Looking for fun and exciting outdoor activities to keep your kids entertained in Columbia, SC? Look no further! With its diverse landscapes and thriving outdoor scene, the heart of South Carolina offers a plethora of amazing spots for children to explore and enjoy.
From thrilling escape rooms at Escapology Columbia (Vista) to the scenic beauty and playgrounds at West Columbia Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater, and Carraway Park at the Riverwalk, there is something for every kid to indulge in. In this article, we will uncover a total of 20 incredible outdoor spots that will guarantee endless fun and create unforgettable memories for your little ones.
Jump to places
- Finlay Park
- EdVenture
- West Columbia Interactive Art Park
- Escapology Escape Rooms Columbia (Vista)
- Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park
- Carraway Park at the Riverwalk
- Maxcy Gregg Park
- Columbia Museum of Art
Finlay Park is an outdoor oasis nestled in the heart of the city, offering a wide array of activities that will keep kids entertained for hours. With its picturesque waterfalls, serene lake, and well-maintained playgrounds, this park is a perfect destination for families seeking a fun and adventurous outing.
Despite some concerns raised by guests about the presence of homeless individuals, many visitors praise the park's cleanliness and well-kept grass. There might be a few sketchy characters around, but the overall atmosphere remains enjoyable. Whether it's running around on the grass, playing on the swings in the pergola, or indulging in seasonal concessions, Finlay Park provides a delightful retreat for children and adults alike.
So, pack a picnic and head to Finlay Park to soak up the beauty of this urban haven.
EdVenture is an interactive museum that offers over 350 hands-on exhibits for children to dive into the world of human biology, nature, inventions, and careers. People say that the museum is a must-visit for families visiting Columbia. Visitors appreciate that the admission fee is affordable and that wristbands are provided for safety reasons.
Despite the occasional busyness due to school field trips and families, there is still plenty to do and see. EdVenture offers two levels of indoor play areas and also incorporates outdoor activities. Guests rave about the museum being a great way for kids to learn through play, with an abundance of hands-on activities available.
The staff, specifically in the science area, are highly praised for their helpfulness and interactions with the children, particularly when it comes to teaching subjects like circuitry. The only downside mentioned by guests is the lack of a functional cafeteria, with some wishing for a small and quick dining option.
Overall, EdVenture provides an enriching experience for kids and is a place to consider for a day of educational and fun-filled activities.
Located in West Columbia, the Interactive Art Park is a vibrant and captivating destination for families in search of outdoor activities. As visitors drive east on Meeting Street, they will be captivated by a stunning mural that creates a mesmerizing effect, leaving onlookers spellbound.
The artwork is so striking that some reviewers even compared the experience to watching a high-definition TV. Moreover, guests are encouraged to explore the park further and discover the talented artist's work in the nearby alley, which adds an extra layer of excitement.
With its bright and colorful installations, the Interactive Art Park has earned praise for its ability to create a wonderful and uplifting atmosphere, truly brightening up everyone's day. Families seeking a fun and visually stimulating outdoor adventure should not miss the chance to stop and walk through this remarkable area.
West Columbia Interactive Art Park Full Review
Escapology Escape Rooms Columbia (Vista) offers an exciting adventure for families and groups seeking thrilling outdoor activities. Visitors rave about their experience with the Mansion Murder room, which, although challenging, was ultimately conquered with the assistance of Rene, the knowledgeable game master.
Guests appreciate Rene's expert hints and thorough explanations beforehand, ensuring a fun-filled experience. The cleanliness of the establishment and the impeccable functionality of the room's elements have also been praised. For those with young ones, the Scooby-Doo experience is highly recommended.
With a range of difficulty levels, the younger members of the group can actively participate in solving clues while still receiving help from the adults when needed. Even those who are not initially inclined towards escape rooms have been won over by Escapology Columbia (Vista).
One guest acknowledged their hesitance but commended Meghan, the supportive game master, for turning around their experience. Despite feeling frustrated at times, this first-timer ultimately completed the challenge with time to spare. With an exceptional staff, these escape rooms are definitely worth a visit for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Escapology Escape Rooms Columbia (Vista) Full Review
Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park is a popular park for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its natural hiking and biking trails, picnic tables, and old pump houses that shed light on the canal works, this park offers a great outdoor experience for everyone.
People appreciate the excellent walking trail, which is handicap accessible in some areas, and offers beautiful views. One reviewer particularly enjoyed the "telescope vision" midway through the canal walk, which was their favorite section of the trail.
Visitors often note that the park is well-maintained and has plenty of parking, as well as a restroom, making it convenient for families. While the park may lack shade, sunscreen can be used to combat the sun. The highlight of the park is the opportunity to spot various critters, including alligators, deer, frogs, and turtles, making it a truly immersive nature experience.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful hike or a place to run with your furry friend, Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park is definitely worth a visit.
Carraway Park at the Riverwalk is a wonderful outdoor destination for families with young kids. People love this park for its abundance of activities and structures that keep children entertained for hours. Despite its small size, visitors are impressed with the well-maintained condition of the park.
Families especially appreciate the fact that the park is always bustling with other families and young kids, creating a fun and lively atmosphere. Furthermore, parents find comfort in the park's safety measures such as a rubberized floor to prevent injuries and a surrounding fence that helps keep children from wandering off.
In addition to its safety features, Carraway Park's location in an upscale neighborhood provides an extra sense of security, ensuring peaceful and worry-free visits. For those seeking a safe, clean, and enjoyable outdoor experience, Carraway Park at the Riverwalk is undoubtedly one of the best parks in town.
Located in the heart of the city, Maxcy Gregg Park provides a serene and peaceful escape for visitors. Its beautiful old Oak trees create a calm and relaxing atmosphere amidst the bustling downtown area and the nearby UofSC campus. This park offers a variety of recreational options for families, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities with kids.
People say that the park's well-maintained walking trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a scenic picnic lunch. Additionally, Maxcy Gregg Park boasts immaculate gardens and captivating sculptures, creating a tranquil oasis that appeals to all ages.
Visitors can also find plenty of benches throughout the park to take a break and enjoy the surroundings. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind or engage in active outdoor fun, Maxcy Gregg Park comes highly recommended as a must-visit spot for families in Columbia.
The Columbia Museum of Art is a fantastic place to visit for outdoor activities with kids. People say that the first floor installations are always impressive and showcase amazing local talent that they have never heard of. Visitors recommend visiting the museum multiple times a year just to explore this floor alone.
The museum is also known for taking special attention to inform and honor diverse cultural voices and stories from the state. Additionally, guests can enjoy outdoor jazz performances on the first Thursday of each month, accompanied by a wine, beer, and water table for refreshments.
The museum's picturesque grounds, including tables, a fountain, and sculptures, provide a pleasant ambiance as you approach. Inside, the museum features two floors with stairs and elevators, as well as restroom facilities on both levels. Overall, the Columbia Museum of Art offers a unique and enriching experience for families to enjoy art and outdoor activities together.
