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Columbia MO Visitors Guide

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12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Columbia, MO

Written by Brad Lane Updated Mar 24, 2023

Author Brad Lane has family near Columbia and enjoys his time visiting the area.

Columbia is a university city near the center of Missouri, 30 minutes north of the state capital of Jefferson City. It's a sizable city of over 120,000 residents with a perfect balance of fun things to do and a small-town feel. Add in the youthful and academic culture at the University of Missouri , and Columbia is a top spot in Missouri to live and visit.

The culture of Columbia resonates deeply at the Francis Quadrangle of the University of Missouri . The beautiful campus spans from the Quadrangle, and features cultural features for all members of the public.

Outside the academic attractions, a defining characteristic of Columbia is the surrounding natural space that begs to be explored. From underground caves to Shelter Gardens, the outdoors in Columbia is easy to find.

To find the best places to visit, see our list of the top things to do in Columbia, Missouri.

1. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

2. stephens lake park, 3. shelter gardens, 4. david r. francis quadrangle, university of missouri, 5. shryocks callaway farm, 6. museum of art and archaeology, 7. the blue note, 8. eagle bluffs conservation area, 9. finger lakes state park, 10. columbia art league, 11. twin lakes recreation area, 12. grindstone nature area, columbia, mo - climate chart.

Rock Bridge Memorial State Park is a great natural getaway and a prime example of a lush Missouri environment five miles south of downtown Columbia. Forest and restored grasslands comprise much of the aboveground attraction of the park, with dramatic karst caverns underground. With both sides to explore, this state park delivers adventure in multiple ways.

Hikers enjoy the trails on the Gans Creek Wild Area Trail System , which spans over eight miles through a remote area of the park. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park also has a permanent orienteering course where individuals and groups can practice their map and compass skills.

Underneath the abundant trail systems, a favorite attraction at Rock Bridge Memorial is the Devil's Icebox and Natural Rock Bridge . Along the half-mile Devil's Icebox Trail, visitors travel through the 63-foot-high natural rock bridge before accessing the double-sinkhole entrance of the Devil's Icebox.

Two cave systems are accessible from the Devil's Icebox. One of the caves is the complex Devil's Icebox Cave , which contains at least seven miles of mapped passageways and can only be toured with park staff. Across the underground opening from Devil's Icebox Cave, Connor's Cave comes in at 150 feet. With no wrong turns to be made in Connor's Cave, mindful visitors can explore this smaller cave on their own.

Address: 5901 South Highway 163, Columbia, Missouri

Stephens Lake Park is just east of downtown, offering yet another fresh-air option to explore in Columbia. The namesake Stephens Lake is the centerpiece of the park and provides 11 acres of water. The park features a seasonal swimming beach, fishing opportunities, and non-motorized boating access .

Other popular things to do at Stephens Lake Park include using the paved trail that circles the water. Numerous landscapes and scenic waterfalls are installed alongside the path. Stephens Lake Park also features picnic table shelters, an indoor pavilion, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Stephens Lake is also popular in the winter for its perfect sledding hill and opportunities to ice skate.

Address: 2001 E Broadway, Columbia, Missouri

Shelter Gardens provides a bountiful botanical display next to the Shelter Insurance Corporate Office on the west side of the city. This public space has waterfalls, rock gardens, and a replica one-room schoolhouse. The gardens also include over 300 varieties of trees and thousands of flowers.

Shelter Gardens has no admission fee and is open to the public every day of the year (except Christmas). It's popular with Shelter Insurance employees on work breaks and anyone who enjoys the relaxing pace of garden gazing. Some of the most social times at Shelter Gardens occur on Sundays throughout June and July, when the Shelter Gardens Concert Series is in full swing.

Each season adds a different shade to Shelter Gardens. Arguably the best times of year to visit are the spring and summer when the garden reaches its full bloom.

Address: 1817 W. Broadway, Columbia, Missouri

The David R. Francis Quadrangle is a culturally significant centerpiece of the university at the heart of the University of Missouri ( Mizzou ) campus. It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places and continues today to be a common gathering spot for students and community members alike.

Surrounded by red-brick buildings and the architecturally eye-pleasing Jesse Hall , the Quad delivers scholarly appeal and sightseeing opportunities. The most iconic monuments of the Francis Quadrangle include the six towering columns in the middle of the grassy space. These eye-catching relics are the last remaining structures of the original Academic Hall that burned down in 1892.

