Cayce, SC
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
Cayce (KAY-see) is a historic city in South Carolina, directly across the Congaree River from the state capital, Columbia. Known as the "City by the River," it offers over 20 miles of trails and a deep history spanning 12,000 years.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Cayce, South Carolina
- Administrative Role: Cayce is a city and the third-most populated municipality in Lexington County, South Carolina . A portion of the city also extends into Richland County .
- Country and Region: It is located in the United States, within the state of South Carolina. Cayce is a key part of the Columbia, South Carolina, Metropolitan Statistical Area and lies within the state's Midlands region . The region is known for its location at the geographical center of the state and its significant role in state government and history.
Date of Foundation and Age
The area that is now Cayce has a history of human habitation stretching back an incredible 12,000 years, with Native American peoples being the original inhabitants . European settlement in the area dates back to the 18th century with the establishment of the colonial trading village of Granby . The modern city of Cayce was officially incorporated in 1914 . As of 2026, the city is 112 years old. It was named after William J. Cayce, a local businessman and prominent citizen who owned the general store in the area then known as "Cayce Crossing" .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: The city is centered at approximately 33°57′48″N 81°4′0″W (33.96333, -81.06667) .
- Location Relative to Nature: Cayce is situated along the western banks of the Congaree River, which serves as the natural boundary separating it from the state capital, Columbia, to the northeast . It is located in the Sandhills region, near the Piedmont Fall Line.
- Elevation: The center of Cayce has an elevation of approximately 236-240 feet (about 71-73 meters) above sea level .
- Settlement Type: Cayce is a suburban city and a historic riverfront community, forming a continuous urban area with the neighboring cities of West Columbia and Columbia .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Cayce functions primarily as a residential suburb and commercial center within the Columbia metropolitan area. Its economy has deep roots in transportation and energy. Historically, it was a significant railroad town . Today, it is the headquarters of Dominion Energy South Carolina (formerly SCANA), a major utility company . The city's proximity to the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) also makes it a key transportation-adjacent hub . In recent decades, it has developed a strong identity as a recreational and historical destination, centered on its extensive Riverwalk and trail system .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Cayce was 13,781 .
- City Class by Population: With a population under 50,000, Cayce is classified as a small city.
- Demographic Note: It is a diverse and growing community that is an integral part of the larger Columbia metropolitan area. The city has experienced steady growth, particularly as a desirable suburb connected to the capital .
City's "Business Card" (Briefly)
Cayce is a historic riverfront city where 12,000 years of history meet modern outdoor recreation. Known as the "City by the River," it offers residents and visitors over 20 miles of scenic trails, including the acclaimed Cayce Riverwalk, just minutes from downtown Columbia . It's a place to unplug, explore preserved heritage sites, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Congaree River.
Geography
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)
- Congaree River: The defining geographic feature of Cayce. This wide, short river flows for approximately 53 miles (85 km) and is formed in nearby Columbia by the confluence of the Saluda and Broad rivers . It has played a dominant role in the area's development for centuries, from early Native American habitation and colonial trade to modern-day recreation . The riverfront is the centerpiece of Cayce's identity, offering opportunities for fishing (notably for striped bass from late March through August), kayaking, and boating . It forms the boundary between Cayce and the state capital, Columbia .
- Congaree Creek: A significant tributary that flows through the Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve in Cayce before emptying into the Congaree River. The area around this creek has been a focal point of human activity for thousands of years, including a Native American village visited by Hernando de Soto in 1540 and the site of Civil War earthworks .
National and Nature Parks
- Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve: A 627-acre preserve owned and managed by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, located within Cayce . It features a 2.5-mile loop trail (the Guignard Brickworks Trail) that winds through a 70-year-old hardwood forest, past old clay quarry ponds, and along Congaree Creek. The preserve is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, bobcats, waterfowl, alligators, and various snake and turtle species . It offers a primitive hiking experience just minutes from the city center.
- Congaree National Park: Located about 30 miles downstream from Cayce, this national park is a major regional attraction. It preserves the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in North America. While not in Cayce, the Congaree River itself serves as a 50-mile Blue Trail connecting the Cayce Riverwalk and the Three Rivers Greenway to this wilderness area .
Unique Landscapes and Trails
Cayce is renowned for its extensive network of trails and parks, masterfully blending natural landscapes with historical interpretation.
- The Cayce Riverwalk: The crown jewel of the city's park system. This is a paved, 12-mile (19 km) multi-use trail that runs along the Congaree River . It features scenic overlooks, boardwalks, historical markers, picnic areas, and public art, including a hand-wrought iron "lion bench" . It is part of the larger Three Rivers Greenway and is designed for walking, jogging, bicycling, and bird-watching .
- Timmerman Trail: A 3.5-mile paved hiking and biking trail that connects to the Riverwalk system . It runs through a wooded area near Dominion Energy headquarters, offering views of Congaree Creek and opportunities to see local wildlife. It also runs directly through the 12,000 Year History Park .
