The four-county South Carolina region of Capital City/Lake Murray Country is the perfect place to stay and play in an area full of world-class fishing, boating, golf, dining and attractions. Located in the central part of the Palmetto State, anchored by Columbia and the counties of Richland, Lexington, Newberry and Saluda, there’s convenient access from Interstates I-77, I-20 and I-26.
Richland County includes the capital city of Columbia, ranked among the “10 best spots for a weekend getaway in the South” and “One of America’s Best New Food Destinations” by Food and Wine. Spend a day on the surrounding three rivers and explore the state’s #1 attraction, Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens. The lush, 170-acre park features scenic river views, spectacular valley overlooks and significant historic landmarks – great proposal and photography spots.
Venture over to Enoree River Winery in charming Newberry, a relaxing, intimate winery that serves local, hand-crafted wines. Sip and savor one another’s company and perhaps pop the question on stunning grounds.
Stay at The Hotel Trundle, a boutique hotel in the heart of Columbia’s Main Street Historic District. A love letter to South Carolina’s Capital City, it magnificently unites three historic buildings, each meticulously restored to highlight the beauty of a bygone era through exposed brick, stamped tin ceiling tiles, deep moldings, and custom wood trim. Or check out The Graduate Columbia, located on the scenic campus of the University of South Carolina. The stylish hotel blends historic grandeur with local charm and pops of prep like Gamecock-inspired headboards.
Looking for the romance of a Bed and Breakfast, and possibly a future wedding venue? The 1425 Inn is a B&B, event and weddings space in downtown Columbia that combines eclectic art and furnishings to wrap guests in Southern hospitality. Nine beautifully renovated bedroom/bath suites honor the rich culture and history of the city and the State. The 1850s National Register Chesnut Cottage Bed & Breakfast has a storied Civil War history, in the form of the original owner’s noted diary. Original features are blended with period-appropriate historic furnishings in the rooms and in the private space for receptions and events.
Toast to your future over a selection of unique small plates at Lula Drake Wine Parlour on Main Street. For a full-course dinner and cocktails, try Smoked, housed in a reimagined 19th century mercantile in Columbia’s Main Street District. Smoked meats and raw oysters are part of a love-infused menu of steaks, seafood and creative culinary adventures. Cap off your night with a superb drink in the speakeasy located downstairs.
For a small-town getaway, head to Newberry, named one of the “Most Charming Small Towns in America” by the Travel Channel, where the streets are lined with picturesque shops and restaurants and nearly every building is on the National Register of Historic Places. Catch a concert, play or comedy at the ca. 1882 grand French Gothic Newberry Opera House. Have a unique and memorable dining experience at the casually elegant Figaro the Dining Room, housed in a former bank. Continue the steps back in time with a stay at Newberry Manor, a four-suite B&B built in 1895 that is also available for weddings and photo shoots.
Connecting the four counties is the Jewel of South Carolina, Lake Murray, with 650 miles of shoreline and plenty of vacation rentals. Here it’s possible to combine a lake getaway with visits to charming small towns as well as big-city attractions in Columbia. For a complete escape, reserve a Lake Murray vacation rental home and rent a boat for a sunset cruise. Explore on Lake Murray’s Dreher Island State Park, a magical 348-acre spot with three islands featuring trails, endless vistas, sunrises and sunsets. Book your stay in one of the many renovated cabins for a truly rustic romantic getaway. Well-behaved pets are allowed in certain areas and accommodations. LakeMurrayCountry.com
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