AllHonors and AwardsPress Release April 15, 2025

ERA Wilder Realty Named Platinum Award Winner by Anywhere Leads

ERA Wilder Realty has been named a Platinum Award winner by Anywhere Leads for its outstanding performance during the past year. Anywhere Leads is a dedicated organization within Anywhere Real Estate Inc., the largest full service residential real estate services company in the United States, focused on delivering high-quality leads to its affiliated brokers and agents in the Anywhere Leads Network.

The Platinum Award is one of three Excellence Awards presented to Premier Network Brokers. Award criteria are based on rigorous scoring and success in a variety of metrics.

“I am excited to congratulate ERA Wilder Realty on earning the prestigious Platinum Award,” said Kristin Aerts, Senior Vice President, Anywhere Brands Strategy and Leads. “Their outstanding performance, rooted in deep local market knowledge, has enabled our customers to achieve their real estate goals. This well-deserved Platinum Award highlights ERA Wilder Realty’s unparalleled dedication and significant impact on the real estate industry.”

“We’re thrilled to receive the Anywhere Leads Network Platinum Award in Columbia, Charleston and Sumter,” said Eddie Wilder, President and CEO, ERA Wilder Realty. “This accolade puts us shoulder to shoulder with best real estate brokers within the Network, and in our industry.”

About the Anywhere Leads Network
Anywhere Leads empowers everyone’s next move, wherever they are in their real estate journey. Home to some of the most well-known brands in the nation, our industry-leading, turnkey real estate expertise helps partners and customers achieve their real estate goals. With over 35 years of experience, we’re with you every step of the way.

Related Links:
https://www.prlog.org/13071863
https://erawilderrealty.com/2025/04/15/era-wilder-realty-named-emerald-award-winner-by-anywhere-leads

AllCompany NewsHonors and Awards November 8, 2024

Congratulations to Our Top Producing Agents October 2024: Celebrating Real Estate Excellence!

Join us in honoring ERA Wilder Realty’s Top Producing Agents for October 2024! From listing leaders to closing champions, these real estate professionals have set the standard for excellence across South Carolina. Read on to learn about their achievements and what makes them stand out

AllCompany News October 16, 2024

Discover the ERA Wilder Realty Difference: Why Our Agents Stay

🏠 Supportive Leadership: Chris Harris praises the availability and support from ERA Wilder Realty’s broker team, highlighting the ease of access and assistance offered on a daily basis.

🤝 Experienced Colleagues: Working alongside some of the industry’s top professionals provides invaluable learning opportunities. Harris emphasizes the immediate and critical feedback he receives, enhancing his performance and expertise.

📞 Direct Access to Executives: The open lines of communication extend up to the president, Eddie Wilder. Harris appreciates the personal and professional support he’s received, reinforcing his loyalty to the company.

Join a team where support and accessibility pave the way for success. Discover more about how ERA Wilder Realty supports its agents in growing their careers.

AllCommunity InformationEventsTop Tips March 21, 2024

Easter 2024 Events: Celebrate Locally in South Carolina

 
As Easter approaches, families across South Carolina are gearing up for a weekend filled with egg hunts, delicious meals, and memorable activities. If you’re looking for ways to celebrate locally, you’re in luck! From Aiken to Pawleys Island, there are plenty of exciting events happening in various cities throughout the state. Let’s dive into some of the highlights for Easter 2024 in South Carolina:
 

1.  Aiken:  Head over to Perry Memorial Gardens for Aiken’s Community Easter Egg Hunt! With thousands of eggs hidden throughout, kids of all ages will have a blast hunting for treasures. Don’t forget to stick around for photos with the Easter Bunny!

Aiken Community Easter Egg Hunt
Date: Saturday, March 23, 2024
Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Perry Memorial Park (720 Abbeville Avenue NE, Aiken)
Cost: FREE!

