The best museums in Columbia in September 2025

These are the top 10 best museums in Columbia, United States, ranked by their rating and popularity in 2025. Click a museum for more information about the museum, including visitor information, exhibitions and reviews.

For a complete overview of museums in Columbia, their exhibitions and discount cards & passes, see our overview page with all museums in Columbia.

Looking for the best museums in Columbia? These are the best ones:

  1. Columbia Museum of Art1

    Columbia Museum of Art

     Columbia, SC
    The Columbia Museum of Art, situated in Columbia, South Carolina, is a fine arts museum. It is a place where visitors can explore a diverse collection of art pieces from different periods and styles. The museum offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of fine arts, providing a rich cultural experience.
  2. Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens2

    Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens

     Columbia, SC
    The Hampton-Preston Mansion, situated at 1615 Blanding Street in Columbia, South Carolina, is a historic site that once served as the residence of the influential Hampton family. This mansion is a significant part of the city's history, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of its past inhabitants.
  3. Woodrow Wilson Museum3

    Woodrow Wilson Museum

     Columbia, SC
    The Woodrow Wilson Family Home, located in Columbia, South Carolina, is a significant historical site as it was one of the childhood homes of the 28th President Woodrow Wilson. The future president resided in this house from 1871 to 1875, marking an important period in his early life.
  4. Robert Mills House and Gardens4

    Robert Mills House and Gardens

     Columbia, SC
    The Robert Mills House, also known as Robert Mills Historic House and Park or the Ainsley Hall House, is a historic house museum located at 1616 Blanding Street in Columbia, South Carolina. This landmark is a significant part of the city's history and offers a unique glimpse into the architectural style of the early 19th century.
  5. Riverbanks Zoo & Garden5

    Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

     Columbia, SC
    The Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a large 170-acre establishment that serves as a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden. It is situated along the Saluda River in Columbia, South Carolina, United States. This location offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors, including a variety of animal exhibits, aquatic displays, and a vast botanical garden.
  6. South Carolina State Museum6

    South Carolina State Museum

     Columbia, SC
    The South Carolina State Museum, located along the banks of the Congaree River in downtown Columbia, is a museum dedicated to the history of South Carolina. It is the largest museum in the state and is recognized as a resource for South Carolina history and lifestyle. The museum is housed in the former Columbia Mills Building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  7. EdVenture Children's Museum7

    EdVenture Children's Museum

     Columbia, SC
    EdVenture is recognized as the largest children's museum in the Southeast United States. It is conveniently located in Columbia, South Carolina, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region.
  8. Hampton-preston Mansion and Gardens8

    Hampton-preston Mansion and Gardens

     Columbia, SC
    The Hampton-Preston Mansion, located at 1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, South Carolina, is a historic mansion that once served as the residence of the prominent Hampton family. This mansion is a significant part of the city's history and offers a glimpse into the lives of its former inhabitants.
  9. Seibels House and Garden9

    Seibels House and Garden

     Columbia, SC
    The Hale–Elmore–Seibels House, also known as the Seibels House, is a historic building situated in Columbia, South Carolina. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past.
  10. Mann-Simons Site10

    Mann-Simons Site

     Columbia, SC
    The Mann-Simons Cottage, located in Columbia, South Carolina, is a historic home that dates back to around 1850. This 1 + 1 ⁄ 2 -story, cottage style frame house stands on a raised basement, offering a glimpse into the architectural style of the mid-19th century.

All museums in Columbia