Columbia, South Carolina 2025: The Ultimate Millennial City Guide (Spin the Weezle.io Wheel and Let’s Go!) || Weezle (2025)
- WZL
- Dec 22, 2025
- 9 min read
Hungry?
Thirsty?
Sleepy?
Be Active
Go 2 Event
What is the biggest risk of living in South Carolina?
Fire ants
Mosquitos
Gnats and flies
Alligators
Black bears
Deer
Brown recluse spiders or spiders in general.
The Palmetto Bug
Who is the wealthiest person in Columbia, SC?
Who is SC's wealthiest resident? Robert Faith, founder of Greystar, is South Carolina's richest resident in 2025 with a net worth of $5 billion.Jul 18, 2025
What is the slang for Columbia SC?
The name of the city is often abbreviated as "Cola", leading to its nickname "Soda City".
What is Columbia, SC most known for?
Columbia, SC, known as "Soda City," is known for its vibrant downtown, the University of South Carolina (Gamecocks), Riverbanks Zoo, Congaree National Park's fireflies, the Soda City Market, a growing food scene, and historic sites, blending Southern charm with a youthful energy from its student population and a lively arts/culture scene.
Key Takeaway: Columbia, SC is the “Soda City” that’s fizzing with flavor, fun, and a little bit of Southern sass. Whether you’re a brunch-obsessed millennial, a caffeine-fueled night owl, or a culture vulture with a penchant for drag shows and riverwalks, Columbia in 2025 is ready to surprise you. Spin the Weezle.io wheel, and let’s plan your next adventure!
Hungry? The Best Eats in Columbia (2025 Edition)
If you think Columbia is just about barbecue and biscuits, prepare to have your taste buds blown. This city is a foodie’s fever dream, with more five-star brunches, fusion bowls, and pizza pies than you can shake a pimento cheese sandwich at. Here’s where to eat, sorted by what you’re craving and how many locals have already raved about it.
American Food or Breakfast Spots
Restaurant | Reviews | Rating | Why Go? | Website |
850+ | 4.8 | Massive cinnamon rolls, creative breakfast sandwiches, and a local favorite for hearty Southern breakfast. | ||
809 | 4.5+ | Brunch classics, signature "Hangover Hashbrowns," and a vibrant, artsy atmosphere. | ||
426 | 4.5 | Fresh deli sandwiches, pimento cheese, and a popular weekend brunch. | ||
635 | 4.3 | Local franchise with a loyal following for pancakes, omelets, and classic American breakfast. |
Asian Food
Restaurant | Reviews | Rating | Why Go? | Website |
389+ | 4.5+ | Modern Korean cuisine, creative cocktails, and a lively downtown setting. | ||
285 | 4.5+ | Authentic Chinese dishes, especially roast duck and pork. | ||
185+ | 4.5+ | Taiwanese street food, boba tea, and a trendy, casual vibe. | ||
500+ (est.) | 4.5+ | Downtown ramen shop with quick service and authentic Japanese noodles. |
Middle Eastern Food
Restaurant | Reviews | Rating | Why Go? | Website |
263 | 4.1 | Family-owned, authentic Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine, known for fresh pita and mezze. | ||
173 | 4.1 | Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fare, praised for shawarma and falafel. | ||
97 | 4.4 | Cozy, long-standing spot for Greek and Middle Eastern classics. |
Mexican Food
Restaurant | Reviews | Rating | Why Go? | Website |
500+ (est.) | 4.5+ | Local favorite for authentic street tacos and Mexican staples. | ||
500+ (est.) | 4.5+ | Flavorful tacos, tortas, and quick service. | ||
500+ (est.) | 4.5+ | Mexican cantina with a festive atmosphere and a wide selection of tacos and margaritas. |
European or Best Pizza
Restaurant | Reviews | Rating | Why Go? | Website |
500+ (est.) | 4.7+ | Wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza, locally sourced ingredients, and a cozy, modern setting. | ||
500+ (est.) | 4.5+ | Local institution for New York-style pizza, creative toppings, and a laid-back vibe. | ||
500+ (est.) | 4.5+ | Brick oven pies, Italian-inspired menu, and a popular Five Points location. |
Spin the Weezle.io wheel for your next food adventure, or let us plan your date night—no more “I dunno, you pick!” debates.
