Exciting exhibits, community outreach and outstanding programming is at the heart of Columbia Museum of Art. Make your way over to the CMA to view the internationally renowned collection, traveling shows and interactive activity spaces highlighting both ancient and modern art. The thematically organized museum aims to inspire and welcome everyone who enters, promoting a sense of playful exploration.  

 The museum opens Tuesday through Sunday at 10 a.m. Adult general admission will cost you $10, while children under 6 enter free.  

Work up a sweat at Jamie Scott Fitness, a Columbia-favorite for full-body workouts. Jamie Scott reimagines wellness by being not just a trainer but a motivator, inviting gym-goers to reach new levels in their daily workouts. All are welcome here, whether you attend a single class or make Jamie Scott part of your day-to-day. 

Drop in for TRX, cycling, yoga, pilates, and more. First time classes are just $10 so you can get in a vacation workout without breaking your budget.

Get those creative juices flowing at The Mad Platter, Columbia’s very own pottery painting studio. With over 500 items in stock at all times, something’s sure to call your name. Find your piece, pick some paints and prepare to make a masterpiece. The perfect activity for groups or a quiet solo afternoon, you can make a reservation ahead of time or walk-in and grab a spot. 

Swing by the ballpark for an all-American good time – peanuts and cracker jacks highly recommended. The Columbia Fireflies, Kansas City Royals’ Single-A Affiliate team, play at Segra Park in the center of Columbia’s Bull Street District. With all kinds of giveaways and special theme nights, Fireflies home games are always a great time.  

If you’re in search of a uniquely Columbia experience, this is it! All vendors at Soda City Market must make or grow their own products—you won’t find anything here but local produce, antiques, vintage items, art, and more. Over 150 vendors set up shop each week, with over 400 vendors making an appearance every year. 

This weekly market takes over Main Street every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., inviting you to immerse yourself in the culture of Columbia.

Prepare to be entertained and inspired by the South Carolina State Museum. Their educational and immersive exhibits span cultures and topics, from a planetarium to an observatory to permanent exhibits featuring prehistoric fossils and local art. The world is truly on display at the museum, inviting all of Columbia to experience art, history, and the natural world from a new point of view. 

Step into the Revolutionary War or Civil War, learn more about African American history, get up close to dinosaurs and even pore over South Carolina art. Tickets start at just $8.95 for adults, but you can add on admission to one of their shows.

Walk on the wild side at Riverbanks Zoo & Gardens, Columbia’s go-to spot for wildlife sightings. African, Asian, Australian, and North American animals call the zoo home, ranging from giraffes and zebras to tigers and Komodo dragons. As exciting as the mammals are, the zoo also features a 20,000-square-foot reptile complex, teeming with amphibians, reptiles, fish, and invertebrates. 

After meeting the animals, stroll through the peaceful botanical gardens, which feature 4,200 species of native and exotic plants spread across nearly 70 vibrant acres. If there’s a place in Columbia to stop and smell the roses, it’s here.