The event will feature:
-Special appearances by Mayor Teddy Milner & the Easter Bunny
-Refreshments and entertainment
-Photos with the Easter Bunny (bring your own camera)
-Prizes awarded for each age group
-Fire truck egg drop:
-Ages 1 – 3: 11:15 a.m.
-Ages 4 – 6: 11:30 a.m.
-Ages 7 – 10: 11:45 a.m.
For additional information, visit https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/the-community-easter-egg-hunt-returns/

 

2.  Sumter:

Sumter Spring Carnival
Sumter American Legion Fairgrounds
March 29th to April 7th (4pm-12am)
Come join us for a Fun Family Day at the Sumter American Legion Fairgrounds! March 29th to April 7th (4pm-12am).  Featuring a free Easter egg hunt Easter Day and daily entertainment from rock-n-roll circus including acrobatics, magic and a 65ft high dive. $3 Entry. One price, unlimited rides. Learn more here: https://fb.me/e/4l9UQVoGS.

Sumter Springfest
Downtown Sumter, South Carolina
March 23, 2024, from 2:00 – 10:30 PM
Tickets: $25 in advance | $35 day of
Kids 10 and under FREE!
Join us on March 23, 2024 for Sumter Springfest from 2:00 pm – 10:30 pm. There will be an eclectic group of bands offering a wide range of music for all interests. The bands will include, Eddie Rogers and the Sundown Band, the Jake Bartley Band, Lewis Brice, 20 Ride, and Honey & the New Era Band. We’re excited to welcome families to our event! Children aged 10 and under receive complimentary admission, ensuring everyone can join in the fun. For more information & ticket purchases, visit https://sumterspringfest.com/.

Eggstravaganza 2024
Moore Farms Botanical Garden has more EGG-citing fun in store than you can handle. Join us for one of the largest egg hunts in the state!
Saturday, March 30 · 10am – 12pm EDT
Moore Farms Botanical Garden
100 New Zion Road Lake City, SC 29560
Eggstravaganza is one of Moore Farms Botanical Garden’s most EGG-ceptional events of the year. With more than 20,000 eggs hidden throughout the garden, crafts, games, and a surprise visit by the Easter bunny himself, Eggstravaganza is sure to be a hit with any child! We will offer two different egg hunt locations within the garden, separated by age. Upon arrival, children will receive a wristband separating them into one of two different groups – Group A: 4 yrs. and Under OR Group B: 5yrs. Eggstravaganza begins at 10AM with crafts, face painting, and more! Egg hunts will begin PROMPTLY at 11AM. Ticket & Event information here.

 

3.  Charleston: Hop over to Emeline for an egg-stra special Egg Hunt in Emeline’s courtyard and meet the Easter Bunny! This event is family friendly and perfect for children of all ages. Emeline’s Egg Hunt is open to both hotel guests and locals and free to participate but sign up is required. There will be three separate egg hunts by age: 12 pm for ages five and under; 12:30 pm for ages six to nine; and 1 pm for ages 10-12. For the kids, there will be cookies, water and juice to fuel up for the big hunt. For the adults, there will be a full cash bar for you to enjoy beer, wine, cocktails or soda. Please bring your own baskets for the hunt, as limited baskets are provided. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Easter Egg Hunt at Emeline
Sunday, March 24th 12 PM-1:30PM
Emeline’s Courtyard
181 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401
Free event, but sign up is required
Click here for more information

Magnolia Plantation Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Sunday, March 24 from 1-4pm!
3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC, 29414
The event is included with Garden Admission. Crafts, egg hunts, face painting, fairy hair by Sparkle Charleston, food + drink, Easter Bunny photos, live music from Uncle Gary’s Band, and plenty of color in the gardens. Stay a while, bring a picnic blanket, and enjoy a family fun day. All tours will operate as usual.
Purchase garden admission online ahead of time to save $3 per person.
Egg Hunts by age will be between 2-3pm.
https://www.magnoliaplantation.com/magnolia-events/easter24

 

4.  Lexington:

Children’s Easter Egg Hunt at Clinton Sease Farms
Friday, March 29 & Saturday, March 30
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Doors Close @ 10:15 am
$10 – $15.00
**MEET IN PICNIC AREA @ 10:15 am FOR EGG HUNT**
Bring your basket and hop on over to our Easter Egg Hunt!
 
