Are you planning to pop the question in the picturesque city of Columbia, SC? Look no further! With its charming atmosphere and breathtaking locations, Columbia offers a plethora of romantic spots that are perfect for an unforgettable engagement. Whether you prefer a serene garden setting or a historic landmark, we have compiled a list of 20 nice places to propose in Columbia, SC, that are sure to create lasting memories for you and your loved one.
From the enchanting Sarah P. Duke Gardens to the elegant Lace House at Arsenal Hill and the romantic ambiance of the Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern, these locations will help you set the stage for a truly magical and joyous occasion. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with love and romance as you explore these exquisite spots in Columbia, SC.
Jump to places
- The Lace House at Arsenal Hill
- The Vista
- McNinch House Restaurant
- The Duke Mansion
- 82 Queen
- McGill Rose Garden
- Montague's Restaurant
- Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern
- Beef 'N Bottle Steakhouse
- The Green
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Bon Appetit Restaurant and Bar
The Lace House at Arsenal Hill is a beautiful wedding venue that has garnered rave reviews from guests. One visitor described it as their dream venue, praising the staff for their exceptional service and support during the planning process. Another guest expressed their delight at finally having their wedding at the venue, emphasizing the stunning gardens that surpassed any expectations.
The reviewer also appreciated the assistance provided by the staff in all aspects of their wedding preparations. The Lace House's natural beauty and lush greenery were highlighted by another visitor, who commended the venue for its picturesque Wedding Garden.
With its breathtaking aesthetics and attentive staff, The Lace House at Arsenal Hill is truly a standout choice for those seeking an enchanting location to pop the question in Columbia SC.
The Vista is a point of interest in Columbia SC that is definitely worth visiting. People say that it is an extremely safe place to be, even at night, with a sense of security that is hard to find elsewhere in North America. Visitors appreciate the absence of snakes during the day, and some even avoid certain places after sundown.
With the notable exception of a few counties, The Vista is considered one of the safest places to be. In fact, one guest claimed that they have never felt safer anywhere else. The area is so beloved that one reviewer moved to a nearby townhouse and now calls it home.
The Vista is known as Columbia's premier adult hangout spot and offers a unique blend of establishments that cater to both adults and college kids. It boasts great restaurants, beautiful home and garden stores, as well as venues for public activities.
When traveling to Columbia, South Carolina, The Vista is a must-visit location that you would not want to miss.
McNinch House Restaurant is a charming and historic restaurant nestled in a restored Victorian house. Guests rave about the romantic and authentic atmosphere, making it an ideal place for a proposal. Visitors appreciate the amazing service and the fun wine pairings offered at the restaurant.
People also praise the absolutely delicious food, which is described as high-end Continental fare. The cute and clean home, set up perfectly for dinner, adds to the overall ambiance. It is worth noting that McNinch House Restaurant is Michelin rated, further attesting to its excellence.
Guests recommend reserving a spot well in advance as it is a popular spot. The staff is happy to share the history of the home, enriching the dining experience. Whether you are looking for a romantic evening or a taste of French cuisine, McNinch House Restaurant offers a memorable and intimate setting for a special proposal.
The Duke Mansion in Columbia SC is a high-end lodging option that is definitely worth visiting for its elegant rooms and beautiful grounds. Visitors say it has a lovely and charming atmosphere, with a rich genuine feel that adds to the overall experience.
The gardens are absolutely stunning and create a picturesque backdrop that adds to the historical ambience of the property. Guests also praise the friendly staff, who provide top-notch service and are accommodating to the needs of their visitors. The breakfast served at The Duke Mansion is highly praised, with people saying it was very good and could not have been better.
The mansion's prime location close to Uptown is also a plus, as it provides easy access to nearby attractions. The building itself is extra nice, with extra large rooms that are both comfortable and quiet. Overall, The Duke Mansion is a great find for those looking for a special place to stay in Columbia SC.
Located in the heart of downtown, 82 Queen is a swanky bar and intimate courtyard that makes it a popular choice for special occasions. Visitors rave about the delicious cuisine and exceptional service they receive at this refined Southern spot. According to one guest, it was the best meal they have ever eaten, with highlights including the mouthwatering she crab soup and the heavenly Southern Tomato Pie.
Another visitor was equally impressed by the restaurant's ambiance, giving it a 5-star rating solely based on that. However, they were pleasantly surprised to find that the service, drinks, and food were also outstanding. The server, Whit, went above and beyond to create a memorable experience for all the tables he served.
For those with dietary restrictions, 82 Queen is also accommodating, with knowledgeable staff who can provide delicious options that cater to specific needs. Whether it's for a romantic proposal or a milestone celebration, 82 Queen is definitely a place worth visiting.
McGill Rose Garden is a beautiful park that offers a unique and intimate space for special events like weddings. With its well-maintained flowers, greenery, and charming string lights, the garden provides a naturally decorated environment that is perfect for capturing memorable moments.
