{"id":206004,"date":"2025-05-04T09:44:59","date_gmt":"2025-05-04T13:44:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/?p=206004"},"modified":"2025-05-04T09:45:01","modified_gmt":"2025-05-04T13:45:01","slug":"move-over-charleston-surprising-south-carolina-city-breaks-all-time-tourism-records","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/move-over-charleston-surprising-south-carolina-city-breaks-all-time-tourism-records\/","title":{"rendered":"Move Over Charleston! Surprising South Carolina City Breaks All-Time Tourism Records"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:66.666666666667%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-8::before{padding-top:46.97265625%; }img#mv-trellis-img-8{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p>For a solid decade, Charleston has continuously been a thriving Southern hotspot with its European aesthetics, out-of-this-world cuisine, and random, yet legendary, Bill Murray sightings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Steeped in history, surrounded by lush nature, and with a burgeoning food scene in its own right, South Carolina's capital city broke all-time tourism records in 2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records.jpg\"><noscript><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records.jpg\" alt=\"Palm trees wrapping South Carolina State House in Columbia\" class=\"wp-image-206005\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records-960x640.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records-1080x720.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%20800'%3E%3Crect%20width='1200'%20height='800'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Palm trees wrapping South Carolina State House in Columbia\" class=\"wp-image-206005 eager-load\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" loading=\"eager\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records.jpg.webp\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records-300x200.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records-1024x683.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records-960x640.jpg.webp 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Move-Over-Charleston-Surprising-South-Carolina-City-Breaks-All-Time-Tourism-Records-1080x720.jpg.webp 1080w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Far beyond just a college football town, this under-hyped getaway boasts pristine lakes, down-home charm, affordability across the board, and far less crowds than Charleston &mdash; especially come summer when it's time to hit the beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.postandcourier.com\/columbia\/business\/columbia-airport-upgrades-help-disabled-travelers\/article_4c30cbfa-63b0-438f-b413-e0f06ee01b27.html#\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">record<\/a> 1.3 million travelers had a blast in <strong>Columbia<\/strong> last year, and you will too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>&lsquo;No Cap' In This Capital<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and numerous islands have long been South Carolina's main appeal to travelers, the capital city of Columbia is getting its due.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape.jpg\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape.jpg\" alt=\"Evening view of Columbia, SC cityscape\" class=\"wp-image-206059\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape-728x728.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape-960x960.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape-1080x1080.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Evening view of Columbia, SC cityscape\" class=\"wp-image-206059 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape-300x300.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape-1024x1024.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape-150x150.jpg.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape-768x768.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape-728x728.jpg.webp 728w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape-960x960.jpg.webp 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape-1080x1080.jpg.webp 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Evening-view-of-Columbia-SC-cityscape.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" loading=\"lazy\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, Columbia's Metropolitan Airport (CAE) will be undergoing a makeover, adding new amenities and more flights to the already buzzing city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While one could still argue Columbia is a hidden gem in the shadows of aforementioned Charleston and Myrtle Beach, the captivating history, sensational restaurants, lively college bars, and astounding nature outside intertwined in and out of the city limits are largely what have drawn in a record number of visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether it be the State House marvel, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.experiencecolumbiasc.com\/blog\/post\/james-beard-awards-in-columbia-sc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">James Beard-recognized<\/a> eats, Saturday tailgates, old-timey inns, or the delights of Lake Murray, Columbia offers a surprisingly diverse experience &mdash; it's no one-trick pony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC.jpg\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC.jpg\" alt=\"Vintage clock in downtown Columbia, SC\" class=\"wp-image-206060\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC-728x728.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC-960x960.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC-1080x1080.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Vintage clock in downtown Columbia, SC\" class=\"wp-image-206060 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC-300x300.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC-1024x1024.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC-150x150.jpg.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC-768x768.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC-728x728.jpg.webp 728w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC-960x960.jpg.webp 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC-1080x1080.jpg.webp 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vintage-clock-in-downtown-Columbia-SC.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" loading=\"lazy\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Lake Murray: Cool Down &amp; Unwind In Columbia's Summer Hotspot<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just west of Columbia lies Lake Murray, a sprawling century-old man-made reservoir that actually has water (don't tell LA!