An Inside Look at Columbia’s Popular Vista District
Are you wondering where to find a variety of the best shopping, art, dining, and entertainment in South Carolina? Then look no further than The Congaree Vista district in South Carolina’s capital city of Columbia!
Known as “The Vista” by locals, this cultural district in the heart of downtown Columbia stretches south from Whaley Street, north to I-26 Elmwood Avenue, and east to west from the Congaree River’s edge to Assembly Street.
According to Vistacolumbia.com, “The Congaree Vista is formally designated by the South Carolina Arts Commission as a South Carolina Cultural District in recognition of the Vista's deep roots in artistic entrepreneurship, space for creative expression and a commitment to preserving its cultural, architectural and historic heritage.” 1
In The Vista, you’ll see preserved, historic brick buildings that now house today’s restaurants and shops. But Adluh Flour Mill is one historical building in The Vista that is still in business today.
According to Scriptureproject.org, “With production underway for over a century, Adluh Flour Mill is the country’s second oldest continuously operated electrical flour mill. The mill still uses stones in its grinding process. It also uses its original milling roll stands and produces between 50,000 and 60,000 pounds of flour a day as well as 25,000 pounds of cornmeal and 6,000 pounds of grits. Many of the capital city’s local restaurants use only Adluh products in their offerings.” 2
Some of downtown’s best parks are in The Vista also, such as Finlay Park, Riverfront Park, and Veterans Memorial Park. The Greenway along the Congaree River is also in the district, as well as Founders Park Baseball Stadium. A lot of public art pieces and murals can be seen in The Vista too.
Because of the public art, parks, and river, The Vista is a beautiful, scenic retreat and offers lovely places to go for a jog or stroll, have a picnic, play, or catch a USC Gamecocks baseball game at Founders Park stadium.
Besides the outdoor beauty and recreation, you’ll find plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment in The Vista as well. Most shops and restaurants are located along or just off of Gervais Street, although there are also many unique businesses along Lincoln Street, Lady Street, and Assembly Street as well. Along Gervais Street, you’ll find the South Carolina State Museum and EdVenture Children’s Museum, two of Columbia’s largest and main attractions.
To find out more about these museums and Columbia’s top attractions, click the link to this video…
You’ll also find some great dining like Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom, Mellow Mushroom Pizza, and the Palmetto Seafood Company. 3 The Blue Marlin seafood restaurant is located just off of Gervais Street on Lincoln Street. This restaurant is unique because it’s housed in an old train depot and serves up low-country cuisine in a blend of African, West Indian, and Caribbean flavors. 4 finest blends of African, West Indian, and Caribbean flavors
There are many great shops along Gervais Street too, like the Cotton Mill Exchange gifts and jewelry shop, APB Men’s Clothing, Whit-Ash Furnishings, River Runner Outdoor Center, BP Skinner Clothiers, Publix Supermarket, Urban Outfitters, Carol Sanders Gallery of Art, gifts and jewelry. 3
The Vista is also known for its seasonal celebration called ‘Vista Lights'? which has ushered in the holidays for more than 30 years. Vista Lights hosts Columbia’s Christmas tree lighting which takes place each November. As you stroll along Gervais and Lincoln Streets, you can enjoy seeing the holiday lights, hear live music, grab some concessions, and visit over 60 galleries, shops, and restaurants throughout the Vista that stay open late. 5
You can see why The Vista is such a popular district and could even be called the pulse of downtown Columbia. It’s just one more great reason to visit or relocate to South Carolina’s capital city.
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?Author: Vanessa Pham
Graphic Designer: Merryl Moore
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