Columbia, SC’s parks offer perfect spots for picnics, play, and peace. Enjoy a scenic picnic at Sesquicentennial State Park or the South Carolina State House Grounds. For kids, Leo’s Landing at Saluda Shoals Park is a fantastic playground. Seek tranquility at Riverbanks Zoo's gardens or Saluda Shoals Park. Most parks also provide accessible features, ensuring everyone can enjoy. There’s so much more to explore in these beautiful outdoor spaces!
Top Picnic Spots in Columbia, SC
When it comes to enjoying the great outdoors, Columbia, SC, offers some fantastic picnic spots that cater to every preference. Sesquicentennial State Park features covered shelters and picnic pads, perfect for group gatherings. Just remember to secure your park admission! If you prefer an urban setting, the South Carolina State House Grounds provides a beautiful, shaded area with no fees. For river views, try the West Columbia Riverwalk Park or Granby Park, both with picnic tables and scenic paths. The historic UofSC Horseshoe invites you to relax under oak trees, with easy access to nearby eateries, including prepped picnic options like those from Picnic Pop-Up SC. Smaller parks like Guignard Park and Granby Gardens offer tranquility and covered amenities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable picnic experience. Additionally, the park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset, making it easy to plan your outdoor outings.
Best Playgrounds for Kids
After enjoying a relaxing picnic, it's time for the kids to burn off some energy at Columbia's best playgrounds. Leo’s Landing at Saluda Shoals Park features an ADA-accessible playground with sensory panels and adaptive swings, ensuring everyone can play safely. At Roy Lynch Park, separate toddler and big kid areas provide a secure environment, along with a seasonal spray pad for cooling off. Carraway Park offers inclusive equipment and safety surfacing, perfect for family gatherings. If you're near the river, check out Columbia Canal & Riverfront Park for paved trails and shaded seating. Additionally, Columbia Canal & Riverfront Park provides a beautiful setting with Adirondack chairs and hammocks for parents to relax while the kids play. Each of these parks prioritizes safety while offering a variety of engaging play structures for your little ones to enjoy. Seven Oaks Park also features two playgrounds with ample shade, making it a great spot for outdoor fun.
Peaceful Areas for Relaxation
Whether you're seeking a quiet spot to unwind or a scenic area to soak in nature, Columbia's parks offer plenty of peaceful places for relaxation. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden features serene gardens where you can enjoy a moment of tranquility among the greenery. The Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park provides lovely riverside paths perfect for a leisurely stroll while taking in calming water views. Sesquicentennial State Park, with its 30-acre lake and scenic trails, invites you to sit by the water or explore the wooded pathways. Family-friendly activities at Saluda Shoals Park ensure that visitors of all ages can find something enjoyable to do, making it a great spot for a peaceful day out. Congaree National Park’s majestic old-growth forest offers a tranquil escape into nature, ideal for birdwatching or simply enjoying the serene surroundings. Each park guarantees a safe and peaceful environment to recharge, and over 1,000 Columbia residents have provided feedback that helps shape the future of these community spaces.
Accessibility Features in Local Parks
Columbia’s parks prioritize inclusivity, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beauty of nature and recreational activities. You’ll find accessible pathways, with Granby Park offering over 8 miles of paved paths perfect for wheelchairs and strollers. Elevators at the SC State Museum and EdVenture connect multi-level exhibits, while barrier-free entrances at the Columbia Museum of Art and Riverbanks Zoo enhance convenience. Service animals are welcome, and you can rent wheelchairs and electric scooters at select locations. Accessible restrooms and water fountains are available, alongside designated parking spaces. The parks follow ADA guidelines and conduct regular accessibility audits, ensuring a safe environment for all. With these features, you can focus on enjoying your time outdoors without worries. Additionally, Leos Landing Inclusive Playground at Saluda Shoals Park provides a variety of equipment designed for all abilities, including wheelchair platform swings and a nature play area. The All Inclusive Park at Carraway Park also features accessible playground equipment that allows all children to engage in play together.
Nearby Nature Attractions to Explore
Exploring the nearby nature attractions around Columbia offers a rejuvenating escape into the beauty of the outdoors. Start your adventure at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, where you can enjoy landscaped picnic areas while observing over 2,000 animals. For a scenic stroll, head to Columbia Canal & Riverfront Park, featuring a paved trail with stunning views. If you’re looking for a larger space, visit Sesquicentennial State Park, where you can hike, play, and even camp. Saluda Shoals Park invites you to explore its trails or rent a kayak for a river adventure, making it a perfect spot for canoe and kayak rentals. Finally, uncover the unique Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve, which showcases ancient fossils and a natural waterfall. Each destination guarantees a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, and don't forget to vote daily for Riverbanks in Newsweek Readers Choice Best Zoo until May 8th!
As you explore Columbia's parks, you’ll find a tapestry of green spaces woven with laughter, tranquility, and adventure. Whether you're savoring a picnic under a canopy of trees, watching your kids giggle on playgrounds, or simply soaking in the serene vibes, these parks are your haven. So grab your picnic basket, lace up your shoes, and step into the embrace of nature. There's a world of joy waiting just outside your door, ready to refresh your spirit.
