From luxurious linens to paddling the calm waters of the state’s only National Park, opposites attract in this must-see destination
When you visit Capital City/Lake Murray Country, a beautiful region conveniently located off Interstates I-77, I-26 and I-20 in the central part of South Carolina, you don’t have to choose between rustic and regal. Outdoor explorations in one of the South’s only national parks and uptown luxury in accommodations listed on the National Register of Historic Places co-exist. This must-see destination offers both in a juxtaposition that has visitors returning again and again.
Escape to luxury fit for royalty at The Kitchen House B&B at Wavering Place Plantation, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and located southeast of Columbia, in Lower Richland County, part of the Lower Richland Heritage Corridor (427 Adams Hayne Road, Columbia; WaveringPlace.com). A stay here is an experience in and of itself. Ideal as a bed and breakfast for a weekend getaway–or even as bridal suite or honeymoon cottage, the inn embodies Southern elegance. Rates include a complimentary, European breakfast for two, complimentary wet bar, luxurious linens and two robes for lounging. Additional guests, up to two, are allowed with a $45 per additional person extra guest fee.
While in Columbia, continue the regal theme with experiences that exude pomp and circumstance.
For lunch, picnic on the grounds of the stunning South Carolina State House (1100 Gervais Street, Columbia; www.SCStateHouse.gov). White columns, marble and a grand staircase make an ideal backdrop for a day on the town. Take time to explore the Columbia Museum of Art, featuring art that spans 5,000 years of global history across 26 galleries (1515 Main Street, Columbia; www.ColumbiaMuseum.org). Quell hunger pangs at M Vista Restaurant (701 Lady Street, Columbia; Miyos.com/location-mvista) where Maki Rolls, Tempura Fried Rolls and more satisfy alongside a variety of specialty cocktails. For a twist on the typical deli spot, head to Di Prato’s Delicatessen (342 Pickens Street; www.DiPratos.com), a tried and true favorite, with breads, spreads, toppings and cheeses that will not disappoint. The cherry on top? Make your way to Kaminsky’s Dessert Café (930 Gervaise Street; www.Kaminskys.com), near the State House, and satisfy the sweet tooth with a Salted Caramel milkshake. Tip: Adults can add Evan Williams Black Bourbon for an extra special treat.
Nearby, explore the South Carolina State Museum (301 Gervais Street; SCMuseum.org). Discover the natural history exhibit with its shark and dinosaur displays. Peruse fine art, learn the principles of space flight or get up close to a Civil War submarine. Or, step inside the 4-D interactive theatre. If you go in the evening, the planetarium is a must. This 145-seat dome theater provides a completely immersive environment that surrounds viewers with multi-media images and sound.
Take time to tour the Harriet Barber House (116 Barberville Loop, Hopkins; www.HarrietBarberHouse.org), which, according to family tradition, was constructed ca. 1880 and expanded in the early twentieth century. It is significant for its association during the late nineteenth century with the South Carolina Land Commission, a unique attempt by a Southern state to give freedmen the opportunity to own land. Although many freedmen eventually lost their land, the land on which the Barber House is located has remained in the same family since 1872. The numerous additions made to the house in the early twentieth century reflect the growing prosperity of this black family in the years after the Civil War.
Balance cultural city pursuits with rustic adventure at Congaree National Park and along the The Palmetto Trail.
The 26,276-acre Congaree National Park (100 National Park Road, Hopkins; www.nps.gov/cong/index.htm) preserves the largest tract of old growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the United States and is open 24 hours a day, year-round. Row through the stunning wooded waters on marked canoe paths, which contain some of the tallest trees in eastern North America. Hike and fish the park’s waters. For those wanting an overnight experience, pitch a tent under the stars at one of the park’s many campsites. Make a camping reservation by calling 1-877-444-6777, NPS.gov.The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week, and is closed on federal holidays.
Also nearby, check out one of South Carolina’s finest state parks–Sesquicentennial State Park. Affectionately known as “Sesqui,” this spacious green getaway is in the Sandhills region. Immerse yourself in the 1,400 acres of pines, explore camping sites, nature trails, a bike loop and, of course, check out options for kayak and canoe rentals. www.SouthCarolinaParks.com
Pursue the path! The Palmetto Trail, that is. Established in 1994, the path is designated as federal Millennium Legacy Trail and provides access to the outdoors from Walhalla in the Blue Ridge Mountains to Awendaw on the Intracoastal Waterway. The trail connects state and county parks, national forests, nature preserves, wildlife management areas, Revolutionary War battlefields, Native American paths, urban to rural, swamps to mountains, maritime to sandhills to piedmont and much more. It is South Carolina’s longest pedestrian and bicycle trail and largest trail construction project–with 500 continuous miles when finished (currently 350 are completed). Twenty-six passages, ranging from 1.3 to 47 miles, offer options for hiking, walking and biking. The entire Palmetto Trail is open to hiking and backpacking. Designated passages and sites are available for mountain biking, horseback riding and camping, but the trail cannot accommodate motorized vehicles.
Post-adventure, tempt taste buds with some of Lexington County’s mouth-watering bites at Carolina Wings and Rib House (Several locations; www.CarolinaWings.com) which offers 23 wing sauces to satisfy any craving, in addition to burgers, soups, salads and more. Or, try the Social Grill (1002 A J Amick Road, Irma; www.SocialGrillSC.com) where appetizers, called “Shareables,” like the Italian Egg Rolls–homemade egg rolls with Italian sausage, spinach, mozzarella, vegetable medley and garlic served with creamy marinara–and entrees, named “Handhelds,” like the BBQ Sandwich, set the scene for memorable bites with friends and family.
At the end of your adventure, return to the lap of luxury at The Kitchen House B&B at Wavering Place Plantation. Striking a balance between posh and pastoral is easy in Capital City/Lake Murray Country, South Carolina.