Itinerary 1 itinerary
Day 1
Meet at meeting point: Meet your guide near the Ben Tillman statue in front of the SC Statehouse, just to the right (West) of the Confederate Soldiers Monument.Attractions and Activities: South Carolina State House (Free entry) Your tour begins at the majestic South Carolina State House, a symbol of the state's history and politics. Completed in 1907, this building features stunning architecture, including the bronze stars marking spots hit by Sherman's cannonballs during the Civil War. 20 min(s)
Attractions and Activities: Trinity Episcopal Cathedral (Free entry) Established in 1812, Trinity Episcopal Cathedral is the oldest surviving church building in Columbia. Its Gothic Revival architecture, cemetery, and serene gardens make it a must-see. 5 min(s)
Attractions and Activities: Town Theatre (Free entry How to visit:No indoor visits) Opened in 1919, Town Theatre is the oldest community theatre building in continuous use in the United States. It has hosted numerous plays and musicals, enriching Columbia's cultural landscape.
Attractions and Activities: University of South Carolina (Free entry) The historic heart of the University of South Carolina, the Horseshoe, is lined with 19th-century buildings and beautiful green spaces. It's a peaceful spot to appreciate the university's history. 15 min(s)
Attractions and Activities: First Presbyterian Church (Free entry) Established in 1795, the First Presbyterian Church is one of Columbia's oldest churches. Its sanctuary, built in 1854, features a stunning Gothic Revival design. 3 min(s)
Attractions and Activities: First Baptist Church of Columbia (Free entry) First Baptist Church, founded in 1809, is a significant historic landmark. Its sanctuary, built in 1859, hosted the first secession convention leading up to the Civil War. 3 min(s)
Attractions and Activities: Woodrow Wilson Family Home (Free entry How to visit:No indoor visits) Housed in the Woodrow Wilson Family Home, built in 1871 during Reconstruction. Wilson lived here from 1871 to 1875 as a teenager, witnessing post-Civil War changes.
Attractions and Activities: Robert Mills House and Gardens (At your own expense) Designed in 1823 by architect Robert Mills (Washington Monument designer) as a Federal-style mansion for merchant Ainsley Hall. Hall died before completion; sold to the Presbyterian Theological Seminary in 1824 and used as a seminary until 1927. 5 min(s)
Attractions and Activities: Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens (At your own expense) Built in 1818 as a three-story Federal-era townhouse for merchant Ainsley Hall. Sold in 1823 to Wade Hampton I, a War of 1812 veteran and planter; passed to his family, including Wade Hampton III. Used as Union headquarters under Gen. John A. Logan during the 1865 occupation. Served as schools and a governor's residence post-war; restored by Historic Columbia and opened as a museum. 4 min(s)
Attractions and Activities: Never Bust Chain (Free entry) The "Never Bust Chain" is a unique piece of street art by renowned artist Blue Sky, located on Main Street in Columbia, South Carolina. Installed in 2000, this sculpture features two enormous "steel chain links" anchored into the adjacent buildings and spanning a narrow alley. The installation playfully challenges perceptions of strength and durability while symbolizing the resilience and unbreakable spirit of the city. "Never Bust Chain" is a popular and whimsical landmark in Columbia, reflecting Blue Sky's knack for blending humor with artistic expression. It captures the attention of pedestrians and serves as a subtle reminder of the enduring nature of community and creativity in the city. The installation has become an integral part of Main Street's cultural landscape, adding to the charm and character of downtown Columbia. 3 min(s)
Guests leave on their own: Never Bust ChainEnd the tour on your own and bring your trip to a happy conclusion 1502-1508 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201, United States Tour ends on the 1500 block of Main Street.
*Itinerary times are in the local time of the place of visit and may be subject to changes due to weather conditions, road conditions, and other factors. We appreciate your understanding.