
South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum
Explore South Carolina's military history through artifacts from the Revolutionary War to modern times, focusing on personal stories.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus

South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore South Carolina's military history through artifacts from the Revolutionary War to modern times, focusing on personal stories.
"A fascinating museum packed with history, offering a humanizing perspective on conflict."

🎟️ Separate Tickets Needed
The Confederate Relic Room and SC State Museum are separate. Check hours & fees for each before you go!
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
You'll want to read everything! Arrive early to fully explore all exhibits.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
16th SC Battle Flag
Civil War Exhibit
See a significant battle flag with deep personal connections for many visitors. A poignant reminder of history.

Fort Sumter Medallion
Civil War Exhibit
A medallion presented to Robert Anderson after the surrender of Fort Sumter, marking the Civil War's start.

Personal Artifacts
Various Exhibits
Letters, personal firearms, and items detailing soldiers' experiences offer a humanizing perspective on conflict.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Separate Entrances, Separate Fees
Time for Deeper Dives
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Separate Tickets Needed
The Confederate Relic Room and SC State Museum are separate. Check hours & fees for each before you go!
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
You'll want to read everything! Arrive early to fully explore all exhibits.
👨🏫 Knowledgeable Staff
Friendly and informed staff are happy to share stories and answer questions.
📜 Humanizing History
Focus on personal items like letters and firearms for a deeper connection.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Separate Tickets Needed
The Confederate Relic Room and SC State Museum are separate. Check hours & fees for each before you go!
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
You'll want to read everything! Arrive early to fully explore all exhibits.
👨🏫 Knowledgeable Staff
Friendly and informed staff are happy to share stories and answer questions.
📜 Humanizing History
Focus on personal items like letters and firearms for a deeper connection.
🏫 Great for School Trips
Engaging for students, with knowledgeable guides like Joe Long.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum to be a fascinating and informative experience, particularly for those interested in military history. The collection of personal artifacts and historical items is highly praised, offering a humanizing perspective on past conflicts. While some note it's smaller than major national museums, the staff's knowledge and the depth of the exhibits make it a worthwhile visit.
"The museum has been renovated and is now open again. It’s separate from the SC State Museum, so be sure to check hours and prices before you go (state museum and Confederate museum are two separate entry fees). There are two main displays at this point - the Vietnam war display and the “other wars” (primarily civil but a couple sections on revolutionary, ww2, desert storm). These aren’t big displays, but they’re interesting and give more of a human feel to these wars since most of the items are personal (letters to home, personal firearms, ways people were killed in action, etc)."
Melissa Kinyon
"Drove over 4 hours each way to attend the Revolutionary War day, not disappointed! Great volunteers and workers!"
Kathy Forrest
"The museum is very nice, and the staff are friendly and very knowledgeable. A lot of history that you and your children would enjoy."
Don Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Columbia, South Carolina. It's often visited in conjunction with the SC State Museum, but remember they are separate institutions with their own entrances and parking. Check local navigation apps for the most direct route to 301 Gervais Street, Columbia, SC 29201.
Yes, parking is generally available near the museum, especially if you are visiting the SC State Museum complex. It's advisable to check the specific parking arrangements for the Confederate Relic Room when planning your visit.
You can, but be aware that they are separate entities with distinct admission fees and hours. You'll need to purchase tickets for each individually.
For most visitors, driving is the most convenient way to reach the museum. Public transportation options in Columbia might be limited, so consider ride-sharing services or a rental car if you're not driving your own vehicle.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the museum, most modern museums strive to be accessible. It's recommended to contact them in advance if you have specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, and it's crucial to check the official website for the most up-to-date information. Remember, this is a separate fee from the SC State Museum.
While advance booking might not always be mandatory, it's a good practice, especially during peak seasons or for special events, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
Museum hours can change, so always verify the current operating schedule on their official website before your visit. This is especially important as it's separate from the SC State Museum.
Inquire about potential discounts for seniors, students, military personnel, or group rates when purchasing tickets.
The 'Master Explorer Ticket' seems to be associated with the SC State Museum, offering access to multiple attractions like 4D shows and planetarium exhibits. It does not typically include entry to the Confederate Relic Room.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features exhibits spanning from the Revolutionary War to modern times, with a significant focus on the Civil War. You'll find personal artifacts, uniforms, weapons, and flags.
Visitors recommend allocating a good amount of time, suggesting you show up early as it can take a while to explore and read about all the history.
While not always explicitly advertised, knowledgeable staff and volunteers are often available to share insights and stories, enhancing the visitor experience.
Yes, many visitors find the museum engaging for children, offering a chance to learn about history in a tangible way.
Expect to see a variety of historical items, including flags, swords, personal letters, firearms, and uniforms, offering a glimpse into different eras of conflict.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with museum staff upon arrival or look for signage regarding photography rules. Some exhibits may have restrictions.
The historical flags, intricate weaponry, and personal artifacts often make for compelling photographs, offering a unique visual narrative of the past.
Mornings on weekdays tend to be less crowded, allowing for more unobstructed shots. The lighting inside may vary, so be prepared with your camera settings.
Typically, professional equipment and tripods are not permitted without prior arrangement. Always confirm with museum staff beforehand.
Searching on platforms like Instagram and TikTok using hashtags like #ConfederateRelicRoom or #SCHistory can reveal many visitor-shared photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of a family visit, consider focusing on specific exhibits that might be of particular interest, such as weaponry or notable flags. Engaging with the knowledgeable staff can also provide simplified explanations for children. Remember that this is a separate admission from the SC State Museum, so plan your tickets and time accordingly to avoid overwhelming younger ones.
📚 History Buffs & Researchers
Visitors who are serious about history often recommend arriving early and dedicating ample time to thoroughly explore each exhibit. The museum's commitment to preserving personal accounts, such as letters and diaries, provides invaluable primary source material for understanding the human element of conflict. Don't hesitate to speak with the staff, as they often possess a wealth of knowledge and can point you towards specific areas of interest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into South Carolina's Military History
The museum's collection is extensive, showcasing a wide array of flags, weaponry, uniforms, and personal mementos. Each item is a tangible link to the past, offering insights into the technology, tactics, and daily lives of those who served. The Civil War exhibits are particularly prominent, featuring significant artifacts like the 16th SC battle flag and the medallion related to the surrender of Fort Sumter, which resonate deeply with visitors interested in this pivotal period of American history.
Beyond the Civil War, the museum also touches upon other conflicts, including the Revolutionary War, World War II, and more recent engagements. This broader scope ensures a comprehensive look at South Carolina's military contributions and sacrifices across different eras. The knowledgeable staff and volunteers are a valuable resource, often eager to share anecdotes and historical context, further enriching the visitor's experience and making the history come alive.
Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Fellow Travelers
Many reviewers emphasize the importance of allocating sufficient time for your visit. The museum is packed with detailed exhibits, and rushing through would mean missing out on the rich historical narratives. Showing up early and allowing several hours is frequently recommended to truly absorb the information and appreciate the artifacts.
Don't hesitate to engage with the museum staff and volunteers. They are often described as friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about history. Their insights and stories can significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the exhibits, turning a standard museum visit into a more personal and educational journey.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit