Free fun in Columbia: 5 things to do right now

Who doesn’t like a deal?

While there are many activities in and around Columbia that charge nominal admission every day, it’s great when you can get something for nothing.

So we’ve rounded up a few things you can do right now for free – making for a great reason to get out and enjoy winter days.

Columbia Museum of Art

The deal: Through Jan. 29, admission is free.

Normal prices: $12, adults; $10, senior citizens and military; $5, students; free, ages 6 and younger and members.

Fun to do right now: 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 26, catch “ArtBreak: Behind the Scenes with CMA Exhibition Designer and Chief Preparator Mike Dwyer.” Dwyer will talk about the process of designing and building an exhibit at the museum.

Worth noting: The museum also offers free base admission on Sundays year-round.

Info: 1515 Main St. (803) 799-2810, www.columbiamuseum.org

Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens

The deal: On Fridays in January and February, residents of Richland and Lexington counties get free admission.

Normal prices: $13.95, adults; $11.50, ages 2-12; $12.95, seniors (ages 62 and older) and military; free, children younger than 2.

Fun to do right now: Take time to enjoy the animal talks – gorillas and penguins are among those featured – or mingle with some ’roos in the Kangaroo Walkabout.

Worth noting: You must bring proof of residency, such as a driver’s license, property tax statement or vehicle registration.

Info: 500 Wildlife Parkway. (803) 779-8717, www.riverbanks.org

Everyday deals

Here, a sampling of more free things:

Congaree National Park: The National Park Service celebrates 100 years in 2016. Visit South Carolina’s only national park, with no admission, and be sure to check out the list of free programs, including guided nature walks. 100 National Park Road, Hopkins. www.nps.gov/cong

McKissick Museum: This jewel on the University of South Carolina Horseshoe offers exhibitions that highlight details of Southern life, art and culture. Best of all, there’s no admission. 816 Bull St. artsandsciences.sc.edu/mckissickmuseum/mckissick-museum

School of Music: Also at USC, the School of Music is the place for scores of free performances from bands, choirs and more. 813 Assembly St. www.sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/music/concerts_and_events/index.php

This story was originally published January 21, 2016 at 11:03 AM with the headline "Free fun in Columbia: 5 things to do right now."