Besides the aesthetic appeal of the columns, the quadrangle also lends access to other significant landmarks. It's always worth checking out Thomas Jefferson's original tombstone on the east side of the lawn during any visit to the Francis Quadrangle. And the entire surrounding campus is a community treasure trove of academic interest and extracurricular activity, including Mizzou football and basketball games.

Address: 205 Jesse Hall, Columbia, Missouri

Shryocks Callaway Farms is a family-favorite day trip from Columbia, located a 20-minute drive east in Northern Callaway County. The Shyrocks have worked this farmland for over a century and several generations. Today, the farm offers several hands-on activities and quintessential seasonal activities, including tractor rides and a sprawling pumpkin patch .

Shyrocks Corn Maze is perhaps the biggest tourist attraction at the farm. This 16-acre maze takes on different designs every year and always provides a fun adventure.

The typical season for the corn maze is between mid-September and late November. Admission into the corn maze includes access to all the other farm's attractions.

Address: 2927 County Road 253, Columbia, Missouri

The University of Missouri operates the Museum of Art and Archaeology , featuring a wide range of art forms spanning thousands of years. The museum is on campus and north of Columbia's downtown district.

Admission is free to the Museum of Art and Archaeology, and visitors will be surprised by the many exhibits found around each corner. The collection at the Museum of Art and Archaeology ranges from ancient works of art to rotating regional exhibitions. The museum offers docent-led tours , which offer more insight into the artwork.

Weekly events occur at the museum, including speaker series, workshops, and an Ad Hoc Film Series.

Address: 115 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, Missouri

To absorb some of the collegiate and cultural vibe of Columbia, the first place to visit is the Blue Note .

Located close to campus, this longstanding establishment serves as one of the state's top music venues and offers one of the best things to do in Columbia at night. The Blue Note features a wide range of names on its marquee, including big-name bands, emerging regional acts, and a variety of alternative events.

The Blue Note is housed in a 1920s vaudeville theater . The ambience and acoustics are half of what makes the Blue Note fun to visit. The other half is the enthusiastic crowd of Mizzou students and Columbia community members surrounding the stage.

For a more intimate show, the Blue Note also hosts regional and local acts just down the street at the Rose Music Hall , a local favorite to catch some live music. Tickets to both venues are available online.

Address: 17 N 9th Street, Columbia, Missouri

On the southwest edge of the city, this sprawling conservation area is a great place to get away and spot some wildlife. The conservation area encompasses over 4,000 acres of bluff-lined landscape and provides vital wetlands along the Missouri River and Perche Creek. While each season is spectacular to visit, the fall foliage at Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area is simply dazzling.

The longest developed rail-trail in the country, Katy Trail State Park , passes through portions of Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area. This provides the main thoroughfare for visitors to explore the park. The park is also popular for squirrel, deer, and rabbit hunters during corresponding seasons.

Located just over 10 miles north of downtown, Finger Lakes State Park hosts a wide variety of outdoor activities that you can't find in many other places in the state, as well as one of Missouri's best beaches .

Before Finger Lakes was a recreation destination, it had been a strip mine for the Peabody Coal Company. After mining operations were discontinued, in conjunction with the mining company and state and federal representatives, the Mark Twain Mine was reclaimed and repurposed into what is now Finger Lakes State Park.

Thanks to these efforts, visitors to Finger Lakes can enjoy all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trails, lake sports, and a place to get away into nature.

As one of two state parks in Missouri that accommodate off-road riders, Finger Lakes State Park has more than 70 miles of trails to explore via motorcycle, four-wheelers, and ATVs.

In addition to the plentiful off-road trails and motocross track, Finger Lakes provides numerous namesake water outlets to enjoy swimming, fishing, non-motorized boating, and scuba diving. Kayak and canoe rentals are available through the state park, and plenty of fishing holes are found throughout the sprawling area.

To extend your stay within Finger Lakes, the state park also offers basic and electric campsites complete with modern restroom facilities.

Address: 1505 E Peabody Road, Columbia, Missouri

At the center of downtown, the Columbia Art League , also known as CAL, is a thriving pulse of the Columbia culture and art scene. The exhibits at CAL rotate between the seasons and are often tied to local and regional artists. Admission to the CAL gallery is free, and school groups and interested visitors are encouraged to call ahead for a guided tour .

The Columbia Art League offers adult workshops and kids' summer camps. The facility also oversees a Community Exhibit Program that places local art into local businesses. Adding even more art to the streets, CAL also hosts an Art in the Park celebration each June at Stephens Lake Park.

