Kimmer,
I live within a couple miles of the fort and I used to have occasion to shortcut through there but, as you know, the bases are locked down pretty tight now so us civilians have to go around now. My father is retired military so I do get to go to the PX and the package store sometimes.
I'm not sure what y'all like to do but I'll outline some things that are happening around here.
We have a fine new art museum down town but you just missed the Tutankhamen display.
The Vista has many grown-up bars and resturants, that is it isn't strictly a student activity area and it is concentrated so walking is convenient. This is downtown off of Gervais Street. (Don't be a tourist, it's pronounced jer vay'. Also Huger Street is pronounced hu gee'.) This is a relatively new entertainment area, near the coliseum, and is very popular.
Five Points has a more bohemian atmosphere and is frequented by students and locals (like me). There are many resturants and bars within walking distance.
The Darlington speedway is about 1-1/2 hours away with the big race on Memorial day but it's been sold out for months since NASCAR has decided to move the race to California after this one.
The South Carolina Gamecocks have their first game of the season at home that weekend so the place will be hoppin'.
Thinking of that you might have a hard time finding a hotel anywhere in town but Columbia isn't that big so you might find something easy to get to.
The Bombers, baseball team probably won't have a game in town that weekend but maybe during the week.
There are a few malls to shop at, mainly Columbia Mall which is close to Fort Jackson, Richland Mall, smaller but nice and Columbiana Mall, in Harbison is big and trendy.
There are plenty of churches.
Here's a link to local hotels:
Hotels
Here are some more links that might help;
Info
If you have any specific questions just e-mail me at
optimator@pipeline.com I'll be glad to help.