Columbia, SC Attractions - Riverfront Park in Down Town Columbia, SC
Columbia, SC is one of the few cities in the world to not only have one, but three rivers. Crossing their way through the heart of the Midlands is the Broad and Saluda Rivers that forge their way to form the Congaree. With old hardwoods reaching out to form the shoreline and Spanish Moss lining the rivers' edge, these rivers form some of the most scenic and serene visions anywhere in Columbia.
Riverfront Park in down town Columbia, SC takes full advantage of these views. The 167 acre site has a ton to offer anyone who loves the outdoors and scenic beauty that this city has to offer. Located at the site of the original water works of the city of Columbia and the world's first electronically operated textile mill and hydroelectric plant. It's the oldest one in the state and is still in operation today.
Riverfront Park is frequented by walkers, joggers, birdwatchers, photographers, skaters, fishermen, and just about anyone who wants to spend a little time outdoors enjoying the beauty and peace of nature. With tons of wildlife to see, the canal, and the river's edge with it's historic forests and leaping fish, this is a perfect spot for a picnic or just to come and relax. They name says it all, there's no where within the park that you don't have a breathtaking view of the river.
Riverfront Park is also host to some of Columbia's favorite festivals, greekfest and Riverfest just to name a couple. There is also a wonderful brick ampitheater on site that plays host to several smaller concerts throughout the year. But even when there are no special events taking place, this is still a special place to visit.
The main path through the heart of the park is a 2.5 mile stretch that takes you on a journey between the river and the canal. There are tow pedestrian bridges that take you directly over the top of the canal at separate points and tons of lookout points that place you right out over the top of the river itself. It's hard to beat the bird's eye view of this tranquil setting.
Originally constructed between 1819 and 1824 the Columbia Canal was created to enable freight to pass safely by the rapids at the mouth of the Congaree River. At it's construction, the canal was a little over three miles long, starting at Richland Street and ending at the site of the Olympia Quarries. It served as transportation route until replaced by the railroads. It was leased in 1863 to the Confederate Government for the construction of a power mill that was destroyed by Sherman in 1865.
The Canal was then reconstructed in between 1888 and 1891 to serve the world's first hydroelectric textile mill. The 1906 addition of the municipal water plant gave it yet another important function in it's already long and turbulent history. While the hydroelectric plant is still in use today, it's most revered for it's serenity by locals and visitors to Columbia, SC.
With it's entrance located at 312 Laural Street in the heart of downtown Columbia, SC and just around the corner from the Congaree Vista, no matter where you are in the city you are never far from nature and this stunning park. Admission is free which makes it all the more appealing to anyone looking for something to do without breaking the bank. Park hours may vary seasonally, but it's currently open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. So next chance you get, be sure you stop by and see what Riverfront Park in Columbia, SC has to offer. You're sure to be pleased that you did.
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