When was the last time you tried out a new restaurant or shopped at a new store?

A lot of students live in a bubble. We limit ourselves to shopping and eating within the confines of Five Points and the Vista. We run into the normal weekend crowds and visit the same restaurants and stores. After almost three years at USC, I am guilty of this as well. In an effort to branch out, I discovered what West Columbia has to offer. Whether you are looking for a new spot to grab Sunday morning brunch, a bargain store to hunt for the perfect DIY project or a venue to expand your musical taste buds, check out what lies west of the Congaree River, the other side of Columbia.