While the coastal city of Charleston was South Carolina’s capital in 1776, the Palmetto State developed plans for a centralized capital shortly after U.S. independence – and so the city of Columbia was officially opened in 1786. Nearly a century later, the city was completely destroyed during the Civil War, and in the modern era, Columbia offers a diverse range of attractions ranging from the South Carolina State Museum to the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, with no shortage of fascinating ecotourism destinations easily accessible from the city limits.

Those who prefer to stay close to downtown will find excellent birdwatching opportunities along Columbia’s numerous rivers and waterways. The Saluda Riverwalk is one of the most idyllic spots. This verdant public nature reserve on the banks of the Saluda River features a long walking path that’s perfect for exploring the Palmetto State’s native fauna. Birds like the Louisiana dipper, fish crow and green heron are regular sights here. Those looking for a birdwatching expedition from a unique perspective, however, should book a day trip with Palmetto Outdoor, a local tour company that offers raft and kayak excursions through Columbia and other nearby attractions. Wandering along the Saluda River, visitors can look for a variety of birds that live along the banks and have ample opportunity to spot classic South Carolina animals like the great blue heron, double-crested cormorant and great egret.

About half an hour southeast of the city center, birdwatchers will find a treasure trove of biodiversity in Congaree National Park. The verdant preserve was officially declared federally protected on October 18, 1976, after a huge outpouring of public support to stop the logging industry from destroying native flora. Thanks to the efforts of many South Carolina residents, visitors can now marvel at giant water tupelo and bald cypress trees from the boardwalk in the park’s riparian forest, while the upland pine forest is perfect for spotting crossbills and pileated woodpeckers that live in the swamp pines. Today, the park is home to colorful bird species such as the summer tanager, blue grosbeak and indigo finch, while the depths of the forest once featured a particularly famous (and likely extinct) bird—the ivory-billed woodpecker.

And of course, no wildlife-focused visit to Columbia is complete without witnessing the annual migration of purple martins. Outfitted with a glossy coat of iridescent feathers (at least in the males), these tiny passerine birds spend their breeding season in the eastern parts of North America, eventually heading to the warmer regions of South America before winter—and a key stop on their journey is just outside of Columbia in Lake Murray. From June to August, about a million birds gather around Bomb Island each day, setting off at sunrise and returning to their roost at nightfall. While visitors are welcome to book a private charter to witness this fascinating event, The Spirit of Lake Murray has perfected the art of luxury-focused ecotourism, offering guests a full-service bar, lavish meals, and a two-story observation deck during their annual purple martin bird tour.

While Columbia’s residents have given the city a thriving drinking, dining and outdoor adventure scene, the wildlife throughout Richland County has also cemented the city’s status as one of South Carolina’s most appealing destinations. From the tangled depths of Congaree National Park to the shores of Bomb Island, the Palmetto State’s interior offers a truly spectacular array of wildlife to admire—and when it comes to experiencing the splendor of South Carolina’s native bird species up close, it’s hard to find a better destination than Columbia.