Hickory Tavern

Wings are jumbo and crisp; Freedom Burger is a monster that delivers.

When to come

Weekday lunches or evenings outside major sporting events.

Dining

DiningOPERATIONAL★ 4.1

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
No

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
Yes
Delivery Available
Yes
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
No
Tours Available
No
Bottle Sales
No
Parking Available
Yes
Dog Friendly Patio
No
Wi-Fi Available
No
Family Friendly
Yes
Family Friendly Notes
Kid-friendly with a kids' menu; boisterous but welcoming
Age Restriction
All ages welcome
Bar Seating
Yes
Live Music
No scheduled live music found
Special Events
Sports viewing events and promotions
Has Gift Shop
No
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.

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.