February temperatures in West Columbia have shown drastic movement. From lows in the teens to highs around 80 degrees. Despite the unpredictability, there are ways to navigate the weather.

Hotworx opened at 114 State Street in West Columbia in December of 2023. It provides a way to stay active and it’s a great escape from the winter weather. At Hotworx you can get a high intensity work-out, in sauna-like heat conditions. Because of the heat, you can burn more calories in less time.  

“I’ve been coming to Hotworx, on a regular basis, for more than a year,” said Christy Henderson. “I can come in and get a workout and it doesn’t matter what the weather outside is like. And I’ve been very satisfied with the results I get from Hotworx. The workouts are a stress reliever, too.”

Christy said she also likes the fact that Hotworx is at such a convenient location, in the middle of West Columbia, and there is free parking in the City of West Columbia parking garage under the Brookland complex, just off of State Street.

On the days when it’s not so cold outside Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is an option. The zoo offers complimentary (free) admission to residents of Lexington and Richland Counties every Friday during January and February. Valid proof of residency is required. Please present a property tax statement, vehicle registration, South Carolina driver’s license, or photo ID at any ticket window for free entry to the park.

If you are dining out, West Columbia has the perfect venue with a view. The rooftop bar at Black Rooster is open in the winter. And when the temperatures dip down and there’s a chill in the air, the rooftop bar is covered and heaters are brought out to warm up the atmosphere. Black Rooster offers Italian cuisine and there is an exquisite view of the Congaree River and the city skyline, just across the Gervais Street Bridge. 

Savage Craft Ale Works at 430 Center Street has a remedy for the cold. “We have heaters we place in our outdoor space,” said Manager Victoria Porter. “We want our clientele to enjoy our courtyard even if it’s not so warm.”

WECO Bottle and Biergartin at 626 Meeting Street has covered areas  and  heated spaces in its yard area. And if you want to dine inside, Terra at 100 State Street provides indoor dining. 
If you want a little music on a cold February night, you may want to drop in at Bill’s Pickin’ Parlor at 711 Meeting Street in West Columbia. 

At Bill’s, you’ll find a Bluegrass and Acoustic Open Stage and Jam, Shag lessons on the dance floor, and live music by professional artists. 
“We try to have something for everyone to enjoy,” said Willie Wells, owner of Bill’s Pickin’ Parlor. “If you like to dance, play or just listen to good music, we have something for you. We’d love to see you and show you what Bill’s Pickin’ Parlor has to offer.”

Chayz Lounge at 607 Meeting Street is also an option for live music on the weekends. Find  smooth jazz, exceptional cuisine, and a sophisticated vibe at Chayz Lounge. 

While the cool weather may slow you down a little, you don’t have to hibernate. You can exercise, take advantage of Free Friday at Riverbanks Zoo, go out for dinner or check out the great entertainment in West Columbia. And before you know it, the warm spring weather will be upon us.