Reading Time: < 1 minute Welcome to Explore Lake Murray: Your Guide to Come Alive in the Jewel of South Carolina, a new and improved audio experience. In Episode 7, Kelly is joined by Chef Brian Duffy and Olympian Mark Henry, who are celebrity judges at the Southeastern BBQ Showdown in Columbia, SC. Chef Duffy, known for his appearances on Food Network and Spike TV’s Bar Rescue, shares his background, how he met co-judge Mark Henry and the secrets to a perfect plate of barbecue. Later in the show, Mark Henry, an Olympic weightlifter and former wrestler, talks about his journey into weightli ..read more

Reading Time: 2 minutes Capital City/Lake Murray Country is a beloved region full of rich history, awe-inspiring experiences, and exciting adventures. The “Explore Lake Murray Country Podcast” was created to unify and inspire both visitors and locals through motivational interviews. At its core, the podcast seeks to inspire the world to “Come Alive” by savoring life, and Capital/City Lake Murray Country just happens to be the perfect place to do so. While most of the topics and guests will revolve around things to experience in the region, this is not merely an audio travel guide. The mission ..read more

Reading Time: 4 minutes Since its creation in 2006, the Taste of Lake Murray fundraising event has become a cherished annual tradition. Originally hosted at the old Dockside at Lake Murray Marina, the event’s resounding success prompted venue upgrades, moving first to the Columbia Conference Center and eventually finding its home in Columbia’s largest ballroom at the Doubletree by Hilton on Bush River Road. “My first Taste of Lake Murray was in 2007 and, at that time, it was unprecedented,” Amy Hoffman, Bookkeeper at Capital City/Lake Murray Country fondly recalls. “The event has certainly evo ..read more

Reading Time: < 1 minute Welcome to Explore Lake Murray: Your Guide to Come Alive in the Jewel of South Carolina, a new and improved audio experience. Located in West Columbia, Palmetto Outdoor offers tubing and kayaking experiences across the Lake Murray Country region. Owner Micahel Mayo sits down with Kelly to discuss why he started his company and his passionate mission to get people outside in nature. Michael also talks about the different tours that he offers and what to expect when you book a trip with Palmetto Outdoor Content Mentioned During The Episode: Palmetto Outdoor Podcast ..read more

Reading Time: < 1 minute Love is in the air in Lake Murray Country! Fill your Valentine’s Day with romance and fun with these local events: Valentine’s Cruise on the Spirit of Lake Murray Wednesday, February 14 • 6:00 – 8:30 PM | 216 Shadowood Dr, Irmo SC Amore Under the Stars at the SC State Museum Wednesday, February 14 • 6:00 – 9:00 PM | 301 Gervais St, Columbia SC Jazz is for Lovers at Harbison Theatre Wednesday, February 14 • 5:00 PM | 7300 College St, Irmo SC 5 Course Valentine’s Day Mocktail Dinner at the Hideout in WeCo Wednesday, February 14 • 5:30 – 8 PM | 118 State St, West Colum ..read more

Reading Time: 5 minutes Explore the vibrant murals of Richland, Lexington, Newberry, and Saluda counties on this colorful driving tour. Pack your snacks, load up your car, and let the journey unfold. While you embark on this artistic journey, be sure to take pictures at each stop and tag us @LakeMurrayCountry with the hashtag #LakeMurrayCountryMuralTour on Facebook and Instagram!  Please note that these directions are approximate, and it’s always a good idea to use a navigation app or GPS for real-time guidance. Enjoy your mural tour! Welcome to Richland County! Start your tour in the sta ..read more

Reading Time: < 1 minute Welcome to Explore Lake Murray: Your Guide to Come Alive in the Jewel of South Carolina, a new and improved audio experience. In Episode 4 of Explore Lake Murray Country, Kelly sits down with Michael Geddings, a local mural and portrait artist in the area. Tune in to hear about Michael’s history with art and what its creation means to him. Michael also details his process when creating murals and portraits as well as his involvement in the colorful Cayce Arts District. Where to see Michael’s work: “Paint the Town” The Cayce Chameleon – Cayce River Arts District (S ..read more

Reading Time: < 1 minute Welcome to Explore Lake Murray: Your Guide to Come Alive in the Jewel of South Carolina, a new and improved audio experience. Open to the public since 1974, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is one of the top attractions in South Carolina with a wide variety of animals in its care. Tommy Stringfellow, the President and CEO of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, joins Kelly on this episode to give a rundown of everything you can experience at Riverbanks, including the newly opened Aquarium and Reptile Conservation Center and award-winning botanical garden. Tommy also talks about the ..read more

Reading Time: < 1 minute Welcome to Explore Lake Murray: Your Guide to Come Alive in the Jewel of South Carolina, a new and improved audio experience. Open to the public since 1974, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is one of the top attractions in South Carolina with a wide variety of animals in its care. Tommy Stringfellow, the president and CEO of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, joins Kelly on today’s episode to give a rundown of everything you can experience at Riverbanks, including the newly opened Aquarium and Reptile Conservation Center and award-winning botanical garden. Tommy also talks about t ..read more

Reading Time: 3 minutes It’s time to start planning your New Year’s journey in Lake Murray Country with a wide array of festivities for every taste and lifestyle! We’ll guide you through diverse celebrations, from dog-oriented gatherings to live music extravaganzas, artistic soirees, epic parties, and family-friendly events. Bid farewell to 2023 and embrace 2024 at an event that works best for you!     For Dog Moms & Dads:  Tails will wag at the 3rd Annual New Year’s Eve Pawty at Modern Companion in Chapin. Join fellow pet lovers in a celebration filled with four-legged fri ..read more