- 12,000 Year History Park: A unique historical site built upon land that has seen continuous human habitation for millennia . Located at the site of an 1865 Civil War battle, the park features preserved earthworks and interpretive trails. Guided historical walking tours are offered, sharing stories of Native American lifeways, 18th-century trade, and the Battle of Congaree Creek .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Cayce has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) , characteristic of the American South. This means it experiences mild to cool winters and hot, humid summers. The city enjoys distinct seasons with a year-round growing season.
Average Temperatures
While specific monthly averages for Cayce are not detailed in the provided search results, general climate patterns for the region can be described. The hottest months are typically July and August, with average high temperatures often reaching the low to mid-90s °F (around 34°C). The coldest month is usually January, with average lows near freezing (around 32°F or 0°C) and average highs in the low 50s °F (around 11-12°C). According to a long-range forecast from the Old Farmer's Almanac for 2025-2026, winter temperatures are expected to be below normal, with the coldest periods in late December, early and late January, and early February. The summer is forecast to be warmer than normal, with the hottest periods in early to mid-June and early and late July .
Precipitation and Humidity
Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The region can experience heavy downpours, especially during the summer thunderstorm season. The average annual precipitation in the area is around 45-50 inches. The Old Farmer's Almanac predicts that spring (April and May) will be drier than usual, while summer rainfall may be above normal in the southern part of the state, with the potential for a tropical storm in late June and a hurricane in mid-August . Humidity is typically high during the summer months.
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Cayce are during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) .
- Spring (March-May): This is an ideal time to enjoy the Riverwalk and outdoor historical sites. Temperatures are mild and pleasant, with wildflowers in bloom. March is forecast to have sunny periods but also chilly, rainy stretches .
- Summer (June-August): Expect hot and humid weather. This is a great time for water-based activities like kayaking or fishing on the Congaree River, as well as early morning or late evening walks on the shaded trails. High heat and humidity are the norm.
- Fall (September-November): Another excellent period for outdoor exploration. The weather cools down again, and the humidity drops, making for comfortable hiking conditions. September and October temperatures are predicted to be below normal .
- Winter (December-February): Winters are generally mild, with periods of cooler temperatures. While snow is possible, it is not frequent. It can be a quiet and peaceful time to visit, though some days may be too chilly for extended outdoor activities. The forecast for this period points to below-normal temperatures and above-normal snowfall in the eastern part of the state .
Landmarks and Attractions
[The Cayce Riverwalk and Trail System]
The city's most beloved attraction is its award-winning network of trails and parks. More than just a single path, it's an integrated system offering over 20 miles of recreational opportunities .
- Location: The main entrance to the Cayce Riverwalk is at 201 Naples Avenue, Cayce, SC 29033 .
- Features: This system includes the 12-mile Cayce Riverwalk with its scenic river overlooks, the wooded 3.5-mile Timmerman Trail, and the historically rich paths of the 12,000 Year History Park and Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve . It is a free, accessible "daycation" spot for walking, biking, bird-watching, and picnicking, all just minutes from downtown Columbia .
[Guignard Brick Works]
A significant piece of industrial history, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- History: Established in 1801 by the Guignard family, these brickworks operated for nearly two centuries, providing bricks that helped build Columbia and the surrounding area .
- Features: The complex includes four historic beehive kilns, a brick office, and remnants of other industrial features . It is located within the Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve, and the 2.5-mile Guignard Brickworks Trail allows visitors to explore the site, passing by the old clay quarry pits that are now tranquil ponds .
[Cayce Historical Museum]
The museum serves as an important educational and cultural resource for the city .
- Location: It is located within the city's municipal complex .
- Collections: The museum holds artifacts and exhibits that cover the vast history of the area, from its Native American inhabitants and colonial period through the Revolutionary War and Civil War .
[The "Lion Bench"]
A notable piece of public art along the Cayce Riverwalk.
- Description: This unique bench, sculpted from wrought iron by local artists John and Venetia Sharpe, depicts a lion .
- Location: It is installed on the Riverwalk path just north of the Blossom Street Bridge, offering a picturesque view of the river. It symbolizes the Lions Club's past and future service to the community .
Transport
Main Airports
- Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE): This is the primary airport serving the greater Columbia area and is a critical transportation asset for Cayce, as it is located immediately adjacent to the city's western limits .
- IATA Code: CAE
- ICAO Code: KCAE
- Distance: The airport is just west of the Cayce city limits, offering exceptional convenience for residents and visitors .
- Details: The airport has two main runways and a helipad. It serves as a regional hub for UPS Airlines and handles over a million passengers annually . It offers flights on major carriers to hubs like Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, and New York.
Major Highways and Roadways
Cayce is a significant transportation hub, located at the confluence of several major interstate highways.
- Interstate 26 (I-26): Passes through the western side of Cayce, connecting the Columbia area to the Upstate (Greenville-Spartanburg) to the northwest and the Lowcountry (Charleston) to the southeast .
- Interstate 77 (I-77): Has its southern terminus in Cayce at the interchange with I-26 . It is a major north-south artery that runs through North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia to its northern terminus in Cleveland, Ohio.
- U.S. Route 321 (US-321): Passes through the western and northern parts of the city, leading north towards Gastonia, North Carolina, and south towards the Savannah, Georgia, area .
