How I Go Columbia: John Sherrer

John M. Sherrer III, 46, a Columbia native who has lived elsewhere and chose to return, lives in the historic Melrose Heights-Oak Lawn neighborhood with his wife and two children.

EAT: Lately, when I have had a chance for a meal out, particularly at dinner, I often seek out Mr. Friendly’s, Motor Supply and Blue Marlin if I want to stay downtown. Other dinner destinations I look forward to checking out include Oak Table and Bourbon, two destinations that are convenient to work and home. Lunch venues run the gamut from Tronco’s to Miyo’s, Pita’s to Thirsty Fellow.

DRINK: Coffee is key in the morning and I occasionally hit Starbucks in Five Points after a couple of cups at home. If planning a business meeting either in the later morning or I afternoon I gravitate to Drip in Five Points or Main Street during the workday. On the flip side, Columbia has a growing number of quality microbreweries. Thus far, Conquest is my favorite, though I have enjoyed Swamp Cabbage and River Rat.

PLAY: Columbia is a perfect place to enjoy the outdoors year-round, so I tend to spend a lot of time running and exercising throughout downtown and the city’s historic suburbs. While it amounts to a busman’s holiday of sorts, given my profession, I also spend time at all of the area museums, as each offers a unique collections and programs. And, I enjoy the Richland Library – an amazing asset that I understand a lot of people from larger cities often envy – because of its resources and staff. Lastly, you can have a great evening attending plays at Trustus and seeing movies at the Nickelodeon.

LISTEN: Treat yourself to a performance at the Koger Center; you’ll be glad you did, as Columbia has a lot of talent, particularly with USC and the SC Philharmonic.

SEE: I may be a little biased here, but everyone should see this historic sites under Historic Columbia’s care, particularly the Woodrow Wilson Family Home, and the Robert Mills House and Seibels House, which all feature flourishing gardens that are free to the public. A trip to the South Carolina State House is worthwhile, too, as that is a remarkable architectural landmark. You have to take in the river, a great resource and a wonderful place to exercise and have fun. And, despite my Clemson roots, I recommend a game at Williams-Brice as a must-see, too. There is a lot energy there.

This story was originally published February 10, 2015 at 5:29 PM with the headline "How I Go Columbia: John Sherrer."