City-Columbia Parks & Rec Department

Columbia Parks and Recreation, with its office in Columbia, S.C., maintains the city parks and develops them to create a variety of facilities for residents. While some parks offer well-maintained gardens and walks, others have historical significance or offer special activities. Finlay Park hosts festivals, political rallies, road races and Easter sunrise services; and Memorial Park honors those who served their country during World War II and the Korean War. Other parks have special attractions, such as the Golf Center and the Cultural Arts Center that brings visual and performing arts to the city. Some parks have been developed so that young athletes are exposed to a range of sports, from basketball to golf; other parks encourage people to develop their skills in sports, such as tennis, baseball, volleyball and swimming. The department also organizes trips for senior citizens at some parks and sponsors Olympic-style games at others.