Columbia, SC: Hotel & Motel Planning Guide

When to Visit Columbia, South Carolina

Like much of South Carolina, Columbia has four distinct seasons, with hot summers and mild winters. Summers can get especially humid in Columbia, with temperatures climbing into the 90s and producing several inches of rain each month. Despite the sometimes-challenging weather, however, summer is a great time to visit Columbia, especially with numerous hot weather festivals on the calendar.

Spring and fall tend to be the driest and most moderate seasons in Columbia, as well as some of the most popular times to visit. Hotel prices often rise in the spring, but if you want to see the city's beautiful flowering trees or plan an event during one of the most stunning seasons, visit in the spring.

Best Discounts on Hotel Rooms in Columbia, South Carolina

No matter your reason for visiting Columbia, you'll find numerous discounts on hotel rooms. Military members and government employees save about 10 percent on rooms at the Country Inn & Suites by Carlson Columbia Airport and the Super 8 Columbia/Ft. Jackson, SC.

As an AAA member, you'll save 10 percent or more at the Sleep Inn at Bush River Road and the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites. Senior travelers and AARP members save 10 percent on rooms at the Springhill Suites by Marriott Columbia Downtown/The Vista, the Home Towne Suites Columbia, and other area hotels.

Best Value Options in Columbia, South Carolina

If you're looking for a clean, comfortable room that won't dent your travel budget, stay at one of these high-value hotels in Columbia.

Just a few miles northwest of Columbia, the Sleep Inn at Bush River Road is a solid hotel with reasonable rates, helpful staff, and a convenient location. Use the hotel's free Wi-Fi to stay in touch with family and friends at home, and use the nearby fitness center to stay fit. If you're planning an event in the area, the hotel has nearly 3,000 square feet of event space.

A great value for military members, the Wingate by Wyndham - Columbia/Ft. Jackson is less than five miles from Fort Jackson and the U.S. Air Force Reserve Recruiting Center. All of the hotel's 83 guestrooms include comfortable beds and convenient amenities like microwaves, refrigerators, and coffeemakers. In the morning, don't forget to take advantage of the free continental breakfast, and in the summer, don't miss the outdoor pool.

For a clean and comfortable stay near the airport, the Hampton Inn Columbia-I-26 Airport is a great choice. Splash around in the outdoor pool, catch up on work in the 24-hour business center, and hop on the convenient shuttle to head home at the end of your stay.

Located just a mile and a half from the Columbia Metropolitan Airport, the Country Inn & Suites by Carlson Columbia Airport is much more than an airport hotel. With large rooms and friendly staff members, this hotel is ideal for families. Start your day with a complimentary continental breakfast, and work out at the on-site fitness center or indoor pool. Relax by the lobby fireplace and use the free Wi-Fi to plan your trip, or use the 24-hour business center to stay connected. Catch a quick ride to the airport on the hotel's complimentary shuttle.

Can’t-Miss Attractions in Columbia, South Carolina

From history to nature to sports, you'll find plenty to love in Columbia. Learn about the state's history at the South Carolina Museum and the South Carolina State House, which both offer family-friendly tours.

Pack a picnic and go for a long walk in the Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park or the Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden, or take the kids for a day of fun at the EdVenture Children's Museum. Catch a game at the Williams-Brice Stadium or the Colonial Life Arena or go out for a bite to eat in the charming Five Points neighborhood.

No matter what time of year you visit, Columbia welcomes you with a range of hotels, beautiful scenery, and centuries of history. Whether you're planning a casual get-together, a formal party, or a corporate event, Columbia's many event-ready hotels offer the ideal location.

'We need a full coven¦nine women¦twelve's better. Do you have any friends? - Characters, Aunt Jett and Aunt Frances to character, Sally Owens, from the movie 'Practical Magic “ These words were written by the famous screenwriter, Robin Swincord, who was best known for his works; Little Women and Memoirs of a Geisha. ­

The Metropolitan of South Carolina

Columbia is the capital city of the state of South Carolina, and ­this beautiful place is full of attractions any tourists would want to see. Along it's wide and scenic avenues are situated the variety of historic sites, ranging from the Antebellum mansion to the home of a former slave who purchased his freedom, along with musical venues, shops, theatres, museums and a vibrant backdrop for it all. You can check out the large number of bars for a great night out in a foreign city, and find great hotels in Columbia for your stay.

The city also has rivers, lakes, parks, canals, and many Columbia hotels with quaint restaurants to simply kick back, relax, and enjoy your vacation. The city also houses the largest children's museum in all of Southern America, which is always fun and recreational if you are traveling with kids. Most people aren't aware of this little fact, but the name ˜Columbia' came from a poetic term used to identify the United States, which was originally derived from the name of the great explorer “ Christopher Columbus.

Finding Yourself an Affordable Get-Away

In metropolitan cities like Columbia, there are often a great number of cheap hotels catering to tourists who would rather spend on experiences than luxurious lodging. If you are on a budget trip, it's always a good idea to look for cheap hotels online, where you can even find good hotels offering amazing seasonal discounts sometimes. If not, you can choose among names like the Super 8, The Inn at Claussen's, Hyatt Place Columbia, or the Comfort Inn Ft. Jackson.

When in Search for a Fancy Accommodation

If you want to experience the finest of the city, a large number of Columbia hotels can offer you all that can make your holiday absolutely perfect. Hotels in Columbia are usually highly hospitable and accommodate your every need. Choose from the famous names like the Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Hilton Garden Inn, Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel, or the Hampton Inn, which are all very classy places to stay.

Try a Local Accommodation

In places like Columbia, you can also find many boutiques and independent hotels catering to tourists from every corner of the world. You will have an even better time if you choose a great boutique to spend your days in Columbia, like the Springhill Suites, The Comfort Inn, the 1425 Inn, or the Congaree Vista. You will be able to enjoy staying in a very nice facility with exceptional services and a welcoming air. When you plan to pay a visit to this city, make sure you do your research so that you don't have to run all over the place to find you were looking for.