Free & Cheap Things to Do in Columbia

Parks & Nature

One of only a handful of national parks with no entrance fee, Congaree protects the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the US. The boardwalk trail winds through towering ancient trees reflected in still floodplain waters — an otherworldly landscape rarely seen this close to a major city.

Address: 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061

Tip: The 2.4-mile elevated boardwalk is the most popular trail and is fully accessible. The ranger-led canoe tours ($10–$15) are among the best deals in the national park system — book early as they fill up fast. Bring bug spray in summer.

History & Culture

Four floors of South Carolina natural history, science, art, and cultural heritage inside a converted 1894 textile mill on the banks of the Congaree River. Highlights include a natural history gallery with a giant megalodon jaw, a digital dome planetarium, and rotating art exhibitions.

Address: 301 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201

Tip: Visit on the first Sunday of the month for $1 admission — the best deal in the state. The 4D theater and planetarium shows cost extra but are worth it with kids. Free parking in the adjacent lot on weekends.

Arts & Culture

A genuinely impressive regional art museum in the heart of downtown Columbia with a permanent collection spanning Renaissance masters, Baroque paintings, and American decorative arts. Rotating special exhibitions keep things fresh year-round, and the museum frequently hosts free events and community programming.

Address: 1515 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201

Tip: Bank of America cardholders get free entry on the first full weekend of every month — a great way to visit for free. The museum is closed Mondays. Thursday hours extend to 7pm (8pm on First Thursdays). Sits on Main Street steps from great cafés and restaurants.