The best things to do in Columbia

“Round up the crew for Dave & Buster's, where you can crush High-Tech Darts and Social Shuffle, dive into The Arena with up to seven friends, then stick around to watch the big games on giant screens while you fuel up. Perfect for cheering the Fireflies without leaving town.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Two championship layouts, serious practice space, and a roomy clubhouse with a pro shop, snack bar, and lounge make Fort Jackson Golf Club an easy yes for your next tee time. It’s open to the public, and the Wildcat 17th tee even serves up a skyline peek at Columbia.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Public golf course featuring a pro shop and a grill, as well as a driving range.”

“Spotlight Cinemas Capital 8 is stacked this week, with Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Toy Story 5, Insidious: Out of the Further and Odyssey covering every mood. Planning ahead counts too, since tickets for Practical Magic 2 are up for September 11, 2026.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Water park featuring a splash pad, playground, tree house, and dinosaur fossil-themed play area, plus a snack bar.”

“Pro Swing runs on GolfZon TwoVision tech so you can play 300+ courses with realistic ball flight, track your swing, join leagues, or host an event in climate-controlled comfort. Leadbetter-certified lessons and TaylorMade fittings are there if you’re serious about shaving strokes.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Frankie's of Columbia is the local move when you need to burn energy without overthinking plans, thanks to sprawling go-kart tracks, a massive arcade, and other amusements for every age. Also a solid pick for birthday parties or group hangouts when you just want easy fun.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 8, 2026

“B. Dye, The Spur at Northwoods Golf Club delivers a par-72, 6,800-yard layout with fast greens that locals brag about, plus a driving range for tune-ups and a PGA pro for lessons. Solid rates, manicured conditions, and easy group outings make it a go-to for Columbia golfers.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is AZA accredited and brings serious local cred whether you want a low-key afternoon or need to entertain the kids. African and Australian animals, reptile galleries, a bird house, a farm, and a blooming Botanical Garden deliver variety, and the Saluda Skyride tosses in a little whoa.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 13, 2026

“LinRick Golf Course serves up a Russell Breeden design across 257 acres of rolling hills with eight ponds and a par-73, 18-hole, 6,941-yard layout that finds your strengths and exposes your slice. Championship quality, beauty, and affordability plus a friendly pro shop crew make it a dependable local go-to.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Summit Adventure West Columbia is a wall-to-wall trampoline playground built for burning off kid energy and grown-up stress, with battle beams, a giant airbag and rope swing, dodgeball, the Spider Tower, and an interactive light wall. Rally the crew for a spontaneous jump session or plan an easy, high-fun birthday.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 27, 2026

“A Columbia staple since 1923, Forest Lake Club is a private home base for serious golf and a relaxed post-round bite in the Grill Room. If you’ve got a membership or a generous friend, pencil in nine this week and call it therapy.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Roller skating rink with an arcade and mini golf, plus music, and adult nights.”

“Escape room outfit with multiple themed rooms, some offering private experiences.”

“Wall-to-wall trampoline park also offering rock climbing and ninja warrior courses.”

“Palmetto Falls Water Park is basically a backyard summer dream, with a 10,000 sq. ft. family pool, five legit water slides, a 2,500 sq.”

From the Sumter newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Golf facility featuring a driving range plus a par 3 course, mini golf and more, as well as a pro shop.”

“If your group text needs a plot twist, The Game Show Challenge - Columbia throws you into a live, host-led hour of buzzer-smacking, trivia, word puzzles, and spin-the-wheel moments tailored to your crew. Great for date nights, birthdays, or gameday hangouts, and every show plays out differently.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Nickelodeon Theater is Columbia’s nonprofit home for independent and foreign films where you can sip beer or wine while you watch. Expect smart series, book-club tie-ins, and lively post-film conversations that make the credits feel like just the beginning.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 6, 2026

“This week, Valhalla Woods Golf Club brings an 18-hole championship layout right in the neighborhood, plus a grill that actually understands wings. Finish your round with sauce-stained fingers and, if you’re planning something, their clubhouse handles the celebratory gatherings without the fuss.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Need an easy win this week? Palmetto Greens Mini Golf keeps it classic with playful obstacles, rolling greens and garden vibes with streams and waterfalls, so you can trade emails for eagles and let the fam trash talk your backswing in the best way.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 20, 2026

“With over 60 years of hosting good times, Spring Valley Country Club is the spot for a laid-back round, legit tennis and pool days, then hanging out over a solid meal. Planning a celebration or work shindig this fall? Their crew makes it feel effortless, start to finish.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Skip the routine loop and go play Oak Hills Golf Club, a Steve Melnyk and Davis Love III co-design with 419 Bermuda fairways and TifDwarf greens rolling through oaks and pines. It’s a legit Columbia classic named to Golf Digest’s Places to Play, fun for every handicap.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 22, 2026