- South Carolina Highway 2 (SC-2): Passes through the center of Cayce on State Street and Frink Street, serving as a key local thoroughfare .
Public Transportation
- Bus System: Public transit is provided by The COMET (Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority), which operates several bus routes in Cayce, connecting it to West Columbia, Columbia, and the wider region .
Rail
- Freight Rail: The Columbia Subdivision, a railroad line owned by CSX Transportation, passes through Cayce, a testament to the city's long history as a railroad town .
- Passenger Rail: While freight lines run through the city, the nearest Amtrak station is located in downtown Columbia.
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Cayce offers a taste of authentic Southern comfort food, with local eateries serving up classic dishes that have won over the community.
Southern Breakfast at George's Southside Restaurant
A beloved local spot for a satisfying Southern breakfast is George's Southside Restaurant. This eatery is a go-to for mouthwatering dishes like Onion Sausage and eggs or Fried Flounder. The cozy space, though small, has a vibrant atmosphere where locals gather at the counter, making it a true local gem known for its good food and welcoming atmosphere .
Southern Seafood & Diet
For a taste of the region's seafood, Southern Seafood & Diet specializes in Southern-style seafood dishes. Guests rave about the fried fish sandwich, seasoned to perfection, and the restaurant's amazing homemade sauce. This casual and family-friendly spot offers comfort food, quick bites, and a cozy atmosphere .
Museums
Cayce Historical Museum
The Cayce Historical Museum is the city's primary cultural institution, housed in a replica of a frontier trading post built in 1765. The original post was seized by the British during the Revolution and turned into Fort Granby, playing a strategic role in the Southern campaign .
Key Exhibits and Artifacts:
- Native American Artifact Collection: A highlight of the museum is its extensive collection of nearly 8,000 Native American pieces, including arrowheads, pottery, axes, and tools. The collection features artifacts from the earliest prehistoric period, such as Clovis points, as well as objects from every other period of the area's Native American history .
- Lord Cornwallis's Tea Table: On loan from the University of South Carolina's McKissick Museum, the museum displays a tea table supposedly owned by General Lord Charles Cornwallis, the overall commander of British troops in the South during the Revolutionary War. Cornwallis abandoned the table while chasing General Nathanael Greene, and an American soldier brought it back to the Cayce area .
- Revolutionary War History: The museum tells the story of Fort Granby, including the legend of Emily Geiger. A young American patriot, Geiger was captured by the British near the fort while carrying a secret message. To prevent its discovery, she memorized the message and then ate it, later delivering it verbally to General Sumter .
- Other Exhibits: The museum also features exhibits on the Civil War, the locks on the Congaree River, and the famous Doolittle Raiders of World War II, who trained in the area before their historic mission .
Sport and Sports Legends
Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center
The Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center, located at 1120 Fort Congaree Trail, is a significant sports venue in the city. It serves as the host site for the South Carolina High School League (SCHSL) Girls Tennis State Championships, a major annual event that draws top high school teams from across the state to compete for titles .
Congaree Rapid FC (CRFC)
Cayce is home to the Congaree Rapid Football Club (CRFC) , a youth soccer association founded in 1993. The club's mission is to provide quality coaching in a structured classic league soccer environment, focusing on player development. The Congaree Rapid has utilized various fields in Cayce over the years, including facilities at River Bluff Baptist Church, Granby Education Center, and Brookland-Cayce High School. In 2013, the club entered into a lease on 11.4 acres at the Historic Columbia Speedway in Cayce, with ongoing efforts to develop a true home venue .
Universities and Educational Institutions
While there are no four-year universities directly within Cayce's city limits, the city is strategically located near several major institutions and is set to become home to a significant new research facility.
Colleges and Universities Near Cayce
Cayce is within a short driving distance of numerous colleges and universities in the Columbia area. The nearest is Allen University in Columbia, just 4.4 miles away. The largest and highest-ranked institution in the area is the University of South Carolina Columbia, also located in nearby Columbia. For those seeking two-year programs, Midlands Technical College is the closest community college, located 4.4 miles from Cayce .
New SC State University Research Facility
Cayce will soon host a major expansion of South Carolina State University (SC State) . The university is opening a new 42,000-square-foot research facility on Charleston Highway. This building will house the headquarters for SC State's Center for Food Safety & Health, along with academic classrooms, a conference center, and a professional TV and radio studio. The project is expected to create 50-70 new permanent jobs and bring significant economic activity to the city. Construction is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2026, with full operations beginning in January 2027 .
Healthcare Facilities and Services
Cayce has recently become a central hub for state-level public health and behavioral health services.
South Carolina State Health Campus
The State of South Carolina Health Campus, located at 400 Otarre Parkway in Cayce, is the new headquarters for two major state agencies .
The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) relocated its headquarters to this campus in 2025. The agency employs over 1,200 people in Cayce and is responsible for providing vital health care services, coordinating disease control, supporting healthy nutrition, inspecting health care facilities, and responding to natural disasters across the state .
The campus is also the headquarters for the newly formed South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (BHDD) . This agency comprises the offices for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Mental Health, and Substance Use Services, consolidating their administrative and programmatic functions in Cayce .