West Columbia is a great place for first dates as it has lots of outdoor places to explore as well as bars, restaurants and cafes to choose from. Located on the banks of the Congaree River, West Columbia is a small town in South Carolina just north of the state Capital. It has a relaxed, small-town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the riverside makes it a popular spot for romantic dates. It is well connected to the adjacent cities of Columbia and Irmo and offers a range of activities to do.
1. West Columbia parks and places for a walk on a first date
West Columbia's riverside setting makes it home to some stunning parks and trails you can visit and enjoy a walk together. The Congaree Riverwalk is a four-mile path along the banks of the Congaree, with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy views of the river. Cayce Riverwalk Park is another great spot, with a 1.5-mile path for walking and biking along the beautiful Saluda River. Or if you'd prefer to explore the Great Outdoors, Harborwalk Park has plenty of trails to explore and a boardwalk along Lake Murray.
2. Places for a coffee date in West Columbia
If you're looking for a more casual first date, there are plenty of cozy cafes in West Columbia. Drip Coffee Roasters + Cafe is a great spot for a coffee date, with a range of freshly roasted coffees and tasty baked goods to enjoy with your date. The Coffee Joint serves lots of different brews, as well as specialty milkshakes and homemade desserts. And Red Oak Cafe has a relaxed atmosphere and a good selection of teas, coffees and snacks.
3. West Columbia galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
If you're looking for a more cultured first date, there are plenty of places to visit in West Columbia. The South Carolina State Museum is a great place to start, with a range of exhibits and collections dating back to 1789. The Art Factory is a wonderful venue to explore, with a collection of contemporary art from local and international artists. And the McKissick Museum has a range of exhibits about South Carolina's cultural and natural history.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in West Columbia
If you're looking for a more lively first date, West Columbia has plenty of venues for live music and entertainment. The Music Farm is an iconic venue for live music, with a range of bands and singers performing throughout the year. The Congaree Vista Theater also has a great lineup, with a variety of plays, musicals and comedy shows to watch. And for a more intimate experience, the Nickelodeon Theatre is a great place to watch independent films.
5. West Columbia pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
If you want to enjoy some drinks and food on your first date, West Columbia has lots of good pubs and bars to choose from. The Whiskey Bar is one of the best places for a first date drink, with an impressive selection of whiskey and craft beers. The British Bulldog is also a great spot, with a cozy atmosphere and delicious pub food. And The Brick is a good place for a casual dinner and drinks, with burgers, tacos and a good range of beers.
6. Other date ideas to try in West Columbia
For a unique first date experience, there are plenty of other things to do in West Columbia. Duck Creek is great for fishing, kayaking and canoeing, or for a more relaxed day out you can try a winery tour at the Congaree Winery. And for something a bit more active, you can visit Ultimate Laser Tag for some fun and competitive laser tag. Or if you're feeling brave, take your date on a haunted tour of the old Cotton Mill.
