WELCOME GAMECOCKS! The Out-of-State Guide to Gamecock Country

Student Success CenterUniversity of South Carolina

1

Twitter:@UofSCOutofState

Dear Out-of-State Student,

Welcome to South Carolina! We are so pleased to have you share your undergraduate experience herewith us. Your time here will not only be a great experience, but you will find yourself being

exposed to so many new and exciting things. Columbia, South Carolina and the University of South Carolina is a great place filled with limitless

opportunities for you to explore our great university, but also our city and state! If you are from the northern, western or midwestern states, the southern experience is one you are sure to enjoy. The great weather, great

food and the southern hospitality makes you feel right at home. It’s important to get involved! Take advantage of all the activities and opportunities available to you here. We have exciting programs and services available just for out-of-state students like you! The University of South

Carolina is your new home away from home, so make your time here exciting and worthwhile. The purpose of this guide is to get you started on your journey and adjustment as well as provide you

with the basic essentials you need to make a successful transition into USC. We wish you all the best and congratulate you on your decision to attend the University of South Carolina. Have a great semester.

Go Gamecocks!

Sincerely,

Paul S. MillardCoordinator of Transfer & Special Student Population Services

Student Success CenterThomas Cooper Library

803-777-4163millardp@mailbox.sc.edu

Transportationpg 3: General Driving Directionspg 4: Airportspg 5: Columbia Charlotte Shuttle & Ridesharepg 6: Highways & Greyhoundpg 7: USC Parking Servicespg 8: The Carolina Shuttle & APO Escort Servicepg 9: Evening Shuttle & Daily Shuttle Routespg 10: Shuttle Routes & Parking Garages Mappg 11: USC Fun FactsThe Essentialspg 12: Auto Care, Banks, Hospitals, Pharmacies, & Student Health Servicespg 13: South Carolina FactsCampus Resourcespg 14: Student Success Centerpg 15-16: Office of the Registrarpg 17: Southern Food

Recreationpg 18: Congaree Vista, Five Points, West Vista, & Main Street/Downtown Columbiapg 19: Village at Sandhill, Forest Acres, & Harbisonpg 20: Southern AttireArts & Culturepg 21: Columbia Museum of Art & Colonial Life Arenapg 22: SC State Museum, Koger Center, & Nickelodeon Theaterpg 23: SC State HouseSports & Outdoorspg 23: Congaree National Parkpg 24: Sesquicentennial State Park & Harbison State Forestpg 25: West Columbia Riverwalk & Cayce Riverwalk pg 26: Lake Murray

2

Table of Contents

3

TransportationGeneral Driving Directions

To Bush River Road: Take Blossom St. west to Huger. Turn right onto Huger and follow to I-126 westbound. Take the exit to Colonial Life Blvd and then turn right onto Bush River Road to reach Dutch Square Mall, Burlington Coat Factory, and Dutch Square Cinema.

To Forest Drive Area: Take Sumter St. north to Taylor St. Turn right onto Taylor St. Follow Taylor east through Allen University and Benedict College. Taylor becomes Forest Drive. Richland Mall is at the intersection of Forest Drive and Beltline. Continue on Forest Drive to find Piggly Wiggly, Trenholm Plaza, Publix, Books a Million, Stein Mart, Fresh Market, Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club, Hobby Lobby, several fast food chains and other specialty shops.

To Harbison Boulevard: Take Blossom St. west to Huger St. Turn right onto Huger and follow to I-126 west bound , which becomes I-26 (Spartanburg). Take Exit 103 onto Harbison Boulevard and follow road around curve to Lowe’s, Home Depot, Columbiana Center, Pier One, Best Buy, Wal-Mart, Circuit City, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Sam’s Club, Carmike Cinemas, and Columbiana Grande.

To Two Notch Road: Take Sumter St. north to Gervais St. Turn right onto Gervais, then left onto Bull St. Bull St. becomes I-277. Take exit I-20 East (Florence), then take Exit #74 off I-20 onto Two Notch Rd. Turn right to go to Lowe’s, Pier One, Best Buy, Columbia Place Mall, and Phoenix Theatres. Take a left to find Target and Home Depot.

