Treat the Family To South Carolina’s Midlands Region
South Carolina’s Midlands Region is home to Columbia, the state capital and largest city in the state. Visitors enjoy a variety of cultural attractions and historic landmarks along with fine dining and easy access to outdoor recreation. Family-friendly activities include Riverfront Park and the Historic Columbia Canal. Visit the South Carolina State Museum and enjoy day trips to charming towns like Santee and Walterboro. Five Points in Columbia offers some of the best shopping in the Midlands region.
The Riverbanks Zoo features seasonal events like Boo at the Zoo on Halloween and a holiday celebration in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Florence Civic Center in Florence hosts a variety of events year-round including concerts, rodeos and festivals.
Outdoor lovers can kayak down the Saluda River, take a scenic boat ride on Lake Murray or play golf at celebrated courses with spectacular views. Rock Hill offers the state’s only cycling velodrome. History buffs won’t want to miss Camden’s reenactments of Revolutionary War battles. Nearby Clinton is home to Musgrove Mill State Historic Site.
Columbia, South Carolina Skyline
- Current Location
- Recent Searches
- No places found for the term
Top Things to Do
Parks & Recreation in the Midlands
Hike the walking trails or take a bike ride with river views at Riverfront Park & Historic Columbia Canal. Enjoy a relaxing riverside picnic and continue your hike along the Palmetto Trail. Kayak along the Saluda River and take in the views of colorful scenery and wildlife, or treat the family to a boat ride on beautiful Lake Murray.
Museums in the Midlands
The South Carolina State Museum in the heart of downtown Columbia is housed in a former textile mill. Explore four floors of exhibits featuring art, science and technology, cultural history, and natural history. The planetarium features vintage telescopes and multi-sensory 4D movies. The Columbia Museum of Art at Boyd Plaza features more than 25 galleries and offers rotating exhibits highlighting renowned artists. See American, contemporary, Asian, and European works in the permanent collection.
Events & Festivals in the Midlands
Celebrate July 4th at the Lexington County Peach Festival or enjoy the Lake Murray Fireworks Celebration. Famously Hot New Year brings crowds to the State House in Columbia for the largest New Year’s Eve celebration in the two Carolinas. The Irmo Okra Strut in September features a carnival, parade, live music, and lots of fried okra. Don’t miss Lights Before Christmas at the Riverbanks Zoo November-December.
Discover Best Western Hotels in South Carolina
With 22 Best Western locations in South Carolina ~ you're bound to find something new where you're headed.