George Washington himself remarked that the city site was well-chosen, as he viewed the beginnings of Columbia, sitting atop a bluff above the Congaree River. Established in 1786, Columbia was a planned city, built to be the seat of government. Today, ever mindful of its history, the city continues to plan and evolve, keeping its past remembered and its future bright and forward-thinking. The Saluda River and the Broad River meet in Columbia to form the Congaree. This beautiful natural feature is accessible by a series of boardwalks and paved lighted paths on each side of the Rivers, known as the Three Rivers Greenway, a project of the River Alliance. Quite the accomplishment, the Three Rivers Greenway was recently named as one of the country’s most promising ways to reconnect Americans with the natural world.
The downtown area is enjoying one of the most exciting urban revitalizations in the United States. Main Street is now home to the Columbia Museum of Art, with its 25+ galleries that feature art created during the past 5000 years from around the world and to Nickelodeon Theater, where films encompass first run independents, special curated series and one-off screenings of films of relevance to our community. The area hops on Saturday mornings with Soda City Market, providing residents and visitors a refreshing mix of local and regional food and craft vendors, as well as live music. The Congaree Vista, Five Points and the Devine Street area are popular for dining and shopping as well.
The town of Lexington, west of Columbia, has a vibrant downtown as well. Its Icehouse Amphitheater is a favorite venue, offering outdoor concerts, movies and productions throughout the year. Main Street is now home to trendy restaurants and bars, and boutique type shops. Popular with families relocating to the Midlands, Lexington is known for its excellent schools as well as its recreational offerings. It’s close to Lake Murray, a 50,000 acre sparkling jewel, with over 600 miles of shoreline. From humble fishing cottages to grandiose mansions, Lake Murray has over 8,000 homes built along its shoreline. A sportsman’s paradise, the lake is popular with bass fishermen, sailboat enthusiasts, pleasure boaters and jet-skiers.
The Midlands is home to the University of South Carolina and its beloved Gamecocks. Whether you’re into football, basketball (the women’s team is phenomenal), or baseball (2 national championships in recent years), USC offers spectator sports almost year-round.
Other highlights of the region include world-class Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden, the South Carolina State Museum with its 4-D theater and planetarium, Zapp Scooter Share-Rides, a bike-friendly city, the new BullStreet development with its baseball stadium (Columbia Fireflies, a minor league team) and dining/shopping options…. there is so much to know and explore in your new city! Just ask me, and I will be glad to give you information on anything that interests you about the Midlands region of South Carolina.