HILTON GARDEN INN COLUMBIA/HARBISON, Harbison

The hotel sits directly off Interstate 26, offering quick access to downtown Columbia, Riverbanks Zoo, and the South Carolina State Museum. The surrounding Harbison area is a major commercial hub with a mall, Walmart, and numerous chain restaurants such as Texas Roadhouse, Tokyo Grill, Carrabba's Italian Grill, and M Kitchen within a 0.5 km walk. While the location is convenient for drivers, the proximity to the interstate means rooms facing the highway can experience traffic noise, particularly during morning rush hours. The area is well-lit and felt safe, with a CVS and gas station also nearby.

Standard rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a Keurig coffee maker, mini-fridge, microwave, ironing facilities, and a TV. Some room types include a whirlpool tub. The property feels dated and many rooms show significant wear, with older furniture, stained carpets, and some maintenance issues reported. Bed comfort varies; some find the beds comfortable while others describe them as hard or lumpy. Pillows are noted as very soft. Noise can be an issue, with potential disturbances from highway traffic, hallway activity, and thin walls. Rooms may retain odors from smoke or cleaning products. Light sleepers may want to request a room away from the elevator and on a higher floor.

The Great American Grill restaurant offers a paid breakfast buffet (approximately $15-$20 per person) and cooked-to-order hot breakfast options, which many find delicious and well-prepared, especially by the breakfast crew. Dinner is also available, featuring items like wings and salad. There is a bar and grill on-site with a full bar. For quick snacks, a 24-hour convenience store is in the lobby. Room service delivers take-away but does not provide in-room dining. Many restaurants within walking distance provide alternatives for those who prefer not to eat at the hotel.

The hotel features an indoor heated swimming pool and a fitness centre. The pool has been described as nice and clean, though some have noted it can feel small. Operational issues with the pool heater have been reported intermittently. The fitness centre is clean and well-maintained, with good equipment. There is also a shared lounge/TV area and a sun terrace. No spa, hot tub, or sauna is available on the property. The pool is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Free public parking is available on-site without reservation. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. The 24-hour front desk offers express check-in/out, safety deposit boxes, and an ATM on site. A business centre with fax/photocopying and meeting/banquet facilities is present. Laundry, dry cleaning, and ironing services are available. The property has a lift and is wheelchair accessible. Pets are allowed with applicable fees. The hotel is non-smoking throughout with designated smoking areas. While the staff are frequently praised as friendly and helpful, service at the front desk has been inconsistent, particularly during evening hours and renovation periods. Note that housekeeping is every other day, not daily.