Visitors appreciate the picture-perfect ceremony and reception spaces, making it an ideal location for couples looking to celebrate their love. Along with its picturesque surroundings, McGill Rose Garden offers scenic walking paths lined with a variety of plants and flowers, allowing guests to explore and enjoy the stunning scenery.
The park also provides the perfect spot for a picnic, with guests raving about the opportunity to bring their own food and relax while taking in the beautiful views. To enhance the experience further, Rosie's coffee + wine is conveniently located on-site, providing a delightful selection of drinks to complement the peaceful ambiance.
Whether you're looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply unwind amidst nature's beauty, McGill Rose Garden is truly a hidden gem worth discovering.
Montague's Restaurant is a hidden gem that locals can't stop raving about. With its rich wood details and old-school American charm, this restaurant is the perfect place for a romantic proposal. The absence of TVs in the dining area allows guests to focus their attention solely on each other, creating an intimate and memorable experience.
People say that the food at Montague's is simply unbelievable, with one visitor's companion being truly impressed by this jewel of Greenwood. The menu offers a variety of mouthwatering options, including a fantastic Ribeye and delectable Brussels sprouts.
The attentive staff ensures that guests have a wonderful time, and the live music adds a fun and lively atmosphere to the restaurant. The art displayed in the restaurant area adds the perfect touch to a date night or a family gathering, making it a versatile venue for any special occasion.
Although some may find the location challenging, Montague's delivers upscale food and an adult-only vibe that makes it feel like "an evening away from the kids." Proposing at Montague's Restaurant is sure to impress and create a cherished memory.
Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern is a unique and impressive venue that has received countless accolades from guests. People rave about the amazing service and the top-notch food, giving it a perfect ten-star rating. The staff is renowned for their helpfulness, providing great explanations about the menu and making sure guests never have to ask for anything.
Visitors appreciate the convenience of a pay-to-park lot right across the street and the prompt service upon arrival. The intimate and light atmosphere adds to the overall experience, making it the perfect place to celebrate special occasions. The three-course meals are a delight, with the desserts being particularly fun.
One guest even mentions that dining here made them feel like they weren't in the city they were visiting, transporting them to a far-off place. The service at Second Empire is described as top-tier and unforgettable, making it a memorable spot for an extraordinary proposal.
Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern Full Review
Beef 'N Bottle Steakhouse is a legendary restaurant that oozes authenticity and is considered an instant classic by visitors. People say that the service, food, and vibes at Beef 'N Bottle are impeccable, earning it a solid 10/10 rating. The candlelit, wood-paneled setting creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere that immediately puts guests at ease.
One interesting fact about this place is that it holds the oldest liquor license in North Carolina. The pork belly dish is described as unreal, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to serving incredible cuisine. One guest gave a shoutout to their server, Scott, for providing an incredible evening.
Scott's attention to detail is evident, as he even double-checked ingredient lists for a guest with severe food allergies. Overall, Beef 'N Bottle offers an outstanding dining experience, and visitors can't wait to return and try other items on the menu.
The Green, a park located in Columbia SC, is worth visiting for its scenic beauty and various amenities. Visitors say that it is a lovely park with plenty of seating options, making it a perfect spot to relax and unwind. Whether you prefer sitting on a park seat or spreading a blanket on the lawn, The Green offers multiple areas for visitors to sit and enjoy the surroundings.
Another highlight of this park is its dog-friendly atmosphere, allowing visitors to bring their furry companions along. People have also praised the convenient parking options available, including both street parking with pay meters and an indoor garage located nearby.
For those in need of restroom facilities, there is a public restroom conveniently located in a nearby building. With its beautiful flowers and gardens, The Green provides a peaceful and picturesque setting for everyone to enjoy. So, the next time you're in the area, don't miss out on visiting The Green and experience its natural charm.
Ruth's Chris Steak House is a notable outpost of an upmarket steakhouse chain, known for its sizzling, butter-topped beef in an elegant setting. Guests often praised the absolutely amazing food, with one reviewer highlighting their experience of having the porterhouse for 2, mashed potatoes, and lobster Mac and cheese.
The raspberry Cosmo was also highly recommended. Visitors appreciate the friendly and attentive service, with servers making sure drinks were never left empty. Despite being expensive, guests believe that the dining experience at Ruth's Chris Steak House is absolutely worth it.
Another reviewer mentioned their surprise dinner, where they enjoyed the cowboy ribeye and the Shrimp and Fillet mignon, along with three generous sides that are big enough to share. Among these sides, the sweet potato casserole was particularly delightful, described as "like eating dessert.
" Additionally, the restaurant is known for participating in special events like Restaurant Week, offering a Prix Fixe menu that always catches the attention of diners.