Address: 207 S 9th Street, Columbia, Missouri

Twin Lakes Recreation Area is a popular 73-acre park a short drive southwest of downtown.

A large fishing lake is a primary attraction, with a beautiful gravel path lining its shores. A fishing dock extends into the northern bank, and while there's no official boat launch, any non-motorized vessels are welcome to access the water.

Twin Lakes Recreation Area also has several land-based attractions alongside its aquatic appeal. Playgrounds, splash areas, and picnic tables dot much of the open parkland.

Several walking trails also tour the area, including the popular and paved County House Trail that extends north from the park.

Read More: Top-Rated Trout Fishing Lakes & Rivers in Missouri

Grindstone Nature Area provides the perfect natural respite from the city, just minutes from the University of Missouri campus and downtown Columbia. The park operates as one of two leash-free areas of Columbia and is an extremely popular spot for residents to bring their canine companions. All 199 acres of Grindstone Nature Area are open for dogs and owners to explore.

The only area in the Grindstone Nature Area where dogs are required to be on a leash is on the paved Hinkson Creek Trail , which is popular with bikers. Other than that, everyone can run wild. Dog or no dog, Grindstone Nature Area provides a picturesque environment to take a step back and appreciate the seasons in Columbia.

Address: 2011 Old 63 S, Columbia, Missouri

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Other Cities in Missouri : If you feel the appeal of Columbia, you might also enjoy our article on the top-rated attractions & things to do in Springfield . In the country-themed city of Branson , the top attractions include live performances, water parks, and fun-filled family museums. For bigger cities in Missouri, check out our guides to the best things to do in Kansas City or St. Louis .

More to Explore in Missouri : The many top attractions of Missouri are spread throughout the state. For some Missouri postcard inspiration, check out our Missouri in Pictures: Beautiful Places to Photograph article. If Lake of the Ozarks is your next Missouri vacation destination, be sure to check out our guide to the best things to do at Lake of the Ozarks .

More on Missouri

Exploring Central Missouri: The Ultimate Guide To Columbia & Things To Do

With small-town charm full of fun adventures and striking attractions, a trip to Columbia, Missouri guarantees an unforgettable travel experience.

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Located in the heart of the rolling hills of Missouri, Columbia is one of the best college towns in America , known for being the home of the University of Missouri. The college city boasts a population of about 120,000 people, and a small-town charm with several awesome things to do in Missouri . From amazing art to incredible history to iconic attractions that will take vacationers’ breaths away, unforgettable fun adventures await at Columbia, Missouri.

The surrounding natural space is to die for, offering plenty of outdoor opportunities for tourists of all kinds. Exploring central Missouri? Here is the ultimate travel guide to Columbia and things to do.

• The locals affectionately refer to Columbia as CoMo . Unless filing some important documents, vacationers will rarely call it “Columbia.”
• The city’s music scene is booming . Columbia boasts a thriving music scene, thanks to the existence of the University of Missouri, where most of the iconic bands are formed.
• When getting around Columbia on bikes is a common thing , and the city is working to ensure that bicycling is more enjoyable.
• Columbia has four of its districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places . They include the East Campus Neighborhood, Downtown Columbia, the North Ninth Street Historic District, and Francis Quadrangle.
• The food scene of Columbia is incredible . Restaurants serve all kinds of food ensuring that all tastes are covered.

Columbia is beautiful at any time of the year, but the best time to visit the college city is from June to September. During this time of the year, the weather is warm, and there are plenty of outdoor opportunities, including some of the most adventurous spots in the US .

July is the hottest month, having an average temperature of 90 °F. January is the coldest month, with an average temperature of 36 °F.

• Best time to visit : July through September
• Coldest month : January
• Hottest month : July

Related: Missouri Is Beautiful, And These Places Show Us Just How Much

To get to Columbia, many travelers opt for flying into Kansas City airport or St. Louis airport. Both airports are located about a two-hour drive away from the city. Columbia Regional Airport is another place to fly into.

From the airport, there are options to get to Columbia and around the city. One can use airport shuttles, taxis, or ride-share services. Public transportation is available from the airport.

The public transit service offers bus routes, para-transit, tiger line, and hotel shuttle rides during MU football games. Tiger Line offers free rides for students of the University of Missouri. Para-transit, which is available on bookings, serves people with disabilities. 1 Black and 2 Gold are the major routes, which work along feeder routes, which operate less often.

• Public transit hours of operation : 6:25 am – 6:40 pm Mondays to Fridays, 10:00 am – 6:40 pm Saturdays. The service is closed on Sundays.
• Taxi rates in Columbia, Missouri : $2 (minimum fare), $2 (base fare), $2.01 (price per mile), $0.39 (per minute)
• Lyft prices in Columbia, Missouri : $3.07 (minimum cost), $1.46 (base fare), $5 (cancelation fee), $1.47 (cost per mile, and $0.27 (price per minute)
• Lyft XL : $5 (minimum price), $2.25 (base fare), $5 (cancelation fee), $2.21 (per mile), $0.35 (per minute)
• UberX : starts at $5.90, $2.65 (safe ride fee), $5.90 (minimum fare), $1.46 (base fare), $5.50 (cancelation fee), $1.47 (cost per mile), and $0.28 (per minute)

Vacationers planning to rent cars should do so online before getting to the airport. Rental companies require some documents when renting their vehicles. So, it is important to find out which requirements will the company needs to offer their cars for rentals.

When visiting destinations around the city, visitors can opt for bicycling to reach various places. It is affordable, convenient, and enjoyable.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Columbia, MO

Boasting 85 elegant guestrooms, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson is one of the best budget hotels to stay in when visiting the college city of Columbia.

Its position near Interstate 70 and US 63 gives visitors access to numerous shopping and dining opportunities. The hotel’s amenities and facilities are also incredible.

Related: Trade The Tropics For Missouri At These 10 Lakeside Resorts

• Address: 817 North Keene Street, Columbia, MO 65201
• Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, coffee machine, business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas, flat-screen TV, cable or satellite TV, free toiletries, and meeting/banquet facilities.

The Broadway Columbia - A Doubletree By Hilton

Located in the heart of ‘The District,’ the city’s vibrant shopping and hub, The Broadway Columbia – a Doubletree by Hilton offers plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, entertainment, and sightseeing.

• Address: 1111 East Broadway, Columbia, MO 65201
• Amenities: Fitness center, restaurant, bar/lounge, room service, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee maker, coffee machine, coffee shop, valet parking, and free airport shuttle.

Drury Plaza Hotel Columbia East

Drury Plaza Hotel Columbia East is fully family-owned and operated – and boasts over 150 branches. The one in Columbia offers an amazing accommodation experience, ensuring that their guests have a comfortable stay while exploring the city.

• Address : 3100 Interstate 70 Drive Southeast, Columbia, MO 65201
• Amenities : Outdoor pool, indoor pool, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, coffee machine, free parking, business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas, and a flat-screen TV.

Looking for delicious eateries in Columbia? Home to three colleges and plenty of incredible family-friendly adventures, there is no shortage of restaurants offering different culinary delights.

Apart from its beautiful parks, fantastic shopping scene, and gorgeous museums, the city boasts a unique food scene. Vacationers are guaranteed to find dishes that satisfy all their cravings.

Whether looking for traditional American cuisine or Japanese dishes, Columbia’s restaurants offer delicious food.

• Main Squeeze : Established over 25 years ago, Main Squeeze is the only vegetarian restaurant and fresh juice bar in Mid-Missouri. The eatery offers ready-to-eat meals and homemade dishes that would satisfy almost every craving.
• G&D Steak House : Established in 1970, G&D Steak House is family-run and operated, and offers a great spot to grab a quick lunch. It has Kansas City strip, prime rib, ribeye, steak sandwich, and gyros sandwich on the menu.
• CC’s City Broiler : This is a premier steakhouse, offering delicious steaks and seafood. It has small, incredible dining rooms with exceptional service from the competent staff.

From shelter gardens to some of the most impressive parks in the country, Columbia has a lot of things to see and do.

Explore David R. Francis Quadrangle At The University Of Missouri

This incredibly stunning culturally significant centerpiece is located right at the center of the University of Missouri and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a popular meeting place among university students and locals alike.

This striking feature of Columbia is also surrounded by historic buildings. Some of the most iconic attractions here are the six columns located in the heart of the grassy area of the centerpiece.

Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

Covering 2,200 acres of space, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park offers several fun activities and amenities. The place boasts some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the state.

The park is home to a large cave system with stunning features, including sinkholes, a rock bridge, and beautiful caves, like Connor's Cave. One can go biking, picnicking, horseback riding, or fishing.

