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After 10 weeks of chow-hall food, your Soldier will have been dreaming about a real meal. Whether it's a quick first bite on Family Day or a celebration dinner after graduation, here's how to plan it.
Best Areas for Dining
- Garners Ferry / Fort Jackson Blvd: familiar chains and quick options closest to the gate — easy for a fast Family Day meal.
- Devine Street & Five Points: local restaurants and casual spots a short drive from the post.
- The Vista (downtown): the best area for a nicer celebration dinner, with a walkable cluster of restaurants.
Make a Reservation
Graduation weeks bring a lot of families to town at once, so popular restaurants book up — especially for Thursday and Friday dinners. Reserve ahead if you're planning a celebration meal.
Tip: ask your Soldier what they've been craving. After BCT, the answer is usually something specific — and letting them pick makes the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should we take our Soldier to eat after graduation?
Popular choices range from quick familiar chains near the Fort Jackson Blvd gate for Family Day, to nicer celebration dinners downtown in The Vista. Ask your Soldier what they've been craving — after BCT they usually have a specific request.
Do I need a restaurant reservation for graduation weekend?
It's a good idea for Thursday and Friday dinners. Graduation weeks bring many families to Columbia at once, so popular restaurants fill up.