Columbia - What's the area like?

One thing I didn’t take into account is that when moving to a new area for college, especially from a town that’s roughly quiet and once in a blue moon “something” happens. Columbia is going to be a whole new ballpark to play in for me and others who are not familiar with the rush hours, areas to avoid after sundown (I’ve heard a lot about Five Points, but was told the area is fine to walk through during daylight hours) and places and events to definitely try out that’s hosted in the city. So are y’alls opinion about Columbia and things to remember about moving here? Thank you and have a nice day!

It’s probably going to take some time to get to know the area. You’ll probably spend more time in the Vista and Five Points when you first arrive, but Main Street has gotten really nice in the past 5 years, Canalside and the riverwalks on both sides of the river are great, and there are always a few things to see in West Columbia, Cayce, and Rosewood. Definitely check out some of the historic homes on Taylor Street between Assembly and Harden. North Main Street (north of Elmwood), Cottontown, and Columbia Commons will be great in the next 5-10 years.

Five Points is honestly fine, but just be aware of your surroundings and try not to walk along between Five Points and campus late at night as it’s not as well trafficked/lit. I would avoid going far north of Greene Street on Harden at night and during the day, the Taylor/Harden area can feel dodgy.

Know that the highways will be irritating around rush hour (roughly 4:30-6:30) because a ton of people commute. For me this mattered mainly when going to and from Columbiana Mall.

Thank so much for the information. I knew that within the city there were going to be rush hours and etc… But I haven’t spoken with someone in the last few months that knew those times and such. Once again I appreciate it and overall info!

As a freshman living on campus, rush hour will mainly apply to driving elsewhere. And I would agree that 4:30 to 6:30 is going to be busy if that’s when you try to go somewhere on interstates or main roads like Gervais or Assembly. Same in the morning between 7:30 - 8:30 but again, not really student travel time unless live off campus. Easy to work around.
Safety is somewhat common sense (mom who lives in Columbia here) and that is nothing good happens after midnight. Avoid super late nights in 5 Points or even in Vista, don’t be drunk, and don’t go anywhere alone late at night.
Favorite year-round event is the Soda City market every Saturday morning from 9am-1pm on Main St. Farmer’s market, food trucks and other vendors.