Thirsty? Top Places to Drink (Beer, Cocktails, Coffee & More)
Columbia’s drinking scene is as diverse as its neighborhoods. Whether you want to sip craft cocktails in a hidden speakeasy, dance at an LGBTQ+ club, or caffeinate your way through the city, we’ve got you covered.
Hipster, Dive, Historical, LGBTQ+ Locations
Venue | Reviews | Why Go? | Website |
84+ | Eclectic, hipster/dive, underground vibe, live music, dance floor, trivia, comedy, LGBTQ+ friendly. | ||
New, award-winning | LGBTQ+ bar, vegan comfort food, casual, inclusive, drag events. | ||
23+ | LGBTQ+ mainstay, drag shows, karaoke, dance floor, drink specials. | ||
21+ | Oldest gay bar in Columbia, laid-back, historic, drag shows. | ||
N/A | Hipster/dive, arcade games, craft beer, casual, best downtown neighborhood bar. | ||
N/A | Dive, Five Points staple, local favorite, casual. | ||
N/A | Dive, late-night, strong drinks, local crowd. |
Best for Music
Venue | Reviews | Why Go? | Website |
84+ | Live music, comedy, dance floor, underground/hipster crowd. | ||
N/A | Brewpub, live music, rooftop, historic setting. | ||
N/A | Jazz club, intimate, local talent, upscale. | ||
N/A | Jazz, cocktails, cozy, local acts. |
Best for Dancing
Venue | Reviews | Why Go? | Website |
N/A | Dance club, drag brunch, lively, downtown. | ||
84+ | Dance floor, themed nights, mixed/queer crowd. | ||
23+ | LGBTQ+ dance, drag, karaoke. |
Best Speakeasy, Brewery, or Hidden Bars
Venue | Reviews | Why Go? | Website |
69+ | Speakeasy, craft cocktails, intimate, hidden vibe. | ||
N/A | Speakeasy, rare spirits, historic ambiance. | ||
39+ | Speakeasy-style, local brews, craft cocktails, vintage decor. | ||
N/A | Beer garden, best beer selection, outdoor deck, local favorite. | ||
N/A | Brewpub, rooftop, live music, historic building. | ||
N/A | Brewery, creative beers, games, family-friendly. | ||
N/A | Local brewery, award-winning, Vista location, creative beers. | ||
N/A | Premium craft beers, seltzers, non-alcoholic options, scenic inspiration. |
Best Sports Bar
Venue | Reviews | Why Go? | Website |
N/A | Top sports bar, casual, pizza, TVs, local crowd. | ||
N/A | British-style, soccer focus, pub food, neighborhood favorite. |
Best Coffee
Venue | Reviews | Why Go? | Website |
N/A | Local roaster, specialty coffee, cozy, community hub. | ||
N/A | Local, small-batch, modern, bright, popular with students. | ||
N/A | Hipster, creative drinks, vegan options, artsy. |
Spin the Weezle.io wheel for your next bar crawl or coffee date. We promise, no Starbucks in sight.
Sleepy? Where to Crash in Columbia
Whether you’re a luxury lover, a history buff, or just need a place to crash after a night out, Columbia has a bed with your name on it.