4

AirportsStudents who fly home have the options of three midsize airports in the state of South Carolina and one major airport in Charlotte, NC.

The Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE): CAE is the largest airport in the City of Columbia and annually serves more than 1.2 million passengers. The airlines that fly from Columbia are American Eagle Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Air Lines, and US Airways.

The Greenville Spartanburg International Airport: GSP is the second busiest airport in the state of South Carolina and serves more than 1.75 million passengers. The airlines that fly from GSP are Allegiant, American Eagle Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and US Airways.

The Charleston International Airport: CHS is the busiest airport in the state of South Carolina and serves over 2 million passengers annually. The airlines that fly from CHS are American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, US Airways, and Jet Blue.

The Charlotte-Douglas International Airport:The major airport located close to Columbia is the Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT). Charlotte-Douglas International Airport is the sixth busiest airport in the world offering more than 140 nonstop destinations around the globe. CLT is US Airways’ largest hub and the second largest airport on the East Coast. All other major airlines are also represented at this airport.

5

Columbia Charlotte & RideshareThe Columbia Charlotte Shuttle provides door-to-terminal passenger transportation between USC and the Charlotte Airport. The fares for adults are $49 and children (12 and younger) are $25. Fares are per person and each way. To make a reservation call 803-783-5123 or toll free at 866-284-3018. If you reach their voicemail, please leave a message. To visit their webpage please visit www.ColumbiaCharlotteShuttle.com. You can also email them at service@ColumbiaCharlotteShuttle.com.

UsingRideshareTo use the USC affiliated Rideshare, please follow

this link: https://offcampushousing.sc.edu and use your username & password to log in.

Once you have logged in, select “Message Boards”.

Once you have selected Message Boards, select Rideshare.

You can either type your destination into the search box and select “Go” …. or you can select “Add New Post”.

If you selected “Add New Post” please fill out the required fields with as a much detailed information as you can. You want to make sure you include:

1. Your destination 2. How much you are willing to pay or contribute to gas funds 3. Your contact information (email and/or cell phone number) 4. The date in which you need the ride 5. Location of pick up & drop off 6. Whether or not you need a return ride to get back to campus 7. And lastly, make sure you click SAVE.

If you experience any technical difficulties, please contact the Office of Off-Campus Student Services by either calling (803) 777-3366 or emailing saocss@mailbox.sc.edu.

SSC RIDSH1 5/13

2

1

34

5

Student Success CenterUniversity of South Carolina

HighwaysColumbia is connected to many highways including Interstate 20, Interstate 26, Interstate 77, Interstate 85, Interstate 95, Interstate 126, and Interstate 277.

Interstate 20 is a major thoroughfare cutting across the state of South Carolina, linking the state with important transportation and business hubs to the north, west, and south including Atlanta, Georgia, Charlotte, North Carolina (via Interstate 77), and Washington, D.C. (via Interstate 95).

Interstate 26 is a South Carolina interstate highway running generally east–west from Landrum, in Spartanburg County, to U.S. Route 17, in Charleston, South Carolina. It is the longest interstate highway in South Carolina.

Interstate 77 is a north-south interstate highway that covers 91.2 miles (146.8 km) in the state of South Carolina, and extends from the national southern terminus at an interchange with Interstate 26 near Columbia, north to the North Carolina state line near Rock Hill and Charlotte, NC.

Interstate 85 runs northeast-southwest through Upstate South Carolina connecting regionally with Atlanta, Georgia and Charlotte, North Carolina.

Interstate 95 is a major interstate highway running along the East Coast of the United States from Florida to Maine. In South Carolina, I-95 runs approximately parallel to the Atlantic Ocean shore, although about 50 miles (80 km) inland, from Hardeeville in the south to Dillon in the northeast.

6

GreyhoundThe Greyhound bus station is located at 2015 Gervais St. in Columbia. To reach the bus station you may call their main line at 803-256-6465. The hours of operation are subject to change, so please call to verify hours before making travel arrangements.

