Things to Do in Columbia, MO Nestled in the heart of Missouri, Columbia is a vibrant college town known for its cultural richness, dynamic food scene, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a resident, a student at the University of Missouri, or just passing through, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you engaged. This guide covers the top things to do in Columbia, MO, ensuring you experience the best this charming city has to offer.
1. Explore the University of Missouri Campus
The University of Missouri, affectionately known as Mizzou, is the heartbeat of Columbia. Established in 1839, it’s the largest university in Missouri and offers a beautiful campus worth exploring.
Highlights:
- Francis Quadrangle: Known for its iconic columns, this historic site is the oldest part of the campus and a perfect spot for a leisurely walk.
- Mizzou Botanic Garden: Featuring diverse plant species, this garden adds a touch of nature to the campus.
- Museum of Art and Archaeology: Housing a vast collection of artworks and artifacts, this museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
2. Wander Through The District
The District, Columbia’s downtown area, is a bustling hub of activity. With a mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening.
Highlights:
- Shopping: From unique boutiques to vintage stores, there’s something for every shopper.
- Dining: Enjoy a meal at local favorites like Addison’s, Booches, or Sycamore. Don’t miss the chance to try Columbia’s famous pizza joints, such as Shakespeare’s Pizza.
- Nightlife: The Blue Note, a historic music venue, hosts a variety of live performances. For a more relaxed vibe, head to a local brewery or wine bar.
3. Immerse Yourself in Nature at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park
Just a short drive from downtown Columbia, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park offers a natural retreat with scenic trails, caves, and rock formations.
Highlights:
- Devil’s Icebox: This cave system, featuring an underground stream, is a fascinating exploration for adventure seekers.
- Gans Creek Wild Area: With over eight miles of trails, this area is ideal for hiking and wildlife observation.
- Picnicking and Photography: The park’s picturesque landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for a relaxing picnic or a photo session.
4. Visit the Columbia Art League
The Columbia Art League (CAL) is a cornerstone of the local arts scene, showcasing works by local, regional, and national artists. The gallery features rotating exhibits and offers art classes for all ages.
Highlights:
- Rotating Exhibits: With new exhibits every few months, there’s always something fresh to see.
- Art Classes: CAL offers workshops and classes in various mediums, catering to beginners and experienced artists alike.
- Art in the Park: This annual event, held in Stephens Lake Park, is one of the largest art festivals in the region.
5. Take a Stroll Through Shelter Gardens
Shelter Gardens is a tranquil oasis in the city, offering beautifully landscaped gardens and a variety of plant species.
Highlights:
- Water Features: The gardens include serene ponds and fountains, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
- Historic One-Room Schoolhouse: This restored schoolhouse adds a touch of history to your visit.
- Seasonal Blooms: With different plants blooming throughout the year, the gardens offer a changing palette of colors and fragrances.
6. Experience Local History at the Boone County History & Culture Center
The Boone County History & Culture Center preserves the rich history of Columbia and Boone County. The center includes a museum, historic buildings, and a genealogical library.
Highlights:
- Permanent Exhibits: Learn about the history of Boone County through well-curated exhibits.
- Maplewood House: This restored Victorian home offers a glimpse into the life of a prominent local family in the late 19th century.
- Genealogical Library: For those interested in tracing their ancestry, the library provides extensive resources.
7. Enjoy Outdoor Activities at Stephens Lake Park
Stephens Lake Park is a popular spot for outdoor recreation, featuring a large lake, walking trails, and picnic areas.
Highlights:
- Swimming and Boating: During the summer months, enjoy swimming and non-motorized boating in the lake.
- Walking and Biking Trails: The park has well-maintained trails suitable for walking, jogging, or biking.
- Winter Activities: In the winter, the park becomes a hub for sledding and ice skating.
8. Discover the Local Food Scene
Columbia boasts a diverse and vibrant food scene, with something to satisfy every palate. From farm-to-table restaurants to international cuisine, the city offers a wide array of dining options.
Highlights:
- Farm-to-Table: Restaurants like Cafe Berlin and Barred Owl Butcher & Table emphasize locally sourced ingredients.
