CITY OF COLUMBIA
City Hall
1737 Main Street
Columbia 803-545-3000
www.columbiasc.net
Chamber of Commerce
930 Richland Street
Columbia 803-733-1110
www.columbiachamber.com
Major Highways
Interstates 20, 26, 77
Spanning Richland and Lexington counties, the South Carolina capital city of Columbia offers a gracious blend of gracious Southern hospitality and cosmopolitan amenities.
Services
Complementing the convergence of three major interstates and a network of major highways, Metropolitan Columbia offers a modern airport that recently underwent a two-year, $50 million renovation. Amtrak passenger rail and Greyhound bus lines provide intrastate and interstate travel options, and commuters can take advantage of bus service through Central Midlands Regional Transportation Authority. Fixed-route bus and trolley systems provide convenient access to schools, businesses, hospitals, shopping, and entertainment throughout the Midlands area.
Columbia serves as the state’s healthcare hub, home to 15 hospitals that offer more than 3,500 beds. Among the major hospitals in the metropolitan region are Palmetto Health Baptist, Providence Heart Institute, Palmetto Health Richland, Lexington Medical Center, a major VA Medical Center, and Moncrief Army Hospital at Fort Jackson. Skilled professionals are available in every major specialty and most subspecialties, ensuring advanced care close to home that meets every need. Respected hospitals and medical centers are complemented by a complete network of supportive facilities and specialty centers that offer rehabilitation, various types of therapy, behavioral health services, pain management, wound care, cancer treatment, cardiac care, family birthing centers, women’s healthcare centers, pediatric care, geriatric specialties, long-term care, critical care, and non-invasive surgical specialties. Emergency treatment centers provide after-hours care, an ideal solution for families and relocating residents who have yet to establish a primary physician.
Students of all ages have a wealth of opportunities for quality education on every level, including a variety of private schools — both independent and religiously affiliated. The academic expectations for students are high, supported by strong parental and community involvement as well as innovative programs that encourage the development of individual gifts and leadership potential. Those who are interested in career and vocational training or studies will find a long list of fields from which to choose. The region is home to a number of technical colleges and four-year institutions that continue the tradition of excellence in education. Among them are the University of South Carolina, Midlands Technical College, Central Carolina Technical College, Allen University, Benedict College, Columbia College, Lutheran Theological Seminary, and Morris College. Other options within a reasonable commute include Clemson University, Furman University, Presbyterian College, South Carolina State University, and Winthrop College.
The University of South Carolina has earned national and international recognition for its achievements, particularly for its programs in the acclaimed Moore School of Business. The school’s undergraduate international business program garnered a first place ranking by U.S. News and World Report. The graduate program is also ranked in second place, making USC the only public university to reach the “top five” echelon. Students, business leaders, and residents of the community also have access to one of the nation’s finest academic resources, the Thomas Cooper Library. The library’s comprehensive collection includes the letters and papers of Ernest Hemingway and other writers and artists of his era, the literary archives of Joseph Heller, and research papers associated with F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Lifestyle
Distinguished as one of the nation’s first planned communities, Columbia offers a dynamic and progressive urban environment that is committed to preserving its rich past and historic properties. Creating a pleasing contrast to the evident focus on economic strength, growth, and profitability, the region offers a wealth of facilities and resources for relaxation and recreation. Southeastern Conference football and basketball, a minor league baseball team, and more than 40 public golf courses are just a few of the highlights.
Boating and water-sport enthusiasts can look forward to Lake Murray, where 50,000 acres of natural beauty create a paradise for outdoor recreation. Saluda River adds another option for world-class fishing, also ranked among the “top ten white-water rivers” in the nation. Columbia’s Riverbanks Zoo, Aquarium, and Botanical Gardens are consistently recognized as some of the finest attractions in the country. Camping, hiking, biking, tennis, golf, and league sports are just a few of the common pastimes. Regional destinations like Harbison State Forest, the Congaree Swamp, and several state parks provide the perfect environment and setting for virtually every outdoor activity and sport.
Those who appreciate the performing and visual arts will be able to choose from a full calendar of exciting events that showcase local, regional, national, and international talent. The Columbia Museum of Art and the Koger Center for the Performing Arts are just two of the outstanding venues. “Incredible and affordable” are both descriptions of the arts in Columbia, where an active Cultural Council enriches the entire central region. The council also serves as a valuable incubator for such organizations as the Columbia World Affairs Council, and the new EdVenture children’s museum. Columbia enjoys an ideal location at the center of the Eastern seaboard, encouraging getaways and vacations to everything from Atlantic Ocean resorts and sunny beaches along the Grand Strand to alpine splendor and the majesty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The exciting and convenient concept of living close to major employment centers has infused new life into downtown Columbia. Riverfront Park and Finlay Park are only the beginning of a greenway system linking Main Street to the river. Within the heart of the city are quaint and charming historic neighborhoods, many of which are being revitalized and renovated for a new generation of residents who are drawn to the undeniable character of vintage homes, ancient shade trees, and wrap-around porches. New residents will want to take their time as they explore the many “nooks and crannies” of South Carolina’s largest city, from core City Center neighborhoods through the city’s layers of growth and development. Regardless of where you choose to settle in Columbia, a sense of warmth and friendliness preserves the intimacy of a small town within this constantly expanding metropolis.
DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORHOODS
Congaree Vista
Dubbed simply “the Vista,” the city’s historic commercial district is rapidly evolving into one of the most dynamic destinations for shopping, dining, and nightlife. The redevelopment of the Vista neighborhood is only the first phase in a series of revitalization initiatives that will encompass an expansive “midtown and downtown” region known as City Center. Massive projects have already been completed to enhance riverfront development in Columbia, including the removal of train tracks from city streets, the opening of the new arena and baseball stadium at the University of South Carolina, and the Midlands Regional Convention Center. As vintage buildings are being refurbished and redeveloped into new residential and commercial space, owners of shops and galleries are transforming upper floors into beautiful loft apartments. Interstate connections are outstanding from this area, creating a convenient address and enhancing the renaissance of the Vista.
Earlewood
This long-established core neighborhood is proud of its heritage and diversity. Nestled in downtown Columbia, Earlewood is characterized as a quiet, older neighborhood that is only minutes away from City Center employers, the campus for the University of South Carolina, and the historic Congaree Vista. Earlewood Park serves as the centerpiece of this area, a lush urban forest that sprawls over 66 acres of rolling hills and valleys that are dotted with mature trees. The park is famous for its wildflower varieties and is distinguished as the city’s largest, most natural park. Recreational facilities include a community center, an amphitheater, a disc golf course, tennis courts, and baseball fields.
Historic Elmwood Park
Nestled in the heart of Columbia, Elmwood Park is experiencing a renaissance and attracting newcomers who appreciate the harmony of yesterday’s charm with the excitement of downtown living. In spite of a century of urban progress and change, this enclave retains the flavor of days gone by. Beautifully restored homes feature large porches and colorful gardens along streets that are graced by century old trees, dogwoods, and crepe myrtles. Finlay Park is only a few minutes from home, with City Center, the State Capitol, and the University of South Carolina is less than two miles. City nightlife and entertainment are equally accessible, from symphony and ballet or live stage performances. Dining and shopping options are abundant in the Vista and Five Points area.
Hollywood-Rose Hill
The diverse neighborhood known as Hollywood-Rose Hill is roughly bordered by Rosewood Drive, South Marion, Heyward, and Harden streets. The Rose Hill section of the community sprang up around the turn of the century, once served by a trolley that ran along the Saluda Avenue corridor. A few of the homes in this area were actually “prefabricated kits” that were delivered by national companies for on-site construction. The mix of housing in the Hollywood portion of the neighborhood tends to be more diverse, blending architectural styles from the 1930s through the 1950s. The lovely park at the top of the hill crowns the neighborhood. Today, the community is home to long-time residents as well as growing families, young professionals, and college students who appreciate the charm of lovely older homes with welcoming front porches and shade trees.
Old Shandon
Incorporated as a separate municipality in 1904 but later annexed by Columbia, the Shandon community off Devine Street south of town is proud of its status as a national and local historic district. The neighborhood preserves an impressive concentration of vintage homes, with some that date back to the late 1800s. Known today as “Old Shandon,” the community sprang up as a result of an extension of the city’s trolley line, with the area near the trolley stop developing first. Mature greenery, grand old shade trees, and character homes predominate, creating a quaint and charming atmosphere. Many of the vintage homes were gracious two-story family homes that harmonized with modest bungalows. Brick and frame homes featuring generous porches that often wrap around the house are common in Shandon, one of Columbia’s first suburbs.
Riverfront Park, Finlay Park
Close-in neighborhoods like the Vista enjoy close proximity to the first two in a series of parks within the greenway system between Main Street and the river. Named for a visionary former mayor, Finlay Park has become one of the city’s most popular destinations since its opening in 1991. Outstanding features include a manmade waterfall and stream that cascades down the landscaped terraces ending in the park lake. Vistas of the entire park are available from porch-type swings, complementing the walking paths, playgrounds, and cozy cafe. Concerts, festivals, and other special events have made this a community treasure. Another recreational jewel runs beside the historic Columbia Canal. Riverfront Park features a 2.5-mile trail and a pedestrian walkway created from an old railway bridge that offers views of the rapids below. Historic pump houses, benches, and picnic tables combine with opportunities to walk, run, bike, and fish in the heart of the city.
