COLUMBIA, South Carolina: What We Saw In Soda City – That’s kind of beautiful, isn’t it? You’re looking down Main Street in Columbia, South Carolina, taking in the drone shot of the State House. In this video by Joe & Nic’s Road Trip, they explore the charming city, beginning with a stroll through the downtown area and showcasing the historic residential neighborhoods. They highlight interesting facts about Columbia, such as its population of 137,500 and metro population of 838,250, making it larger than expected. They also mention the city’s young median age of 27, possibly due to the presence of the University of South Carolina. Exploring beyond the downtown area, the video features highlights like the First Presbyterian Church and the World’s largest non-operational fire hydrant. The couple stays at the Home2 Suites, offering a comfortable one-bedroom suite, and enjoys dinner at Liberty Tap Room and Grill, savoring dishes like coconut shrimp and steak salad. Columbia is referred to as “Cola” and carries the nickname “Soda City.” The video ends with a preview of upcoming content, including a visit to the State House and dinner at a local restaurant.
Venturing further, the video showcases the South Carolina State House and discusses the city’s history, including its burning during the Civil War by Union Soldiers. The couple visits Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, explores the South Carolina State Museum featuring exhibits on marine life, mastodons, and trains, and provides interesting facts like the CSS Hunley, the first submarine to destroy an enemy ship. They mention the gas stations in rural towns in South Carolina that still offer full service and highlight unique museum exhibits, such as a portrait of Sir Isaac Newton made from soda bottle lids and a one-room school exhibit from 1865 to 1920. The couple dines at Liberty Tap Room and Grill, enjoying delicious coconut shrimp and steak salad, and stays at the Home2 Suites in a one-bedroom suite with a spacious living area and kitchen. Their journey continues as they head towards their next destination in North Carolina.
Introduction
Welcome to Columbia, South Carolina! In this article, we will take you on a virtual tour of this beautiful city known as “Soda City” or “Cola.” From its historical significance to its notable landmarks, demographics, and upcoming attractions, we will cover it all. So sit back, relax, and let’s explore what Columbia has to offer!
Background and Context
Columbia, South Carolina
Located in the heart of South Carolina, Columbia is a vibrant city with a rich history and diverse culture. It serves as the state capital and is known for its Southern charm and hospitality. With a population of over 137,500 and a metro population of 838,250, Columbia is a bustling city that offers something for everyone.
Main Street and the State House
One of the highlights of Columbia is Main Street, where you can find a mix of historical buildings, unique shops, and delicious restaurants. The State House, also known as the capitol building, is a prominent landmark in the city. It holds great significance as it was burned down by Union Soldiers at the end of the Civil War in 1865.
Historical Significance
Columbia has a strong historical background, and its past plays a crucial role in shaping the city’s identity. The city was once a central store of cotton and faced destruction during the Civil War. Today, you can still spot remnants of its rich history, and various plaques and monuments commemorate the events that took place here.
Demographics and Statistics
Population and Metro Population
Columbia has a population of 137,500, which is larger than expected. Additionally, the metro population reaches an impressive 838,250, making it a significant urban center in South Carolina. The city’s size reflects its growth and development over the years.
Median Age
With a median age of 27, Columbia is a young city. This can be attributed to the presence of the University of South Carolina, which attracts students from all over the country. The vibrant energy of the city is complemented by its youthful population.
Poverty Rate
Columbia’s poverty rate is 26%, which is higher than the national average. However, it is essential to note that this may be influenced by the student population. College students often have limited income, which can skew the poverty rate in college towns.
Median Household Income
The median household income in Columbia is $47,500, which is lower than the national average. Again, this may be attributed to the large student population in the city. However, despite these statistics, Columbia has a growing economy and opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship.
Crime Rates
While Columbia is a beautiful city, it does face higher crime rates compared to the national average. The violent crime rate is 7.5 per 1000, almost twice as high as the US average. Property crime is also a concern, with a rate of 45 per 1000. It’s always important to stay vigilant and take precautionary measures when visiting any city.
Notable Features and Landmarks
University of South Carolina
The University of South Carolina is a prominent feature of Columbia. With a student population of around 35,000, it brings a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere to the city. The university is known for its academic excellence, sporting events, and cultural offerings.