TICKET INCLUDES
Egg Hunt & Gift*(limited to 15 eggs per hunter)
Cow Train
Wagon Rides
Bubble Mania
Playgrounds
Obstacle Course
Photo- Ops with the Easter Bunny
Click here for more information

 

5.  Chapin: Don’t miss the Easter Egg Hunt at Chapin Public Library! Kids can explore the park while searching for hidden eggs and get their photo with the Easter Bunny!

FAMILY PALOOZA: EASTER EGG HUNT
Chapin Branch Library
March 28, 2024 (6-7pm)
129 Columbia Avenue, Chapin (803) 345-5479
Click here for more information

 

6.  Columbia:  Celebrate Easter in NOMA with goodies and the Easter Bunny at Cromer’s P-Nuts

Easter in NOMA
Sat Mar 23 2024 at 12:00 pm to 04:00 pm  Cromer’s P-Nuts, 3030 North Main Street, Columbia, SC
Click here for more information

Downtown Easter Eggstravaganza
Sat Mar 30 2024 at 11:00 am
Roy Lynch Park, 908 Abbeville St, Columbia, SC 29201
Join us and invite your friends to attend Easter Eggstravaganza!
The Easter Egg Hunt will begin right at 11:00am and runs until 1:00pm.
This family friendly event will also include face painting, live music, balloon artist, food trucks and easter goodie bags. The event and activities are free, but you will need money for the food trucks.

Community Egg Hunt – Bring the kids to our Community Egg Hunt
Saturday March 30th from 11am-1pm!
Right Direction Church International, 1705 Shivers Rd, Columbia, SC
We’ll have games, candy and most importantly, EGGS!
Click here for more information

Saluda Shoals Park Egg Hunt
Sat, Mar 23, 2024
Saluda Shoals Park, 6071 Saint Andrews Road
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Join us at the Fields at Saluda Shoals Park for an Egg Hunt
Please remember to bring a basket for your eggs. 
$5 per child;  $7/child day of
Egg Hunts for all ages will start promptly at 11:30.
Children will be separated by ages groups and each age group will be on a different soccer field in the same complex.
Food trucks and vendors will be available from 11:00am-1:00pm.
Space is limited! https://www.icrc.net/event/saluda-shoals-park-egg-hunt

 

7.  Summerville: Head to Cane Bay High School for Summerville’s Easter Eggstravaganza! This family-friendly event features egg hunts, carnival games, and even a visit from the Easter Bunny himself.

Cane Bay Eggstravaganza 2024
Sunday, March 24 · 3 – 6pm EDT
Cane Bay High School
1624 State Road Summerville, SC 29486
It’s our annual Cane Bay Easter Eggstravaganza. Join Church at Cane Bay, The Gaperic Group, and Awaken Church on Sunday, March 24, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Hop on over to Cane Bay High School for an eggciting Egg Hunt, Jump Castles, Gelly Ball (for Purchase), Vendors, and a Food Truck Rodeo to include:

Participant registration is for individuals participating in the egg hunt ages 0-11 yrs old. We will host a sensory-friendly event for children with disabilities regardless of age group. Please only sign up for these tickets if your child is eligible. You are welcome to attend the event without registering if you are not participating in the hunt. Click here for more information.

