The West Columbia center is about 1 mile south of Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden and 1 mile south of Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens.
West Columbia has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and early springs. Summers are hot and humid, and though it rains all year, August is the wettest month. Autumn is usually warm. The best time to visit for outdoor warm-weather activities is mid-April to early June and from early September to late October. For warm-weather recreation, it's best to visit West Columbia from early June to mid-September.
Average temperatures in the spring and fall range from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. In the summer, they progress into the 90s. During winter, temperatures are mild and comfortable, ranging between 55 to 65 degrees. West Columbia makes a great Southern United States destination in the winter; hotel rates will be lower, and you can still enjoy the city and outdoor attractions on milder, sunny days.
Some of the best hotel discounts you can find in West Columbia are at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Columbia Airport, where kids stay and eat for free. A full-service restaurant, the Capital City Bar and Grill, serves a hot breakfast buffet plus lunch and dinner daily on-site. Holiday Inn Express offers senior, military, group, and government discounts throughout the year. Rates tend to rise and fall dramatically through the year depending on local happenings. Book in February, June, or November for a more affordable stay.
Green living is key at this Holiday Inn Express, which has been designed to conserve water, feature eco-friendly materials, and meet LEED Gold standards. The free and easy parking includes the added perk of designated spots for those driving hybrid, electric, or fuel-efficient vehicles. The Columbia Metropolitan Airport is only 5 miles away, and the hotel provides a complimentary shuttle for all guests.
Whether you're traveling together for work, school, family, or fun, the beautifully renovated Hampton Inn Columbia I-26 Airport is very good discount hotel option. Hampton Inn offers excellent group rates to help make the trip affordable for all. The hotel also provides friendly rates for military families and other government employees. Wi-Fi and breakfast are included in your stay, as well as access to a fitness center, outdoor pool, picnic area, and round-trip airport shuttle. Book rooms at Hampton Inn in March, August, or December to receive the best group rates.
For an extended stay in West Columbia, one of the best value hotels is the brand-new Residence Inn by Marriott Columbia West/Lexington. Located off U.S. Route 378 near medical centers, Residence Inn boasts easy access to Interstate 26 and downtown Columbia. Be sure to look for discounts if you're 62 years or older or a member of AAA. Corporate, military, and government special rates are available as well. Stay in a fresh one- or two-bedroom suite or a studio king suite with a fully equipped kitchen, living area, ergonomic workspace, and luxury bedding.
Enjoy all the comforts of home and more at this quiet Residence Inn, such as free hot breakfast buffets, morning newspapers, and Wi-Fi. Relax at evening socials with food, drinks, and fun for all guests. Other amenities include a fitness center with modern equipment and TVs, a great outdoor space with a grill, fire pits, and a large swimming pool. Private meeting spaces, free grocery delivery service, and laundry services all add to the value of your stay.
Alternatively, the all-suite Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbia Greystone offers a lot of value for your stay, whether it's for 2 days or 2 weeks. The interior of this hotel is unique, with all the rooms opening onto balconies overlooking the large and spacious center of the hotel. Spacious two-room suites feature two flat-screen TVs, a refrigerator, a microwave, and a wet bar. This location is also pet-friendly, offers a courtesy airport shuttle, and provides a free made-to-order breakfast each day.
Other dining options at Embassy Suites include the on-site Terrace Restaurant and Lounge, plus a complimentary evening social featuring drinks and snacks. Be sure to explore the award-winning Riverbanks Zoo and Garden that's within walking distance. Extra value rates are available for military families, AAA members, and large groups. Prices are highest in April for both individual and group travelers.
In West Columbia, you can find cuisines from around the world, including Thai, Mexican, Greek, Italian, Cajun, and Indian. To get a true taste of the traditional South, though, a trip to a local barbecue place is a must. The Secret Garden is a top choice. This self-serve buffet is known for its fried chicken, fresh vegetables, and mac and cheese. Next is the Carolina Buffet, the gold standard for a Southern barbecue that serves up home-style entrees and desserts. Then there's True BBQ, where you can sink your teeth into the tenderest and most flavorful baby-back ribs in town.
With so many affordable hotels in West Columbia, South Carolina, you'll be sure to find one that fits your needs. Most accommodations have easy access to area highways and are close to businesses, universities, dining, and attractions. Be sure to check out West Columbia's local eateries and truly get a taste of Southern living.
Below are reviews of the city of West Columbia, SC from an actual visitor's perspective.
Great city!
West Columbia is nice!
Southern charm; Ubers readily available. Everyone I interacted with was very hospitable.
Very nice pickleball facilities!
Very welcoming town!
Good!
Plenty of places to eat!
Our room was clean, the staff was pleasant, and the location is perfect Location was ideal for my travel plans.
Proximity to the hospital.
Great Location!
The closeness to Lexington Medical Center, restaurants, and the friendliness of people who live and work in West Columbia.
The Breweries!
Quaint area.
Quaint area!
Food options were available within walking distance.
Visited the zoo and the children's museum with our three year old granddaughter. The are many restaurants to choose from!
Enjoyed seeing all the old buildings being utilized with updating instead of destroying and rebuilding.