Luxury Hotels
Hotel | Reviews | Price | Why Book? | Booking Link |
1,577+ | $150–$250 | Creative, collegiate-inspired decor, on-site dining, walkable downtown, pet-friendly. | Book Now | |
1,000+ | $160–$250 | Modern amenities, pool, fitness center, event spaces, central location. | Book Now | |
1,000+ | $170–$260 | Outdoor pool, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, walkable to Vista & USC. | Book Now | |
900+ | $150–$220 | Historic bank building, rooftop bar, modern rooms. | Book Now |
Historical Hotels
Hotel | Reviews | Price | Why Book? | Booking Link |
1,577+ | $150–$250 | Immerses guests in local history, collegiate nostalgia, creative interiors. | Book Now | |
900+ | $150–$220 | 1913 bank building, original architecture, rooftop bar. | Book Now | |
700+ | $130–$180 | Located in historic district, free breakfast, pool. | Book Now |
Best Budget Friendly Hotels
Hotel | Reviews | Price | Why Book? | Booking Link |
164+ | $100–$140 | Modern, free breakfast, fitness center, pet-friendly. | Book Now | |
1,000+ | $110–$150 | Free breakfast, pool, near shopping. | Book Now | |
1,000+ | $90–$130 | Free breakfast, airport shuttle, pool. | Book Now | |
1,409+ | $80–$120 | Free breakfast, pet-friendly, near Fort Jackson. | Book Now |
Best Boutique or Bed and Breakfast Hotels
Hotel | Reviews | Price | Why Book? | Booking Link |
65+ | $160–$200 | Boutique, art deco, local art, complimentary breakfast. | Book Now | |
10+ | $120–$160 | B&B, historic home, personalized service. | Book Now | |
200+ | $140–$180 | Modern boutique, walkable to Vista, on-site dining. | Book Now |
Best Trade Show or Conference Hotels
Hotel | Reviews | Price | Why Book? | Booking Link |
1,000+ | $160–$250 | Large event spaces, business center, downtown location. | Book Now | |
1,000+ | $170–$260 | Meeting rooms, business amenities, central. | Book Now | |
200+ | $140–$180 | Modern meeting spaces, walkable to convention center. | Book Now |
Need help booking? Spin the Weezle.io wheel or let us plan your next stay—no more sleeping in your car (unless you’re into that).
BE ACTIVE: Where to Get Your Sweat On
Columbia is basically the REI of cities—outdoorsy, active, and always ready for adventure. Here’s where to burn off those brunch calories.
Best Gyms & Fitness Studios
Name | Reviews/Rating | Why Go? | Website |
4.8/5 (100+ reviews) | Locally owned, extensive free weights, powerlifting, 24/7 access. | ||
4.9/5 (60+ reviews) | Group classes, personal training, expert trainers, wide class variety. | ||
4.5/5 (50+ reviews) | 24/7 access, personal training, multiple locations. | ||
4.8/5 (30+ reviews) | Barre classes, low-impact, all levels, women-focused. | ||
Training](https://f45training.com/columbia/home) | 4.9/5 (25+ reviews) | HIIT, group training, functional fitness. |
Top-Rated Personal Trainers & Fitness Coaches
Name/Studio | Reviews/Rating | Why Go? | Website |
4.9/5 (20+ reviews) | $52/hr, 3 years experience, custom programs. | ||
4.9/5 (15+ reviews) | $76/hr, 4 years experience, individualized plans. | ||
4.8/5 (30+ reviews) | Certified trainers, yoga, group classes. |
Best Golf Courses
Name | Reviews/Rating | Why Go? | Website |
4.7/5 (200+ reviews) | Top-rated public course, 27 holes, scenic, practice facilities. | ||
4.5/5 (100+ reviews) | Public, recently renovated, group outings, affordable. | ||
4.4/5 (80+ reviews) | Public, well-maintained, good value. |
Best Hiking Trails & Outdoor Recreation
Name/Location | Reviews/Rating | Why Go? | Website |
4.8/5 (100+ reviews) | 12.5 miles, paved, ADA accessible, river views, art, wildlife, free. | ||
4.7/5 (90+ reviews) | 9 trails, 20+ miles, mountain biking, trail running, $5 day pass. | ||
4.2/5 (60+ reviews) | Family-friendly, hiking, biking, kayak rentals, splash pad. | ||
4.5/5 (98 reviews) | ADA accessible, old-growth forest, free, unique ecosystem. | ||
4.6/5 (50+ reviews) | Urban hiking, city views, historic sites, free. |
Unique Outdoor & Adventure Experiences
Name/Location | Reviews/Rating | Why Go? | Website |
4.8/5 (40+ reviews) | Bike shop, rentals, USCF certified mechanics, local cycling hub. | ||
4.9/5 (30+ reviews) | Non-profit, bike repair stations, community rides. | ||
4.5/5 (20+ reviews) | On-site kayak rentals, family-friendly lake. |
Ready to get active? Spin the Weezle.io wheel for your next hike, gym, or group class. We’ll even help you find a fitness coach who won’t judge your love of brunch.
