With so much to see and do in the Palmetto State it can be understandably difficult to decide where to take the family for a memorable experience. We’ve suggested other day trips in the past, like adventures you can have by train and a quaint beach town that’s perfect for summertime fun. But this day trip will help you discover a hidden gem that’s centrally located in Columbia. As an added bonus, it’s mostly indoors, so it won’t matter if you head here in the heat of the summer or the dead of winter. Check out all it has to offer and then plan your adventure for sometime this year.
The South Carolina State Museum is housed in the biggest historical artifact in the state: an 1894 building that formerly housed the nation's first all-electric cotton mill. Located along the Congaree River in Columbia, this gigantic museum has something of interest for everyone in the family.
As mentioned, the building itself is a historical artifact. Cotton farming and cotton milling is an integral part of South Carolian's history. You'll find a very informative display here, including photos and machinery.
Other permanent South Carolina-relevant artifacts include an astronaut's uniform like the one worn by South Carolina's first astronaut. Gen. Charles Duke became the tenth man to walk on the moon. The exhibit includes artifacts and items he had with him during that mission.
Check out a 1972 replica of the first freight and passenger steam locomotive fully constructed in the U.S. The Best Friend Locomotive is a permanent exhibit at SCSM.
Art lovers will appreciate the mixed media art on display. The photo below is comprised entirely of bottle caps. The museum features four floors of varying exhibits from South Carolina artists - and even includes some outdoor exhibits.
The Hobbit House, installed outside the museum, is always a fun adventure to stumble upon between the parking area and the entrance. (Go ahead, peek inside - if you dare!)
Other installation exhibits found within the museum are also quite impressive. The faux filling station complete with an Anderson Touring Car is a favorite among visitors.
In fact, just about everything within the walls of this four-floor museum is adventure worthy. In one exhibition hall, a massive shark hangs from the ceiling high above your head as you marvel from below.
But if you're looking for a fully immersive experience, then head to the 4D theater. Here, you'll wear 3D glasses and then experience the 4th dimension in some physical way like sensing smells, or feeling wind or even rain sensations.
The Planetarium is where you'll see the 4D shows. The domed capsule has more than 150 seats and usually sports an entire list of different shows and showtimes to choose from.
Technology is represented in a larger than life way in the Boeing Observatory that dishes up some star gazing that can't be found anywhere else in the Palmetto State.
For sure, the SCSM is completely worthy of a day trip. The whole family will be entertained with interactive and educational exhibits for the young — as well as the young at heart.
The South Carolina State Museum is located at 301 Gervais St., Columbia, SC 29201. Their hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tuesday from 10 a.m to 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission price varies depending upon which attractions you’re planning to visit. Get full details on their official website here.
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