Columbia, SC

About

Columbia, South Carolina's capital is one of the oldest cities in the South. The centre of trade on the Southeastern Seaboard, the city was caught in the centre of the American Civil War, and almost being reduced to rubble. After the Reconstruction, Columbia revitalized itself almost immediately, and has not stopped since! For the historical context of this Southern capital’s riches, visit the Hale-Elmore-Seibels-House -- the oldest in the city. Built in 1796, this old money mansion shows the life of the Southern upper class, as well as an in-depth peek into the former slave quarters, the people who really built Columbia. With leafy streets, and beautiful former plantations, there is much to see. Go to the Congaree Vista district for a spot of shopping and great eats, or head to the Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden to see flora and fauna from around the world. If art is your thing, the Columbia Museum of Art showcases local artists alongside Renaissance masterpieces and ancient Asian relics.