OLD SANTEE CANAL PARK EASTER EGG HUNT
Date: Mar 23
Time: 10:00 AM – EGGS RUN OUT
900 Stoney Landing Rd, Moncks Corner, SC 29461
Age Limit: Ages 13 and under
Class Size: None
Fee: $5.00 per child (adults are free). Cash only, please!
The park was visited by the Easter bunny and there are brightly colored presents scattered throughout the park! Bring your kids out for an exciting Easter egg hunt while exploring the park at the same time. Each child will have the opportunity to collect 10 eggs which are redeemable for candy. A very limited number of golden eggs will be hidden and redeemable for a special prize. The fee is $5.00 per child and adults are free. The fee includes photos with the Easter Bunny, Face Painting, Petting Zoo, and access to a bounce house. We will also have a designated special needs egg area.
https://live-oldsanteecanalparkv2-2016.cphostaccess.com/Events/index.aspx
 

Eggventure! // A Family Easter Egg Hunt on Easter Weekend
Sat Mar 30 2024 at 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
John McKissick Field at Memorial Stadium, 812 S Magnolia St, Summerville, SC 29483-5809
Every year, we host a family-friendly Community Easter Egg Hunt – now for the second year at McKissick Field. Join us on Saturday, March 30, from 10am-12pm. Egg hunts, crafts, games, fun, and more!
https://sbcentral.life/eggventure

 

8.  Santee: Hop into Easter with an egg-ceptional twist! It’s time for our Easter Egg Drop! Join us for an egg-straordinary event that’ll have you egg-static from start to finish!

2024 Easter Egg Drop
Save the Date: March 23, 2024 | 12PM-3PM
Location: Gilmore Sports Complex in Santee, SC

Here’s what’s cracking:
Watch as thousands of colorful eggs cascade from the sky
Get creative with egg decorating stations
Enjoy games, music, and festive activities for the whole family
For more information and to RSVP, visit www.girlflight.org

 

9.  Pawleys Island: Join us for a Hoppin’ Easter Event at The Hammock Shops Village!

Easter Celebration at The Hammock Shops Village
Date: Saturday, March 30th
Time: 11 am – 3 pm
Click here for more information

Here’s what we have in store:
Meet the Easter Bunny: Have a seat with the Easter Bunny and capture a memorable photo with your little ones.
Face Painting & Balloon Art: Watch your kids’ faces light up with delight as they get their faces painted or receive whimsical balloon creations.
Bouncy Castle: Let the kids bounce to their heart’s content in our inflatable castle.
Easter Train Rides: All aboard the Easter train for a joyful ride around the village.
Easter Egg Hunt: Every store will be handing out Easter eggs, so don’t forget to bring your Easter basket to collect them all!
Easter Egg Painting: Join our local art teacher, Kathy Patrick, for a creative session where kids can paint their own Easter eggs to take home. Click here for more information

Children’s Fair & Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, March 23, 2024
FREE ADMISSION DATE: Saturday, March 23rd, 2024
***(RAIN DATE: Saturday, March 30th, 2024)
TIME: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Huckabee Field located at 499 Spanish Oak Drive, Surfside Beach, SC 29575
Bring the kiddos for a fun-filled afternoon of Easter egg hunting and activities!
Bounce Houses, Petting Zoo, Trackless Train rides, and much more!
For more information visit www.surfsidebeach.org

 

No matter which city you call home, there’s no shortage of Easter fun to be had in South Carolina. Be sure to mark your calendars and gather your loved ones for a weekend filled with joy and celebration. Happy Easter!

 

For more information and event details, visit the following resources:

– City of Aiken Events https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/the-community-easter-egg-hunt-returns/
– Sumter Tourism https://www.sumtersc.gov/events
– Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau https://www.charlestoncvb.com/events/search.php?start_date=&end_date=&category=14&search=easter
– Lexington County Events https://www.lakemurraycountry.com/events/list/?tribe-bar-date=2024-03-30
– Columbia SC https://allevents.in/columbia/2024-03-31?ref=whitemenu#search
– Pawleys Island https://www.hammockshopsvillage.com/play
ALL SOUTH CAROLINA EASTER EGG HUNTS -> HERE

 

Make the most of your Easter weekend by exploring these local events and creating lasting memories with your family and friends!

