McKissick Museum

Academic museum featuring exhibitions in natural sciences, Southern culture, and decorative arts with a focus on regional heritage and research.

General Information

Hours:
Monday to Friday: 8:30am to 5:00pm
Closed weekends and university holidays
Closed May 10 to August 15, 2025
Fees:
Free admission
Pet Policy:
Pets are not allowed
Seasons:
All year, except summer closure
Location:
1501 Pendleton Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Website:
sc.edu/mckissick_museum

Take Sumter Street northbound, turn right onto Pendleton Street, then left onto Bull Street; the museum is located on the University of South Carolina’s historic Horseshoe.

Overview

The McKissick Museum, nestled on the historic Horseshoe of the University of South Carolina, offers a compelling look into the cultural and natural history of the American South. With over 140,000 objects in its collection, the museum showcases everything from regional geology and minerals to folk art, textiles, and Southern traditions. Its exhibitions are both scholarly and accessible, making it a favorite destination for students, researchers, and curious visitors alike. The museum’s architecture and location add to its charm, providing a serene academic setting for exploration and learning.

Founded in 1976, McKissick Museum serves as a bridge between the university and the broader community, offering free admission and rotating exhibitions that reflect the diversity and complexity of Southern life. Highlights include its extensive gem and mineral collection, as well as exhibits on traditional crafts and contemporary issues. Whether you're interested in science, history, or art, McKissick provides a thoughtful and enriching experience that deepens understanding of the region’s past and present.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the McKissick Museum, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.

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