Columbia’s New Main Street District

Enjoy art, live entertainment, cultural events, shopping, and some of the greatest foodie hotspots in the heart of the Capital City.

2 mins read

In 2001, City Center Partnership was formed to manage the downtown Business Improvement District in the 36-block area bounded by Gervais, Elmwood, Assembly and Marion streets in Columbia, SC. The organization provides public space management, economic development, place management, marketing services, and public advocacy for the Main Street District.

The Board of Directors oversee the organization’s mission — to focus on filling vacancies in commercial properties, retaining existing downtown businesses and recruiting new ones, expanding the downtown residential base, and creating a safe, clean, and friendly downtown environment.

The Main Street District is home to many of the City’s most popular attractions and events, including the Soda City Market, First Thursday on Main, Columbia’s Greek Festival, Famously Hot New Year, and the Indie Grits Festival.

Art, Culture & History

With 36 properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Main Street District is unquestionably the heart of Columbia’s arts, history and culture scene. From the best of independent films at the Nickelodeon Theatre and the award winning Columbia Museum of Art to thought provoking collections at the Tapp’s Arts Center, Main Street’s cultural options offer a variety of entertainment for everyone.

Shopping

From custom & tailored clothing stores and fine jewelry boutiques to personalized gift shops and an old country store, the Main Street District offers a wide array of shopping options. Visit our eclectic district filled with fascinating people and places that provide a uniquely downtown Columbia experience.

Dining

Do you have a taste for some great Cajun-Creole cuisine…or perhaps traditional Italian food? The Main Street District offers over 50 dining options from casual & contemporary to Al fresco and Farm to Table dining.

Downtown Living

If you enjoy a progressive metropolitan environment, consider living downtown in the heart of the Capital City. Residents have easy access to all of Columbia, South Carolina’s unique attractions, including the Columbia Museum of Art, Richland County Public Library, the State House, Soda City Market, Nickelodeon Theatre, Tapp’s Arts Center, Anastasia & Friends Gallery, Grapes and Gallery, and the many restaurants and specialty shops located throughout the Main Street District.

Michael Bailey works as a multimedia journalist who specializes in producing news stories and personal profiles that highlight the cultural, social, economic, and political experiences of minorities living in South Carolina and beyond. His extensive media, business, and political background has made him a well-respected voice and an often sought-after commentator on issues impacting people of color.

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