5 Things You Must Do in

West Columbia

West Columbia Car Rentals

West Columbia, South Carolina (population 13,100), is two miles west of Columbia, South Carolina, and 86 miles south of Charlotte. It is near the confluence of the Broad, Congaree, and Saluda rivers.

1. Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater- Part of the Three Rivers Greenway, this 4.5 acre facility has a half-mile path for walking, running, bicycling, and gazing at natural beauty;  and a canoe landing.   The amphitheater hosts concerts and other events.

2. Cayce Historical Museum- Southwest of West Columbia, this facility chronicles the history of the first European settlement (in the early 1700s) in the South Carolina Midlands, known then as "the back country.“ The main building in the complex is a replica of a 1765 trading seized by the British during Revolution and used as a fort. Exhibits emphasize periods of Colonial trade, agricultural development, and transportation from the 18th century to the present. There is also an extensive collection of Native American artifacts.

3. Riverbanks Zoological Park and Botanical Gardens- In nearby Columbia, this zoo’s exhibits include the African Plains, Birdhouse, Koala Knockabout, Aquarium Reptile Complex, Large Mammals, Lemur Island, Riverbanks Farm, and Sea Lions. The gardens include bog, dry, old-rose, shade, and walled plant displays.

4. State Museum-  Calling itself “South Carolina Under One Roof,” this Columbia facility is housed in the 1893 Columbia Mill textile building.  Its exhibits include fine art, cultural and natural history, science and technology. The art exhibit has portraits of key state historical figures and contemporary paintings of important historical events. The Stringer Museum is designed for children.

5. State Farmers Market- On 50 acres southwest of town, this venue is one of the state’s oldest farmers markets. It has 500 open stalls selling produce and live plants, over 100 wholesale units, 38 retail units, four food establishments, and a U.S. post office. The market is ranked in the top 10 in the nation for sales volume.