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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at South Carolina chapter.

Spring break is always the highlight of a student’s spring semester. Most travel to local beaches or go abroad. But if you are stuck working in Columbia over spring break, here is a local guide to having a fun filled break — Cola style!

  1. Want to feel like you are in Europe and just finished sightseeing? Maybe with fresh pastries? Visit the Gourmet Shop in Five Points. Dine outside during the warm spring break or take it to go and binge Emily in Paris!
  2. Always wanted to travel to Africa to experience the beauty of nature and wildlife? Riverbank Zoo and Gardens offers you both (Plus, you get to see the cutest animals)!
  3. Instead of going to the gym for exercise, visit Sesquitennial State Park. You can even bring a furry friend to keep you company or make it an overnight experience by camping!
  4. Remember the early 2000s when some restaurants had arcade games and you begged your parents to let you play after dinner? Me too. Thankfully, you can experience this again at Frankie’s Fun Park in Irmo, S.C. With over 50 arcade games, go-kart racing and laser tag, you can relax and have fun just like you did as a kid.
  5. One thing I always count on is forgetting the perfect outfit for dinner. If you are like me and need a new outfit for any occasion, then shopping at Columbiana Mall is the way to go (Plus, stores have huge spring break discounts).
  6. Experience southern hospitality and fresh markets every Saturday at Soda City on Main Street. You can get fresh fruit for a charcuterie board, flowers to show some self-love and a delicious lunch with so many options to choose from. 
  7. Can’t travel to the beach until the summer, but want to feel water and sand between your toes? Visit Lake Murray (approximately 30 minutes from Columbia)! With many locations to swim, tan and enjoy nature, you can get that beach fix.
  8. Lastly, if you just want to get away from reality for a few hours, then you should take advantage of Regal Columbiana Grande. Have time to kill? Watch Avatar: The Way of Water (three hours of fun!!). And, if you’re lucky, you might have the theater all to yourself. 

Tag us on instagram @hcsouthcarolina if you try one of our recommendations. Have a great spring break Gamecocks!

Ashley Plott

South Carolina '23

Senior studying Hospitality and Social Media ♊️ Gemini