Chesnut Cottage Bed & Breakfast

We had a lovely stay at this charming Bed and Breakfast. Ken and Chrystal were amazing hosts. Our room was perfect and the bed was very comfy. Our breakfast was the best breakfast we have ever had. Everything was nice and clean too. We will definitely be staying there again when we pass through Columbia. I highly recommend this Chestnut Cottage.

My mom and I recently spent 2 nights at Chestnut Cottage and loved every minute of it. Ken and Christal made us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. The rooms were beautiful and comfortable. Plus, there were multiple areas to relax at the end of the day around the property. Lastly, the best part - breakfast! We felt like we were dining at a 5 star restaurant with fine china, fresh flowers and delicious creative combinations that Christal cooked fresh for us morning. We would definitely stay here again if back in the area and would recommend you do as well!

Chestnut Cottage was a wonderful place to stay. Ken and Christal were incredibly welcoming and took great care of us throughout our visit. The rooms were clean, comfortable, and beautifully decorated. The breakfast each morning was delicious. The atmosphere was peaceful, and the other guests were respectful and friendly. Ken and Christal also gave us great local recommendations, and parking was easy and convenient. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Columbia! There is lots to do around the cottage in the city of Columbia.

Our recent stay at the Chesnut Cottage was like stepping into a time machine — not just into a beautifully preserved piece of history, but into an experience filled with charm, care, and genuine hospitality.||||From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this wasn’t just a place to stay — it was a place to be welcomed. The cottage is a treasure trove of exquisite historic detail, lovingly maintained and curated with thoughtfulness at every turn. Each room tells a story, and every corner reveals the kind of craftsmanship and grace that transports you to a different era.||||What made our visit truly special, though, were our hosts, Ken and Christal. Their warmth, generosity, and deep knowledge of the cottage’s history made us feel more like guests in their home than travelers passing through. They have clearly poured their hearts into creating an environment that is not only historically rich but also deeply personal and inviting.||||Whether it was the cozy touches throughout the home, the delicious breakfast, or the stories shared with other guests over coffee, every moment felt intentional and heartfelt. We left feeling inspired, restored, and already dreaming of when we can return (which will be soon since our youngest daughter just committed to USC – Go Gamecocks!).||||If you’re looking for a place that offers more than just comfort — a place that offers connection, history, and soul — the Chesnut Cottage is a rare gem.

This bed and breakfast was more than 5 stars. The appearance is only a small fraction of how wonderful this experience was. Amazing inn keepers made it feel like home and the history was fascinating. Our breakfast was one of a kind also!! We will definitely be returning to this beautiful inn and city.

What a pleasure it was to stay at Chestnut Cottage! The house itself is beautiful - full of history, impeccably maintained, with thoughtful touches throughout - including the stunning orchids in our bathroom. But the most special part is Ken and Christal. They are the consummate hosts, ensuring every little thing is looked after. And those breakfasts! Yum!!! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would recommend it so highly to anyone. It stands out as one of the best Bed and Breakfasts we have stayed at, in the US or abroad. Thank you so much for a fabulous anniversary weekend! We couldn’t have chosen a better place.

I can’t say enough good things about the Chestnut Cottage Inn—this was truly one of the most charming, relaxing places I’ve ever stayed. Built in 1835, the inn is full of history and character. I was greeted with a warm smile and a personal tour, which made me feel right at home. My room was the former library—cozy, welcoming, and full of beautiful, vintage furniture. There was even a thoughtful snack waiting for me: fresh zucchini bread and strawberries! The bed was heavenly—adjustable, incredibly comfortable, and it even had a massage feature. The jetted tub was next-level, and they provided the most amazing rose water bubble bath that smelled divine. I was so relaxed I ordered in for the night (though they offer a curated menu of great local spots too!). One of the coolest touches? After booking, you receive access to their custom app, which includes everything from directions and WiFi info to restaurant recommendations and local attractions. After my bath, a thunderstorm rolled in, and I found myself sitting on the beautiful front porch in a rocking chair, listening to the rain with tall trees swaying all around the house. It was peaceful, grounding, and just perfect. I slept like a baby—no noise, no interruptions—I honestly didn’t even realize there were other guests. In the morning, I was asked what time I’d like breakfast, and when I arrived, the other guests were already seated. We had the best conversation, and then came the food... wow. Basil-infused orange juice, a locally baked croissant topped with turkey, egg, and cheese, and finished with their signature homemade Chestnut Cottage BBQ mustard sauce—basically a deconstructed breakfast sandwich masterpiece. It was served with a parfait of fresh peaches and strawberries, topped with aged double barrel bourbon maple syrup (and let’s just say, it leaned more bourbon than syrup—in the best way). If you're ever in Columbia, this is where you need to stay. A perfect blend of charm, hospitality, and unforgettable experiences. I’ll absolutely be back!