7

University of South CarolinaParking ServicesParking Services is responsible for the registration of all vehicles parked on campus and the implementation of all policies and regulations governing parking on campus.

Parking on campus is available to all students, faculty, and staff whose vehicle displays a valid parking permit. Permits may be obtained from Parking Services. A valid permit allows the bearer the privilege of parking on campus. Unless otherwise specified, the permit does not guarantee a parking space. Inability to locate a legal space in a parking area does not justify incorrect parking. Handicap parking permits may be obtained by providing appropriate medical documentation.

The University assumes no responsibility for the care or protection of any vehicle or its content while it is parked on campus. Valuables should not be left in parked vehicles at any time. Vehicles should be locked when not in use. Thefts or damages that occur should be immediately reported to the University Police Department for investigation (803- 777-4215).

Parking Services is located in the Pendleton Street Garage at the corner of Pickens and Pendleton streets. Office hours are 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. For more information about parking please visit http://www.sc.edu/vmps/park.html or contact parking services at (803) 777–5160.

8

The Carolina ShuttleThe Carolina Shuttle operates Monday through Friday, 7:30 am - 5:30 pm. The Evening Shuttle operates from 6:00 pm - 12:30 am. The system operates during the Fall and Spring semesters, with limited operation during the summer, reading days, and holidays. Service is free to all USC students, faculty, and staff. Shuttle/Parking maps are available at Parking Services, the Askus information desk at the Russell House, and at Vehicle Management.

Commuting students are encouraged to park in lots located at the Coliseum, Bates Area, and 1600 Hampton then ride the Shuttle to central campus.

The Carolina Shuttle stops only at locations indicated by the color coded dots on the Shuttle map and on the online Carolina Shuttle and Parking Map. Each location is serviced by the indicated color dots. These color dots correspond to colored signs displayed on the exterior of the buses and at shuttle stops.

The Carolina Shuttle does not run on a set schedule. Buses will arrive at the designated stops approximately every fifteen minutes.

APO Escort ServicesAPO Escort service is sponsored by the Iota Mu Chapter of Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity.

As a service to the University community, APO provides escort transportation anywhere on campus. APO helps make night travel safer by operating a van which picks up and drops off people during the late night hours. All students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to take advantage of this free service.

This service is available from Sunday through Thursday, 8:00 pm - 12:00 am. To arrange a pickup, just call 777-DUCK (3825). On occasions when APO is not available, the University Police (777-4215) can assist you in returning to your car or residence hall safely.

The APO website can be found athttp://apoiotamu.tripod.com/escort.html.For more information about shuttle services, please visit http://www.sc.edu/vmps/shuttle.html#top or contact (803) 777-1080.

9

Daily Shuttle Routes

Coliseum, Discovery Plaza Garage, CLS/Honors College Res. Hall, PE Center, Nursing

Greek Village, Coliseum, Discovery Plaza Garage, Horseshoe, Pendleton Garage, Capstone/Moore School of Business

Academic Enrichment Center, Bates, Band/Dance, CLS/Honors College Res. Hall, Horseshoe/Health Sciences, Horizon Garage, Swearingen Engineering

Bates, Nursing, Horizon Garage, Swearingen Engineering

Barnwell Parking Lot, Capstone/Moore School of Business, Nursing, NAC, McMaster, 1600 Hampton

Coliseum, Law School, Horseshoe, Discovery Garage

Coliseum, Music/Discovery Plaza Garage, Russell House, Nursing, Capstone/BA, Maxcy, Byrnes, CLS/Honors College Res. Hall, Swearingen, Academic Enrichment Center, Roost, Bates, PE Center, Greek Village, Wellness Center

Evening ShuttleThe Evening Shuttle consists of two 15-passenger vans running from 6:00 pm - 12:30 am when classes are in session.

Stops are at the Coliseum, Russell House, Nursing, BA/Capstone, Maxcy, Byrnes Center, Towers/CLS, Swearingen, the Roost, Bates, the PE Center/South & East Quad area, and the Greek Village. A white strobe light and a color scheme related to the Carolina Shuttle System will identify the Evening Shuttle. Students, faculty, and staff can wait inside residence halls or academic college lobbies and see the shuttle from a secure area.