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The 50,000-acre lake is a huge draw in the summertime for fishermen, boaters, and anyone looking to enjoy the sunny season. You can also take a dip in the clear waters, venture out on a kayak, or sit beachside, taking in the views with a cold drink in hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One surprising element to Lake Murray is what's known as the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lakemurraycountry.com\/businesses\/purple-martin-phenomenon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Purple Martin Phenomenon<\/a> &mdash; at least 1 million birds roost on Bomb Island, creating a spectacle that truly has to be seen to be believed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina.jpg\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina.jpg\" alt=\"Clear waters of Lake Murray in South Carolina\" class=\"wp-image-206061\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina-728x728.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina-960x960.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina-1080x1080.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Clear waters of Lake Murray in South Carolina\" class=\"wp-image-206061 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina-300x300.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina-1024x1024.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina-150x150.jpg.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina-768x768.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina-728x728.jpg.webp 728w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina-960x960.jpg.webp 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina-1080x1080.jpg.webp 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Clear-waters-of-Lake-Murray-in-South-Carolina.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The flock is so huge that local weather radars have malfunctioned due to the sheer size of Martins that are usually visible late June to early August.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An out-of-state visitor from last summer loved her stay, saying, &lsquo;We stayed a week in a lake house in July and loved our stay. The water appeared to be pretty clean and well-kept everywhere. There were several beachy sandy areas to pull up to and rest or cool off.'<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Speaking of stays, there really is a wide range of dreamy lakeside rentals to choose from. You'll find hotels in the city, but mostly cabin rentals around Lake Murray that you can book on platforms like Airbnb, Booking, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/move-over-florida-discover-this-cheap-texas-beach-town-hyped-as-a-top-spring-getaway\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HomeToGo<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina.jpg\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina.jpg\" alt=\"Flock of purple Martins in Lake Murray, South Carolina\" class=\"wp-image-206062\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina-728x728.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina-960x960.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina-1080x1080.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Flock of purple Martins in Lake Murray, South Carolina\" class=\"wp-image-206062 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina-300x300.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina-1024x1024.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina-150x150.jpg.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina-768x768.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina-728x728.jpg.webp 728w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina-960x960.jpg.webp 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina-1080x1080.jpg.webp 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Flock-of-purple-Martins-in-Lake-Murray-South-Carolina.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-5\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Columbia's Urban Delights <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While the city rallies around their beloved Gamecocks late summer to winter, there's far more to do and see than root for the big game on Saturdays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While Charleston is undeniably one of America's top foodie cities, Columbia boasts much of the same southern home cookin' at such places as <strong>D &amp; D Country Cooking<\/strong> as well as a nice mix of highly-anticipated new restaurants like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thestate.com\/news\/local\/article301387814.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Bistreaux on Assembly<\/a>, bringing the New Orleans flavors we all love to Columbia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC.jpg\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC.jpg\" alt=\"McKissick Museum - Columbia, SC\" class=\"wp-image-206063\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC-728x728.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC-960x960.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC-1080x1080.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC.jpg.webp\" alt=\"McKissick Museum - Columbia, SC\" class=\"wp-image-206063 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC-300x300.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC-1024x1024.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC-150x150.jpg.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC-768x768.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC-728x728.jpg.webp 728w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC-960x960.jpg.webp 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC-1080x1080.jpg.webp 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/McKissick-Museum-Columbia-SC.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-6\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You'll also find an array of intriguing museums like top-rated <a href=\"https:\/\/www.columbiamuseum.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Columbia Museum of Art<\/a> (reopening May 24), <a href=\"https:\/\/scmuseum.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">South Carolina State Museum<\/a> showcasing the rise of South Carolina's prominence, and <a href=\"https:\/\/caycesc.gov\/museum.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cayce Historical Museum<\/a>, a lesser-known site with a fascinating Native American exhibit and only $3 to enter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Of course, downtown itself is a delight to explore, especially <strong>Main Street<\/strong>. Here, you'll find vintage shops and sightly landmarks like the Nickelodeon Theatre, or venture to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vistacolumbia.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Vista<\/a>, where you'll find upscale hotels and restaurants, art galleries, and easy access to Congaree River for kayaking or enjoying a craft beer on a breezy patio at <a href=\"https:\/\/columbiacraft.com\/age-restriction\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Columbia Craft Brewing Company<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC.jpg\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC.jpg\" alt=\"Industrial art gallery in Columbia, SC\" class=\"wp-image-206064\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC-728x728.