AllBuyingCommunity InformationCompany NewsEventsSelling March 19, 2024

Save the Date: Company Wide Open House Weekend!

Exciting News!  

We have a special celebration for Buyers and Sellers. Mark your calendars for our Company Wide Masters Themed Open House Weekend  April 6th & 7th.

Join us to explore exclusive properties and discover your dream home. You will also have an opportunity to enter our raffle to win prizes.

Plan your visit to our Open House Weekend on April 6 & 7 from 1 – 4pm.  CLICK HERE for event details and directions:

We can’t wait to see you there!

AllCommunity InformationEventsTop Tips March 12, 2024

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day 2024: 5 Exciting Events Across South Carolina

As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, South Carolina gears up for festive extravaganzas across its diverse cities and charming towns. From lively parades to spirited pub crawls, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s delve into the top St. Patrick’s Day events happening in Columbia, Florence, Lexington, Charleston, and Myrtle Beach.

 

1.  COLUMBIA, SC:

St. Pat’s in Five Points, Columbia SC
Saturday, March 16, 2024 | 7:30 am – 7 pm
Get Your Tickets in Advance HERE
 

Columbia, the vibrant capital city of South Carolina, hosts an array of St. Patrick’s Day festivities. The annual St. Pat’s in Five Points festival is a highlight, featuring live music, food vendors, and the famous St. Pat’s Parade. For more information and event details, visit St. Pat’s in Five Points here.

 

2.  FLORENCE, SC:

Lucky Shamrock Festival
Friday, Mar 15, 2024 at 05:30 – 9:30 pm
Location:
Dargan Street, Florence, SC, United States, 29501

The Lucky Shamrock Festival is a cornerstone fundraising event for the Junior League of Florence, an organization of women who are dedicated to promoting volunteerism. Funds raised at this event will go towards scholarships for high school senior girls to aid with college expenses. So, while you’re enjoying our event this Friday, know that you’re also making someone else’s path towards higher education just a little bit smoother. For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/luckyshamrockfestival

 

3.  LEXINGTON, SC:

9th Annual Shamrock Parade
Sunday, March 17, 2024 | 3 PM
Downtown Lexington, SC
Click here for event information

The 9th Annual Shamrock Parade will roll down Main Street in Lexington on Sunday, March 17 at 3 p.m. Irish Dancers to Choo Choo Trains, Musical Bands, Floats, Pageant Winners and more!

 

4.  CHARLESTON, SC:

St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2024 (FREE)
Saturday, March 16, 2024
8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
King Street, Charleston, SC (map)

Charleston’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a grand affair, attracting visitors from near and far. Marvel at the elaborate floats and enjoy the lively atmosphere in the city’s historic district. After the parade, explore Charleston’s renowned pubs for live music and traditional Irish dancing. For parade route and parking information, visit Charleston St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

*For additional information about events in and around the area, check out  https://charlestonguru.com/guide/st-patricks-day-in-charleston/

 

5.  MYRTLE BEACH, SC:

34th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival
Saturday, March 16, 2024
Main Street, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
Parade: 9 AM. Festival: 11 AM – 4 PM
Free Admission/Free Parking
Event info: https://parks.nmb.us/411/St-Patricks-Day-Parade-Festival

 

South Carolina promises an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day experience in 2024, with celebrations spanning from bustling cities to serene coastal towns. Whether you’re dancing in Columbia’s streets or enjoying the shores of Myrtle Beach, the spirit of the Irish is sure to captivate you. Embrace the festivities, create cherished memories, and join in the merriment across the Palmetto State. Cheers to a fantastic St. Patrick’s Day celebration in South Carolina!