South Carolina Gamecocks
The South Carolina Gamecocks, the university’s athletic teams, are an integral part of Columbia’s identity. Whether it’s football, basketball, or any other sport, the Gamecocks bring the community together and create a sense of pride and camaraderie.
Fort Jackson
Fort Jackson, the largest Army training base in the United States, is located in Columbia. It serves as an essential part of the city’s economy and provides a strong military presence. The base contributes to the diverse culture of Columbia and showcases the city’s commitment to supporting the armed forces.
Nicknames
Columbia is affectionately known as “Cola” and “Soda City.” These nicknames showcase the city’s unique character and play on the word “Columbia.” They reflect the friendly and laid-back atmosphere that residents and visitors alike experience in this charming city.
Locations and Attractions in the Video
Downtown Columbia
Downtown Columbia is a vibrant and lively area that offers a mix of historical architecture, trendy shops, and delicious restaurants. Strolling along Main Street, you’ll discover a blend of old and new, providing a delightful experience for visitors. The area is bustling with energy and is the perfect place to explore and immerse yourself in the local culture.
The Church
The First Presbyterian Church, built in 1854, is a stunning architectural masterpiece located on the edge of downtown Columbia. Its impressive spire can be seen from miles away and adds to the city’s skyline. While the interior may not always be accessible to visitors, the grandeur of the church is worth admiring from the outside.
Historic Residential Neighborhoods
Columbia is home to several historic residential neighborhoods that showcase the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. The Waverly neighborhood, in particular, is known for its well-preserved homes from a bygone era. Taking a leisurely stroll through these neighborhoods offers a glimpse into the past and the opportunity to appreciate the city’s architectural beauty.
Preview of Upcoming Content
Now that we’ve explored a bit of Columbia, let’s take a sneak peek into what the video has in store for us in upcoming sections.
State House Visit
The video will take us on a visit to the State House, allowing us to explore the iconic and historically significant building up close. We’ll get a chance to learn more about its architecture, significance, and the events that shaped Columbia’s history.
Trinity Episcopal Cathedral
Next, we will visit Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, a magnificent church that holds a special place in Columbia. Its beautiful architecture and rich history make it a must-visit for anyone interested in the city’s religious and cultural heritage.
South Carolina State Museum
Our virtual tour will then take us to the South Carolina State Museum, where we can delve into the state’s past, present, and future. The museum features various exhibits that highlight natural history, science, art, and much more. It’s an excellent opportunity to expand our knowledge and appreciate South Carolina’s cultural contributions.
CSS Hunley Submarine
The CSS Hunley, a historic submarine, played a significant role in the Civil War. The video will explore this remarkable piece of history and its connection to Columbia. We’ll learn about its accomplishments, including being the first submarine to successfully sink an enemy ship.
Rural Gas Stations
South Carolina is known for its rural charm, and the video will showcase gas stations in rural towns that still offer full-service. These nostalgic stations harken back to a simpler time and provide a unique experience for travelers passing through.
Unique Exhibits at the Museum
The South Carolina State Museum has several unique exhibits that appeal to visitors of all ages. From a portrait of Sir Isaac Newton made entirely out of soda bottle lids to a one-room school exhibit, these displays offer a fascinating look into different aspects of history and culture.
Dinner at Liberty Tap Room and Grill
No visit to Columbia is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The video will feature a dinner at Liberty Tap Room and Grill, where the couple enjoys delicious dishes such as coconut shrimp and steak salad. It’s an opportunity to savor the flavors of the city and experience its culinary delights.
Accommodation at Home2 Suites
During their stay in Columbia, the couple chose to stay at Home2 Suites, a comfortable and convenient hotel. With spacious living areas and kitchen amenities, it offers a relaxing home-away-from-home experience for visitors. The video will give us a glimpse into their comfortable accommodations.
Next Destination: North Carolina
As the video concludes, we get a sneak peek into the couple’s next destination: North Carolina. While Columbia has offered a wonderful experience, we look forward to exploring the charm and beauty of another state.
Conclusion
Columbia, South Carolina, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and southern hospitality. From its historic landmarks and charming neighborhoods to its vibrant downtown and upcoming attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Columbia has it all. So pack your bags, start planning your trip, and get ready to explore all that “Soda City” has to offer!