Shuttle Routes & Parking Garages

10

Parking Garages &Reserved Spaces

Students, faculty and staffmay apply for paid

reserved parking for the following locations.

Pendelton Street GarageBlossom Street Garage

Senate Street GarageBull Street Garage

Horizon GarageDiscovery Plaza Garage

11

USC Fun Facts

USC’s Student Population:

Cocky is USC’s official mascot and was

introduced in 1980 to replace his father, Big Spur.

The Clemson rivalry began in the 1880s. Every year there is a Tiger Burn inpreparation for the game.

The University of South

Carolina was founded in 1801.

Tips for Success“USC is a leader

at providing opportunities for

students to engage in research and

study abroad and community service

and internships outside the classroom.

I encourage you to find out more about the options available to you through the

USC Connect office.”

- Kevin ElliottFaculty Principal, Green Quad

Associate Professor of Philosophy

55% in-state

45% out-of-state

Auto CareAdvance Auto Parts 787-1177 4731 Devine StAuto Zone 256-6818 3601 Main StComplete Car Care 799-7433 1628 Gervais StDave’s Transmission 799-0250 2146 Sumter StFrank’s Car Wash 787-8383 4741 Forest DrJiffy Lube 782-9999 4414 Devine StThree Man Auto 748-0932 1215 Rosewood Dr

BanksBank of America 929-5671 1301 Gervais St 765-8335 2111 Devine StBB&T 251-1610 3401 Forest DrCarolina Collegiate 227-5555 710 Pulaski StFirst Citizens 733-2020 1230 Main St 612-4444 1015 Lady StNational Bank of SC 292-2010 1221 Main StPalmetto Citizens 732-5000 1320 Washington StRegions Bank 779-3836 1010 Gervais StSC Bank & Trust 771-2265 520 Gervais StWells Fargo 253-6753 930 Assembly St 253-6734 705 Saluda Ave

The EssentialsHospitalsPalmetto Health Baptist1330 Taylor StreetColumbia, SC 29220(803) 296-2273palmettohealth.org

Providence Hospital2435 Forest DriveColumbia, SC 29204(803) 256-5300providencehospitals.com

Palmetto Health Richland 5 Medical Park DriveColumbia, SC 29203(803) 434-7000palmettohealth.org

PharmaciesCVS Pharmacy:900 Assembly StreetColumbia, SC 29201(803) 212-7016cvs.com

Walgreens Pharmacy:1941 Blossom StreetColumbia, SC 29205(803) 212-1015walgreens.com

Student HealthServices1409 Devine St.Columbia, SC 29208Phone: (803) 777-3175General Medicine Care, Women’s Care, Counseling Services, Psychiatric Services, Laboratory,On-Campus Pharmacy, and much more!

12

Tips for Success“USC is a leader

at providing opportunities for

students to engage in research and

study abroad and community service

and internships outside the classroom.

I encourage you to find out more about the options available to you through the

USC Connect office.”

- Kevin ElliottFaculty Principal, Green Quad

Associate Professor of Philosophy

One of the original 13 colonies.

Tips for Success“The Student

Success Center offers course-specific

academic support for undergraduate

students enrolled in many courses at USC.

Data suggests that students who attend

our Supplemental Instruction and Peer Tutoring programs

early and often generally outscore

their peers who do not attend.”

- Dana JablonskiAssistant Director for

Peer Learning

13

SouthCarolinaFacts

SC is named for King Charles I of England.

SC was the 8th stateto ratify the Constitution.

We are the Peach State - South Carolina grows the 2nd more peaches in the US, behind

California and ahead of Georgia.

Campus ResourcesStudent Success Center (SSC)Located on the Mezzanine level of the Thomas Cooper Library, the SSC is your central location for student and academic support. Three satellite offices are also available in Patterson Hall, Bates House, and Columbia Hall.

