Dining

Hickory Tavern

DiningOPERATIONAL★ 4.1
Brick exterior of a tavern-style building with a neon sign along a concrete ramp, located near Congaree National Park.

Wings arrive jumbo and crackle; exterior is crisp, interior hot and juicy, with bold sauce clinging to the surface. The Freedom Burger unfurls a massive patty with a solid char and a grease-laced bun that holds up to the heat. The Carolina Cheesesteak can land a bland moment if under-seasoned, leaving a muted aftertaste. Hickory Tavern is a lively, family-friendly sports bar where TVs line the walls and the crowd adds texture to every bite.

Quick facts

Meals Served
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Signature Dishes
Wings; Carolina Cheesesteak; Freedom Burger/Tavern Cheeseburger
Local Specialties
No local SC specialties highlighted
Popular Items
Wings, Freedom Burger, Tavern Cheeseburger

What to order

Meals Served
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Signature Dishes
Wings; Carolina Cheesesteak; Freedom Burger/Tavern Cheeseburger
Local Specialties
No local SC specialties highlighted
Popular Items
Wings, Freedom Burger, Tavern Cheeseburger
Menu Recommendations
Wings and Freedom Burger; Carolina Cheesesteak seasoning could be improved
Dietary Options
  • Vegetarian options

Prices & reservations

Price Specifics
Burgers: $17-$19; Wings: $14.39 (6) / $23.99 (12); Handhelds/Wraps: $15-$19; Entrees: Ribeye $33-$35, Cedar Salmon $25-$26
Reservations Policy
Walk-in; no reservations required.
Typical Wait Times
Peak hours and sporting events; expect waits during big games.
Payment Methods
  • Cash
  • Credit Card
  • Mobile Pay
Cash Only
0

Hours & seating

Operating Hours
  • Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
  • Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
  • Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Happy Hour Times
Times vary by location; promotions include half-price burgers and beer buckets.
Outdoor Seating
Yes
Parking Details
Ample parking; easy access.

Visit strategy

Best For
  • Sports viewing
  • Family meals
  • Casual nights out
Not Ideal For
Quiet dates; fine dining seekers
Service Type
Table service
Service Speed
Moderate
Vibe
  • Casual
  • Sports bar
  • Family-friendly
Noise Level
Moderate to loud
View Type
  • Sports bar interior
Busiest Times
Major sporting events; weekend evenings
Best Visit Times
Weekday lunches or evenings outside big games
Tips Advice
  • Get the Wings: jumbo and crisp with bold sauce.
  • Freedom Burger is a crowd-pleaser—order one to share.
  • Takeout via Uber Eats/Grubhub for park-side grazing.
  • Arrive before kickoff to beat the crowds.

More details

Park Area
Congaree National Park
Takeout Available
1
Delivery Available
1
Delivery Details
Uber Eats and Grubhub
Dress Code
Casual
Beverage Program
Full Bar with broad beer selection and craft cocktails
Local Beers
Broad beer selection
Tasting Flights
0
Tours Available
0
Bottle Sales
0
Parking Available
1
Dog Friendly Patio
0
Wi-Fi Available
0
Family Friendly
1
Family Friendly Notes
Kid-friendly with a kids' menu; boisterous but welcoming
Age Restriction
All ages welcome
Bar Seating
1
Live Music
No scheduled live music found
Special Events
Sports viewing events and promotions
Has Gift Shop
0
Unique Attractions
Sports bar setup with multiple TVs; jumbo wings; big burgers
Unique Factor
Neighborhood sports bar vibe with jumbo wings and huge burgers
Nearby Facilities
Ample parking; takeout/delivery options; downtown Columbia location
Best Time To Visit
Weekday lunches or evenings outside major sporting events.
The Order Strategy
Skip the Carolina Cheesesteak; get Wings or Freedom Burger. For drinks, go with the broad beer selection; craft cocktails are available.
The Vibe Check
It is loud. A lively, sports-bar atmosphere; great for groups and game nights, less ideal for quiet work.
The Crowd Factor
Busiest during major sporting events and weekend evenings; arrive early or order ahead to snag a table.
Eat Here If Skip If
EAT HERE IF: You want a family-friendly sports bar with jumbo wings and big burgers. SKIP IF: You seek quiet, fine-dining vibes.
Distance From Park
approximately 22 miles from park entrance
Review Summary
Wings arrive jumbo and crackle; the burger wears a thick char and hearty bun; fries stay crisp in grease; some note the Carolina Cheesesteak lags in seasoning. Overall, it's a solid casual spot for sports, with a family-friendly vibe and a crowd that loves to gather.

Location

Congaree National Park visitors share a casual meal inside a park restaurant after a day of exploring.Nachos with pico de gallo, jalapeños, and sour cream at a casual dining spot in Congaree National Park.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a kids' menu?

Yes, a kids' menu is available.

Is it noisy for kids?

The atmosphere is boisterous yet family-friendly; prepare for some noise.

Is takeout available?

Yes, takeout via Uber Eats and Grubhub; delivery is also offered.

Do they have vegetarian options?

Yes, salads and adaptable dishes provide vegetarian options.

Is reservations needed?

Walk-in is standard; no reservations required.

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Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated February 2026. Report an issue.