AllBuyingCompany NewsHonors and AwardsPress ReleaseSellingTeamERA March 12, 2024

ERA Wilder Realty Named Platinum Award Winner by Anywhere Leads

Columbia, SC (March 13, 2024) ERA Wilder Realty has been named a Platinum Award winner by Anywhere Leads for its outstanding performance during the past year. Anywhere Leads is a dedicated organization within Anywhere Real Estate Inc., the largest full service residential real estate services company in the United States, focused on delivering high-quality leads to its affiliated brokers and agents in the Anywhere Leads Network.

 

The Platinum Award is one of three Excellence Awards presented to Premier Network Brokers. Award criteria are based on rigorous scoring and success in a variety of metrics.

 

“I am thrilled to congratulate ERA Wilder Realty on their achievement of the Platinum Award.” said Kristin Aerts, VP & Head of Anywhere Leads. “They have shown exceptional results across local market insights and best business practices to help our customers reach their real estate goals. This dedication has rightfully earned ERA Wilder Realty the prestigious Platinum Award and serves as a testament to their unwavering commitment and outstanding contributions to the real estate sector.”

 

“We’re pleased to receive the Anywhere Leads Network Platinum Award,” said Lucinda Brasington, COO, ERA Wilder Realty.  “This recognition puts us in great company with some of the best real estate brokers in our industry.”

 

 

About the Anywhere Leads Network

The Anywhere Leads Network is a nationwide high-performance network of brokers and agents from some of the most recognizable names in real estate with market-leading expertise who help clients and customers realize their true real estate advantage.

 

Contact: Lucinda Brasington, COO, ERA Wilder Realty

Posted on PRLog: https://www.prlog.org/13011306-era-wilder-realty-named-platinum-award-winner-by-anywhere-leads.html

AllMarketingReal Estate EducationSellingTop Tips February 15, 2024

7 Essential Steps to Prepare Your Home for Sale

Are you considering selling your home in South Carolina? Before you rush to list it on the market, taking some proactive steps can help you maximize its appeal and value. Here are seven essential things every homeowner should do before listing their home for sale in the Palmetto State:

 

  1. Curb Appeal Enhancement:

First impressions matter, especially in real estate. Enhance your home’s curb appeal by tidying up the exterior, mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and adding fresh mulch or flowers. A welcoming exterior sets the tone for a positive viewing experience.

 

  1. Declutter and Depersonalize:

Clear out clutter and personal items to create a sense of space and neutrality. Potential buyers want to envision themselves living in the space, so minimize distractions by removing family photos, excessive décor, and unnecessary items.

 

  1. Deep Clean:

A clean home not only looks more attractive but also suggests that it has been well-maintained. Invest in a thorough deep cleaning of your home, paying attention to commonly overlooked areas such as baseboards, windows, carpets, and appliances.

 

  1. Make Necessary Repairs:

Address any obvious maintenance issues or repairs before listing your home. From leaky faucets to cracked tiles, fixing minor problems can prevent them from becoming negotiating points during the sales process and instills confidence in potential buyers.

 

  1. Stage Your Home:

Consider staging your home to showcase its full potential. This may involve rearranging furniture, adding decorative accents, or even hiring a professional stager. Staging helps buyers visualize the possibilities of each room and can lead to quicker, more lucrative offers.

 

  1. Highlight South Carolina’s Charm:

Showcase the unique features and charm of South Carolina living. Whether it’s a screened porch perfect for enjoying mild evenings or proximity to beautiful beaches or historic landmarks, emphasize what makes your home and its location special.

 

  1. Consult with a Real Estate Professional:

Partnering with an experienced real estate agent who knows the South Carolina market can make all the difference. They can provide valuable insights, pricing strategies, and marketing expertise to help you navigate the selling process smoothly and achieve your goals. ERA Wilder Realty can assist you!

 

By following these seven steps, you can ensure that your South Carolina home stands out in a competitive market and attracts the attention of potential buyers early in the listing process. Take the time to prepare your home properly, and you’ll increase your chances of a successful and profitable sale.

AllCompany NewsHonors and AwardsPress Release February 1, 2024

Company News: Making Moves in 2024

2024 is starting off with news makers, movers and shakers. 