The services we offer are Supplemental Instruction, Peer Tutoring, Cross College Advising, Academic Coaching & Engagement, Financial Literacy, Transfer and Veteran Services, and Out-of-State Student Resources. To schedule an appointment with one of our appointment based services, please visit us online at www.sc.edu/success. Please check the website for up-to-date information, schedules, hours, and locations.

If you have further questions, please call803-777-1000. Student Success CenterUniversity of South Carolina

Tips for Success“The Student

Success Center offers course-specific

academic support for undergraduate

students enrolled in many courses at USC.

Data suggests that students who attend

our Supplemental Instruction and Peer Tutoring programs

early and often generally outscore

their peers who do not attend.”

- Dana JablonskiAssistant Director for

Peer Learning

Office Hours8:30am - 5pm

Service Hours9am - 9pm

14

15

Office of the RegistrarLegal ResidencyThe University of South Carolina is required by state law to determine the resident classification of applicants. The initial determination of one's resident status is made at the time of admission. The determination made at that time, and any determination made thereafter, prevails for each subsequent semester until information becomes available that would impact the existing residency status and the determination is successfully challenged. The burden of proof rests with the students to show evidence as deemed necessary to establish and maintain their residency status.

Legal Residency Requirements for Fee and Tuition PurposesFor information concerning South Carolina Legal Residency Requirements visit http://www.che.sc.gov/StudentServices/Residency/Right_res.htm.

Application for Change of Resident StatusPersons applying for a change of resident classification must complete a residency application and provide supporting documentation at least four to six weeks prior to the start of classes for the semester for which status is requested. The burden of proof rests with those persons applying for a change of resident classification. Persons must show required evidence to document the change in resident status.

All requests for refunds are limited to the current academic year for which the refund is requested. Refunds may be requested any time during the academic year in which the applicable term occurs. Residency applications must be completed before the end of the academic year for which a refund is requested. The academic year begins with the fall term and ends with the last summer term. For an application for resident status see the Legal Residency Application (PDF) by visiting the following website:http://www.sc.edu/bursar/LegalResidencyApplication.pdf.

16

Inquiries and AppealsInquiries regarding residency requirements and residency determinations should be directed to the Legal Residency Office, University Of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208. Reach the Legal Residency Office at (803) 777-4060.

Any person, following a decision on his or her resident classification, may appeal the decision to the University Committee on Legal Residence. The committee, however, is bound by the same laws and regulations as the residency officials, so its purpose is only to review the facts and details of any case brought before it to evaluate the correctness of the decision may by residency officials. Neither the committee nor residency officials may waive the provisions of the law or regulations.

Persons who appeal residency decisions must provide a letter to the Legal Residency Office informing the office that they want to appeal the decision made by the residency official. The letter must also include a summary of the person’s situation and a statement which specifies the residency provision under which the person feels he or she qualifies to pay in-state fees. The director of legal residency will then schedule a hearing as soon as possible for the committee to hear the appeal.

17

Southern Food

Tips for Success“It’s always important to maintain a healthy

diet and exercise regimen but it’s

especially helpful when adjusting to new

climates, locations and lifestyles. The

University has many resources for health

and wellness through the Student Health Services office. Visit

their website for information related to a wide range of topics, from nutrition to stress

management.”

- Jody PrittDirector of International

Student Services

BBQSandwich

Grits

Sweet Tea

Cornbread

RecreationCongaree Vista: This former warehouse district has transformed its railroad stations and textile mills into a lively arts community with a creative dining scene. You can discover delicious food at Motor Supply and fresh seafood at Blue Marlin, a historical trip to the State Museum, glass artwork at One Eared Cow Glass and sweet cupcakes from Cupcake.

Five Points: This area has retained its character as a laid-back bohemian district since it first emerged more than 75 years ago. East of Five Points, Devine Street is a collection of upscale specialty shops and restaurants. You can find fashionable accessories at Wish boutique, public group runs led by Strictly Running, live music at a Five Points Pub, chicken and grits from Yesterday’s and a pour-over espresso from Drip coffee.