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC-960x960.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC-1080x1080.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Industrial art gallery in Columbia, SC\" class=\"wp-image-206064 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC-300x300.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC-1024x1024.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC-150x150.jpg.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC-768x768.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC-728x728.jpg.webp 728w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC-960x960.jpg.webp 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC-1080x1080.jpg.webp 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Industrial-art-gallery-in-Columbia-SC.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-7\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"background-color:#f8f8f8;\" class=\"wp-block-post-author has-background has-medium-font-size\"><div class=\"wp-block-post-author__avatar\"><noscript><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/86a671a1df730287af424be4aa53e12d?s=96&amp;d=mm&amp;r=g\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/86a671a1df730287af424be4aa53e12d?s=192&amp;d=mm&amp;r=g 2x\" class=\"avatar avatar-96 photo\" height=\"96\" width=\"96\"><\/noscript><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/86a671a1df730287af424be4aa53e12d?s=96&amp;d=mm&amp;r=g\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/86a671a1df730287af424be4aa53e12d?s=192&amp;d=mm&amp;r=g 2x\" class=\"avatar avatar-96 photo lazyload\" height=\"96\" width=\"96\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" loading=\"lazy\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-post-author__content\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-author__name\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/author\/sam-sears\/\" target=\"_blank\">Sam Sears<\/a><\/p><p class=\"wp-block-post-author__bio\">Sam, our Lead Writer &amp; Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ready For Your Trip?<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/entry-requirements-for-americans-the-easy-country-by-country-guide\/\"><strong>Check The Latest Entry Requirements For Your Destination Here<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>&darr; Elevate Your Travel&darr;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/premium\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium!<\/strong><\/a> No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum &amp; More!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/premium\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"481\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG-1024x481.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-175508\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG-1024x481.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG-300x141.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG-768x361.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG-960x451.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG-1080x507.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG-1200x564.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG.jpg 1345w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"481\" src=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG-1024x481.jpg.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-175508 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG-1024x481.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG-300x141.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG-768x361.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG-960x451.jpg.webp 960w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG-1080x507.jpg.webp 1080w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG-1200x564.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG.jpg.webp 1345w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Premium-Footer-JPG.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-8\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>&#9992;&#65039;<strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/community\/\" target=\"_blank\">Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum<\/a><\/strong>: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><br>SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path's latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-jetpack-subscriptions__supports-newline wp-block-jetpack-subscriptions\">\n\t\t<div>\n\t\t\t<div>\n\t\t\t\t<div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/?post_type=post&amp;p=206004\" style=\"font-size: 16px;padding: 15px 23px 15px 23px;margin: 0; margin-left: 10px;border-radius: 0px;border-width: 1px; background-color: #113AF5; color: #FFFFFF; text-decoration: none; white-space: nowrap; margin-left: 0\">Subscribe<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\n<p><em><strong>This article originally appeared on <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">TravelOffPath.com<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Opinions expressed here are the author&rsquo;s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>For a solid decade, Charleston has continuously been a thriving Southern hotspot with its European aesthetics, out-of-this-world cuisine, and random, yet legendary, Bill Murray sightings. Steeped in history, surrounded by lush nature, and with a burgeoning food scene in its own right, South Carolina&#8217;s capital city broke all-time tourism records in 2024. Far beyond just &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":77,"featured_media":206005,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[33,4674,244],"tags":[5000,374,999,3807,2429],"class_list":["post-206004","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel","category-travel-guides","category-travel-news","tag-capital-cities","tag-colombia","tag-south-carolina","tag-tourism-records","tag-trending"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Move Over Charleston! Surprising South Carolina City Breaks All-Time Tourism Records - Travel Off Path<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover a surprisingly vibrant capital city that just broke tourism records! Explore stunning lakes, delicious food, and unique attractions.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.traveloffpath.com\/move-over-charleston-surprising-south-carolina-city-breaks-all-time-tourism-records\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Move Over Charleston! Surprising South Carolina City Breaks All-Time Tourism Records - Travel Off Path\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Discover a surprisingly vibrant capital city that just broke tourism records! 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