4 Best Hotels in Columbia, The Midlands and Upstate

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We've compiled the best of the best in Columbia - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

Hotel Trundle

$$ | 1224 Taylor St., Columbia, SC, 29201, USA Fodor's Choice

Built into a historic former furniture store building in the heart of downtown Columbia, Trundle stands out for its focus on service and eclectic decor highlighted by paintings and sculpture throughout the communal areas. Rooms feature exposed brick, faux vintage fridges and modern furniture. An annex with an additional five rooms, dubbed the Flutter Wing, opened in 2024, and the hotel also offers four rental houses in nearby neighborhoods. 

Pros

  • Complimentary draft beer or wine upon arrival
  • Locally roasted coffee always available
  • Welcoming aesthetic

Cons

  • $18 self-parking
  • No pets
  • No pool
1224 Taylor St., Columbia, SC, 29201, USA
803-722–5000
Hotel Details
41 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Aloft Columbia Downtown

$$ | 823 Lady St., Columbia, SC, 29201, USA

A short walk from the convention center and hot spot restaurants and nightlife, and housing a lively bar of its own, this hotel is modern and customer-focused. It is outfitted with contemporary art and light fixtures, and flooded with natural light in its loft-like public spaces. Rooms have a sleek, minimalist look. The billiards tables in the lobby, modern gym, on-site lounge, and oversized showers emphasize relaxing and recharging.

Pros

  • Contemporary decor and gym
  • Lively bar
  • Mexican restaurant COA is on the ground floor

Cons

  • No pool
  • No dining room or room service
  • Lacks Southern charm
823 Lady St., Columbia, SC, 29201, USA
803-445–1900
Hotel Details
107 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Graduate Columbia

$$ | 1619 Pendleton St., Columbia, SC, 29201, USA

This extremely colorful (think: plaids over pastels) yet tastefully decorated boutique inn expands upon a century-old historic home, whose original parlors and living rooms serve as a bar, library, and communal areas. You don't have to be a University of South Carolina fan to appreciate the funky aesthetic of a headboard adorned with giant chickens. The Trophy Room restaurant serves breakfast and dinner.

Pros

  • On the attractive and walkable USC campus
  • Presidential Suites in the original home are luxurious
  • Free bike rentals

Cons

  • No pool
  • Breakfast not included
  • Small fitness center
1619 Pendleton St., Columbia, SC, 29201, USA
803-779–7779
Hotel Details
119 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Recommended Fodor's Video

Hampton Inn Downtown Historic District

$$ | 822 Gervais St., Columbia, SC, 29201, USA

This classy outpost is within walking distance of restaurants and nightlife in the Vista neighborhood. The standard wood furnishings in the guest rooms are bumped up a notch in comfort by Cloud Nine bedding, and the hotel's staff provides attentive service.

Pros

  • Outdoor saltwater pool
  • Walking distance to USC and the State House
  • Free hot breakfast

Cons

  • Rooms along Gervais Street can be noisy
  • Parking lot can fill up on busy weekends
  • Corporate feel lacks charm of a boutique hotel
822 Gervais St., Columbia, SC, 29201, USA
803-231–2000
Hotel Details
122 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

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