University Hill
Crowned by the magnificent architecture and historic treasures within the sprawling campus for the University of South Carolina, this close-in neighborhood offers a selection of beautiful older homes graced by mature greenery. Like most metropolitan cities with a downtown university, the area that surrounds the campus features sought-after residential neighborhoods that attract many professionals and professors. Near this area are many of the state’s banking headquarters, legal offices, major medical facilities, and state government offices. The convenience of living near cultural centers and major employers add to the desirability of this beautiful neighborhood.
METROPOLITAN NEIGHBORHOODS
East/Southeast
Columbia-Richland County
Interstate 77 links downtown Columbia with the southeastern metropolitan residential communities, including lovely towns that excel in springtime blossoms and neighborhoods that are beautifully landscaped. The vast expanse of Fort Jackson lies to the east of Columbia, an exceptionally large military installation that trains more than half of the new army recruits each year and serves as a major regional employer. SC 12 or Taylor Street, turning into Forest Drive, leads to suburban communities like the long-established Forest Acres, which is one of Richland County’s largest municipalities. The small towns of Arcadia Lakes, as well as the communities of Heathwood and Forest Hills, are also nestled in the southeast metropolitan area, known for the postcard-perfect images of lovely homes graced by lush gardens and mature foliage. These communities are close to the Congaree Swamp National Park, golf courses, and local parks with recreational facilities.
Midtown
Columbia
The oldest and some of the most charming neighborhoods in all of Columbia are nestled in the Midtown area near the confluence of the Broad and Saluda rivers. Many of these historic districts and vintage neighborhoods are experiencing widespread revitalization, attracting residents of all ages and walks of life who appreciate the “character” architectural elements as well as the convenience of a close-in urban lifestyle. Many of the state’s banking headquarters, corporate and legal offices, downtown shopping, and major medical facilities as well as governmental offices and the University of South Carolina make this a powerhouse of economic activity. Route 277 links to Bull Street to connect the downtown district with major thoroughfares to the east and north including Interstates 20 and 77. Many new homes and lovely new apartment developments that include loft conversions make Midtown an attractive living choice within the city.
North
Columbia-Richland County
The northern part of the metropolitan area is accessible from downtown Columbia along SC 215 or SC 321, first passing through long-established industrial areas and eventually meandering along country roads. Single-family homes in a rural setting harmonize with more contemporary housing developments in this area, attracting those who desire a less hurried atmosphere that is secluded from the bustle of the city. At the same time, the attractions and amenities of Columbia remain conveniently close to home. Interstate 20 provides exits at both SC 215 and 321, adding to commuting ease. The terrain is more rolling in the north than in the northeast, combining sand and clay soil and featuring a mix of pine forests with deciduous trees for four-season splendor. Creeks, ponds, and lakes add scenic beauty to the landscape.
Northeast
Columbia-Richland County
One of the fastest-growing of the areas that make up Columbia and Richland County, the vast expanse of land northeast is linked to the downtown district by the expressway of Route 277. US Highway 1 or Two Notch Road is the primary corridor for commercial and retail development. Other Interstates that are easily accessible for residents of the Northeast area are 77, 20, and 26. The terrain northeast of Columbia is primarily sandy and flat dotted with towering pines. New housing developments are abundant, particularly around Clemson Road. The mix is pleasingly varied to blend starter homes with condominiums, suburban developments, and exclusive enclaves that offer premier recreational amenities. The steady influx of newcomers in recent years has created an open, accepting atmosphere enhanced by opportunities for employment close to home, lush local parks, and convenient shopping.
Northwest
Columbia-Lexington/Richland Counties
The communities that have developed northwest of downtown Columbia near Lake Murray are some of the fastest-growing in South Carolina. Towns and neighborhoods like St. Andrews, Harbison, Dutch Fork, Ballentine, and Irmo cover an area that sprawls from the city of Columbia and Richland County into Lexington County. In fact, Irmo is distinguished as the largest municipality in Lexington County, a residential haven that blends everything from starter-home neighborhoods to high-end properties and upscale developments. The Saluda River borders the Northwest area, where parks encompass both sides of the Lake Murray Dam and offer a swimming area and boat access. New retail centers and recreational facilities are springing up in response to a growing population, complementing premier attractions like the Harbison Environmental Education Forest and Saluda Shoals Park. The latter is a regional resource for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, hiking, biking and horseback as well as enjoying the arts.
West
Columbia-Lexington County
As the city limits of Columbia sprawl westward, they actually cross the county border into Lexington County. West Columbia in Lexington County is immediately across the county line and across the river from downtown Columbia, accessible via the Gervais Street Bridge. Other small communities have developed along the west side of the Congaree River and south of the Saluda River, with Cayce being one of the fastest growing. Shared recreational resources enhance the family oriented atmosphere in the western metropolitan region, including the Tri-City Leisure Center, and Tri-City Senior Center, Pine Grove Sports Complex, the Pine Ridge Senior Center, and Spires Recreation Center. These communities enjoy a quick trip to the Columbia Metropolitan Airport.
