Birdwatching in the Gardens

Birdwatching in the Gardens Select Thursdays | 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM Hampton-Preston Garden 1615 Blanding St, Columbia, SC 29201 Grab binoculars and explore the Gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion during a free, guided bird walk led by local birder John Tjaarda. This engaging outdoor experience highlights the many local and migratory bird species found in Columbia, with the gardens hosting more than 100 species throughout the year. Participants will learn how to identify birds by sight, sound, and behavior while enjoying a relaxed walk through a historic setting. Event Details: Meeting Location: Front gate of the Hampton-Preston Mansion (Blanding Street) What to Bring: Binoculars are recommended but not required Tickets: FREE to attend; registration required Parking: Free street parking is available near the Hampton-Preston Mansion. All posted parking regulations should be observed. Weather: The program will be canceled in the event of rain or winds exceeding 25 MPH. Checking the forecast prior to arrival is recommended. Additional Information Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are encouraged. Bug spray is recommended during warmer months. If unable to attend, advance notice allows space to be offered to waitlisted participants. Register Here: https://ecom.roller.app/historiccolumbia/hc/en-us/product/1509961?date=2026-05-14&_gl=1*1rrnw7h*_gcl_au*MzI5NjcxMjAwLjE3NzcyNDEyMjM.*_ga*MTk3OTQ5Mjc1OS4xNzc3MjQxMjIz*_ga_NG749DHYDZ*czE3Nzc1ODE5MjgkbzQkZzEkdDE3Nzc1ODE5ODQkajQkbDAkaDA. Questions? Contact Brooke Flory, Program and Communications Coordinator, at (803) 252-7742, ext. 24 About John Tjaarda John Tjaarda, known as Historic Columbia’s “Resident Bird Nerd,” leads the monthly Birdwatching in the Gardens program. As Director of Development for The Big Red Barn Retreat, his work highlights the value of self-care and promotes birding as an accessible and enjoyable activity. Birding experience began in 2011 while teaching bird studies,…