Columbia Pet-Friendly Guide: Complete Guide

Travel with your furry friends! Discover pet-friendly hotels, parks, restaurants, and activities. Discover the best pet-friendly experiences in Columbia.

ByFun Around Me Team
5 min read

Welcome to the ultimate pet-friendly guide for Columbia! Travel with your furry friends! Discover pet-friendly hotels, parks, restaurants, and activities. This comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best pet-friendly experiences that Columbia has to offer, from popular hotspots to hidden local favorites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll find insider tips, detailed recommendations, and everything you need to make the most of your pet-friendly adventure in Columbia. Our carefully curated selection ensures you won't miss any of the must-see spots while also discovering unique experiences that most tourists overlook.

Key Takeaways

  • Columbia offers over 63 exceptional pet-friendly experiences
  • Best time to visit varies by activity - check individual listings for optimal timing
  • Many experiences require advance booking, especially during peak season
  • Local guides and experts provide invaluable insights and access
  • Prices range from budget-friendly to premium, with options for every preference

Pet-Friendly Hotels & Accommodations

Hotels, vacation rentals, and accommodations that welcome pets with open arms and special amenities.

Hampton Inn Columbia I-26/Harbison Blvd.

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 101 Woodcross Dr, Columbia, SC 29212, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Comfort Inn & Suites Ft.Jackson Maingate

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 7337 Garners Ferry Rd, Columbia, SC 29209, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Columbia SE / Fort Jackson

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 7333 Garners Ferry Rd, Columbia, SC 29209, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbia near Fort Jackson

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 170 E Exchange Blvd, Columbia, SC 29209, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Comfort Inn

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 911 Bush River Rd, Columbia, SC 29210, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Home2 Suites by Hilton Columbia Southeast Fort Jackson

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 7340 Garners Ferry Rd, Columbia, SC 29209, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Hilton Garden Inn Columbia/Harbison

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 434 Columbiana Dr, Columbia, SC 29212, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Columbia Northwest/Harbison

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 438 Columbiana Dr, Columbia, SC 29212, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Home2 Suites by Hilton Columbia Harbison

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 550 Columbiana Dr, Columbia, SC 29212, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Hampton Inn Columbia I-20-Clemson Road

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 1021 Clemson Frontage Rd, Columbia, SC 29229, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Dog Parks & Pet Recreation Areas

Off-leash dog parks, pet-friendly beaches, and outdoor spaces where your pets can play and socialize.

NOMA (North Main) Bark Park - Members only

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 1250 Parkside Dr, Columbia, SC 29201, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Page Ellington Park Dog Park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 2336 Gregg St, Columbia, SC 29207, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Twin Lakes Dog Park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 2500 Chapel Hill Rd, Columbia, MO 65203, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Garth Nature Area Dog Park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 2799 N Garth Ave, Columbia, MO 65202, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Sesqui State Park Dog Park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Fort Jackson Dog Park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 6100 4th Div Rd, Columbia, SC 29206, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Emily Douglas Park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 2500 Wheat St, Columbia, SC 29205, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Sesquicentennial State Park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Columbia DogPark

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 5901 Rivendell Ln, Columbia, MD 21044, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Bark West Dog Park - Membership Required

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 1940 Augusta Rd, West Columbia, SC 29169, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Pet-Friendly Restaurants & Cafes

Restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating that welcome pets, some even offering special pet menus.

Ozark Mountain Biscuit & Bar

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 1204 Hinkson Ave, Columbia, MO 65201, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

Pawleys Front Porch

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 827 Harden St #1001, Columbia, SC 29205, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

Bark Social

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 5801 Merriweather Dr, Columbia, MD 21044, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

Market On Main

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 1320 Main St #150, Columbia, SC 29201, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

Backstreets Grill

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 2400 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 2138 Pickens St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

Vicious Biscuit

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 3246 Forest Dr, Columbia, SC 29204, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

The Toasty Hot Spot

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 2002 Greene St A, Columbia, SC 29205, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

Veterinary Services & Pet Stores

Emergency vets, pet stores, grooming services, and essential pet care facilities.

Pet Supplies Plus West Columbia

Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.

πŸ“ 2410 Augusta Rd, West Columbia, SC 29169, USA

  • πŸ•Pet supplies and food
  • πŸ•Grooming services available
  • πŸ•Knowledgeable staff
  • πŸ•Emergency vet services
  • πŸ•Pet medications in stock

Petco

Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.

πŸ“ 262 Harbison Blvd Ste A, Columbia, SC 29212, USA

  • πŸ•Pet supplies and food
  • πŸ•Grooming services available
  • πŸ•Knowledgeable staff
  • πŸ•Emergency vet services
  • πŸ•Pet medications in stock

Super Starr Pets

Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.

πŸ“ 4230 Bethel Church Rd, Columbia, SC 29206, USA

  • πŸ•Pet supplies and food
  • πŸ•Grooming services available
  • πŸ•Knowledgeable staff
  • πŸ•Emergency vet services
  • πŸ•Pet medications in stock

Pet Supplies Plus Columbia - Five Points

Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.

πŸ“ 1001 Harden St, Columbia, SC 29205, USA

  • πŸ•Pet supplies and food
  • πŸ•Grooming services available
  • πŸ•Knowledgeable staff
  • πŸ•Emergency vet services
  • πŸ•Pet medications in stock

Well Pets Veterinary Clinic

Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.

πŸ“ 1201 Lake Murray Blvd, Irmo, SC 29063, USA

  • πŸ•Pet supplies and food
  • πŸ•Grooming services available
  • πŸ•Knowledgeable staff
  • πŸ•Emergency vet services
  • πŸ•Pet medications in stock

Forest Acres Pet Supply & Grooming

Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.

πŸ“ 4230 Bethel Church Rd, Columbia, SC 29204, USA

  • πŸ•Pet supplies and food
  • πŸ•Grooming services available
  • πŸ•Knowledgeable staff
  • πŸ•Emergency vet services
  • πŸ•Pet medications in stock

Pet-Friendly Activities

Tours, attractions, and activities where pets are welcome to join the fun.

Sesquicentennial State Park

Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Columbia park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.

  • β€’Bring water and portable bowl
  • β€’Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
  • β€’Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
  • β€’Check for shade during hot weather
  • β€’Watch for other dogs and wildlife

Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park

Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Columbia park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.

  • β€’Bring water and portable bowl
  • β€’Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
  • β€’Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
  • β€’Check for shade during hot weather
  • β€’Watch for other dogs and wildlife

Emily Douglas Park

Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Columbia park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.

  • β€’Bring water and portable bowl
  • β€’Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
  • β€’Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
  • β€’Check for shade during hot weather
  • β€’Watch for other dogs and wildlife

Riverbanks Botanical Garden

Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Columbia park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.

  • β€’Bring water and portable bowl
  • β€’Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
  • β€’Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
  • β€’Check for shade during hot weather
  • β€’Watch for other dogs and wildlife

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

Visit this pet-friendly Columbia attraction where your furry companion is welcome to join the experience.

  • β€’Call ahead to confirm pet policy
  • β€’Bring leash and required documentation
  • β€’Plan for pet breaks and water
  • β€’Avoid peak visiting hours
  • β€’Be prepared to carry small pets if needed

Harbison State Forest

Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Columbia park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.

  • β€’Bring water and portable bowl
  • β€’Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
  • β€’Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
  • β€’Check for shade during hot weather
  • β€’Watch for other dogs and wildlife

Soda City Ghost Tours & Haunted Pub Crawls

Visit this pet-friendly Columbia attraction where your furry companion is welcome to join the experience.

  • β€’Call ahead to confirm pet policy
  • β€’Bring leash and required documentation
  • β€’Plan for pet breaks and water
  • β€’Avoid peak visiting hours
  • β€’Be prepared to carry small pets if needed

Gist Park

Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Columbia park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.

  • β€’Bring water and portable bowl
  • β€’Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
  • β€’Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
  • β€’Check for shade during hot weather
  • β€’Watch for other dogs and wildlife

Frankie's Fun Park

Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Columbia park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.

  • β€’Bring water and portable bowl
  • β€’Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
  • β€’Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
  • β€’Check for shade during hot weather
  • β€’Watch for other dogs and wildlife

EdVenture

Visit this pet-friendly Columbia attraction where your furry companion is welcome to join the experience.

  • β€’Call ahead to confirm pet policy
  • β€’Bring leash and required documentation
  • β€’Plan for pet breaks and water
  • β€’Avoid peak visiting hours
  • β€’Be prepared to carry small pets if needed

Pet Travel Tips

Essential advice for traveling with pets, from packing to safety considerations.

Waterfall Discovery Hike

Embark on an exhilarating Columbia adventure that combines stunning natural beauty with heart-pumping excitement and expert guidance.

  • β€’Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
  • β€’Bring plenty of water - at least 2 liters per person
  • β€’Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix and energy bars
  • β€’Check weather forecast and trail conditions before going
  • β€’Start early to avoid afternoon heat and crowds

Desert Canyon Trail

Challenge yourself with this thrilling Columbia experience, designed for adventurers seeking authentic outdoor excitement and memorable moments.

  • β€’Bring a detailed trail map and compass or GPS
  • β€’Wear layers that can be added or removed
  • β€’Apply sunscreen and bring a hat for sun protection
  • β€’Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time
  • β€’Carry a first aid kit and know basic first aid

Coastal Cliff Walk

Explore Columbia's wild side with this carefully crafted adventure, offering the perfect blend of challenge and natural wonder.

  • β€’Bring a headlamp or flashlight just in case
  • β€’Pack out all trash - leave no trace
  • β€’Stay on marked trails to protect vegetation
  • β€’Be aware of wildlife and keep a safe distance
  • β€’Bring trekking poles for stability on steep sections

Valley View Trail

This Columbia outdoor experience provides adrenaline-seekers with safe, exciting activities led by certified professionals.

  • β€’Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
  • β€’Bring plenty of water - at least 2 liters per person
  • β€’Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix and energy bars
  • β€’Check weather forecast and trail conditions before going
  • β€’Start early to avoid afternoon heat and crowds

Historic Trail Journey

Discover the raw beauty of Columbia's landscape through this immersive adventure, suitable for various skill levels.

  • β€’Bring a detailed trail map and compass or GPS
  • β€’Wear layers that can be added or removed
  • β€’Apply sunscreen and bring a hat for sun protection
  • β€’Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time
  • β€’Carry a first aid kit and know basic first aid

Wildlife Observation Path

Push your limits with this Columbia expedition, where experienced guides ensure both safety and unforgettable thrills.

  • β€’Bring a headlamp or flashlight just in case
  • β€’Pack out all trash - leave no trace
  • β€’Stay on marked trails to protect vegetation
  • β€’Be aware of wildlife and keep a safe distance
  • β€’Bring trekking poles for stability on steep sections

Essential Tips

  • πŸ•Always call ahead to confirm pet policies
  • πŸ•Bring vaccination records and health certificates
  • πŸ•Pack familiar items like toys and bedding
  • πŸ•Research local pet regulations and leash laws
  • πŸ•Keep your pet on a regular feeding schedule
  • πŸ•Bring enough medication for the entire trip
  • πŸ•Have a recent photo of your pet in case they get lost
  • πŸ•Microchip your pet before traveling
  • πŸ•Plan for pet-friendly transportation options
  • πŸ•Book pet-friendly accommodations well in advance

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

The best time for pet-friendly experiences in Columbia varies by activity and season. Generally, spring and fall offer ideal conditions with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with the most options but also the highest prices and largest crowds. Winter can offer unique experiences and better deals, though some activities may be limited.

Average Price

Prices for pet-friendly experiences in Columbia range widely depending on the activity and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium and exclusive options can range from $200-500+. Many activities offer group discounts and package deals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia offers many excellent pet-friendly experiences, each with its own unique character. The best choice depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule, but our guide highlights the top-rated options that consistently deliver exceptional experiences.

Timing varies by activity, but generally spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Summer is peak season with the most options but larger crowds. Check individual listings for specific timing recommendations and seasonal considerations.

For popular experiences, especially during peak season, advance booking is highly recommended. Some activities have limited capacity and sell out quickly. Booking ahead also often provides better rates and ensures availability.

Requirements vary by activity, but generally bring comfortable clothing, appropriate footwear, sun protection, water, and any specific gear mentioned in activity descriptions. Check individual listings for detailed requirements.

Many pet-friendly experiences in Columbia cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Check individual listings for difficulty levels and requirements. Many operators offer instruction and guidance for newcomers.

Costs vary widely depending on the type of experience and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium options can range from $200-500+. Group discounts and packages are often available.

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