Related: This Is The Deepest Cave In Missouri, & Here's How You Can See It

Enjoy Fun Adventure At Stephens Lake Park

Stephens Lake Park is definitely an iconic tourist destination in Columbia. It is a great spot to relax and take in the peaceful atmosphere. The park's main highlight is Stephens Lake, boasting about 11 acres of space.

One can spend time at the beach, go fishing, or enjoy boating. There are some spectacular waterfalls to discover. In winter, it provides ice skating and sledding opportunities.

Related: 10 Best State Parks In Missouri

Shelter Gardens

Shelter Gardens is one of the most scenic places in Columbia and boasts unique features, including a sensory garden, specifically designed for visitors with vision loss.

There is a spectacular waterfall, a pool, and a Veterans' memorial to honor the legends who fought during the Vietnam War.

Spending A Perfect Day In Columbia, Missouri

Columbia, one of the most beautiful towns in Missouri , has a lot to do that a day may not cover all its beautiful attractions. But that doesn't mean it can't be an incredible day-trip from the nearby destinations.

Vacationers who have free time and can arrange some cash for transportation should definitely enjoy a day trip to Columbia, Missouri.

While the city is full of things to see and do, some places are perfect for a daytime getaway.

Have breakfast in a local restaurant and head to the University of Missouri. Vacationers can decide to spend several hours exploring this institution since it has numerous attractions and fun things to do. The campus has striking attractions like the Francis Quadrangle, the Jesse Hall, and the gorgeous administrative building of the institution.

In the evening, spend time at 9th Street. This place connects the University of Missouri to the downtown area of Columbia. It has plenty of shops, art galleries, and cafés.

The 9th street boasts some of the most impressive historic sites, which may not be as iconic as the most popular historic landmarks in the US , but are definitely worth exploring.

After dark, go see a show or join party goers in one of the city's top nightlife spots.

Q: What is special about Columbia Missouri?

Columbia is a bustling college city known for being the home to the University of Missouri. It is the county seat of Boone County, the fourth largest and fastest growing city in Missouri. Its striking attractions, such as Stephens Lake Park and Shelter Gardens make it one of the most special destinations (and beautiful towns ) in the state.

Q: What is the coldest month in Columbia Missouri?

January is the coldest month is Columbia, Missouri, while July is the hottest month.

Q: Is there public transportation in Columbia MO?

Yes. Public transportation is available in Columbia. Go CoMo is the public transportation service, operating nine fixed bus routes. The service also offers Para-Transit services, which include mini-buses offering rides to various destinations.

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The Best Things to Do in Columbia, Missouri

The mid-Missouri city of Columbia is best known for being home to the state's flagship university, but you don't have to be a Mizzou Tiger to enjoy all the culture, food and fun the city has to offer.

Erika is two-time Emmy Award–winning former television journalist now writing about travel experiences, culture, wellness, and lifestyle. She's had words with Fodor's, TravelAwaits and Matador Network. When she's not training for her next half-marathon or packing for another trip, you'll find Erika hanging out in her hometown of St. Louis with her husband, teenaged son, and personal zoo, which includes a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel and two cats. She is a proud member of both the Society of American Travel Writers and the Midwest Travel Journalists Association.

Halfway between St. Louis and Kansas City , Columbia—affectionately nicknamed CoMo—makes a perfect weekend destination, with its walkable downtown, a solid restaurant scene and the historic University of Missouri campus. Here's our guide for what to do, where to eat and where to stay.

Wander the Campus

One of your first stops in Columbia should be the University of Missouri. The heart of campus sits near the city's bustling downtown, and the historic red-brick Francis Quadrangle is a must-see. The university's administration center Jesse Hall is here, as are six towering Ionic columns, remnants of a devastating 1892 fire that destroyed the first campus building. Today, the columns serve as a perfect backdrop for selfies or graduation pictures.

As you stroll the quad, look for Thomas Jefferson's original tombstone, donated to the university by the founding father's descendants. (Mizzou is the first public university founded on land procured by Jefferson's Louisiana Purchase.) Also notable: two stone lions guarding the entrance to MU's world-famous journalism school. A gift from the Chinese government, this Ming Dynasty pair once stood sentry at a Confucian temple in Nanjing. It's said if you rub their noses, you'll have good luck!

The entire Mizzou campus is a botanic garden —take a self-guided Tree Trail walk or request a guided tour. And watch for the reopening of the free Museum of Art and Archaeology , scheduled to wrap up a move (to the lower level of Ellis Library) and renovation in the second half of 2023.