West Vista: This down-home area offers tons of antique shops, great burger joints and lush parks, just across the Congaree River from downtown. Visitors can enjoy the Boardwalks in Granby Park, bargains at the Old Mill Antique Mall, the Ndoki Forest at the Riverbanks Zoo and hangover hashbrowns from Café Strudel.

Main Street/Downtown Columbia: Main Street is quickly becoming the hip part of town as condos, new restaurants and nightlife hot spots move in and cater to a youthful new set of residents. Visitors to downtown will find special exhibitions at the Columbia Museum of Art, the bronze stars on the South Carolina State House, the weekly local Soda City Market on the 1500 block, great views at the Rooftop Lounge at the Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel, an indie movie at the Nickelodeon Theatre and penny candy from Mast General Store.

*columbiacvb.com

18

Tips for Success“It’s always important to maintain a healthy

diet and exercise regimen but it’s

especially helpful when adjusting to new

climates, locations and lifestyles. The

University has many resources for health

and wellness through the Student Health Services office. Visit

their website for information related to a wide range of topics, from nutrition to stress

management.”

- Jody PrittDirector of International

Student Services

Riverbanks Zoo is rated one of the top 10 zoos

in the nation!

Did you know?

Village at SandhillThis community is one of those new lifestyle communities that are popping up all over the country. Residents can live, work and enjoy a mix of national and locally owned shops and restaurants - all within a comfortable walking distance. You can enjoy Sushi at Red Bowl Asian Bistro, designer dresses at Carolina Couture, and a facial from Wisteria Salon and Spa.

Forest AcresLocated in the central midlands of South Carolina, our community offers an exceptional quality of life founded in friendliness, faith, and civic pride. Visitors enjoy the infamous mac n’ cheese from Tombo Grille, an elegant Italian meal from Rosso Trattoria and shopping in Trenholm Plaza.

HarbisonThis bustling section of Lexington County, which includes the towns of Irmo and St. Andrews, has endless dining, hotel, and shopping options. Visitors will find bike riding across the Dam, a full day of shopping at the Columbiana Mall, kayaking at Saluda Shoals Park, and historical law enforcement artifacts at The South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Hall of Fame.

*columbiacvb.com

19

Tips for Success“Did you know that most employers are

expecting 2-3 career-related experiences before graduation?

Whether it’s exploring careers, getting

relevant experience before graduation, or living out your career

goals, the Career Center is here to help.

We have a Career Development Coach assigned to students

in each major. Contact your coach to explore

the possibilities!”

- Kesha EntzmingerCareer Development Coach

Southern Attire

20

Sun Dresses

Bow Ties

Croakies

Sperrys

21

Columbia Museum of ArtThe Columbia Museum of Art is South Carolina’s premier international art museum with extraordinary collections of European and American fine and decorative art that spans centuries. Founded in 1950, the museum opened its new building on Main Street in 1988 by transforming an urban department store into a sleek and airy, light-filled space with 25 galleries. The collections include masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance and Baroque period from the Samuel H. Kress Collection, works by significant furniture and silver makers, as well as modern and contemporary art. Of particular interest are Sandro Botticelli’s Nativity, Claude Monet’s The Seine at Giverny and art glass by Louis Comfort Tiffany. The museum also offers changing exhibitions from renowned museums and educational programs that include group and public tours, lectures, films, and concerts.

1515 Main StreetMain at Hampton StreetColumbia, SC 29201Hours: Tuesday - Friday 11 am - 5 pm;First Friday of every month 11 am - 8 pm (until 5 pm in December); Saturday 10 am - 5 pm; Sunday Noon - 5 pm

Arts & CultureColonial Life ArenaThe Colonial Life Arena is the pride of South Carolina with 18,000 seats, 41 suites, four club suites and the McGuire Room, a full service hospitality room that has a capacity of 300. The state-of-the-art facility also features plush seating, a technologically advanced sound system, a four-sided video scoreboard and a one-of-a-kind selection of tasty, unique concession foods that delight fans of all ages. The Colonial Life Arena is the new home of men’s and women’s Gamecock basketball as well as host to a wide variety of concerts, family shows, various events, and trade shows.

