Fall in Columbia, SC (aka COLA) is a favorite of locals + visitors alike. We’ve rounded up some of the best autumn activities to inspire your next road trip itinerary to Columbia, SC (just a ~1.5 hour drive away).

Football 🏈

If you’re in town for a University of South Carolina (UofSC) game, expect to hear “Go Gamecocks” echoing through the city on an autumn Saturday.

Columbia knows how to do a fall football weekend the right way. Take your pick of tailgates + lively sports bars and give some game day traditions a try.

Grab the family + head to one of the many festivals planned in COLA this fall 🎃 | Photo provided by Experience Columbia Facebook page

Festivities 🎪

Take advantage of COLA’s crisp autumn air and one of the many fall festivals + events in COLA.

Spend the weekend at the SC State Fair or “prost” at one of many Oktoberfest celebrations. Families can enjoy Halloween parties, haunted farms, and trick-or-treating at the zoo. 🎟

Explore more fun fall finds (+ another activity to add to your must-do list) with Experience Columbia SC.

Foliage

Looking to find the perfect fall foliage? Just stroll around UofSC’s campus or a hike along the Congaree National Park boardwalk. 🍁

Ales, lagers, and stouts — oh, my. Local breweries will give you plenty of local, seasonal beers to sip on during your next visit. | Photo provided

Flavors

COLA’s fall fare is top notch; you can have your pick from pub grub to farm-to-table. Pro-tip: Pick your own produce at the Soda City Market or grab some BBQ.

And don’t forget seasonal sips from local breweries — they’re perfect for enjoying around a cozy fire or at the tailgate. Try the Pecan Brown Ale from Steel Hands or Russian Imperial Stout from Hazelwood Brewing.

Explore more fun fall finds (+ another activity to add to your must-do list) with Experience Columbia SC. Ⓟ