Visit the South Carolina State House

Visit the South Carolina State House

The South Carolina State House is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Columbia, South Carolina. The impressive building, located at 1100 Gervais Street, is the seat of government for the state of South Carolina and is home to the offices of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and the South Carolina General Assembly. Here are some of the top things to do when visiting the South Carolina State House.

Take a Guided Tour

One of the best ways to experience the South Carolina State House is by taking a guided tour. Guided tours are available daily, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The tours last approximately 30 minutes and provide an in-depth look at the history and architecture of the building. The knowledgeable tour guides will take you through the House and Senate chambers, the Governor’s Office, and other notable areas of the building.

Explore the Grounds

The South Carolina State House sits on 18 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds that are open to the public. The grounds are home to several monuments, including the African American History Monument, the Spanish-American War Monument, and the South Carolina Monument to Confederate Women. The grounds also feature a reflecting pool, a fountain, and several walking paths.

Visit the Gift Shop

The South Carolina State House Gift Shop is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs and gifts. The shop offers a wide range of items, including books, artwork, jewelry, and other South Carolina-themed merchandise. The shop is open daily, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

Attend a Legislative Session

If you’re interested in politics, attending a legislative session at the South Carolina State House is a unique and exciting experience. Visitors can sit in on sessions of the House and Senate and watch their representatives at work. Visitors can also attend committee meetings and public hearings, which provide insight into the legislative process.

Attend a Special Event

Throughout the year, the South Carolina State House hosts a variety of special events and ceremonies. These events include the Governor’s Inauguration, the State of the State Address, and the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. These events are open to the public and provide a unique opportunity to experience the history and culture of South Carolina.

Visit the South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum

The South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum is located in the basement of the South Carolina State House and is dedicated to the military history of South Carolina. The museum features a collection of artifacts, including Civil War-era uniforms, weapons, and documents. The museum also hosts special exhibits throughout the year.

In conclusion, the South Carolina State House is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Columbia, South Carolina. Whether you’re interested in politics, history, or architecture, there’s something for everyone at the State House. From taking a guided tour to exploring the grounds, visiting the gift shop, attending a legislative session, attending a special event, or visiting the Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, there are plenty of things to do and see at the South Carolina State House. So, add this historic building to your travel itinerary and experience the culture and history of South Carolina.