801 Lincoln StreetColumbia, SC 29208

Phone: (803) 799-2810Fax: (803) 343-2150

Phone: (803) 576-9200Fax: (803) 576-9299

*columbiacvb.com

22

South Carolina State MuseumThe South Carolina State Museum is a comprehensive museum, with extensive exhibits in the disciplines of art, science and technology, cultural history and natural history. In one stop it encompasses all that South Carolina was, is and can be. It is South Carolina’s largest museum and one of the largest in the Southeast. School tours are free for state schools if advance arrangements are made.

301 Gervais StreetColumbia, SC 29201Phone: (803) 898-4921Fax: (803) 898-4969

Hours: Open Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 5 pm; Sunday 1 -5 pm; Open Mondays - Memorial Day through Labor Day; Closed Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

Koger Center for the ArtsThe Koger Center for the Arts is USC’s and Columbia’s performing arts center. The Koger Center for the Arts can seat over 2,400 guests. Koger Center produces a performing arts series each year titled “Koger Presents.” Koger Center for the Arts is home to several local arts groups.

1051 Greene StreetColumbia, SC 29201Phone: (803) 777-7500Fax: (803) 777-9774

The Nickelodeon TheaterThe Columbia Film Society’s 77-seat Nickelodeon Theatre provides an intimate setting for international and independent cinema, and shows over 125 films each year. The Columbia FilmSociety/Nickelodeon Theater presents the Columbia Jewish Film Festival, African-American/International Film Festival, Native American Film Festival, Latin American Film Festival, and Southern Circuit Touring Filmmaker Series.

1607 Main StreetColumbia, SC 29201Phone: (803) 254-8234Tollfree: Film Info 254-3433Fax: (803) 254-0299

*columbiacvb.com

23

Congaree National ParkThe Congaree National Park offers hiking, primitive camping, bird watching, picnicking, canoeing, kayaking, and nature study. A ranger is provided for all interpretive walks and canoe tours. The 22,000 acre National Park protects the largest intact tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the United States. The park contains some of the tallest trees in Eastern North America with one of the highest canopies in the world, broad bio-diversity, and old-growth forest. The park is recognized as an International Biosphere Reserve, National Natural Landmark, Wilderness Area, and Globally Important Bird Area. Visitors are encouraged to explore Congaree at any time, as the park's trails remain open 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.

100 National Park RoadHopkins, SC 29061Hours: Harry Hampton Visitor Center Hours:9 am - 5 pm, 7 days per week, year-round (Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, & New Year's Day)

Sports & OutdoorsSouth Carolina State HouseThe State House Portrait & Art CollectionThe South Carolina State House and grounds of the Capitol Complex are home to many beautiful portraits, monuments, plaques and other works of art. These works honor the many people and events that are an important part of the history of South Carolina and the United States. You can take a Self-Guided tour of the State House Grounds by picking up a tour brochure at the Columbia Regional Visitors Center. Guided Capitol Building tours are free with reservation any time Monday through Friday, as well as the first Saturday of each month. The first tour on Saturday leaves at 9:30 am and begins on the half hour. Call (803) 734-2430 to make your reservation.

1100 Gervais StreetColumbia, SC 29201Phone: (803) 734-2430Hours: Building Hours: Monday - Friday 9 am - 5 pm; Gift Shop Hours: Monday - Friday 9 am - 4 pm,First Sat. of each month, 9:00am - 4:30pmFax: (803) 734-2439

Phone: (803) 776-4396Fax: (803) 783-4241

*columbiacvb.com

24

Harbison State ForestBounded along its northeastern edge by the Broad River, Harbison Environmental Education Forest encompasses 2,177 acres of forestland only nine miles from downtown Columbia. The unique urban location makes Harbison one of the largest public greenspaces inside the city limits of a metropolitan area in the eastern United States. Over sixteen miles of roads and trails weave through the pine and hardwood forest, crossing wandering streams and descending through leafy glades to the Broad River. Harbison Environmental Education Forest’s emphasis is on natural resource education, providing demonstrations of forestry practices as well as recreation. Visitors are encouraged to come, enjoy, and even volunteer to help with the development of this valuable urban forest.

