Places to take a date
The greenway consists of three connected riverwalks that go through the Riverbanks region. All of the walks are lighted, paved and handicap-accessible. The West Columbia Riverwalk starts near Gervais Street and is 4.5 miles in length. The trails are open for both walking and biking. This is a great place to get away from all the noise of downtown Columbia, and there are areas for picnics.
Ye Ole Fashioned Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop Café
7490 Garners Ferry Road
This café started in Charleston in 1972, and has expanded to several locations all over South Carolina. The sandwiches are huge, especially for the price. Ye Ole Fashioned Ice Cream is known for its hot dogs and banana splits, both of which have won awards in the past. Great place for a casual first date.
Mediterranean Tea Room
2601 Devine Street
This is one of the best places in Columbia for Middle Eastern food. It’s near campus and has places for both indoor and outdoor dining. The atmosphere is ok, and they offer good-sized portions. Dinner averages about $15-$20. They also have an extensive wine list.
Za’s Brick Oven Pizza
2930 Devine Street
Za’s is slightly more expensive than most pizza places in Columbia, but the food is worth it. It’s pizza menu probably has the most extensive topping list you’ll find in the area. They also offer sandwiches, soups and salads. Za’s can get crowded during peak hours, but they have a good atmosphere and friendly servers. The restaurant regularly receives awards for its pizza and staff.
Nickelodeon Theater
937 Main Street
Nickelodeon is one of the oldest theaters in Columbia and is South Carolina’s only non-profit art house theater. The Columbia Film Society has run it since 1979. It’s a small, intimate theater — only about 80 seats — and it features great indie films that you won’t find anywhere else in Columbia.
