Columbia is the capital of South Carolina and the second largest metropolitan city within the state. According to the 2010 census, Columbia is home to more than 131,000 people. If you are interested in relocating your family to this historic southern town, there are many residential homes and condos available for sale in the area.
Interested buyers may want to check out the great amenities that Columbia and the surrounding areas have to offer. The town is known for its family oriented attractions that draw in hundreds of tourists each year. Many of the residents of Columbia enjoy visiting the local parks that provide walking trails, children’s play areas, and picnic shelters. If you love the great outdoors, you will be happy to learn that Columbia has several extraordinary parks in the area for you to explore and discover.
Finlay Park
Finlay Park is a beautiful retreat located in the center of downtown Columbia. You may be surprised at how many residents of South Carolina have drove along Assembly Street and were unaware of the park’s whereabouts. This location has been the home of many local events and festivals as well as political rallies and Easter Sunrise services held by area churches. This eighteen acre park was first established in 1859, then known as Sidney Park, and was later destroyed following the events of the Civil War.
In 1990 Finlay Park re-opened and has become a beloved sanctuary for area residents and visitors to the downtown Columbia area. It is home to two playground areas, a man-made lake, a fountain, waterfall, ball-playing fields, swings, and a concession stand that is open during the summer. There are paved paths for walking and a brilliant statue of Kirkman Finlay, Mayor of Columbia, placed inside the park. 930 Laurel Street | (803) 733-8691
Riverfront Park
Riverfront Park is a 140 acre recreational center that was once the home of the original waterworks for the residents of Columbia. This historical location was the beginning of many modern day technologies including the site for the world’s first electrically operated textile mill. The hydroelectric plant, which is still operating at Riverfront Park today, is the oldest one in the state of South Carolina.
The park separates the Columbia Canal from the Congaree River. There is a walking trail that runs two and half miles along the park which provides visitors with an excellent view of the nearby river. Riverfront Park is also home to a brick amphitheater where small concerts are held, and a walkway that allows guests to take a self-guided tour of the old antique parts that were once used in the water plant. 312 Laurel Street | (803) 917-5522 or (803) 773-8613
Tyler Park
Tyler Park is a small two-acre location that is often used as a youth baseball field. There is a full concession stand on the premises and additional space beyond the ball field where children can play or families can have picnics. There is also a playground area outside of the ball field. Capers & S. Bonham Streets | (803) 545-3100
Isaac McClinton Park
Isaac McClinton Park is located inside of the South Edisto community. This is another small park that features several fun amenities for families to enjoy. There are special play areas for children age 2 to 5 years and plenty of room for kids to be creative. The park includes a sand-filled playground area, a water fountain, and plenty of benches available for parents to relax on while their children play. 1003 Howe Street | (803) 545-3100
Earlewood Park
Earlewood Park can be found just north of the downtown Columbia area in the historic Earlewood neighborhood. This 48 acre park is one of the largest in the city. There are several walking trails available along with a playground area, water spray, ball fields, tennis courts, and a disc golf course. The Smith Branch Creek runs through the park and creates a peaceful atmosphere along with the abundance of trees. Earlewood Park also provides a unique view of a historic railroad trestle for visitors to admire. 1111 Parkside Drive | (803) 733-8444
Mays Park
Mays Park is located in the Kilbourne Heights community nearby Beltline. This park features a baseball diamond, several picnic shelters, a water spray, neighborhood center and a large children’s play area that includes slides, swings, and climbing structures.
With the many great amenities it has to offer, Columbia is the perfect town to relocate your family to. Not only are there plenty of fun parks to visit in the area, but Columbia also has several shopping and fine dining opportunities for residents of the area to take advantage of. If you would like to experience the thrill of city life while staying close to the country, you should consider moving to the Columbia, South Carolina area. 4100 Trenholm Road | (803) 733-8596
