Fort Jackson is the largest and most active U.S. Army Basic Combat Training location in the country — home to roughly 50% of all new Soldiers entering the Army each year. If your loved one is graduating from Fort Jackson, you’re part of a proud tradition shared by hundreds of thousands of Army families.
This guide gives you everything you need to know for traveling to Fort Jackson for Family Day and Graduation Day, including where to stay, where to eat, what to wear, what to expect, and how to make the most of this unforgettable moment.
Where Fort Jackson Is Located
Fort Jackson is located in Columbia, South Carolina, just minutes from downtown and about 20 minutes from the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE). The base is large, easy to navigate, and surrounded by family-friendly hotels, dining, and attractions.
Graduations take place at:
- Hilton Field (most BCT ceremonies)
- Field locations determined by battalion (occasionally)
What to Expect During Graduation Week
Graduation week at Fort Jackson includes two major events:
Family Day (Day Before Graduation)
Family Day is your first chance to see your Soldier in over 9–10 weeks. Expect:
- formation or battalion events
- a brief unit presentation
- meeting your Soldier for the first time
- time together on base
- limited freedom of movement (on-base only)
This is often the most emotional day for families.
Graduation Day
Graduation typically takes place the next morning at Hilton Field.
Expect:
- battalion formations
- pass in review
- speeches
- ceremonial elements
- final dismissal
After dismissal, your Soldier will usually be granted off-base leave or depart for AIT (Advanced Individual Training), depending on their training schedule.
Where to Stay Near Fort Jackson (Top Choices for Families)
Columbia has excellent lodging options close to the base.
Closest to Fort Jackson Gate 1 (Most Popular)
These hotels are 5–10 minutes from Hilton Field:
- Hampton Inn & Suites Columbia/Fort Jackson
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Columbia-Fort Jackson
- Comfort Inn & Suites Fort Jackson
- TownePlace Suites Columbia Fort Jackson
Downtown Columbia (10–15 Minutes Away)
More dining, nightlife, and riverfront walking:
- Hyatt Place Columbia/Downtown
- Hilton Columbia Center
- Aloft Columbia Downtown
Harbison / Irmo Area (15–20 Minutes Away)
Near shopping and the beautiful Lake Murray region:
- SpringHill Suites Columbia Harbison
- Residence Inn Harbison
- Home2 Suites Harbison
Tip: Graduation weeks fill FAST — book early.
Where to Eat in Columbia (Family Favorites)
Southern & Local Favorites
- Lizard’s Thicket (iconic SC comfort food)
- Blue Marlin (Southern seafood)
- The Vista district restaurants
Quick & Easy Options Near the Base
- Chipotle
- Panera
- Chick-fil-A
- Jersey Mike’s
- Starbucks
Great Sit-Down Restaurants
- Hall’s Chophouse (fantastic for graduation dinner)
- The War Mouth (Southern BBQ)
- Bourbon (Cajun & Creole)
- Motor Supply Co. Bistro
Your Soldier may have very limited time or want something simple — ask them what they’re craving.
What to Wear for Fort Jackson Graduation
Fort Jackson weather can vary dramatically. Here’s how to prepare:
Wear Comfortable Layers
Morning chill + midday heat are common.
Comfortable walking shoes
Hilton Field requires walking from parking areas to seating.
Proud Army Family Apparel
Most families wear:
- Army Mom
- Army Dad
- Proud Army Family
- Soldier graduation shirts
- Matching outfits look great in photos.
Bring:
- sunglasses
- sunblock
- water
- light jacket
Weather Tips for Fort Jackson
Spring & Summer
Expect:
- heat
- humidity
- surprise rain
- Bring:
- poncho
- cooling towel
- sunscreen
Fall
Expect mild, comfortable weather. Layers still help for mornings.
Winter
Can be surprisingly cold. Bring gloves, warm layers, and a jacket.
What Time to Arrive at Hilton Field
Arrive 1–1.5 hours early
Traffic, base access, parking, walking, and seating fill quickly.
Note: Hilton Field is spacious, but large graduating companies can create crowds.
Where to Enter the Base (Gates)
Most families use:
Gate 1 (Main Gate)
Closest to Hilton Field.
Expect heavier traffic.
Gate 2 or 4
Sometimes used depending on traffic flow and construction.
Always follow instructions given by your Soldier’s battalion.
What to Bring on Graduation Day
- Valid ID
- Base access paperwork
- Camera or phone
- Extra battery or power bank
- Water
- Sunglasses
- Small bag or tote
- Printed ceremony schedule
- Tissues
Optional but helpful:
- binoculars (Hilton Field is large)
After Graduation: What Happens Next?
Your Soldier may:
- go off-base with you briefly
- immediately ship to AIT (common)
- have travel instructions
- stay with the unit until transportation is arranged
Their Drill Sergeants will communicate the plan clearly.
Fort Jackson FAQs
Do I need tickets?
No — all families may attend.
Can my Soldier leave base on Family Day?
No — on-base only.
Can younger siblings attend?
Absolutely.
Are umbrellas allowed?
Usually yes, unless weather becomes severe. Bring a poncho just in case.
Where do ceremonies take place?
Typically Hilton Field, but can vary by battalion.
Is Fort Jackson easy to navigate?
Yes — signage is clear and MPs help direct traffic.
Make Graduation Even More Special With Proud Army Apparel
Fort Jackson graduation is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Matching family apparel makes photos feel unified, meaningful, and unforgettable.
👉 Shop Proud Army Mom, Army Dad & Family Apparel
👉 Explore Army Graduation Shirts & Keepsakes
👉 Browse Army Division & Unit Collections
Oak & Liberty is honored to support Army families through one of the most significant milestones of their loved one’s journey.