As the capital of this great state, it’s only natural that Columbia, SC features some of the best museums in the region. Whatever your background and whatever you’re interested in, you’ll find something to appeal to you within city limits.
4 of the Best Museums to Visit in Columbia, SC
1. Columbia Fire Department Museum
Most of us hear the sound of fire truck sirens on a daily basis, but we probably don’t think too much about the background and history of our local fire departments. But the Columbia Fire Department Museum, located within the modern-day Fire Department’s city headquarters, offers visitors the chance to dig deeper behind the scenes into the history of firefighting.
On display, there is a wide variety of historic firefighting equipment, with some dating from the 19th century. It’s an interesting look at the days before firefighters were protected by modern safety equipment. The Columbia Fire Department Museum is open from 8:30am to 5pm, Monday through Friday, and is free to visit.
2. The Cayce Museum
Housed in a full-scale replica of a colonial trading post, the Cayce Museum is the number 1 destination for folks looking to learn more about the history of the region. A wide variety of expertly curated artifacts and exhibits take visitors on a journey through time, documenting everything from the Native Americans who once occupied this land, through the Colonial and Civil Wars and beyond.
Located on 12th Street in Cayce, this excellent museum is open from 9am to 4pm, Tuesday through Friday and from 2pm to 5pm on weekends. Admission is normally $3 for adults, $2 for seniors, and $1 for children, but admission is completely free on Sundays.
3. EdVenture Children’s Museum
If you’re a parent and you’re looking for a great day out with the kids, EdVenture Children’s Museum is the place for you. One of the largest children’s museums in the country, EdVenture is home to several interactive and hands on exhibits, allowing kids the opportunity to experiment in laboratories, roleplay as a firefighter or police officer, and even explore a giant mockup of a human being’s insides!
The museum is easy to find, located on Gervais Street, right next to the South Carolina State Museum. EdVenture Children’s Museum is open from 9am to 5pm, Tuesday through Saturday, and from 12pm to 5pm on Sundays.
4. Columbia Museum of Art
At the heart of the downtown area lies the Columbia Museum of Art. Originally opened over 100 years ago, the museum is dedicated to inspiring visitors with its amazing collection of artworks from around the world. There are paintings, drawings, sculptures, installations, and much more, ranging from classical pieces to modern favorites.
The museum is open every week from Tuesday to Sunday. Hours vary from day to day, so check the website before you go. General admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children.
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