Shop like a local

Whether you’re staying home for the holidays or venturing out to visit friends and family far and wide, ‘tis the season to get to shopping. From perusing shopping districts to online options, you can take care of everyone on your “nice list” by shopping small and supporting local. Read along for some insider tips from Experience Columbia SC on holiday shopping in the capital city this year.

For the Culture Vulture
With several award-winning attractions and public art around every corner, the culture is hard to miss in the heart of SC. Give the gift of an experience with tickets to the Columbia Museum of Art, the South Carolina State Museum, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, or the gardens of Historic Columbia—just to name a few. 

For the Adventure-Seeker
River Runner in the Vista is the perfect spot for those obsessed with our city’s lakes and rivers. In addition to paddle boards and kayaks they offer essential outdoor clothing and accessories. If the person on your list is not quite ready to commit to the adventurer’s lifestyle, give the gift of weekend plans by renting a kayak or canoe for a future weekend. 

For the Cyclist
Outspokin’ Bicycles offers helmets, shoes and accessories in addition to adult and children’s bikes down on Devine Street.

For the Craft Beer Lover
Go above and beyond the six pack and pair these craft brews with some local brewery swag and gifts. Grab a Coffee Lager mug from Steel Hands, or head to River Rat for a trendy t-shirt or hat with their recognizable rat logo. Does your someone have a favorite beer at Columbia Craft? Order online to pick up a crowler and pair it with some swag.

And, of course, you can always pick up gift cards from Hunter-Gatherer, Twisted Spur, Swamp Cabbage Brewing, Angry Fish Brewing Co., or Hazelwood Brewing Co. Bonus points for getting them to make plans to share the gift card with you. Daring beer drinker? Stop into Craft & Draft and create a mixed 6-pack, ranging from all IPAs to all sours to everything but the kitchen sink.

Hostess with the Mostess
Head to Saluda Avenue in Five Points for The Gourmet Shop’s gorgeous array of Vietri or Hester & Cook platters and serving pieces or that perfect bottle of wine. While in the district, stop by Gibson’s for gifts from luxe candles to unique tea towels, soaps and stationery.

Looking for some online options? Create an adorable gift set from Adam’s Apple Co. with options like apple butter, pie jam, cider slaw and bourbon marinade. Carolina Kernels, located in the NOMA District, offers a unique range of gourmet popcorn that is sweet or savory. Think cinnamon roll and cookies n’ cream or dill pickle and buffalo blue cheese. 

For the Local Cheerleader
Have someone on your list who boasts about the heart of SC? Gift them with some Columbia swag so they can wear their pride on their sleeve. The Columbia SC Visitors Center has got you covered with everything from t-shirts, tote bags, home goods and art. Shop in store or online at ShopColumbiaSC.com.

For the Accessory Magnet
Head to Soda City Market on Saturdays from 9am–1pm on Main Street and you’ll be hard-pressed not to find some handmade jewelry, trendy bags and wallets, and even accessories for the doggos. Look out for local favorites like Carolina Clutches and Nana by Sally. 

Scout and Molly’s in Forest Acres boasts an impressive selection of Mignonne Gavigan’s statement jewelry. M Boutique at Cross Hill Market offers multiple local designers including Sugar and Lola’s ultra-wearable pieces crafted of metals and stones. 

For the New Homeowner
Nothing cozies up bare shelves like a stack of books. Craft an artful selection from Ed’s Editions in West Columbia or Odd Bird Books in the Arcade Building and tie them up with a pretty ribbon. Find all kinds of homey knick knacks at home boutiques like Blush in Lexington or The Little Green Door.