Columbia's Neighborhood Hotspots: Main Street, The Vista & Five Points Downtown Columbia (2025)

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Columbia, South Carolina, is more than just a state capital; it's a city with a vibrant, welcoming spirit that reveals itself in its most iconic neighborhoods. While each area has a distinct personality, they are all connected by a shared love for local culture, creativity, and community. From the bustle of a weekly open-air market to the historic charm of a revitalized arts district and the timeless energy of a college town, these walkable urban centers offer something for every interest. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident looking to rediscover your city, this guide is your blueprint to experiencing the real Columbia, one neighborhood at a time.

The Main Street District (Soda City Market) | Columbia, SC

Saturdays from 9 AM to 1 PM, Main Street transforms into Soda City Market, a beloved weekly tradition that is part farmers market, part food festival, and part art walk. It features over 150 rotating vendors selling everything from handcrafted biscuits and global street food to artisan goods. Beyond the market, the Main Street district is a hub for permanent businesses that offer a vibrant mix of dining, drinking, and entertainment.

  • Restaurants & Bars:

    • Bourbon: A popular whiskey bar with a menu of upscale Creole and Cajun cuisine.

    • California Dreaming: A casual American dining experience located in the historic Union Station.

    • Halls Chophouse: An upscale steakhouse known for its quality food and service.

    • Hendrix: A restaurant with a rooftop bar that offers modern American food and great views.

    • Lula Drake Wine Parlour: A cozy and sophisticated wine bar with a European feel.

    • Market on Main: A restaurant, bar, and event space with a popular outdoor patio.

    • MOA Korean BBQ & Bar: A modern spot for Korean barbecue with table grills.

    • Prohibition: A cocktail bar serving eclectic American cuisine and live music.

    • The Grand: A unique venue combining a bowling alley, restaurant, and bar.

    • The Robinson Room: A stylish bar and restaurant with a creative cocktail list.

    • Cantina 76: A casual Mexican restaurant with a modern menu.

    • Smoked: A restaurant specializing in elevated smoked dishes, oysters, and more.

    • Villa Tronco: A long-standing, family-owned Italian restaurant.

    • East Bay Deli: A deli with a large menu of specialty sandwiches, soups, and more.

    • Greek Boys: A popular lunch spot for Greek cuisine.

    • NEW/COMING SOON! Vino Sabor: An upcoming wine bar that will offer boutique wines and sommelier-led tastings.

  • Coffee & Sweets:

  • Shopping & Attractions:

  • Upcoming Hotels:

    • NEW / COMING SOON! Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel: Scheduled to open in September 2025.

The Vista (Congaree Vista District) | Columbia, SC

Once a bustling warehouse district, The Vista is now Columbia’s premier art and culinary corridor. It is the ideal destination for date nights, gallery hopping, and upscale dining.

  • Restaurants & Bars:

  • Shopping & Galleries:

  • New & Coming Soon Hotels (2025)

    • The Lantern Hotel Columbia: This boutique hotel, incorporating the historic Central Fire Station, is scheduled to open in the fall of 2025.

    • The Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista: This hotel will also be in The Vista and is a purpose-driven property that will employ individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It is set to open in the fall of 2025.

Things To Do Soda City in Columbia, SC

Table of Contents

  • Things To Do The Main Street District (Soda City Market)

  • Things To Do The Vista (Congaree Vista District)

  • Things To Do Five Points (University District)

Five Points (University District) | Columbia, SC

As Columbia’s oldest commercial district, Five Points is a vibrant blend of historic charm, boutique shopping, and energetic nightlife. It is a local rite of passage, offering an eclectic mix of vintage stores, classic delis, and modern brunch spots.

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