When the weather is nice, there’s no better way to spend a day than at a park. For parents in Columbia, South Carolina, there are lots of parks that make excellent choices when you want to spend some time in the sunshine with your little ones. We’ve listed our top five favorite local Columbia parks to help you plan your next outside outing and get pumped about some quality time in the fresh air.
Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park
Located alongside the Columbia Canal, this park runs from the river diversion dam all the way up to Gervais Street. The trail is well-maintained and paved, perfect for little ones still unsteady on their feet. There are also plenty of benches along the way for rests, and it is well-lit at night.
If your kids are a little older, they may enjoy fishing on the canal: there are multiple access points along the trail. Geocaching is popular in this area as well, which makes for a fun weekend adventure. There’s plenty of parking and admission is free. The park can be found at 312 Laurel St.
Granby Park
The southernmost section of the Three Rivers Greenway, Granby Park is a 12-acre park with a paved walking trail that provides an easy walk for visitors, as well as substantial green areas for games of tag or imagination. The park also has public access to the Congaree, Saluda, and Broad Rivers, perfect for kids interested in fishing.
The park is located at 100 Catawba Street. Restrooms are available on site. In addition to the paved walkway, there are a number of trails available for a more adventurous afternoon.
Finlay Park
Located in the bustling heart of downtown Columbia, Finlay Park encompasses 18 beautiful acres. There are two different playground areas, a lake, waterfalls, public fountain, and a seasonal snack bar open during the summer. In addition, it’s one of the largest handicap accessible parks in the area and the gravel-lined sidewalks make easy rolling for strollers.
The park’s address is 930 Laurel Street. Free parking is available.
Saluda Shoals Park
One of the most popular local destinations during the summer, Saluda Shoals Park is a great place to explore South Carolina’s beauty while enjoying quality time with your young ones. Tubing is one of the more popular attractions and is available on site; tubes can be rented for as little as $10. There’s also a splash pad, educational exhibits, and a paved jogging trail along the river.
Entrance to the park is $5 and a shuttle is available to take tubers back to their vehicles. The park is located at 5605 Bush River Road.
South East Park
Sprawling across 62-acres, there’s plenty of room for fun at South East Park. This is the newest park in Columbia and it heavily features tennis courts but also has a play area and walking trails for interested parties. Restrooms are available on site and you can find the park at 951 Hazelwood Road.
With plenty of room to play plus fascinating scenery and pleasant walks, these five parks are a great way to spend some time with your kids while enjoying the great outdoors.
Image via Pixabay
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