Earlewood Park

Earlewood Park is a picturesque green oasis nestled in the heart of the historic district of Columbia, USA. This public space is considered a favorite getaway for both locals and visitors, offering an ideal blend of manicured nature and modern recreational areas.

The park's grounds are famous for their spacious lawns, which are perfect for a picnic or simply enjoying a book in the shade of the trees. Located near the Congaree River, the park serves as a true "green oasis" in the dynamic capital of South Carolina, attracting visitors with its calm and welcoming atmosphere.

Thanks to its high ratings, Earlewood Park is firmly established on the list of the region's best parks. It offers all the conditions for a comfortable time, from winding walking paths to specially equipped areas for active recreation, making it a pleasant stop for every tourist.

To ensure your visit to Earlewood Park is as comfortable as possible, we recommend checking the official contact details in advance. You can contact the park administration for information about scheduled events or to rent BBQ areas. Below is the essential contact information and the exact address in Columbia.

At Earlewood Park, everyone will find something to enjoy. Fans of an active lifestyle will appreciate the well-maintained trails, perfect for walking and cycling, as well as morning jogs. The spacious fields often host games of frisbee or soccer, while sports courts await those looking for some outdoor exercise.

For family outings, there are playgrounds for children and cozy picnic spots. The park is equipped with special BBQ areas, ideal for gathering with a large group. If you seek tranquility, you can always find a secluded bench to observe the local fauna—various birds and small forest dwellers are frequently seen in the park.

In the summer, life in the park becomes even more vibrant: community events such as outdoor concerts or small festivals are often held on its grounds. Additionally, its proximity to the Congaree River makes it easy to complement your visit with water activities, like kayaking, right next to the park borders.

Getting to Earlewood Park by car is easy — it is located at 1113 Recreation Dr. If you are driving from downtown Columbia, the trip will take about 10–15 minutes. Parking spaces for visitors are provided within the park and in the immediate vicinity.

For those who prefer a taxi, a ride from central districts or major hotels is quick and affordable. You can also use Uber or Lyft services. If you are arriving from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE), a taxi will take you to the park gates in approximately 20 minutes.

Public transportation is available via The Comet bus network. The nearest stops are in the Earlewood area, from which you can reach the park entrance on foot in a few minutes. On a nice day, a great option is a walk or a bike ride from the city center along the scenic trails by the Congaree River — the distance is about 4–5 kilometers.

The history of Earlewood Park is closely linked to the development of the neighborhood of the same name, which began its official record in 1905. At that time, vacant lands were subdivided and put up for sale, marking the start of active construction and the formation of one of the most charming residential quarters in Columbia.

The city of Columbia itself, founded in 1786 as the capital of South Carolina, was designed with a special focus on green spaces. The emergence of Earlewood Park was a logical continuation of urban planning from the 19th and early 20th centuries, when proximity to the Congaree River and the development of railroads stimulated the growth of recreational infrastructure for city residents.

Today, the park carefully preserves the atmosphere of the early last century, harmoniously fitting into the modern landscape of the USA. It serves as a living reminder of the times when the city was just beginning to expand its borders, transforming former woodlands into well-maintained community spaces.

For a leisurely stroll through the main alleys of Earlewood Park and to enjoy its nature, 1–2 hours is usually enough. This time is quite sufficient to explore the grounds and take a short break on one of the benches.

If you plan to have a full picnic, practice yoga on the lawn, or play sports on the dedicated courts, you should allow about 3 hours for your visit. The park is also an excellent spot for a morning run, which might take 30–40 minutes of your time.

The park is open to the public daily, allowing guests to choose any convenient time for a walk. Typically, Earlewood Park operates on the following schedule:

Daily: from 08:00 to 21:00.

Please note that operating hours may vary slightly depending on the season or special events. We recommend checking the official park website for the latest information before planning your visit.

The location of Earlewood Park allows tourists to easily combine a walk in the fresh air with visits to other interesting city sites. Exploring the surroundings will help you better experience the historical atmosphere and cultural diversity of the state capital.

Within a few kilometers of the park, you will find everything from historic mansions with lush gardens to modern entertainment centers. Below are the nearest attractions to include in your itinerary.