A school like USC has so many different opportunities and fun things to do, yet we still find ourselves “bored” and doing the same things week after week. We have the luxury of being in a city, being in the middle of the state, and going to an amazing school! This combination allows for endless possibilities, but where do you start? We have a solution to your spring semester boredom… the Her Campus Spring 2016 Bucket List:
1. Go to a Basketball Game!
Photo cred: Alyssa Winderlich
This year both our men’s and women’s basketball teams are killing it! If you haven’t been to a game yet you should definitely go!! (Tickets are first come first serve on the website) This year the games are packed with fans… who knew we went to a basketball school? Check out the men’s basketball schedule here and the women’s basketball schedule here.
2. Go to the Zoo!
The Columbia Riverbanks Zoo is only a few minutes away (according to Google maps it’s 13)! And who doesn’t love animals? The zoo is a great day or night trip idea, and you don’t have to travel far! Admission is free on Fridays from 9-5, and they have events all the time! Take a look at their website for more info!
3. Take a Weekend Trip!
Columbia is about 1 ½ to 2 hours away from so many great destinations! You can easily drive to Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head, Charleston, Charlotte, or even Clemson. If you’re willing to spend a little more time in the car, then you can easily get to Atlanta, Florida, Tennessee, etc. Get a group of friends together and travel! You can easily rent hotel rooms, vacation homes, or stay with friends, and it is worth it! We love Columbia, but sometimes you need to get away!
4. Or a Day Trip!
Destinations like Charlotte and Charleston are close enough that you don’t need to stay over, you can just do a day trip! Make an awesome road trip playlist and go for it! If you haven’t been to some of these places, then they’re worth the long day in the car!
5. Go to a Baseball Game!
Photo cred: Natalie White
Baseball season is just around the corner! There’s nothing like SEC baseball, and there are a ton of games! Get a group of friends together and go, because it’s worth it! They even have free shuttles that run to and from the beautiful baseball stadium. Check out the baseball schedule here!
6. Go to Trivia Night at Village Idiot Pizza!
Not only does Village have amazing food and drink deals, but they also have a trivial night! Every Wednesday at 8:30pm you can “think while you eat”! The best part (besides potentially winning!!) is that you’re already in Five Points for when you’re done!
7. Go to Carolina Cup!
Photo Cred: Kristina Zagame
Carolina Cup is USC’s version of the Kentucky Derby. We all get dressed up to get messed up in our best sundresses and hats. Get a ticket to the event, or try and get a frat boy to take you as their date! The track is about 40 minutes away, but it’s worth it for a day of fun! Students from schools all over also come for the excitement! You can purchase tickets and get other info about race day here.
8. St. Pat’s in 5 Points!
Columbia is known for having one of the greatest St. Patrick’s day celebration. Put on your best green and be prepared for a day of drink specials, food trucks, and more in our very own Five Points! Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at Group Therapy, Yesterday’s, or online here.
9. Visit Carowinds!
Photo cred: Natalie White
If you like roller coasters, then you should definitely take a day and go to Carowinds! A day ticket online is $39.99 (compared to $62.99 at the gate). It’s a 2 hour drive from Columbia, and a whole day’s worth of fun! Check out their website for more info on the amusement park.