Everything to know about visiting the South Carolina State House
The South Carolina State House, located in South Carolina’s capital Columbia, is an awe-inspiring building and grounds that attract visitors from near and far. The SC State House is steeped in history, serving as home for the SC House and Senate Chambers as well as the Governor’s office.
The building dates back to the 1850s and is the third state house in South Carolina’s History. Located in the heart of the city at the intersection of Gervais Street and Main Street, it’s a great spot to visit while you are in downtown Columbia.
Read on to find out all the information you need to enjoy your visit to the SC State House!
Table of Contents
- What to see at the SC State House
- SC State House Tours
- Parking at the SC State House
- SC State House FAQs
What to see at the SC State House
SC State House Grounds
Before you even get close to the SC State House you will be struck by the beauty of the landscaped grounds around the State House. The State House is located on 18 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds with mature trees, manicured lawns and walking paths scattered with park benches.
The state house is a beautiful place to go for a stroll or hang out on a bench and take in the sights. While you are strolling around the grounds you will see plenty of architecture and history on display as well. Be sure to check out the South Carolina State Parks department’s State House Grounds Brochure which provides information on the trees on the grounds and each of the 27 monuments on the State House grounds.
SC State House Building
The South Carolina State House is an impressive Classical Revival Style building with an iconic copper dome. The building clocks in at over 130,000 square feet (!!) and is home to South Carolina’s executive and legislative branches of government.
As you enter the building you will walk into a grand lobby decorated with paintings, plaques and statues. On either end of the lobby, you will see the chambers of the two bodies of the legislature — the senate chamber and the house chamber.
The building was under construction during the Civil War and was damaged but survived to be completed in the ensuing years. You can see locations where the exterior of the building was hit by cannon fire marked by six bronze stars. For additional information about the SC State House check out this South Carolina State House Guide.
SC State House Tours
Free self-guided and guided tours are available to the general public. Walk-ins are welcomed and encouraged. Tours begin with a 15-minute video educating visitors on the history and architecture of the SC State House building followed by a tour of the building. For more information about tours check the SC State House’s website.
Parking at the SC State House
There is no special parking for visitors to the SC State House. Metered street parking is available on all streets around the statehouse. We like to park on Main Street or the Vista to enjoy the shops and restaurants in the area when visiting the State House.
SC State House FAQs
Yes! The SC State House offers free guided tours and self-guided tours. View the schedule here.
The SC State House is located at 1100 Gervais Street.
