Things To See

Your Quick Guide to Fort Jackson, South Carolina

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Fort Jackson Army Base trains around 43,000 American soldiers ever year. Most are newly recruited soldiers, who are completing their basic training requirements, and hoping to achieve their dream of serving their country. As a result, Fort Jackson is the largest and most active army base in the country.Fort Jackson Hotel

But, there is more to experience in the Fort Jackson area, other than attending a graduation ceremony. Whatever your reason for visiting the area of Columbia, South Carolina is, keep on reading for tips for maximizing your fun and comfort.

What city is Fort Jackson in?

Fort Jackson is located in west central South Carolina on the outskirts of Columbia, SC.

Which city is close to Fort Jackson?

The city centre of Columbia, South Carolina is a 45 minute drive from Fort Jackson, which is 33km (22 miles). It is the state capital and most populous city. Other nearby cities include Sumter, Orangeburg and Florence, which are all less than 130km (80 miles) away.

How far is it from Fort Jackson to Columbia Airport?

The quickest route from Columbia Metropolitan Airport to Fort Jackson is a 50 minute drive along I-77. This journey is 38km (28 miles).

Hotels Near Fort Jackson

First things first, accommodation. There is no need for you to be sleeping in barrack-like situations, as there are two excellent hotels just waiting for you to rest your head on their premium sheets and pillows. They both offer the famous southern hospitality and charm. They are the Residence Inn by Marriott Columbia and the Courtyard by Marriott Columbia.

The Residence Inn by Marriott Columbia

Conveniently located close to Fort Jackson, McEntire Air National Guard Base, and Shaw Air Force Base. The Residence Inn by Marriott Columbia recently won the Certificate of Excellence on Trip Advisor, which Is voted for by hotel guests. Their goal is to create the ultimate home away from home. They achieve this by offering excellent rooms and facilities, like a 24/7 reception. They also have a free hot buffet breakfast and superb WIFI. Plus, it is pet-friendly so if you hate leaving your pets behind, book yourself into the Residence Inn.  A vacation here can truly include the whole family.  If this sounds too good to be true, here are some reviews:

  • “Graduation, Celebration, Vacation!! I enjoyed South Carolina, my family, my stay and the food.”
  • “Excellent, I’ve stayed at the hotel several times and I really enjoyed my stay.”
  • “My overall visit was excellent; the room was very roomy and clean. The bed was so comfortable I actually slept great. Did I mention clean!!!”

>>Find our more about The Residence Inn by Marriott Columbia<<

Courtyard by Marriott Columbia

This 90-room hotel is also located in a great location and has free self-parking, so no need to cruise around searching for a parking space. You can park and head straight to your room to relax in the hypoallergenic bedding or head to the outdoor pool.

If you are a coffee addict, this may be the hotel for you; you can have a made to order breakfast with a coffee at the in-house Starbucks. Along with this, the Courtyard by Marriott Columbia has a full dinner service, with cocktails at the Bistro restaurant. Plus, a fitness center to work off the calories of the delicious food.

A whopping 90% of guests would recommend this hotel to families, couples, business travel, and leisure. You can be one of the 90%.

>>Find out more about the Courtyard by Marriott Columbia<<

Things to Do

The area of Fort Jackson has lots to offer all of its guests and visitors. As a result, you need to plan your stay to include these fun attractions and activities.  The obvious and absolute musts are to witness the daily cannon firing at Fort Jackson and the re-enactments, as well as taking in the wonderful views of the Savannah River.

For some outdoor fun head to the 700 acre Riverbanks Zoo & Garden for the day and Carolina Adventure World. They are both exciting places to visit with rides and cute animals for you to fall in love with. If you prefer to stay indoors you can shop till you drop at the Village in Sandhill and search for the best deals in the world of fashion.

If you want to inject some culture into your vacation visit the Columbia Museum of Art and the South Carolina State House. Check if a USC football game is happening during your stay for a chance to see the South Carolina Gamecocks play at the Williams-Brice Stadium.

Where to Eat in Fort Jackson?

Both the hotels previously mentioned having facilities available for eating well. For example, The Residence Inn Mix serves snack, grilled cuisine, and local food with drinks three nights every week, Mondays -Wednesdays. The Courtyard has a picnic area with BBQ area, so get some steaks and burgers, for a family BBQ.

If you do wish to venture outside of the hotel facilities, there are cafes, delis and fast food restaurants in close proximity to both hotels. So, whatever you fancy homestyle, southern style or a simple pizza, you will find what you are looking for.

Read More: