Students can explore Columbia on foot through guided walking tours. From architecture to understanding historic events, students can see history on the spots where they occurred.
Walking Tours for Students
Main Street Tour
Tour Themes: Architecture, Reconstruction, Civil Rights
This walking tour travels between the South Carolina State House and the Tapp’s Building six blocks away. The buildings on Main Street exhibit varying architectural styles and design influences from over 150 years of our city’s history. Students explore the history and architecture of Columbia’s central business district and the development of the city over time. This tour can include information on Columbia’s Jewish and Civil Rights histories as well. A tour of the State House grounds is also available, allowing students to learn more about some of the many events and people commemorated there.
SOCIAL STUDIES STANDARDS
2-1.3, 2-1.4 | 3-4.4, 3-4.5, 3-5.1, 3-5.5 | 5-3.1, 5-3.2 | 8-4.5, 8-7.2 | USHC-7.6
History by Design: A Survey of Columbia's Built Culture
Tour Themes: Architecture
This tour examines the different architectural styles that exist in Columbia. The tour brings students to the Robert Mills House, the University of South Carolina Horseshoe and Main Street including the Palmetto Building, the Arcade, and the Sylvan's Jewelers building. Students will learn about the architectural style and design, as well as the historical developments that contributed to the buildings' Civil Rights construction. Please note the tour involves significant walking for the Main Street and University of South Carolina portions.
SOCIAL STUDIES STANDARDS
K-4, K4.1 | 2-1.3, 2-1.4 | 3-4, 3-4.1, 3-4.4, 3-4.5, 3-5.1, 3-5.5 | 5-3.1, 5-3.2 | 8-4.5, 8-7.2 | USHC-2.4, USHC-7.6
Teacher Membership
Teachers who are members of Historic Columbia receive additional benefits! Email education@historiccolumbia.org or call 803.252.1770 x 23 for more information.