Finlay Park

    Every city has a major green space as its central tourist attraction; e.g. The Public Gardens in Boston, or Central Park in New York. Finlay Park in Columbia, South Carolina is the largest and best known attraction in the city. Covering 14 acres on Arsenal Hill, this was one of the first residential neighborhoods, and the site of a munitions foundry during the Civil War. The park was first dedicated in 1859 as "Sydney Park" (and named after a city Councilman). Following the Civil War, it fell into disrepair and the area turned into a commercial neighborhood. By 1899, it was renamed "Seaboard Park" in this largely industrial district. By the late 1900's, the area was regentrified and the park was refurbished. Now known as "Finlay Park" (after mayor Kirkland Finlay who was instrumental in revitalizing the area) it reopened in 1990. Popular as a shady retreat, Finlay Park sports a waterfall and plays host to summertime concerts. It is beautiful and completely relaxing.

In 1859, Finlay Park on Arsenal Hill, in Columbia, South Carolina, was one of the first residential neighborhoods in the city, and was originally called "Sydney Park."

Mayor Kirkland Finaly was dedicated to revitalizing this neighborhoodin the late 1900's and was instrumental in making this park a number one tourist attraction. As a result, the park was renamed in his honor and this statue of him was placed in the park.

To many, this fountain is the center piece of the park...

...but, personally, to us this waterfall is more stunning...

...and is more picturesque.

We couldn't think of a more relaxing spot to spend a Spring afternoon.