Congaree Vista Columbia, SC

Once an industrial area anchored by a train station on Gervais Street, the Congaree Vista neighborhood fell into disrepair during the early part of the 20th century. In the late 1990s and 2000s, the area enjoyed a burst of revitalization. During that time, many warehouses and industrial sites transformed into artists' lofts, galleries and museums, effectively shifting the area from industrial to cultural.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Vista represents Columbia's artistic center. The Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina State Museum and EdVenture, the largest children's museum in the Southeast, found homes there.

Every year, Congaree Vista hosts a 3-day gallery crawl called Artista Vista. Participating galleries welcome roaming visitors who enjoy complimentary food, drink and live entertainment. On the third Thursday of each month, the neighborhood also has a program called Vista Nights in which shops and galleries stay open late.

Foodies won't be disappointed by Congaree Vista. The neighborhood has a vast assortment of restaurants from simple cafes to fine dining, covering a full range of regional and international cuisine.

For an elegant meal created exclusively with items from local farms or made in-house, try the Motor Supply Company Bistro on Gervais Street. The handwritten menu changes daily based on available ingredients. Go for Sunday brunch. Where else would you find veal and cremini mushroom meatloaf with andouille sausage and red onion gravy on the same menu as an everything bagel sandwich with bacon, swiss and scrambled eggs? Pair your meal with a spiked peach apple cider for the perfect start to the day.

Gervais & Vine serves Spanish-style tapas in a pleasant and comfortable atmosphere. With over 40 wines by the glass, you can sample a few new wines and few new small plates in one sitting Locals rave about Gervais & Vine's eggplant fries with honey yogurt and romesco sauce. Follow it with the petit filet mignon with feta and balsamic reduction and then savor the taste of a perfect glass of port.

If you have a sweet tooth, you will lose your mind at Nonnah’s. This family-run eatery exudes warmth and happiness. Choose something light from the supper menu, like the ham and asparagus crepes, because you will want to save room for Nonnah's award-winning desserts. Opt for a flaming spectacle of cherries jubilee or bananas foster prepared tableside. Enjoy it with a decadent coffee groug, made with coffee, coconut cream, rum and Grand Marnier.

If all you want is a beer and a good time, head to Kelly's Pub on Washington Street. Congaree Vista locals hang out at Kelly's for the chill atmosphere and late-night hours. To satisfy your inner songbird, jet over to an awesome piano sing-along bar called Rocket Man. Rocket Man's interactive shows could not be more fun.

For live music, look for big name acts at the Colonial Life Arena or catch a local band at the neighborhood's World of Beer. Columbia has its share of dance clubs as well. Locals flock to Social for the area's hottest DJs.

Enjoy the magnolia trees as you stroll through this easily walkable neighborhood. Congaree Vista lends itself perfectly to walking with its safe streets, pleasant weather and historic charm.

Columbia's bus service, The Comet, can get you nearly anywhere in the city and beyond to destinations like Lexington and Fort Jackson. Congaree Vista has convenient access to all four of the Comet lines.

For travel to more distant locations, walk to the Columbia Amtrak station on the edge of the neighborhood and hop a train to New York City or drive just 8 miles to the Columbia Metropolitan Airport.

Getting around Congaree Vista by car does not pose a problem. The neighborhood straddles Gervais Street (Route 1) from which you can easily reach the 3 highways circling the city of Columbia: I-20, I-26 and I-77. Reach Interstate 95 in less than 90 miles. Parking in The Vista can be tricky. Many roads have metered parking or you can utilize one of the area's several parking garages.

Hailing a cab can also be difficult. Call for one in advance or plan travel via Uber or car service.

The Vista does not have dedicated bike-friendly lanes, but recreational bikers can safely bike the distance of the Columbia Canal or south from the Vista down the River.

With its tree-lined streets and relaxed Southern atmosphere, Congaree Vista has a distinctly open feel. Adding to the neighborhood's sense of spaciousness are several glorious parks. Across the street from the governor's Mansion sits the 18-acre Finlay Park. One of the largest handicapped accessible parks in the United States, Finlay has playground areas, a lake, waterfalls and playing fields. Many community events, such as MayFest and Columbia Kids Day, take place at Finlay Park.

Visit the smaller Memorial Park to see the Vietnam Memorial Monument. In addition to the monument, Memorial Park has 7 acres of lovely green space, filled with flowering plants, winding paths and a lovely creek.

Exercisers love the Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park. With spectacular views of the river and plenty of benches, this park provides a perfect respite from the city. Enjoy all three family-friendly parks free of charge. Leashed pets are welcome.

Congaree Vista hosts many annual events, including the Vista Lights annual holiday street party, a Summer Concert Series and the 3-day Artista Vista gallery crawl.

It costs more to live in the Congaree Vista than elsewhere in the city of Columbia. However, the cost of living remains on par with the national average. Amenities in Congaree Vista fall within reasonable bounds. Rent a one-bedroom apartment in the neighborhood for about $1,100 per month. Reach nearly any location in the city of Columbia for $1.50 one-way on the Comet bus. Gas prices in the Columbia area sit at about 10 percent lower than the national average. Grab a domestic beer during happy hour at most of Congaree Vista's casual bars, such as Liberty Tap Room and Grill, for $3.

Congaree Vista has fantastic shopping options, from giant discount stores to unique, independent boutiques. The neighborhood Walmart stocks all your necessity items. For a full shopping mall with upscale stores, including Coach and Williams Sonoma, try the nearby Columbiana Center.

Mast General Store on Main Street sells everything under the sun. Barrels full of candy, quirky gifts, Southern specialties, outdoor gear, clothes and shoes represent just a few of Mast's selections. If you need Carolina Gamecock gear, head to Miss Cocky. In addition to sports fan bling, Miss Cocky carries gorgeous jewelry and women's and children's apparel.

A throwback to prior decades, Papa Jazz Record Shoppe has an unbelievable inventory of rare vinyl. Though the store specializes in jazz, you can find virtually anything, from punk to reggae with helpful guidance from Papa's friendly and knowledgeable staff

The neighborhood has large grocery stores, like Publix and Food Lion, as well as numerous small markets. For fresh produce and local wares, visit the Soda City Farmers Market on Main Street Saturdays.