Hotels in Columbia, SC

Welcome to the capital of South Carolina! Columbia is a bustling southern hub with vibrant energy and unique historical culture. From city landmarks to beautiful scenic escapes, there's so much to do and see. Our downtown hotels in Columbia are the best way to stay and play, right in the heart of the town.   

Plan to visit the South Carolina State House to tour the magnificent architecture of the capitol building. Here, you can learn about the fascinating history and evolution of Columbia and wander through the opulent chambers filled with art pieces, monuments and official portrait paintings. 

Spend the afternoon at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, a massive park featuring more than 2,000 exciting animals, unique experiences and beautiful botanical gardens. Here, you can pet alpacas and goats at the zoo's farm and enjoy watching flamingos and penguins play in the birdhouse. And the botanical gardens have something fun for ages with a splash pad, waterfalls, serene rose gardens and so much more.  

This city's rich history is on full display at the diverse and internationally renowned at the Columbia Museum of Art. These sprawling grounds have nearly 30 galleries with artifacts, interactive activity spaces, artworks, collectibles and exhibits. The nearby Boyd Plaza is one of Columbia's favorite destinations for locals and visitors and is the perfect place to enjoy the fresh Carolina air under the shade while watching the buzz of Main Street. It's also home to community art, music and cultural performances and events.  

Our selection of top hotels in Columbia, SC puts you at the center of the amazing sights and sounds of the city and nature. Experience the breathtaking beauty of South Carolina at Congaree National Park, the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the country. This park is home to some of the tallest trees in Eastern North America and features one of the highest treetop canopies in the world. The boardwalk loop trail guides you under massive laurel oak and around the lush river waterways. This outdoor wonderland is a great place to canoe through the forest and get up close to the stunning treeline.

From stunning forests to pristine lakes, Columbia has it all. Lake Murray is a popular destination for beginning anglers to seasoned professionals. A regular host for fishing tournaments, this 55,000-acre lake is brimming with large and small-mouth bass, catfish, stripers and bluegill. Cast a line from the Lake Murray Dam or right off the shoreline at Dreher Island State Park. Family-friendly pontoon boat rentals are available so you can get out on the open water and experience the majestic lake views.  

If staying high and dry is more your style, you can enjoy the great outdoors without getting wet at one of the many championship golf courses that dot the city in swaths of gorgeous greenery. Book a tee time for a round of spectacular golf, and then after a day on the links, enjoy a refreshing glass of classic southern tea. We're here to help make your trip unforgettable no matter the occasion, and we have the top hotels in Columbia for the perfect stay.  

Don't forget to check out our best hotels nearby in Lexington, Cayce and Blythewood!