As National Travel and Tourism Week continues today, we encourage you to celebrate the tourism industry, its dedicated workers and the impact travel has on our community. The travel effect proves the travel industry has a measurable and purposeful impact on our lives, businesses and the nation's economy as a whole. For the Columbia region, the tourism industry brings in 4 million visitors for a $1 billion impact on the local economy.

As a part of National Travel & Tourism Week, we'd like you to be a "tourist in your own town" and explore all of Columbia, SC's hot spots this week! We'll be highlighting things to do and places to go, so stay tuned to our blog, Facebook or Twitter pages for more details.

Today, get out and sample all the delicious offerings that make Columbia, SC The New Culinary Hot Spot!

 

 

nosh on delicious food
Columbia, SC is chock full of mouthwatering restaurants, each with their own unique flavor. Take today as an opportunity to get out and vary from your usual by trying a new place or ordering a different dish! Some of the newest establishments to visit include Bourbon, M Grille, Michael's Café & Catering and The Southern Belly BBQ, but be sure to check our website for a complete listing of all restaurants in the Columbia region!

 

 
Post by Drink Blog Repeat.

 

grab a brew
The Columbia region is rapidly becoming the place to be for beer connoisseurs. With new breweries like Conquest and River Rat, as well as favorite brewpubs Hunter-Gatherer and Old Mill Brewpub, the options abound for local spots to kick back and enjoy an ice-cold pint. Take a look at our website for even more breweries and brewpubs in Columbia, SC!

 

 
Post by The Wurst Wagen.

 

truck stop
Don't forget about all the gourmet meals on wheels circulating throughout the Columbia area! A first-rate lunch or dinner can still be had for those in a hurry. 2 Fat 2 Fly, The Wurst Wagen and Bone-In Artisan BBQ are just a few of the many food trucks that can be tracked down for a quick bite.

thank you treats
Today, the Columbia Metropolitan CVB is delivering cookies to our hotel and attractions partners to thank them for their hospitality to Columbia, SC's 1 million tourists. We're also giving out boxed lunches to the Columbia region's cab drivers, who transport our visitors from the Columbia Metropolitan Airport to the rest of the region. If you're thankful for Columbia, SC's hospitality workers, give them a shout out on social media with #NTTW14!

Be sure to check back in tomorrow for ideas on things to do in The New Kid-Friendly Hot Spot!

Share your hometown tourist moments by posting on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram with #nttw14, #famouslyhot and #traveleffect. We might just show off your pictures on our social media!