By admin 
August may be bringing the heat, but there’s still plenty of time to soak up the long summer days before early sunsets return.
Read more Recalled jalapeños linked to Salmonella outbreak reached SC stores. Here’s a list
If you want to save money and still explore what Columbia has to offer, we’ve got you covered. The city can be expensive, but there are plenty of fun things to do outdoors that won’t cost you a cent:
Here are five ways to spend the rest of your summer days in Columbia, completely free:
Explore the Columbia Museum of Art
Usually, it costs money to visit the Columbia Museum of Art, but they have an ongoing promotion that gives free general admission to the museum for all South Carolina residents, up until Sept. 6.
To view beautiful artwork, sculptures, and special exhibitions for free, show proof of residence at the front desk. The museum adds new additions to its collections every so often, so there’s always something different to check out with each visit.
Relax at Finlay Park
It’s been almost a year since the renovated Finlay Park opened to the public, and its success has been clear. Peaceful and easy to navigate, it’s a great spot for the whole family to unwind.
If you bring along the necessary sports equipment, the pickleball, ping pong, roller skating, and disc golf arenas are free to use. Every Friday night, a new band plays live music for all to hear. All you have to do is relax on the grass and listen to the music.
Swim in the Saluda River
Who needs a pool or a beach when you can just drive to the Saluda Riverwalk and jump in the water? Formally established as a city park five years ago, the Saluda Riverwalk has 3.6 miles of trail, with scenic views of the river and the surrounding trees.
Read more Brighton sale cleared by Lexington County. But will the site get Chapin sewer?
Once you get to the riverwalk’s entrance, there’s a walkway to the water where you can, if you have the equipment, kayak or go river tubing.
It’s the perfect place to unwind in the water after a long and hard day. Be aware of cold temperature alerts, fast-moving water and occasional bacteria advisories.
Stroll through the Soda City Market
One of the most popular events in Columbia is the weekly Soda City Market, where Main Street is transformed into a bustling environment of vendors, live performers, and crafters every Saturday.
Soda City Market was named the #1 Farmers Market in the Country by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards last year. It may cost money to purchase goods here, but the good vibes are free.
Visit the Congaree National Park
The Congaree National Park is around a 30-minute drive from the center of Columbia, but it is a stunning national park that is also free to visit.
It’s filled with biodiversity, and it has the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the Southeast. There are several trails in the park for both beginners and intermediates who may want a little more of a workout.
Additionally, the Congaree River Blue Trail is free to use for fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding, provided you have your own equipment.
Read more Multimillion dollar winning lottery ticket sold in SC. Check your numbers