 

MORRIS LYLES – named ERA Wilder Realty Northeast Broker in Charge.  For the last 24 years Morris has worked to provide and listen to his clients needs, while providing innovative approaches to marketing real estate and assisting purchasers of real estate in the Midlands of South Carolina. Lyles is the South Carolina REALTORS® (SCR) 2021 past-president.

CAT DEEGAN – named ERA Wilder Realty Midtown Columbia Broker in Charge. A combination of passion for good customer service, coupled with a strong entrepreneurial spirit led Cat to create the ERA Wilder Concierge Aiken Real Estate Family.  

DEBBIE ALLEN – Long time ERA Wilder Realty award-winning agent & broker named Broker in Charge of our new ERA Wilder Realty Pawleys Island office

TONY NALLEY – serves as Vice President of ERA Wilder Broker Services, Nalley was named the ERA Wilder Realty Lake Murray Broker in Charge. 

 

NEW TEAM MEMBER:

MARY MCKIERNAN – welcoming to the team, Mary McKiernan, as ERA Wilder Realty Director of Agent Expansion. 

 

AllCommunity InformationTop Tips January 5, 2024

Unveiling the Hidden Gems: 5 Surprising Facts About Columbia, South Carolina

Are you ready to uncover the secrets of Columbia, South Carolina? This vibrant city holds more than meets the eye, boasting a rich history, diverse culture, and hidden treasures waiting to be explored. Let’s dive into five fascinating facts that will make you see Columbia in a whole new light.

 

  1. The Horseshoe: Nestled within the University of South Carolina’s campus lies a historic gem known as “The Horseshoe.” This horseshoe-shaped lawn is surrounded by elegant antebellum buildings and is steeped in history. But here’s the twist – legend has it that rubbing the horseshoe-shaped stone in the center of the lawn brings good luck to students during exams. Whether you’re a superstitious student or a curious traveler, a stroll through The Horseshoe is a must-do when visiting Columbia.

 

  1. The Congaree Swamp: Did you know that Columbia is home to one of the largest intact expanses of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the United States? The Congaree Swamp National Park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature’s wonderland, with towering trees, diverse wildlife, and tranquil waterways. From kayaking adventures to guided nature walks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this hidden oasis just outside the city limits.

 

  1. Vista’s Art Scene: While Columbia may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of art hubs, the Vista district is a hidden gem for art enthusiasts. This vibrant neighborhood is home to an eclectic mix of galleries, studios, and public art installations. Take a leisurely stroll down Gervais Street, and you’ll discover a treasure trove of creativity around every corner. From contemporary masterpieces to avant-garde exhibits, the Vista’s art scene is sure to leave a lasting impression.

 

  1. Historic Homes: Step back in time and explore Columbia’s rich architectural heritage through its historic homes. From elegant mansions to charming cottages, the city is dotted with beautifully preserved residences that offer a glimpse into the past. Take a guided tour of the Robert Mills House or wander through the gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion – each home has its own story to tell, waiting to be discovered by curious visitors.

 

  1. Palmetto State Pride: Last but certainly not least, Columbia proudly wears its Palmetto State pride on its sleeve. Named after the iconic palmetto tree that adorns the state flag, Columbia embodies the spirit of South Carolina in every way. From savory southern cuisine to lively festivals celebrating local culture, the city’s love for its heritage is evident in every aspect of daily life. So, whether you’re a born-and-raised local or a curious traveler passing through, you’ll find a warm welcome and a heaping dose of southern hospitality in Columbia.

 

In conclusion, Columbia, South Carolina, is a city full of surprises, just waiting to be explored. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, there’s no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. So, why not plan your next adventure to the heart of the Palmetto State and uncover the magic of Columbia for yourself? Here’s the 2024 Columbia, SC Insider’s Guide

 

2024 South Carolina Vacation Guide: Find Your Scene  (downloadable copy)