Best Parks & Green Spaces in Columbia, South Carolina, United States

1. Saluda Shoals Park

A 256-acre park offering kayak and canoe rentals on the Saluda River.

River Access: Provides a unique opportunity to enjoy the river in Columbia.
Kayak and Canoe Rentals: Offers convenience for visitors without their own watercraft.
Nature Trails: Features various trails for hiking and bird watching.

A 170-acre zoological park featuring over 2,000 animals and botanical gardens.

Variety of Animals: Offers encounters with diverse wildlife from around the world.
Botanical Gardens: Showcases a variety of plants and flowers in beautiful settings.
Educational Programs: Provides interactive experiences and learning opportunities.

A waterfront park offering a scenic walking trail along the Congaree River.

Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of the river and city skyline.
Walking Trail: Offers a pleasant, leisurely stroll for exercise or relaxation.
Events and Festivals: Hosts various events throughout the year, such as concerts and festivals.

A 26-acre park with a playground, walking trails, and event spaces.

Variety of Amenities: Includes facilities for various activities such as picnics, sports, and events.
Spacious Event Spaces: Provides ample space for large gatherings or community events.
Historic Monuments: Features monuments honoring local history and heroes.

A 1,400-acre park with hiking trails, fishing, and camping facilities.

Outdoor Activities: Offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts.
Campground Facilities: Provides camping opportunities for an overnight stay in nature.
Historical Landmarks: Includes Civil War battlefield sites and historic structures.

A 26,875-acre park with the largest intact tract of old growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States.

Old Growth Forest: Preserves a rare and magnificent ecosystem.
Wildlife Viewing: Offers opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, including alligators and otters.
Nature Trails: Provides trails for exploring the park's unique environments.

A small neighborhood park with a playground, picnic areas, and basketball courts.

Neighborhood Setting: Serves as a gathering place for local residents.
Amenities for All Ages: Offers facilities for children, adults, and athletes.
Picnic Areas: Provides spaces for picnicking with family and friends.

A riverside park offering a scenic view of the Saluda Shoals Waterfall.

Scenic Viewpoint: Provides an ideal spot for photographing the waterfall.
Outdoor Seating: Features benches for relaxing and enjoying the view.
Pet-Friendly Area: Allows well-behaved, leashed pets to accompany their owners.

A riverside park with a playground, walking trail, and boat dock.

Riverside Location: Offers stunning views of the Congaree River.
Recreational Facilities: Provides a playground, walking trail, and boat dock for various activities.
Community Events: Hosts local events, such as concerts and festivals.

A large neighborhood park with sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

A trail system connecting various parks along the Congaree, Saluda, and Broad rivers.

Connected Trail System: Allows for exploration of multiple parks with ease.
Scenic River Views: Offers beautiful views of the rivers and surrounding nature.
Exercise Opportunities: Provides spaces for walking, running, or biking.

A charming neighborhood lined with historic homes, shops, and restaurants.

Historic Architecture: Showcases beautiful, well-preserved homes from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Unique Shops and Restaurants: Features a variety of independent businesses and eateries.
Pedestrian-Friendly Environment: Encourages exploration on foot, with ample sidewalks and crosswalks.

A residential neighborhood featuring historic homes and gardens.

Historic Architecture: Showcases well-preserved homes from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Garden Tours: Offers guided tours of beautiful gardens throughout the district.
Quiet, Residential Setting: Provides a peaceful, relaxing environment for visitors.

A riverside trail system offering scenic views, picnic areas, and boat dock.

Scenic River Views: Provides stunning views of the Congaree River.
Recreational Facilities: Includes a walking trail, picnic areas, and boat dock for various activities.
Community Events: Hosts local events, such as concerts and festivals.

A historic cemetery honoring soldiers who served in the Civil War.

Historical Significance: Honors the sacrifices of soldiers during the Civil War.
Tranquil Setting: Provides a peaceful, reflective space for visitors.
Monument and Grave Sites: Features monuments and graves dedicated to the fallen soldiers.