Spring in Columbia is such a sweet spot. The weather finally warms up (but isn’t too hot yet), everything is blooming, and it feels like the whole city comes back to life. If you’re looking for ways to get out of the house and enjoy the season with your kids, there’s no shortage of options.
Here are some of our favorite ways to make the most of spring in Columbia with little ones.
🌿 Spend a Morning Outside
After a long winter, there’s nothing better than letting kids run free outside.
Take a walk or bike ride along the Three Rivers Greenway, where you’ll find wide, stroller-friendly paths and plenty of spots to stop and explore. If your kids need to burn off energy, head to Saluda Shoals Park or Sesquicentennial State Park—both have great playgrounds, trails, and space to roam.
Pro tip: pack snacks and plan to stay longer than you think. Once kids get outside this time of year, they never want to leave.
🐒 Visit Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
If it’s been a while since your last zoo visit, spring is the perfect time to go.
The animals are more active, the gardens are beautiful, and Waterfall Junction is always a hit with younger kids. It’s one of those places you can easily spend a full morning (or day) without needing much planning.
🍓 Go Strawberry Picking
Strawberry picking is a spring must-do around here—and kids love it.
There are several local farms within a short drive of Columbia where you can pick your own berries. It’s simple, hands-on, and makes for a fun (and delicious) outing. Just be prepared: you’ll probably leave with more strawberries than you planned.
🥾 Take a Family-Friendly Hike
Before the summer heat sets in, spring is the time to explore local trails.
If you’re up for a little adventure, take a trip to Congaree National Park. The boardwalk trails make it easy for kids, and it’s such a unique experience—even if you just go for a short walk.
Closer to town, look for shorter trails or nature paths where kids can explore at their own pace.
⚾ Catch a Columbia Fireflies Game
Spring also means baseball is back!
A Columbia Fireflies game at Segra Park is one of the easiest family outings—low-pressure, fun, and full of entertainment for kids. Even if your kids aren’t into baseball, the atmosphere, snacks, and between-inning activities usually win them over.
🐣 Don’t Miss Spring Events & Egg Hunts
Keep an eye out for local Easter events, egg hunts, and spring festivals. Churches, neighborhoods, and local businesses host family-friendly events throughout the season, and they’re a great way to connect with the community.
🎨 Have a Plan for Rainy Days
Spring weather can be unpredictable, so it helps to have a backup plan.
Indoor play spaces, art studios, and kid-friendly spots like EdVenture Children’s Museum are great options when you need to get out of the house but stay dry.
🌼 Enjoy the Season (Before It Gets Too Hot)
If you’ve lived in Columbia for a while, you know—spring doesn’t last long. Before we’re deep into hot, humid summer days, take advantage of this season to slow down a bit, get outside, and enjoy simple moments with your kids.
Whether it’s a quick park visit, a zoo day, or strawberries eaten straight from the bucket, these are the kinds of days everyone remembers.
