Looking for the best things to do in Lake Murray Country this summer?
From boating on Lake Murray and floating down the Saluda River to exploring charming downtowns, discovering hidden trails, and enjoying waterfront dining, Lake Murray Country is packed with unforgettable summer adventures.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, couples getaway, girls’ trip, or weekend escape, here’s your ultimate summer bucket list for South Carolina’s Jewel.
Quick Answer: What Are the Best Things to Do in Lake Murray Country This Summer?
If you’re short on time, add these must-do experiences to your summer bucket list:
- Spend a day on Lake Murray
- Float the Saluda River with Palmetto Outdoor
- Visit Congaree National Park
- Watch the Purple Martin Phenomenon at Bomb Island
- Enjoy waterfront dining
- Explore Downtown Newberry
- Catch a Columbia Fireflies game
- Visit Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
- Cruise aboard the Spirit of Lake Murray
Lake Life
1. Find Your Perfect Spot on Lake Murray
Whether you’re spending the day at a lakeside park, relaxing on a sandy shoreline, or anchoring in a quiet cove, soaking up the beauty of Lake Murray is a summer tradition everyone should experience.
2. Cruise the Lake by Boat
Whether you rent a pontoon, deck boat, or jet ski, exploring Lake Murray by water is one of the best ways to experience South Carolina’s Jewel. Cruise the shoreline, discover hidden coves, and dock for a waterfront meal. Rather sit back and relax? Book an outing with one of the area’s experienced fishing guides or charter captains and let them do the navigating while you enjoy the ride.
3. Go Wakeboarding, Waterskiing, or Jet Skiing
Turn up the excitement with a day of wakeboarding, waterskiing, or jet skiing on Lake Murray. Whether you’re trying a new watersport or sharpening your skills, local businesses like Fifty-Fifty Water Sports and Lake Murray Wake Lessons offer lessons, rentals, and guided experiences to help you make the most of your time on the water.
4. Take a Cruise on the Spirit of Lake Murray
Experience Lake Murray from a new perspective aboard the Spirit of Lake Murray. Their cruises offer stunning views, relaxing vibes, and unforgettable photo opportunities. Sit back, enjoy the scenery, and treat yourself to food and drinks available for purchase.
5. Dine at a Waterfront Restaurant
Nothing says summer quite like dinner with a view. Dock and dine at favorites like Liberty on the Lake, Rusty Anchor & Nauti Turtle, or Do’Little Watering Hole while enjoying beautiful lakefront scenery.
6. Watch a Lake Murray Sunset
Find a quiet shoreline, park, dock, or restaurant patio and watch the sky come alive with vibrant colors as the sun dips below the horizon.
Outdoor Adventures
7. Float Down the Saluda River
One of the Midlands’ most popular summer traditions is floating the scenic Saluda River. Grab a tube through Palmetto Outdoor and enjoy a relaxing ride through one of Columbia’s most beautiful natural areas.
8. Explore Congaree National Park
Home to some of the tallest trees in the eastern United States, Congaree National Park offers hiking, paddling, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking natural beauty.
9. Paddle Through Congaree’s Waterways
Experience Congaree National Park from the water as you paddle beneath towering old-growth trees through one of the country’s most unique floodplain forests. Whether you prefer a guided adventure or exploring at your own pace, local outfitters like River Runner Outdoor Center, Palmetto Outdoor, and Carolina Outdoor Adventures offer rentals and guided tours to help you discover this unforgettable national park.
10. Visit Dreher Island or Pine Island State Parks
Reconnect with nature at Dreher Island State Park or the newly opened Pine Island State Park, where you can hike scenic trails, camp under the stars, fish from the shoreline, and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Murray. Both parks offer the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts looking to slow down and experience the natural beauty of South Carolina’s Jewel. Be sure to check our events calendar to see when local, regional, and national fishing tournaments are taking place… you might even catch an exciting weigh-in or discover your next tournament to compete in!
11. Hike Harbison State Forest
Escape into nature at Harbison State Forest, where more than 20 miles of scenic trails wind through towering pines just minutes from the Town of Irmo. After you hike or bike, grab a bite at one of Irmo’s local restaurants, like Luzianna Purchase or Roy’s Grille. Then browse nearby shops, or plan your visit around one of the town’s popular community events.
12. Spend the Day at a Beloved Community Park
Pack a picnic and enjoy one of Lake Murray Country’s favorite community gathering spots. Play pickleball or rollerblade at Columbia’s newly reimagined Finlay Park, explore the scenic Old Mill Pond Trail, enjoy the playgrounds and green space at Moore Park in Irmo, or spend an afternoon at Blythewood’s Doko Meadows Park, home to walking trails, open space, and year-round community events.
13. Walk the Cayce and West Columbia Riverwalks
Take a scenic stroll along the Cayce Riverwalk and West Columbia Riverwalk, where miles of paved trails wind alongside the Congaree River. Enjoy beautiful waterfront views, spot local wildlife, cast a fishing line, or simply relax while taking in one of the most picturesque outdoor spaces in the Midlands. It’s the perfect way to experience the region’s natural beauty just minutes from downtown Columbia.
Wildlife & Natural Wonders
14. Witness the Purple Martin Phenomenon
Each summer, thousands of Purple Martins gather over Bomb Island before their nightly roost, creating one of North America’s most spectacular wildlife displays. Book a guided boat tour for an unforgettable up-close view from the water. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t want to miss while visiting Lake Murray Country.
15. Go Birdwatching Around Lake Murray
From bald eagles and ospreys to Purple Martins and great blue herons, Lake Murray Country is home to some incredible birdwatching opportunities. Before you head out, check out local birding expert John Tjaarda’s “25 Must-See Birds” blog and start building your own birding bucket list.
Food & Drink Experiences
16. Sip Your Way Through the Craft Beverage Scene
Raise a glass to local flavor by exploring Lake Murray Country’s thriving craft beverage scene. Enjoy award-winning beers, scenic patios, and unique tasting experiences at favorites like Steel Hands Brewing, Savage Craft Ale Works, Hazelwood Brewing Company, Hunter-Gather Brewery, and Enoree River Winery.
17. Savor The Vista’s Culinary Options
Discover why Columbia is becoming one of South Carolina’s top food destinations. Enjoy inventive dishes at The Hollow, tapas and wine at CITY GRIT, or dine at Michelin-recommended restaurants like Motor Supply Company Bistro and Di Vino Rosso.
18. Explore Downtown Lexington
Spend an afternoon exploring the heart of Downtown Lexington, where locally owned boutiques, specialty shops, and inviting restaurants line Main Street. Catch a summer concert at the Icehouse Amphitheater, enjoy dinner on the patio at Private Property, or simply stroll through one of the Lake Murray Country region’s most charming downtowns.
19. Find Your Favorite Summer Dessert
Cool off with a sweet treat from Sweet Cream Co. in downtown Columbia, enjoy a classic cone or milkshake at local favorite Rosewood Dairy Bar, grab a dipped cone from the iconic Zesto of West Columbia, or create your own custom paleta at Morelia Ice Cream Paletas in Forest Acres with your choice of dips and toppings.
Family-Friendly Fun
20. Visit Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Consistently ranked among the nation’s top zoos, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden offers unforgettable animal encounters, beautiful botanical gardens, and fun for all ages. Visiting on a Tuesday this summer? Take advantage of Toucan Tuesdays, where guests can receive buy-one, get-one admission with a donation of two nonperishable food items benefiting Harvest Hope Food Bank.
21. Catch a Columbia Fireflies Baseball Game
Enjoy America’s favorite pastime at Segra Park, complete with Fireworks Nights, $2 Miller Lite Tuesdays, Thirsty Thursdays, themed giveaways, and family-friendly fun. Check the promotional calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
22. Explore South Carolina State Museum
Discover fascinating exhibits, hands-on experiences, and one of the Southeast’s largest planetariums at the South Carolina State Museum. While you’re there, explore the museum’s newest Revolutionary War exhibit, “American Battleground: South Carolina’s Revolution” (opening June 27), which brings South Carolina’s pivotal role in the fight for independence to life through immersive storytelling and historic artifacts.
Small Towns & Local Charm
23. Spend a Day in Downtown Newberry
Experience the charm of Downtown Newberry by shopping local boutiques like The Gallery, enjoying lunch or dinner at Tiny Paris, sipping a cocktail at Bar Figaro, exploring local art at the Newberry Arts Center, and catching a live performance at the historic Newberry Opera House.
24. Explore Cayce’s Public Art Scene
Discover colorful murals and public art installations throughout the Cayce River Arts District, including the Art Lot and Cayce Avenues murals. Pair your visit with the online art lot map to learn more about each piece and find your new favorite artist.
25. Take a Scenic Drive Through Saluda County
Hit the backroads and discover the charm of Saluda County, where rolling countryside, small-town character, and hidden gems await. While you’re exploring, stop by Juniper, a local favorite known for its eclectic atmosphere and mouthwatering comfort food.
Plan Your Summer Adventure
Whether you’re boating on Lake Murray, floating the Saluda River, exploring Congaree National Park, or discovering the charm of Newberry and Saluda, Lake Murray Country offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and memory-making.
How many experiences can you check off your bucket list this summer?
