One afternoon as I was sitting at an outdoor table in front of Sweet Cream Company, I looked around me. I realized that despite all of the times I’ve been on Main Street in Downtown Columbia, I’ve never really stopped to notice all that is there. My family and I are frequent fliers at Soda City Market on Saturdays. But I usually only look at the booths surrounding us. Aside from Mast General Store, I’ve never really looked around much otherwise.
I decided it was time to change that. I walked up and down Main Street and made some fantastic discoveries. And now, I’d like to share them with you!
Come along with me as we discover Main Street, downtown Columbia!
Restaurants
Sweet Cream Company – Looking for some sweet creamy ice cream with unique flavors? Sweet Cream is the place for you!
Ally & Eloise Bakeshop – Have a sweet tooth? Check out Ally & Eloise for some mouthwatering macarons, cakes, and cookies. They even do wedding cakes!
Good Life Café – This inviting café proudly boasts the fact that it’s one of the only organic, raw, vegan restaurants in Columbia. Here you’ll find tasty food as well as some amazing fruit smoothies!
Cantina 76 – Have a craving for Mexican food? Look no further than Cantina 76! This is easily one of my favorite places in Columbia to get Mexican inspired cuisine.
Hendrix – Located in a 140-year-old building that is rich with Columbia history, Hendrix is a modern upscale seafood restaurant. Enjoy dinner and drinks inside or on their rooftop.
Public House – If you like more traditional fare and pizza, you’ll want to check out Public House. They are open seven days a week for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse – Craving something meaty? Look no further! This Brazilian steakhouse offers 16 types of beef, chicken, pork, and lamb. They also have a delicious salad bar with over 30 items, as well as a variety of wines from South America.
Indah Coffee – If you’re heading out in the morning and crave a good cup o’ Joe, head on over to Indah Coffee. You can also check Indah out every Saturday at Soda City Market.
Entertainment/Dining
The Venue on Main – I actually discovered this place purely by accident one Saturday morning. I first saw their sign for Top Golf and was intrigued. Turns out though the Venue offers way more than just a chance to work on your golf swing. Inside the Venue, you’ll also find Michael’s Café and 1626 on Main. Michael’s offers some delicious eats and catering, while 1626 boasts live music, a full bar, and food that will make your taste buds ecstatic.
The White Mule – From the outside, The White Mule seems a very quiet unassuming place. But inside it’s popping with action! The White Mule offers a chance for musicians, comedians, and speakers to perform at an intimate venue. It’s a lively music pub and eatery that boasts a unique atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in Columbia.
The Grand – If you enjoy bowling, shuffleboard, classic games like Checkers and Jenga, and enjoying food and drinks at the same time, you’ll want to check this place out. The Grand is a fun place for a date night or night out with your friends. Check it out!
Movies/Art/Dance
Columbia Conservatory of Dance – This well-renowned dance school is located in the heart of Main Street. They offer a variety of classes, which are taught by accomplished dancers.
Columbia Museum of Art – Every time I walk by this building I am mesmerized. This fantastic museum just beckons you to come in and explore all of its galleries and exhibits. Not only can you view beautiful masterpieces, but you can take art classes here as well. CMA has recently undergone some construction and is now sporting a brand new and updated look and layout.
Tapps Art Center – I had never heard of Tapps before I saw it on Main Street. As they say on their website, “Tapp’s Arts Center is a giant artistic laboratory for community engagement. We encourage artistic agency through exhibitions, cultural events, workshops, classes, and studios to help Columbia create, learn and grow.” Tapp’s not only offers engaging exhibits and art classes, but they also have an artist in residence program and offer internships.
The Nickelodeon – The Nick is easily my favorite movie theater in Columbia! It has a quiet, intimate atmosphere with a very friendly and helpful staff. The Nick doesn’t just play current movies. They also show classics, independent films, foreign films, and those movies from your childhood that just make you feel good.
Shopping
Miss Cocky Fashion Boutique – Miss Cocky’s is a unique women’s clothing store on Main. It has a wide variety of clothing styles and fashion. And, true to their name, they offer quite a bit of Gamecock apparel.
Granger Owings Clothes – Looking for modern sophisticated clothing and shoes? Check out Granger Owings! They have styles for both men and women that are sure to please.
Wigs International – Located at 1643 Main Street, this store offers a variety of wigs and hairpieces. They also sell clothing and accessories. Keep your eyes out for sales. They usually have great ones!
Cavalier’s Men’s Shop – This store offers an array of Men’s suits and other clothing. You’ll find it at 1600 Main Street.
Mast General – Take a step back in time at Mast General Store. Besides offering a wide variety of men’s and women’s clothing, Mast has old-timey candy and toys you’ll remember from your childhood. Mast also offers hiking and camping equipment as well as shoes and boots.
Miscellaneous
As if all of the aforementioned locations weren’t enough, you’ll also find a variety of hairdresser and barbershops on Main. There are also a couple of Florist shops, banks, and who can forget Starbucks.
