best 16 programs in Columbia, SC

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

At Children's Community Theatre, we are inspired by the intelligence and emotional wisdom of young people. We believe in nurturing meaningful learning through the arts and fostering inclusive community. Through our professional theatre for youth and families, we create opportunities for children to explore their creativity and gain valuable life skills. At CCT, we also offer classes and camps for children of all ages. Our flagship programs take place at the Sarah Nance Cultural Arts Center Arts Incubator, and we also offer classes and camps at parks throughout the city. We are committed to providing quality arts education and programming for all children in our community.

For 50 years, Workshop Theatre has been a cornerstone of the local theatre scene, providing a creative space for actors, directors, and technicians to explore their craft. This vibrant community values the power of the live theatre experience, and are always looking for volunteers to help with their productions. Workshop Theatre is supported by several prominent organizations, including the South Carolina Arts Commission and the United Arts Fund of the Cultural Council of Richland and Lexington Counties. This important funding helps Workshop Theatre continue to bring the best in local theatre to the community.

Being a parent, you want the best for your child. That’s why Hammond offers a variety of summer programs designed to provide your child with a safe, supportive, and fun-filled environment. From three years-old through adulthood, Hammond has something of interest for everyone. Whether you are looking for half-day or full-day programs, athletic workshops, arts classes, or supplemental academic programs, you will find it at Hammond. At Hammond, we are committed to helping each individual reach their full potential. Our highly individualized camps and programs offer a unique opportunity for your child to learn, grow, and explore. They will acquire new skills and knowledge, develop talents, and have the chance to try something new. Look no further for enriching and enjoyable summer programs – Hammond has it all.

At AR Workshop Columbia, Samatha and her team of instructors offer hands-on classes for creating beautiful and unique pieces of home decor. From raw materials, you can create personalized wood plank signs, framed signs, canvas pillows, round signs, lazy susans, centerpiece boxes, canvas tote bags, and many more. Samatha and her team will help you take your home decor designs to the next level and have fun doing it! AR Workshop Columbia is more than just a place to make beautiful pieces of art, it is a place to make memories! From couples workshops to girls nights out, birthdays to team building events, each workshop is a chance to get together and make something special. With their help, you can make a unique piece of home decor that you will treasure for years to come. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make memories with AR Workshop Columbia!

At First Tee, we’re building game changers and empowering kids through golf! Our youth development organization seamlessly integrates the game of golf with a life skills curriculum to create active learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience. We’re helping to develop the next generation of leaders through our junior golf programs. Through our junior golf programs, First Tee is helping kids to build the strength of character that will empower them through a lifetime of new challenges. Our innovative approach provides kids with a unique opportunity to learn and grow, instilling in them the self-confidence and resilience they’ll need to tackle any obstacles they may face. We’re dedicated to Building Game Changers through our junior golf programs.

Parents Magazine Style Sports can be a great way for families to stay connected, and now coaches are taking it one step further. They are investing in the lives of their players and their families by sharing sports skills, life lessons, and the truth of God's word. It is our goal to see our community positively transformed by uniting people of all beliefs and backgrounds through sports. This shared culture of inclusion, service, and respect creates a sense of unity and hope for the future. Coaches are in a unique position to reach players and their families and make a lasting impact. Through teaching sports skills, life lessons, and the truth of God's word, lives are changed. We know that the power of sports can bring people of different beliefs and backgrounds together, creating a culture of togetherness, kindness, and respect. Our mission is to see our community transformed for the better. We believe that by uniting people of different backgrounds and beliefs through sports we can create a culture of unity, inclusion, service, and respect. This shared culture brings hope to our community and offers a bright future for everyone.

At Lake Murray Golf Center in Chapin, Crickentree Golf Club in Blythewood, and Riverside Golf Center at I-20 and Broad River Road, the golf academy offers lessons for juniors, adults, and groups. Take advantage of the perfect setting to learn all the skills of the game in both indoor and outdoor settings. The after-school programs are available to elementary and intermediate schools in the area and perfectly complement the summer camps. With the help of knowledgeable staff, many of the alumni of these programs have gone on to make their mark on the local high school teams. If you want to get your little one involved in golf, then look no further than the golf academy. With a variety of programs to choose from, and the expert guidance of the staff, your child will develop the skills to excel in the game of golf.

At The Mad Platter, we make it easy to be creative! Our open studio is the perfect spot for you to explore your creative side. With all of your supplies included, you can pick your favorite piece of ceramics and get to work. We also have reserved tables available on our store page, so you can plan ahead for your visit. We also welcome walk-ins on a first come, first served basis. If you have a large group, give us a call and we'll be happy to help.

At Young Musician’s University, we’re revolutionizing music education. Our online platform offers students ages 4-18 a safe, encouraging environment to explore, create, and connect with other young musicians. Through our integrated software, students can learn and create music in our online library, recording studio, and virtual field trips. We’re giving kids the chance to find their love and passion for music while improving their musicianship. Join our community and unlock the power of music!