Go 2 Event: Where to Get Your Culture Fix
Columbia’s event scene is as quirky and diverse as its residents. Whether you’re into animals, art, sports, or history, there’s something for everyone.
Best Zoos or Animal Attractions
Venue | Reviews | Why Go? | Website |
2,900+ | 2,000+ animals, botanical gardens, splash pads, ropes course, and annual events. | Buy Tickets |
Best Sporting Events or Local Sports Teams
Venue/Team | Why Go? | Website |
Football at Williams-Brice Stadium (77,559 capacity), basketball at Colonial Life Arena, and more. | Buy Tickets | |
Segra Park, family-friendly, affordable tickets, strong local following. | Buy Tickets |
Best Plays or Music Venues
Venue | Why Go? | Website |
18,000 seats, major concerts, NCAA basketball, family shows. | Buy Tickets | |
2,254 seats, South Carolina Philharmonic, Broadway tours, national and international artists. | Buy Tickets | |
3,200 seats, concerts, comedy, touring shows, historic venue. | Buy Tickets | |
Popular mid-sized venues for live music, especially among younger audiences. | Event Calendar |
Best Art Events or Locations
Venue | Why Go? | Website |
Diverse permanent collection, rotating exhibitions, regular art events, workshops, and family programs. | Visit | |
Four floors of art, science, history, and technology exhibits, plus a planetarium and 4D theater. | Visit | |
Local gallery with rotating exhibitions, events, and community art programs. | Visit | |
Premier venue for contemporary art exhibitions. | Visit |
History of the Town & What to Be Proud Of
Founding: Established in 1786 as South Carolina’s capital.
Civil War: Site of the 1860 secession convention; burned during Sherman’s March.
Reconstruction: Home to the nation’s only Museum of Reconstruction.
African American Heritage: Mann-Simons Site and Modjeska Monteith Simkins House highlight Black history and civil rights.
Iconic Landmarks: South Carolina State House, USC’s Historic Horseshoe, Robert Mills House, Hampton-Preston Mansion, Tunnelvision Mural.
Local Pride: Gamecock sports, historic preservation, and a vibrant arts, music, and food scene.
Want to plan your next event or date night? Spin the Weezle.io wheel or let us do the heavy lifting. We’ll even help you score tickets to the hottest shows.
Local Legends & Service Shoutouts
Top Real Estate Agents: Patrick Oconnor, Olivia Cooley, Taley Hunt, Mike Matulis, Jessica L Nelson, Kate Sweeten, Jeffrey R Graham, Angelia Dodson.
Music Artists: Blacc Zacc, Renni Rucci, Mark Rapp, Prettier Than Matt, Tokyo Joe, The Reggie Sullivan Band, Soda City Brass Band.
Service Providers: Old South Landscaping, Augusta Lawn Care, Mashburn Construction, Master Craft Renovations, Woodbrown Home Services.
Notable Locals: Dawn Staley (USC Women’s Basketball Coach), Daniel Rickenmann (Mayor), Alan Wilson (Attorney General), Erin Curtis (Soda City Market CEO), Debi Schadel, Tracie Broom, Merritt McNeely (Flock and Rally), Robert Hughes (BullStreet District), Jim Clyburn (U.S. Representative).
Conclusion: Why Columbia? Why Now?
Columbia is a city that’s always evolving, always creative, and always ready for your next adventure. Whether you’re a foodie, a night owl, a nature lover, or just someone who wants to try something new, Columbia has a spot for you.
Ready to spin the Weezle.io wheel? Let us plan your next event, date night, or spontaneous adventure. And if you’re a local business owner who wants to get noticed, hit up Weezle.com for marketing magic.
Disclaimer
This blog was crafted using a blend of public reviews, business websites, and local expertise for educational purposes only. We don’t own the rights to any of these businesses, and if you’d like your business removed or have copyright concerns, please contact us. We’re not responsible for your choices, your hangovers, or your inability to finish a cinnamon roll at The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli. By reading this, you acknowledge that Weezle.io is here to help you have fun, not to take the blame for your adventures.
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