5600 Broad River RoadColumbia, SC 29210Phone: 803-896-8890Fax: 803-896-8896

Sesquicentennial State ParkThis 1,419-acre park, situated in the middle of the sandhills region, features a beautiful 30-acre lake surrounded by trails, picnic areas, and a campground. The park's proximity to downtown Columbia and three major interstate highways attracts both local residents and travelers. Sesquicentennial is often the site of family reunions and group campouts. Interpretive nature programs are a major attraction to the park.

The park also contains a two-story log house, dating back to the mid 1700s, which was relocated to the park in 1969. This house is believed to be the oldest building still standing in Richland County. The park was originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Evidence of their craftsmanship is still present today.

9564 Two Notch RoadColumbia, SC 29223Phone: (803) 788-2706Park Office Hours: 11 am - 12 noon &4 - 5 pm everyday (including weekends)Fax: (803) 788-4414

*columbiacvb.com

25

West Columbia RiverwalkThe West Columbia Riverwalk, 4.5 acres of the Three Rivers Greenway, is located between Gervais Street and Knox Abbott Drive. Its half-mile path accommodates all levels of physical access including baby carriages and wheelchairs. The West Columbia Riverwalk groundbreaking took place in February 2002. This was a major step forward in a joint effort by the City of West Columbia and the River Alliance’s plan to protect our regions' rivers and provide recreational benefits to collective communities.

The ceremony marked the beginning of the West Columbia Riverwalk construction. The Riverwalk is a physical connection to the Cayce and Columbia portions of the system, providing a true residential riverfront next to the New Brookland Mill Village and Guignard neighborhoods.The amphitheater is a wonderful gathering place for concerts and events. Paths are open for walking, running, bicycling, and gazing at natural beauty. A canoe landing is also available at the New Orleans Restaurant located on Alexander Road in West Columbia.

The bathroom looks like an 1750s River Inn, recalling the ferry crossing on the old colonial road from Camden to Augusta.

121 Alexander StreetWest Columbia, SCPhone: (803) 765-2200

Cayce RiverwalkOpen daily from dawn till dusk, this river walk provides beautiful views of the Congaree River, West Columbia, and Columbia. The park is dog, bike, and in-line skate friendly and offers bridges, boardwalks, overlooks, bank fishing, 24-hour security, emergency call boxes, parking, and restroom facilities. The lighted eight-foot-wide concrete paths and ADA requirements and can accommodate all levels of physical access including baby carriages and wheelchairs.

Axtell Drive at Naples AvenueCayce, SC 29033Phone: (803) 796-9020

*columbiacvb.com

26

Lake MurrayLake Murray offers miles and miles of boating pleasure for all types of boaters. Whether you enjoy canoeing through calm waters, navigating your sails through cutting winds, or leisurely cruising in your fishing boat, beautiful Lake Murray is the place for you. Lake Murray is a vast area of water covering 78 square miles and approximately 50,000 acres of land. At its widest point, it is 41 miles long and 14 miles wide, providing storage for 763 billion gallons of water.

Public Swimming at Lake Murray Park information:Enjoy our swimming area this April - SeptemberMon - Fri: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.;Sat - Sun: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.Cost: $3/per carPicnic tables, covered areasQuestions? Call (803) 359-9245

Columbia, SC 29212Phone: (803) 781-5940Hours: Monday - Friday 9 am - 5 pm;Saturday 10 am - 4 pm; Sunday 1 - 5 pmTollfree: 866-SC JEWELFax: (803) 781-6197

Brown MarineEnjoy Lake Murray for the day! Pontoon rentals daily from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. Boats are located at Putnam's Landing.

126 Hilton Run CourtChapin, SC 29036Phone: (803) 345-6222

*columbiacvb.com

SSC OSG 7/13

We hope this guide will serve you well and that you are excited to join

the Gamecock family in Columbia, SC.

Thanks to South Carolina Department ofParks, Recreation and Tourism for all

“Did You Know?” facts.

Go Gamecocks!