Founded in 1786, Columbia is a diverse city that became South Carolina's capitol in 1805. Central to the state's growth, it's one of the nation's first planned cities. Locals appreciate their rich Sun Belt heritage while moving toward the future.

With so many rivers close by, whitewater rafting, kayaking, and other watersports are popular. Combining history with recreation, The Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park has miles of hiking, bike trails, and old pump houses that reflect the canal's evolution. A trip to Finlay Park provides playground space, as well as waterfalls and a lake.

It's no surprise The Capital of Southern Hospitality has amazing restaurants. A favorite? Al's Upstairs. From its hundred-year-old building, Al's serves authentic Italian cuisine with views of the city skyline. Other eateries include Sakitumi Grill and Sushi Bar, Cola's Restaurant, and Blue Marlin.

History-lovers will enjoy all the city has to offer. There's the State House, built at the start of the Civil War and damaged when Sherman arrived with his troops. Inside, you can also see the African-American History Monument, which honors enslaved Black people who lived in this area. Also on deck is the Woodrow Wilson Family Home, where the 28th president spent his childhood. The Mann-Simons Site & Outdoor Museum marks a property owned by a single African-American family for more than 100 years. House museum tours take visitors on a journey spanning 200 years, inside four homes in the heart of the Robert Mills Historic District.

While South Carolina isn't home to any professional sports teams, the state is big on athletics. College sports don't disappoint, with local favorites that include the University of South Carolina Gamecocks, Allen University's Yellow Jackets, and the Columbia International University Rams. There's even a minor league baseball team, the Columbia Fireflies.

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