- International Cuisine: Enjoy flavors from around the world at places like Bangkok Gardens (Thai), Sophia’s (Mediterranean), and Le Bao (Asian fusion).
- Food Trucks: Columbia’s food truck scene is thriving, offering everything from gourmet burgers to delicious tacos.
9. Attend a Local Festival or Event
Columbia hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and art to film and food.
Highlights:
- True/False Film Fest: This internationally acclaimed documentary film festival draws filmmakers and film enthusiasts from around the world.
- Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival: Enjoy live music, delicious BBQ, and a festive atmosphere at this popular annual event.
- Art in the Park: Held every June, this art fair features artists from across the country and offers live music, food vendors, and activities for kids.
10. Explore the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail
The MKT Trail is a beloved outdoor destination in Columbia, perfect for walking, running, biking, and wildlife observation.
Highlights:
- Scenic Route: The trail winds through beautiful landscapes, including forests, meadows, and creeks.
- Connectivity: It connects to the Katy Trail, one of the longest rail-trails in the country, offering extended adventures for avid bikers.
- Fitness Stations: Along the trail, you’ll find fitness stations for added exercise options.
11. Visit the Missouri Theatre
The Missouri Theatre is a historic performing arts venue in downtown Columbia, offering a range of cultural and entertainment events.
Highlights:
- Live Performances: Enjoy concerts, theater productions, and dance performances in this beautifully restored theater.
- Cinema Series: The theater often hosts screenings of classic and contemporary films.
- Architectural Beauty: The building itself is a stunning example of early 20th-century architecture, worth a visit for its aesthetic appeal alone.
12. Enjoy Family Fun at Lazer Lanes
Lazer Lanes is a family-friendly entertainment center offering a variety of activities for all ages.
Highlights:
- Bowling: Enjoy a game of bowling in a fun and vibrant atmosphere.
- Laser Tag: Engage in an exciting game of laser tag with friends or family.
- Arcade Games: The arcade features a range of games, from classic pinball to the latest video games.
13. Explore the Columbia Farmers Market
The Columbia Farmers Market is a year-round market offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a chance to connect with local farmers and makers.
Highlights:
- Fresh Produce: Find seasonal fruits and vegetables, all locally grown.
- Artisanal Goods: Browse handmade crafts, baked goods, and specialty foods.
- Community Atmosphere: The market is a great place to meet locals and enjoy live music and family-friendly activities.
14. Discover Hidden Gems at Local Bookstores
Columbia is home to several charming independent bookstores, perfect for book lovers.
Highlights:
- Yellow Dog Bookshop: This cozy store offers a curated selection of new and used books, with a focus on literary fiction and local authors.
- Skylark Bookshop: Located in The District, Skylark offers a well-chosen collection of books and often hosts author events and book clubs.
- University Bookstore: Located on the Mizzou campus, this bookstore offers a wide range of academic and general interest books.
15. Enjoy the Night Sky at the Laws Observatory
The Laws Observatory, located on the University of Missouri campus, offers public viewing nights where visitors can gaze at the stars through high-powered telescopes.
Highlights:
- Stargazing: Enjoy a clear view of celestial bodies and learn about astronomy from knowledgeable staff.
- Educational Programs: The observatory often hosts lectures and special events focused on space science.
- Special Events: Attend special viewings for astronomical events like eclipses or meteor showers.
16. Experience the Thrill of Escape Rooms
Columbia offers several escape room experiences, perfect for a fun and challenging group activity.
Highlights:
- Escape Plan Columbia: Featuring themed rooms and challenging puzzles, this venue offers an immersive escape room experience.
- Breakout CoMo: With a variety of scenarios, Breakout CoMo provides a fun and interactive way to test your problem-solving skills.
- Enigma Escape Rooms: Known for its creative storylines and detailed settings, Enigma offers a unique escape room adventure.
17. Relax at the A. Perry Philips Park
A. Perry Philips Park is a scenic park located on the southern edge of Columbia, offering a peaceful environment for relaxation and recreation.
Highlights: