weekend trips for usc students
Columbia can be full of excitement during the weekends. Still, everyone needs a break to get away. The city allows residents to be within a few hours of other states and major cities. Here’s a breakdown of various options for weekend or day trips that can be fun, relaxing, and cost-efficient.
South Carolina:
Charleston, SC
Approximate distance from Columbia: 115 miles, about 2 hours
Charleston has many beaches, restaurants, and history, so there’s something for everyone. Charleston also has many boutique hotels and historic homes people can stay in. Some of the most popular spots, according to TourScanner, include going to look at the Fort Sumter National Monument, exploring the Charleston City Market and supporting local artists, and exploring the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens.
Student Sandra Scott and her friends smile together on a boat while taking a trip for the weekend to Charleston, South Carolina.
Hilton Head Island, SC
Approximate distance from Columbia: 152 miles, about 2 hours and 30 minutes
Hilton Head Island is known for its classy vibe, with many opportunities to go fishing, golfing, and relaxing on the beach. Places to stay include hotels, resorts, vacation homes and villas, and spa resorts. According to US News, one of the most popular beaches is Coligny Beach Park and a popular golf course includes Harbour Town Golf Links, where the PGA Tour hosts the RBC Heritage Tournament.
Greenville, SC
Approximate distance from Columbia: 105 miles, about 1 hour and 30 minutes
Many USC students call Greenville home, but it’s known for its natural beauty and the downtown area. It has shops, boutiques, museums, art galleries, and outdoor activities. According to US News, the best places in Greenville include Falls Park on the Reedy, Greenville County Museum of Art, and Paris Mountain State Park.
Georgia:
Savannah, GA
Approximate distance from Columbia: 158 miles, 2 hours and 30 minutes
Savannah is a coastal city in Georgia known for its southern and scenic architecture and feel. There’s shopping, outdoor areas, and historical tours. According to Visit Savannah, Forsyth Park is a must-see park about 30 acres in the Historic District. There is also plenty of shopping on Broughton Street and Bull Street.
Tennessee:
Nashville, TN
Approximate distance from Columbia: 443 miles, about 7 hours
Although it is a longer drive, Nashville, also called the Music City, is known for its country nightlife, music, and live entertainment. Broadway is the area known for the typical image of Nashville, with bars and live music.
Gatlinburg, TN
Approximate distance from Columbia: 237 miles, about 4 hours
Gatlinburg is in the mountains with many AirBnb and other houses for rental. It is an excellent place for a weekend getaway in the mountains with some friends in a home. You can also spend the day at The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which has trails and beautiful views.
North Carolina:
Wrightsville Beach, NC
Approximate distance from Columbia: 215 miles, 3 hours and 30 minutes
Wrightsville Beach is a beautiful beach town with boutiques, shopping, dining, and the beach. It’s one of many beaches on the coast and not as popular as other beaches nearby, so it’s sometimes less crowded.
When looking for something to do on the weekend, these are just some of the many cities within driving distance from Columbia. Even as a day trip, there is something for everyone to explore close by.