About Columbia, SC

Columbia, SC is a bustling, capital city with charming shopping areas, an electric nightlife, delicious Southern cuisine and more than 300 days of sunshine a year. With some of the best art galleries and entertainment venues sprinkled throughout the region, our exciting and progressive city is widely considered one of the new southern hot spots.

Flush with youthful energy, Columbia boasts a fast-growing contemporary art and design scene. The beautiful parks, river walks, swamp system, and nearby lake give our region just the right amount of Southern flair for any and everyone to kick back, relax and enjoy.

While between your favorite Indie Grits events and films, stroll up and down Main Street and find that perfect gift in Mast General Store, or liven-up with a deliciously rich latte at Drip. Hungry? We’ve got you covered. Start the day off right with brunch at 116 Espresso & Wine Bar for some sweet potato pancakes, shrimp and grits and their three potato hashbrowns; a definite must. Stop into The Whig for a pint and their famous Whig Burger topped with gouda and bacon.

A thriving downtown district, unique natural venues and plenty of Southern charm await you and your friends in this ever-changing region. With plenty to do and see, visiting Columbia, SC is a truly unique experience for everyone. Visit Columbia.

Lodging

Downtown Columbia has an abundance of wonderful places to rest your weary head in close proximity to the festival.
The Columbia Marriott – 3 min walk from Nickelodeon Theatre
Aloft Columbia Downtown – 14 min walk from Nickelodeon Theatre
Courtyard Columbia Downtown at USC – 22 min walk from Nickelodeon Theatre

Travel

Don’t let distance discourage you. Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) is a great option for visitors traveling far distances and is only a 20-minute drive from downtown Columbia. Find directions from Columbia Airport to the Nickelodeon Theatre here.

Getting Around

Navigating Columbia is easy with convenient traveling services at your fingertips. The Comet is Columbia’s premier transit service with 27 routes to help you with all of your traveling needs in downtown Columbia and the greater Richland County area. Uber and Lyft also provide services in Columbia for an easy ride anywhere.