Learn at the South Carolina State Museum

Learn at the South Carolina State Museum

The South Carolina State Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to learn more about the history, culture, and science of South Carolina. Located in the heart of Columbia, the museum is the largest museum in the state and features a wide variety of exhibits, programs, and events. Here are some of the top things to do when visiting the South Carolina State Museum.

Explore the History Galleries

The South Carolina State Museum has a variety of history galleries that cover the state’s rich history, from prehistoric times to the present day. Visitors can explore the Civil War exhibit, see artifacts from the Revolutionary War, and learn about the state’s role in the Civil Rights Movement. The museum also features a replica of the H.L. Hunley, the first successful combat submarine, which was used by the Confederate army during the Civil War.

Learn About South Carolina’s Natural History

The museum’s natural history exhibits showcase the diverse wildlife and ecosystems of South Carolina. Visitors can explore the aquarium, which features over 2,500 aquatic animals, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. The museum also has exhibits on the state’s geology, featuring fossils and minerals, and its plants and animals.

Visit the Planetarium

The museum’s state-of-the-art planetarium is one of the largest in the Southeast and features a variety of shows on astronomy, space exploration, and more. Visitors can experience a simulated flight through the solar system or learn about the latest discoveries in space science.

Attend Special Events

The South Carolina State Museum hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including family-friendly activities, lectures, and workshops. Visitors can attend a live music performance or a hands-on workshop on science or history.

Explore Art Exhibits

In addition to its science and history exhibits, the South Carolina State Museum also has a variety of art galleries that showcase the state’s rich artistic heritage. Visitors can view works by contemporary South Carolina artists or explore the museum’s collection of historic art, which includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Learn About South Carolina’s Military History

The museum’s military history exhibit features artifacts and exhibits on the state’s military history, including its role in the American Revolution, the Civil War, and World War II. Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of weapons, uniforms, and other military memorabilia.

Experience Virtual Reality

The South Carolina State Museum is one of the few museums in the country that offers visitors the opportunity to experience virtual reality. Visitors can explore a simulated shipwreck, fly through the solar system, or experience other virtual adventures.

In conclusion, the South Carolina State Museum is a great place to learn more about the history, culture, and science of South Carolina. From exploring the history galleries, learning about the state’s natural history, visiting the planetarium, attending special events, exploring the art exhibits, learning about the state’s military history, or experiencing virtual reality, there’s something for everyone at the South Carolina State Museum. So, add this popular destination to your travel itinerary and experience the wonders of South Carolina’s rich and diverse heritage.