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10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Columbia, Missouri (Boone County)
Planning a trip to mid-Missouri and wondering what to do in Columbia? You’re in the right place. Columbia, Missouri (in Boone County) is a lively college town with a small-city feel, a buzzing food scene, and plenty of outdoor space to explore. Whether you’re road-tripping across the Midwest, visiting the University of Missouri, or just looking for a weekend getaway, here are 10 fun things to do in and around Columbia, MO.1. Stroll Through the University of Missouri Campus & Francis Quadrangle
The heart of Columbia is the University of Missouri, often called Mizzou. Even if you’re not a student or alum, the campus is worth a visit. Start at Francis Quadrangle, known locally as “The Quad.” The six stone Columns standing in the center are the remains of the old Academic Hall and are basically the city’s postcard image.- Walk the shady brick paths around the Quad.
- Check out Jesse Hall with its big dome and classic architecture.
- Stop by the Mizzou Store for black-and-gold Tiger gear.
2. Explore Downtown Columbia (The District)
Just a short walk from campus, you’ll find Downtown Columbia, usually called The District. This compact area is packed with:- Local restaurants and coffee shops
- Vintage and boutique clothing stores
- Bars, breweries, and live music venues
- Colorful murals and public art
3. Hike, Bike, or Run at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park
If you’re looking for outdoor things to do near Columbia, MO, put Rock Bridge Memorial State Park at the top of your list. It’s only about 5–10 miles south of town, but it feels like a different world. The park is known for its:- Rock Bridge – a natural rock arch you can walk under.
- Devil’s Icebox – a cool sinkhole area with a boardwalk (the cave portion may be restricted at times to protect bats).
- Wooded trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
4. Walk or Ride the MKT Trail & Connect to the Katy Trail
Columbia is very bike-friendly, and one of its best features is the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail. This crushed-limestone path follows an old rail line for about 9 miles from downtown Columbia out to the countryside. Why it’s great:- It’s mostly flat and easy, good for families.
- Shaded sections make it comfortable even on warm days.
- It connects with the famous Katy Trail State Park, the longest developed rail trail in the U.S.
5. Visit Shelter Gardens – A Quiet Green Oasis
Need a peaceful break? Head to Shelter Gardens, tucked behind the Shelter Insurance headquarters on West Broadway. This beautifully landscaped 5-acre garden includes:- Over 300 kinds of trees and shrubs
- Flower beds that change with the seasons
- A small waterfall and pond
- A charming one-room schoolhouse replica
6. Discover Local History at the Boone County History & Culture Center
If you’re curious about how Columbia and Boone County came to be, stop by the Boone County History & Culture Center, located in Nifong Park on the south side of town. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on:- Boone County’s early settlers and pioneer life
- Local Civil War history
- Stories and artifacts from everyday residents over the years
7. Enjoy Art and Architecture at the Museum of Art and Archaeology
Columbia might be a mid-size city, but it has a surprisingly strong arts scene. One highlight is the Museum of Art and Archaeology, part of the University of Missouri. Here you can see:- Ancient artifacts from Greece, Rome, and Egypt
- European and American paintings and sculptures
- Rotating special exhibitions
8. Catch Live Music or a Show at Local Venues
Columbia has a long history as a music and arts town, partly thanks to the university crowd. On any given weekend, you can usually find something happening. Popular spots include:- Rose Music Hall – outdoor shows in warmer months, fun casual vibe.
- The Blue Note – a downtown landmark known for concerts and events.
- Smaller bars and cafes featuring local bands and open mic nights.
9. Taste Columbia’s Food & Craft Drink Scene
One of the most fun things to do in Columbia, Missouri is simply eat your way through town. For a city of its size, Columbia has a wide range of options. A few ideas:- BBQ joints serving smoked meats and classic sides.
- Local coffee shops roasting their own beans.
- Breweries and taprooms pouring Missouri-made craft beer.
- Global flavors: Mexican, Thai, Indian, Mediterranean, and more.
10. Take a Scenic Drive into Boone County’s Countryside
Once you’ve explored Columbia itself, hop in the car and check out the Boone County countryside. Within a short drive, you can find:- Rolling farmland and old barns
- Winery and vineyard experiences (check local listings)
- Quiet trailheads and river access points
Planning Your Visit to Columbia, Missouri
Here are a few quick tips to make your trip smoother:- Best time to visit: Spring and fall bring comfortable temperatures and plenty of campus energy. Summers are warm but great for outdoor trails. Winters can be chilly, but usually not extreme.
- Getting around: A car is helpful for reaching parks like Rock Bridge and the Katy Trail, but downtown Columbia and the Mizzou campus are very walkable.
- Trip length: A weekend is enough to hit the highlights, but you could easily spend 3–4 days exploring more trails, museums, and nearby areas in Boone County.
Final Thoughts – Share Your Favorite Columbia, MO Experience
Columbia, Missouri may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think “vacation,” but that’s part of its charm. It’s friendly, relaxed, and full of small surprises—from limestone caves and peaceful gardens to lively downtown streets and college-town energy. Have you been to Columbia or Boone County before?- Which spots did you love most?
- Did we miss one of your favorite things to do near Columbia, MO?
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