Artistic rendering โ Event may differ
Historic Columbia Holiday House Tours
Step back in time this holiday season with Historic Columbia's Holiday House Tours. Explore the beautifully decorated Robert Mills House and Hampton-Preston Mansion, experiencing Christmas traditions from the 1820s and 1850s. Discover how families celebrated holidays past, from early decorations to the emergence of Christmas trees and eggnog. Guides will share stories of historical festivities, offering a unique glimpse into Columbia's rich holiday heritage.
What to Expect
Guided tours of historic homes decorated for the holidays.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ โ Get tickets
- Parking: There is a small gravel parking lot accessible from Henderson Street across from the Township Auditorium.
- Accessibility: Guests will have to walk between the historic homes. Guests with mobility issues will not be able to experience the full house tours as there are stairs in both exhibits.
- Pets: Service animals only inside house museums. Pets are welcome in gardens if leashed.
Other Christmas Events Near Columbia
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
History enthusiasts, families, couples
Vibe
Historic, festive, educational, charming
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- HC Members receive free holiday tour admission.
- Discounts available for military members.
- Group tour rates available upon request.
Location
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 75 minutes per tour
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Historic Columbia
Food & Drink
Visitors can bring their own food and drinks to the grounds.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at the Welcome Center at least 10 minutes before your scheduled tour time to ensure a smooth start.
- Consider purchasing tickets in advance online, as they are required by midnight the day prior to the tour.
- Be aware that while the homes are adjacent, there is walking involved between them, and stairs are present inside the houses.
- Members of Historic Columbia receive free admission to these holiday tours; consider membership for savings.
- Check the specific tour times for Wednesdays-Saturdays and Sundays, as they differ, and plan your visit accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the tour times for the Holiday House Tours?
Tours are offered Wednesday-Saturday at 10:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 1:30 p.m., and Sunday at 1:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Please verify specific house availability for Sunday tours.
Can I purchase tickets on the day of the tour?
Yes, tickets can be purchased the day of the tour at Historic Columbia's Welcome Center, provided they are still available. Advance online purchase is recommended.
Are the historic homes accessible for individuals with mobility issues?
Unfortunately, due to the historic nature of the buildings, guests with mobility issues may not be able to experience the full house tours as there are stairs in both exhibits.
What is the pet policy for the Holiday House Tours?
Only service animals are permitted inside the house museums. Pets are welcome in the gardens if kept on a leash.
What happens if I need to cancel or change my ticket?
Tickets may be purchased in advance online up until midnight the day prior to the tour. For specific cancellation or change policies, it is best to contact reservations directly.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.