Outer East Central - Columbia, SC Area Guide

Founded in 1786, Columbia and its outer central neighborhood grew quickly due to increased railroad traffic and became an official city by 1854. By the 20th century, the area became known primarily for its textile manufacturing industry. By 1930, the neighborhood transformed into a trading hub and began to flourish economically. The area consists of about 130,000 people, who come from differing racial and ethnic backgrounds.

The Columbia Museum of Art strives to provide learning services through films, exhibits, group tours, school trips and summer camps. Featuring collections of Boroque and Renaissance art, the museum specializes in pieces of international significance. Throughout the year, the museum hosts an event called Arts and Draughts, where visitors can enjoy exhibits while sipping on a beer.

Centrally located, the Outer East Central neighborhood lies near some of the best bars and restaurants in South Carolina. Mr. Friendly's New Southern Cafe has earned its reputation for excellent service with its friendly staff. Locals recommend the fried green tomatoes as well the blackened shrimp and grits. Try the restaurant's classic bourbon pecan pie for dessert.

For something a bit more on the casual side, check out DiPrato's Delicatessen. Simple yet legendary, the establishment serves incredible omelettes and pancakes for breakfast and brunch that pair perfectly with the mimosas. On Sundays, the restaurant serves homemade pita chips and pimento cheese while you wait, one of the perks locals love. At lunch, customers recommend the fried fish sandwich with fries and slaw. Enjoy your meal indoors or on the cozy patio.

Blue Marlin, the area's central restaurant, acts as a great alternative to corporate chain restaurants. An upscale Southern seafood spot, the restaurant serves the best crab cakes in the neighborhood. Regulars highly recommend trying the grilled salmon with seared scallops and grits. Made in-house, the key lime pie completes any meal perfectly.

With a highly energetic nightlife scene, the area features a number of clubs, bars and music venues that help people relax after a long week. Jet Night Life, the most frequented dance club in the neighborhood, plays current, upbeat music. If you prefer more intimacy in a club atmosphere, reserve VIP service. Great for birthdays and other gatherings, the club hosts private events upon request and reservation.

The area relies significantly on cars for transportation. To accommodate this, many parking garages and lots allow drivers convenient access. Vista Garage on Lincoln Street provides drivers with free parking for the first hour and a $3 maximum evening rate. Monthly passes can be purchased for between $65 and $85. With 4,600 parking meters in the area, parking proves to be abundant and affordable here. Interstate 20, 26 and 77 provide easy commuting routes for drivers.

The Comet, the area's public transit system, provides residents with inexpensive bus services. Transporting riders to downtown Columbia and surrounding areas, the system consists of 30 different routes. While you can hail a cab in downtown Columbia, calling and arranging a pickup proves more efficient if you reside in the outer central neighborhood. Uber and Lyft ride shares service the area as well.

The neighborhood is safe, walkable and biker-friendly. With over 10 biking trails and biking lanes, bike riders can commute to many desirable places safely.

With over 60 city parks and 600 acres of maintained park land, the area gives residents many things to do. Granby Park, part of the Three Rivers Greenway, houses a 12-mile river that connects Columbia, West Columbia and Cayce. With open space and lush greenery, this park accommodates walkers and runners as well as leashed pets.

Owens Field Park, a neighborhood skate park, remains free to the public. Skates, boards and bikes all get warm welcome here. The park also houses an 18-hole disc golf course, 12 soccer fields and three T-ball fields. At 1,500 acres in size, the park serves as a family-friendly recreational spot.

Every year, Finlay Park hosts Kids Day, an event that consists of races, rallies, food and fun. The park also hosts the Summer Concert Series, which provides locals with a slew of live music outdoors. Food and drinks are also available to be purchased.

Living in the outer central neighborhood costs 2.9 percent less than the Columbia average and 3.3 percent less than the national average. Getting to the city center via public transportation costs $1.50. The housing market proves to be very affordable as well, with rental rates for a one-bedroom apartment going for around $692 per month. For those who drive, gas prices run 5.8 percent less than the national average. Expect to pay about $2 for a beer at a local pub. Local bars and restaurants also host great happy hours, making some drink choices less expensive.

Avid shoppers enjoy Richland Mall, filled with an array of stores such as Belk and Gymboree for kids. The Richland Mall stores often throw great sales as well. Shoppers can take a break at China Max and grab a bite before hitting the mall's Regal Cinemas.

A local gem, WISH Boutique carries unique women's clothing, accessories and shoes. Known for its trendy, chic flair, the boutique permits online shopping for your convenience. The store sells fashionable clothing for reasonable prices. Perfect for the little ones, Little Lambs & Ivy Boutique carries high-quality baby clothing for all occasions. The boutique even has a gift registry for expecting parents.

Though a bit on the pricey side, locals often shop at Whole Foods, a grocery chain known for organic products. If you prefer to pick up fresh fruits, veggies and other household items from local vendors, check out The State Farmers Market campus, open seven days a week.