5 Day Trips from Columbia

Thinking about a quick day trip with family and friends? Check out these 5 great trips just an hour or two from Columbia, South Carolina.

Centrally located in the middle of South Carolina, Columbia is the state’s capital city. Columbia’s proximity makes it easy for a day trip to neighboring states, North Carolina and Georgia. Driving just a few hours outside of the city allows you to access a myriad of activities, history and unique destinations for the entire family to enjoy. Here is a list of the 5 top-rated day trips from Columbia, South Carolina:

Carolina Adventure World

approx. 38 minutes from Columbia

Opened in 2007, Carolina Adventure World is The Southeast Largest ATV, UTV, and Dirt Bike Riding Park with over 2,600 acres of private land. The park offers 100 miles of custom designed trails, 10 miles of dedicated dirt bike trails, horse trails, and disc golf courses. Equipment rentals are available and 1-day passes start at $42.50 for adults, $29.50 for youth, and $18.50 for spectators (2020 Rates – Subject To Change). For those who are looking to stay longer than one day, cabin rentals and campsites are available. Learn more about Carolina Adventure World here.

Carolina Adventure World

Augusta, Georgia

approx. 1 hour and 17 minutes from Columbia

Nestled along the banks of the Savannah River, Augusta is the second largest and oldest city in the state of Georgia. Augusta is well-known as the home of The Masters Tournament, one of golf’s most prestigious and coveted championships. If you’re someone who enjoys golf, Augusta National is the place for you in April. If you’re not visiting for the putts and birdies, Augusta boasts an eclectic mix of activities for those who enjoy history, the arts, and outdoor activities. Add places like the Sacred Heart Cultural Center, Morris Museum of Art, AugustaRiverwalk, and Augusta Canal National Heritage Site to your list of must-sees while visiting.

Augusta, Georgia

Charleston Beaches

approx. 1 hour and 56 minutes from Columbia

Travel east on Interstate 26 from Columbia and this straight shot will take you to some of the east coast’s most beautiful beaches in under 2 hours. Charleston’s five beautiful beach towns, each varied in sights and style, continue to beckon those seeking sand and surf. Enjoy a day trip to the beach with friends and family. To learn more about Charleston’s five beach towns (Isle of Palms, Sullivans Island, Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island), click here.

Charleston Beaches

Camden, South Carolina

approx. 36 minutes from Columbia

Camden is South Carolina’s oldest inland town. It was founded in 1732 and established by a decree from King George II. This classic Carolina town is home to the Carolina Cup. If you choose this trip, be sure to take in the Kershaw-Cornwallis House, the Camden Clock Tower, the Robert Mills Courthouse, and the Goodale State Park. There are over 60 buildings listed on its National Historic District! To learn more about places to visit on your day trip to Camden, click here.

Camden, South Carolina

US National Whitewater Center

approx. 1 hour and 33 minutes from Columbia

Located just outside of Charlotte, North Carolina, The United States National Whitewater Center is a designated US Olympic Training Site for whitewater slalom racing. The center is located on approximately 1,300 acres of land adjacent to the Catawba River, with more than 45 miles of developed trails. Throughout the year, visitors can partake in a variety of activities for all levels, novice or spectator to thrill seeker. Activities include whitewater rafting, whitewater kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing, canopy zip line tours, flatwater kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, ice skating (seasonal) and more. To learn more about the US National Whitewater Center, click here.

US National Whitewater Center