1886 Claussen's Inn is a boutique hotel in Columbia's vibrant Five Points neighborhood at 2003 Greene Street, South Carolina, occupying a historic building that served as a commercial bakery in the late 19th century. The 29 rooms and suites preserve the structure's industrial heritage through exposed brick walls, soaring ceilings, timber beams, and salvaged architectural details, while offering contemporary amenities including complimentary parking, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and a nightly wine reception in the lobby. Loft suites feature open mezzanine sleeping areas accessed by interior staircases, providing a distinctly different configuration from standard hotel rooms—well suited to couples seeking character over uniformity. Five Points is Columbia's most energetic entertainment and dining district, with a concentration of restaurants, live music bars, and coffee shops clustered within a short walk of the inn. The University of South Carolina main campus is three blocks away, making Claussen's a preferred option for visiting families, faculty, and alumni, especially during Gamecocks football and basketball weekends when the neighborhood's energy peaks. The South Carolina State House, the Columbia Museum of Art, and the Congaree Vista arts district are a 10-minute drive. The inn's historic designation and boutique character set it apart from the chain hotels that dominate Columbia's other commercial corridors.
Room types
- Standard Room
- Loft Suite
- Deluxe King
Amenities
- free parking
- wine reception
- wifi
- historic building
- concierge
Location
2003 Greene Street, Columbia, SC 29205
33.9994, -81.0150 View on map
Highlights
- Converted 1886 bakery with preserved exposed brick, timber beams, and industrial-era character
- Loft suites with mezzanine sleeping areas ideal for couples seeking architectural interest
- Nightly complimentary wine reception in the lobby
- Five Points location within walking distance of Columbia's best restaurants and live music venues
- Three blocks from the University of South Carolina main campus
Tips for visiting
- Book well in advance for University of South Carolina home football game weekends; the Five Points area fills completely and rates spike.
- The nightly wine reception typically runs early evening in the lobby; arriving before 6 p.m. ensures the best selection.
- Parking is complimentary and on-site, a significant advantage over Columbia's downtown garage-dependent hotels.
- The Five Points entertainment district becomes noisy late on weekend evenings; light sleepers should request rooms at the rear of the building.
- The Vista arts and dining district on Gervais Street, a 10-minute drive, offers a different character than Five Points for weekend evenings.
When to visit
Fall (September–December) brings the energetic Gamecocks football season to Five Points. Spring offers pleasant weather for exploring the university campus and Congaree National Park nearby. Summer is quieter with students away, and rates are generally lower.
Accessibility
1886 Claussen's Inn's historic building presents accessibility limitations, including the mezzanine loft suites. Ground-floor standard rooms offer more accessible configurations. Guests with mobility requirements should contact the inn directly before booking to confirm available options.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Claussen's Inn affiliated with any hotel loyalty program?
Claussen's Inn is an independent boutique property and does not participate in any major hotel chain loyalty program. Direct booking through the property is typically the most cost-effective approach.
Are the loft suites accessible?
The loft suites require climbing an interior staircase to reach the mezzanine sleeping area and are not suitable for guests with mobility limitations. Ground-floor rooms are available for guests who require accessible accommodations.
Is there a restaurant at Claussen's Inn?
The inn does not operate a full restaurant but provides a nightly wine reception. The Five Points neighborhood immediately surrounding the property offers numerous dining options within a short walk.
How far is Claussen's Inn from Columbia Metropolitan Airport?
Columbia Metropolitan Airport is approximately 9 miles southwest of the inn, a 15-minute drive via I-126.