Columbia’s Vista District Brimming with New Hotel Developments
Columbia, SC — Exciting times are ahead in The Vista, as this vibrant area transforms into one of Columbia’s hottest spots for entertainment and tourism. The skyline is set to change with a boom in hotel developments that promise to make The Vista even more inviting for visitors and residents alike!
From Industrial Past to Hospitality Hub
What was once a hub of commercial and industrial warehouses, The Vista is now evolving into a lively district rich in nightlife and cultural attractions. Local real estate expert Alia Bostaji explains this phenomenon eloquently: “If you can apply some historic credits to your project, that will offset the higher construction cost, and that will make the projects more feasible.” It seems developers are keen to tap into both the modern energy and the nostalgic charm of the area!
A Solution to Hotel Room Shortage
The growing need for hotel rooms is underscored by the absence of accommodations that can support major events – remember how March Madness passed Columbia by for lack of rooms? Many say that the city’s desire to push development toward the riverfront could spell the addition of taller hotels, as Columbia City Council is set to vote on a proposal aimed at just that.
New Hotels on the Horizon
With the recent plans and ongoing constructions, at least half a dozen new hotels have popped up on the “coming soon” list. Here’s what you can look forward to:
The most anticipated project is the splendid Homewood Suites and Tru by Hilton hotel, which is located at the bustling corner of Gervais and Williams streets. This spectacular seven-story structure boasts 249 rooms and is on track to start accepting guests in January 2025!
Just a skip away, another four-story hotel with 123 rooms is being built at the intersection of Huger and Senate streets. Originally set to be five stories, the plans have been adjusted, but this hotel will still feature a gym and dining area complete with a covered patio—a perfect spot for visitors to unwind.
Exciting Boutique Hotels to Sprout
Don’t overlook the ever-charismatic boutique hotel scene! The owners of Hotel Trundle are eyeing another location in The Vista, having announced the development of a 41-room boutique hotel in an old paper company building. Talk about breathing new life into historical structures!
The landscape continues to shift as the Shepherd Hotel gears up for its groundbreaking ceremony on November 14, marking an exciting addition to the area featuring 60 renovated hotel rooms in a former fire station. This reflects the charm of combining history with modern hospitality!
The Convention Center Dream
Let’s not forget about the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, too! Although it’s been two decades since its inception, plans to finally integrate a hotel to serve convention attendees are heating up. Local officials are in talks with developers, promising a much-needed boost for multi-day events!
Ready for the Future!
With initiatives supporting the expansion of The Vista, the outlook for Columbia is brighter than ever. If you’re a local, expect some friendly development competition among these new hotels. And if you’re a visitor, there will soon be more choices to rest your head at night.
As The Vista becomes a bustling hotel district, it’s clear that Columbia’s charm is here to stay. So, whether you’re planning a visit or simply enjoying a night out, take a moment to appreciate the flourishing growth around you!
