keep visitors enthralled for hours. Don't miss the award-winning Birdhouse at Riverbanks exhibit, which features three varieties of penguins among several other exotic bird species. Admission to the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is affordable at $13.95 for adults and $11.50 for children ages 2-12. Discounts are available for military members and senior citizens, and children under two get in free. Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park Take in some scenery and history with a visit to the Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park. This park is the original site of Columbia's waterworks and the home of the first-ever electrically operated textile mill. Visitors can stroll along over two miles of scenic riverfront trail while learning about the history of the Columbia Canal, first built in 1824 with the labor of indentured Irish servants. Today, a memorial in the park recognizes the Irish workers who built the canal. The Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park are located just outside of Columbia's downtown business district, providing a convenient escape from the bustle of downtown. The park is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, and admission is free. Nickelodeon Theatre Film buffs won't want to miss a chance to visit Columbia's Nickelodeon Theater. Founded in 1979, this nonprofit theater hosts independent films, curated series, and one-off screenings, and is the home of the Indie Grits Film Festival, an annual showcase of area DIY films. Screening attendees can engage in discussions with experts and community members before or after many screenings. The Nickelodeon is also home to the Helen Hill Media Education Center, which offers filmmaking workshops and educational opportunities for adults and children alike. Ticket prices for the Nick vary, but most screenings are $10. If you're a Columbia local, consider becoming a member of the Nickelodeon Theater to enjoy exclusive benefits like free tickets, discounted special screenings, and free popcorn. Congaree National Park When you need an escape to nature, look no further than Congaree National Park. Located less than 30 minutes from downtown Columbia, this national park is home of the largest expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest in the country. Visitors to the park can camp, fish, canoe, and kayak, or simply hike and take in the scenery of this unique floodplain forest. Admission to Congaree National Park is free, and the park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Whether you're interested in nature, history, wildlife, or the arts, Columbia has something for you.