One of the great aspects of having an SEC team in our state is traveling with the Tigers to away games. Yes, Death Valley rocks – literally! – but the Southern cities sporting SEC football provide for great destinations.
Take Columbia, South Carolina, for instance. LSU takes on the University of South Carolina Gamecocks on Sept. 14. Inside the city and within a few miles in any direction is exquisite outdoors adventures and great dining.
Take a Hike
Hikers can travel the state from the Atlantic coast to the mountains along the Palmetto Trail, one of only 16 cross-state trails in the country. The hiking and biking trail follows 380 miles and will become 500 continuous miles upon completion. One of the most picturesque spots – and easy to walk – is the Peak to Prosperity Trail section, a short drive from Columbia. At the tiny hamlet of Peak, visitors may walk over Crims Creek along a 1,100-foot-long train trestle and possibly spot bald eagles and otters. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike over to the town of Prosperity.
In town, the Columbia River Walk winds along the Congaree River offering views of natural wonders as well as city sights. Across the river in historic Cayce, there’s more than 20 miles of riverwalk and trails and its Steel Hands Brewery provides the perfect place to pause and rehydrate. Don’t miss their pulled pork and pimento cheese egg rolls or their gameday brews.
Get on Lake Murray
Captain Ben Stickney has more than 30 years of experience on the water and holds a U.S. Coast Guard Master License so you know you’re in good hands. Stickney and his Pilot Cove Ventures offers sunset sails or fun rides in a powerboat from his basecamp by the Murray Lake dam, only a short drive from downtown Columbia. Take in some fishing as well for Lake Murray’s accolades include the best in bass fishing. For more information, visit pilotcoveventures.com.
Congaree National Park
Just south of Columbia lies the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeast United States. Visitors may hike through 25 miles of trails or along the 2.4 miles of boardwalk at Congaree National Park, and if you visit in early summer witness the synchronized dance of fireflies. On a recent visit, we spotted owls, pileated woodpeckers and other critters.
Dine
Columbia features numerous great restaurants, and a few along its historic and picturesque Main Street with the state capitol in view. Columbia is also the birthplace of pimento cheese and if you’re a fan, visit pimentocheesepassport.com to discover where the best can be found.
Over in nearby Irmo, the oversized Loveland Coffee is more than a great cup of Joe, it’s a community hub. But be sure to try the spicy Mayan Mocha with a hint of ancho chili. For lunch or dinner, the award-winning but unassuming Roy’s Grille is a must. Chef Chris Williams cooks up barbecue, burgers, sauces and sides that will knock your socks off, a reason why he’s a finalist at the World Food Championship and a South Carolina Chef Ambassador. For something more elegant, chef Wade Penland serves up fine dining entrees such as filet mignon topped with creamy pimento cheese along with craft cocktails and an award-winning wine list.
