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Visiting Columbia from FL
We're driving from FL to VA and are planning to stop in Columbia on way up or back or both. It would just be for one night each time. We're traveling with our 2 boys and dog. I was thinking of the La Quinta on Garners Ferry right off 77. I like Residence Inn but don't want to pay the extra $100 for one night each time. I think we stayed at the Holiday Inn at this exit but can't remember. I've been on this road going towards William Brice stadium, which is the opposite direction. Is the La Quinta in a safe area? I read in one review the area is not nice if you drive a couple of miles.
Do you have any restaurant recommendations? I love Southern food, and we'll have our 2 boys with us so they have to accept kids. They're well-behaved but still kids.
Do you have any recommendations for stores to buy USC stuff? My mom went to school there, and we usually stop in Columbia at Addams Bookstore near the stadium on drive to VA for gifts for her. I was looking for somewhere besides that store. We just happened to find it driving around one time.
I got good recommendations last year when I asked about Charleston. Thanks for any info.
Re: Visiting Columbia from FL
The area is definitely kind of "iffy" but it's one night and nothing dangerous for your family. Plus, it's super close to Harbison Blvd where there is lots of shopping and restaurants. The only place I can think of in that area for good Southern food is Hudsons Smokehouse....true Southern BBQ and the fixings! It's really good and it's right off of Harbison. There are stores all over to get USC items, especially in the mall....there is a store that specifically sells USC/Clemson/Georgia merchandise as well as kiosks.
You could also take the kids for ice cream at Brusters (also in Harbison)...it's real ice cream and it's SO good (just like homemade)! They also have Nathan's Hot Dogs with them, which isn't anything fancy/special, but fun for the kids!
I'm not sure how much time you'll actually be spending in the area to do anything besides grab food and sleep for the night, but there's a Frankie's Fun Park nearby with putt-putt, batting cages, arcade, go-carts, etc. Might be something to do with the kids as well!
ETA: Not sure if there is one in that area, but Big Thursday sells tons of USC merchandise. I was trying to think of it the other day when I responded and I couldn't remember the name!
I agree that the area isn't somewhere you'd want to live, but could probably stay a night and be totally fine.
If you want good southern food, you must try Mr. Friendlys! Lizards Thicket has great greasy, southern food, and it's pretty cheap.
There are lots of good places to buy USC stuff. A new store just opened about a year ago, Mrs. Cocky. Jewelry Warehouse is also a good one.
I'm horrible with directions, so I'm leaving it to you to Google, but I hope this helps!