7 Fun Things To Do In Columbia, Missouri

Columbia, Missouri, may often be seen as just a midpoint between St. Louis and Kansas City, but it offers much more than just a convenient stop along the highway. This vibrant and eclectic city is a hidden gem in the heart of Missouri, boasting a unique blend of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast ready to explore scenic parks, a history buff eager to dive into the heritage of the University of Missouri, or a foodie hunting for your next culinary delight, Columbia has something to offer every type of traveler.

The city’s walkable downtown, known as The District, pulses with energy, from its art galleries and live music venues to its quirky boutiques and award-winning restaurants. Columbia's green spaces, like Rock Bridge Memorial State Park and Stephens Lake Park, provide plenty of opportunities to reconnect with nature, offering hiking trails, caves, and serene lakes. And with a rich calendar of annual events, such as the internationally recognized True/False Film Fest and the lively Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival, Columbia is a city that embraces creativity, community, and celebration year-round.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or just passing through, Columbia’s blend of culture, history, and natural beauty ensures that there’s always something new to discover. Ready to uncover the best this city has to offer? Here are seven fun things to do in Columbia, MO, that will make your visit unforgettable.

1. Stroll the Trails at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

📍 Address: 5901 S Highway 163, Columbia, MO 65203

Rock Bridge Memorial State Park is a choose-your-own-adventure for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re a weekend hiker, a birdwatcher, or a parent with curious kids, this park delivers. The star attraction? The Devil’s Icebox Trail—a 0.5-mile wooden boardwalk that winds through forest, over trickling streams, and into the mouth of a chilly cave system. Even on a hot July afternoon, cold air breathes out of the cave like some kind of enchanted forest spell.

Fall is especially magical here. Golds, reds, and oranges set the canopy ablaze, and the trails are quieter midweek. For a deeper trek, hit the Sinkhole Trail or Gans Creek Wild Area, where limestone bluffs tower over lush valleys.

This isn’t just another state park—it’s Missouri’s version of Narnia, complete with moss-covered boulders and secret-feeling side trails. Wear sturdy shoes, bring a flashlight, and don’t be surprised if you lose track of time.

2. Catch a Flick at Ragtag Cinema

📍 Address: 10 Hitt St, Columbia, MO 65201

Ragtag Cinema isn’t just a theater—it’s Columbia’s cultural soul. Housed inside Hittsville, a collaborative arts space that also includes Uprise Bakery and KOPN Radio, Ragtag is where locals go to catch indie films, Oscar contenders, foreign flicks, and documentaries you’ll be talking about for days.

Inside, it feels like someone turned their cool older cousin’s living room into a movie house. Mismatched couches, vintage theater seats, and a no-fuss vibe make it instantly welcoming. The projection quality is top-notch, the popcorn is locally sourced, and the crowd? Passionate but chill. You won’t get shushed for laughing too hard—or crying.

Before the show, grab a sandwich or slice of pie from Uprise Bakery next door. Yes, you can take it into the theater, along with a glass of wine or a local IPA. For an affordable, offbeat night out, Ragtag is unbeatable.

3. Explore The District

📍 General Area: Between College Ave & Providence Rd, Columbia, MO 65201

Welcome to The District—Columbia’s beating heart. It’s where old brick buildings meet bright murals, and espresso meets live music. By day, it's a haven for boutique lovers, book browsers, and brunch seekers. By night, it transforms into a hangout hub where Mizzou students, creatives, and longtime locals all rub shoulders.

Start your stroll at Yellow Dog Bookshop, where the handwritten staff picks are as charming as the shop cat. From there, swing by Logboat Brewing Co. for a craft beer flight under the open sky, or duck into Peggy Jean’s Pies if your sweet tooth’s calling.

Late-night? Grab a weirdly wonderful donut at Strange Donuts, or catch a gig at The Blue Note, the iconic music venue just off 9th Street. Whether you're here for a weekend or just a few hours, The District makes you feel like part of the story.

4. Attend a Mizzou Football Game (Or Just Soak Up the Spirit)

📍 Address: Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium, 600 E Stadium Blvd, Columbia, MO 65211

Fall in Columbia means one thing: Mizzou football. Whether you're a die-hard Tigers fan or just here for the vibe, game day at Faurot Field is something you have to experience at least once. Think tailgate smoke wafting across the quad, kids tossing footballs, and an ocean of black and gold as far as the eye can see.

The stadium seats over 60,000, but the real action starts hours before kickoff. Wander through Lot G to get a taste of the tailgate culture—literally. You'll find slow-smoked brisket, classic Midwest hospitality, and a sea of cornhole games you’ll be tempted to join.

Not in town on game day? No worries. Visit the Francis Quadrangle, where the famous Columns stand as the campus’s oldest monument. It’s beautiful in every season—especially in the fall when the red maples turn the lawn into a postcard.

5. Bike or Hike the MKT Trail

📍 Trailhead Address: Flat Branch Park, 101 S 4th St, Columbia, MO 65201

The MKT Trail is Columbia’s scenic escape route. Stretching 9 miles from downtown to the Katy Trail near McBaine, this shaded, flat greenway is beloved by locals for morning jogs, dog walks, and weekend bike rides. Lined with dense forest and wildflowers in spring, it’s peaceful even on busy weekends.