5 stars all around!!! I've stayed at bed and breakfasts all over the world and this one is the BEST. Ken and his wife are friendly, and the ultimate hosts, made us feel at home from the minute we arrived until we left. The breakfast was amazing. What a brilliant surprise. Highly recommend and we shall always stay here when in town. Cheers too chestnut cottage and thank you.

Nestled in downtown historic district of South Carolina's capital city, Chesnut Cottage Inn has been a highly sought after destination for guests looking for a peaceful retreat, a romantic getaway, or a base for exploring the surrounding area. This hidden gem has welcomed guests for almost 40 years, and it remains the last locally owned and operated B&B of its kind in Columbia. Our guests can find serenity in the Cottage's welcoming and cozy accommodations, enjoy freshly made breakfasts every morning, and experience the Cottage's rich and enchanting history.

Odd circumstances led to this being the best bed and breakfast experience I've ever had. Mary was an angel, the best host someone could ask for. Not only is she incredibly kind and accommodating, but her wealth of knowledge on the area will leave you with days of activities and historical sites that you would never think of seeing. The building is rich with history, clean, and incredibly comfortable. The food was fresh, the coffee hot, and the conversation lovely. Located a short walk away from everything the city has to offer, there's no other place I would consider staying in Columbia.

Chestnut Cottage is amazing and Mary is an incredible host. The history of the house dating back to the start of the Civil War is so interesting to learn about. The rooms are all beautiful and the outdoor areas are dreamy and full of Southern charm. And you might even get a fluffy breakfast guest.

A beautiful home full of antiquities of a historic time in America. Lovely couple taking care of every special request and then some. On my list to return.

The owner, Mary, is an absolute delight! She truly makes you feel welcomed and like family. The rooms were so clean, and beautifully decorated. I love the fact she had whirlpool bath tubs. The beds were incredibly comfortable. Even the sheets and towels were perfect. I stayed in the General's room and it was huge! We are local and stayed for a night away from the kids. We will definitely stay here again!

Staying at Chestnut Cottage is truly like staying at a friend's house! Mary is a wonderful hostess-and we've gained a new friend. The porch and other outdoor areas are perfect for remaining socially distant. The Garden Room is spacious and lovely. We had a one night staycation/getaway for our anniversary and feel so relaxed and rejuvenated, like we were away longer. We will be back and are already planning our next visit!

We stayed here as a family for our son's wedding. We loved the beauty of the house and were able to just relax thanks to Mary! We loved the gazebo area and the front porch! Felt like we were family. A beautiful spot. This will be part of our favorite family memories! Mary was wonderful!

This Bed and Breakfast is a perfect place to stay while in Columbia, SC. It was way more that we expected. The room was large and well appointed with everything that you could possibly need or desire. The breakfast was fantastic. You will NOT be disappointed. Mary, the owner, is the BEST hostess and the MOST attentive ever. We would stay here again for sure, if we are anywhere close to Columbia, SC.

If you appreciate local flavor and good breakfast, this is the perfect Columbia stay! It is located on the outskirts of the USC campus and a couple blocks away from the city attractions like the Vista and Five Points (where shops and food are). The B&B has a historic, antebellum feel to it that makes you feel like you're staying at your grandma's house. Everything is clean and neat, but cozy. My parents (~60 yrs old) stayed here. (I was just invited over for the breakfasts). They felt right at home, and well-accommodated. The home is bright and welcoming, just like its staff. The couple that runs it couldn't be any sweeter and more helpful. Their vast knowledge of the local scene, how to get around Columbia and South Carolinian history is impressive and very helpful. Now for the BEST part...the breakfast. OUT OF THIS WORLD. The cook has been in the business for years- everything from catering businesses to cooking for celebrities like Jake Gylenhaall! The first morning, we had scrambled eggs with yellow peppers, onions and cheese, bacon and roasted potatoes. It was accompanied with a berry and yogurt parfait, orange juice and/or coffee. The second morning, we had the most delicious breakfast I've had in a while...eggs seasoned with herbs- who knew eggs could have such flavor! It was paired with cooked ham and an amazing french toast. The toast was dressed in an apricot, strawberry, honey, pear and nut compote...It was incredible. I'm still drooling over it.

On the spur of the moment my girlfriend and I decided to go to Columbia - check out the zoo, the art museum and some of the restaurants. The website was a little wonky - had to refresh several times but I suspect that was the hosting company. One I was in it was easy to set up a reservation. I got an email confirming the request and a few moments later I got another email confirming the reservation. The house itself is gorgeous and well maintained. It is nicely appointed with antique furniture, enough books to fill a small library and engaging artwork. Gale the innkeeper was polite, friendly and charming. He gave us a tour of the house and its history. Our room was very cozy and quiet with a lush king sized bed. Our room had a private entrance and that made exploring the city's nightlife easier. The next morning we enjoyed the option of taking breakfast in our room - a brioche French toast, spinach and cheese omelette, fruit and yogurt parfait and fresh juice... In sorry, we had a great visit and look forward to returning in the fall.