Explore the Farmers' Market

Every Saturday for 40 years, regional farmers, producers and artisans have gathered at the Columbia Farmers Market . Nearly 100 vendors offer goods like apple butter, honey, zucchini bread, veggies, gooey butter cake (a Missouri tradition), homemade soap and lavender products. Buy coffee and snacks onsite, perfect for a Saturday morning breakfast. This market is such a standout that in 2021, the American Farmland Trust named Columbia's Farmers Market the best in the nation, the Midwest and Missouri .

Get to a Green Space

No matter where you are in Columbia, you're never far from green spaces where you can hike, bike, or simply do some nature-bathing. Bicyclists can catch the MKT Trail downtown, cruise 9 miles, and connect with Missouri's iconic Katy Trail State Park , a flat-as-a-pancake crushed limestone path stretching more than halfway across the state. Hikers will love Rock Bridge Memorial State Park with trails that wind by geological formations including the park's namesake bridge, caves, and even sinkholes. And if you'd just like to take a picturesque breather, Shelter Gardens is your place. Located on the grounds of Shelter Insurance's corporate headquarters, this spot features five acres planted with hundreds of species of trees and shrubs as well as thousands of lovely annuals and perennials.

Have a Game-Day Experience

Missouri Tiger teams compete in the NCAA's Southeastern Conference, which means plenty of high-stakes athletic matchups. Football weekends in Columbia make for a special kind of spectacle, with students, parents, alumni, and fans cheering on the black and gold at Faurot Field. The men and women's basketball teams routinely sell out Mizzou Arena when they play. Word to the wise: if you'd like to incorporate a game into a weekend visit, it's a good idea to purchase tickets in advance.

Listen to Music

Columbia's lively music scene takes its beat from hip venues and fun festivals. The Treeline Music Festival , held at Stephens Lake Park each fall, is the only American music festival run by women. Treeline features a mix of top artists: hip-hop, pop, bluegrass, folk. Columbia's beloved The Blue Note has welcomed upcoming bands and artists since 1980, and the Missouri Theater , an ornate 1928 former vaudeville stage and movie house, hosts concerts throughout the year.

Shop The District

Make time for retail therapy at The District in downtown Columbia. Bookstores, boutiques, galleries, and more line its main north-south artery, 9th Street. The area exudes a welcoming feel, with a dash of college-town funk. Make sure to drop by Bluestem Crafts , which specializes in gorgeous homeware, accessories and jewelry made by nationally recognized Midwestern artists.

Where to Eat and Drink

You're probably going to want to eat like a college kid at least once or twice. Grab a slice at legendary Shakespeare's Pizza , and perhaps wash it down with a craft beer. If you'd prefer a slider and chips, head to Booche's , a Columbia institution since 1884. When you've satisfied your fast-food cravings, keep Columbia's elevated culinary options in mind. The Barred Owl Butcher & Table serves hearty seasonal favorites made with ingredients from more than two dozen local farms; its retail shop offers all sorts of artisan goodies to take home. Grab a nightcap at DogMaster Distillery , a cozy spot that leans into small-batch spirits for its signature cocktails.

Save room for dessert, specifically ice cream. Mizzou's food science program has a long tradition of creating delicious flavors, handmade by students. You can find Tiger Stripe (French vanilla with fudge stripes) and other varieties at Buck's Ice Cream shop on campus. Plan to grab scoops or pints to go.

Where to Stay

The Broadway Columbia puts you in the heart of downtown, close to The District, the University of Missouri, Stephens College and Columbia College. Pair small plates and signature cocktails while enjoying the view from The Broadway's rooftop lounge.

Explore Columbia

Plan Your Trip to Columbia: Best of Columbia Tourism

Essential columbia.

Columbia Is Great For

The great outdoors

Eat & drink

• Drury Plaza Hotel Columbia East
• Stoney Creek Hotel Columbia
• The Broadway Columbia - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
• Wingate by Wyndham Columbia
• Hampton Inn Columbia
• Flat Branch Pub & Brewing
• C C 's City Broiler
• D. Rowe's Restaurant & Bar
• Rock Bridge Memorial State Park
• Shryocks Callaway Farms
• Shelter Gardens
• D&D Animal Sanctuary
• Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area
• Scavenger Hunt in Columbia by Wacky Walks
• Katy Trail River Route Adeventure
• Explore Columbia with a Unique Scavenger Hunt by Zombie Scavengers
• Participate in a Fun Scavenger Hunt in Columbia by Operation City Quest
• Operation City Quest Scavenger Hunt - Columbia, MO