In the fall, the trail becomes a tunnel of gold and crimson, with crunchy leaves underfoot and that crisp Missouri air that makes you want to keep going just one more mile. Bikers, runners, birders, and even families with strollers all share the trail with a kind of unspoken camaraderie—no race, no rush.

You can rent bikes from Cyclextreme or Tryathletics nearby, or bring your own and start at Flat Branch Park, where public restrooms and water fountains make it a great launching point. Pack a snack, maybe a thermos of cider, and ride until the sun starts to dip through the trees.

6. Brunch at Café Berlin

📍 Address: 220 N 10th St, Columbia, MO 65201

Ask any local where to brunch in Columbia, and they’ll send you to Café Berlin—a colorful, cozy spot where politics, poetry, and pancakes all share a table. It’s not just the food (though the Sweet Potato Hash deserves its own fan club)—it’s the vibe. With murals on the walls, local art for sale, and staff who remember your name after one visit, it feels more like a friend’s kitchen than a restaurant.

Their menu leans hearty but creative, with plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. The Red-Eye Benedict—served on cornbread and topped with espresso-spiked gravy—is both an eye-opener and a hangover cure. Oh, and the coffee? Bottomless. Pour-over fans, rejoice.

Weekends can get busy, but the wait is rarely dull—there’s often a street musician nearby, or someone handing out local zines. It’s the kind of place where you order “whatever the server recommends” and always leave happy.

7. Museum of Art and Archaeology

📍 Address: 105 S 5th St, Columbia, MO 65201

The Museum of Art and Archaeology is Columbia’s cultural sleeper hit. Tucked into its sleek new downtown digs, this free museum brings together ancient history and modern creativity under one roof—and does it without ever feeling stuffy or overwhelming.

Expect a mix of the permanent and the unexpected: one minute you’re staring down a Roman bust from 100 B.C., the next you’re wandering into a gallery filled with socially-charged contemporary art. For travelers who like a dash of substance with their sightseeing, this place delivers.

There’s also something intimate about it. You’re not jostling with crowds or trying to beat the tour bus. You can take your time, absorb the stories behind each piece, and maybe strike up a conversation with a curator—they’re often just around the corner, eager to chat.

Best of all? Its new location makes it walkable from The District. Pair your visit with a nearby lunch at Café Poland or Lakota Coffee, and you’ve got a slow-paced afternoon that feeds both belly and brain.

8. Snap a Photo at the Boone County Courthouse Murals

📍 Address: 705 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO 65201

Street art may be trendy, but Columbia’s Boone County Courthouse murals do more than add color—they tell a story. Wrapped around the rear facade of the courthouse, these vivid murals trace Columbia’s journey from frontier town to university city to civil rights battleground.

You’ll see scenes of enslaved people gaining freedom, students rallying for justice, and the early brick roads that shaped The District. Each image is layered with symbols—some obvious, some subtle. It's part history lesson, part living tribute to the voices that shaped this place.

The murals are big, bold, and incredibly photogenic—but they’re more than Instagram backdrops. If you stand quietly for a few minutes, you’ll notice locals pointing out their favorite panels to friends. It’s a community landmark in the truest sense.

Make it a stop on a self-guided walking tour through downtown. It’s just blocks from coffee shops, vintage stores, and the Columbia Art League. And if you're lucky, you might catch a wedding or public event spilling out of the courthouse lawn.

9. Catch Live Music at Rose Music Hall

📍 Address: 1013 Park Ave, Columbia, MO 65201

When the sun dips low and the string lights flip on, Rose Music Hall becomes one of Columbia’s most electric places to be. Part beer garden, part concert venue, this downtown gem offers a chill, open-air vibe that turns even casual evenings into memory-makers.

During summer, the lawn out back hosts everything from indie acts to funk bands to singer-songwriters you've never heard of—but will absolutely look up afterward. It’s BYO picnic blanket and lawn chair, and dancing barefoot is basically the dress code.

The best part? It’s intimate. No nosebleeds, no massive crowds. You’re close enough to see the sweat on the drummer’s brow, but far enough to lounge under a tree if that’s more your speed. And with local brews on tap and food trucks parked just outside, you’re set for the night.

Check the schedule before you go—free shows are frequent, and ticketed events are still super affordable. Whether it’s a date night or just a “let’s see who’s playing,” Rose always delivers.

10. Explore the Columbia Farmers Market (Saturdays Year-Round)

📍 Address: 1769 W Ash St, Columbia, MO 65203 (ARC Pavilion)

Saturday mornings in Columbia have a soundtrack: acoustic guitars, cheerful chatter, and the rustle of canvas tote bags brimming with produce. At the Columbia Farmers Market, shopping feels more like a community gathering than a to-do list item.

Here, the tomatoes are still warm from the sun, the tamales are handmade on-site, and every stall has a story. You’ll meet growers, bakers, cheesemakers, and beekeepers who remember your name and your favorite jam flavor. Whether you’re after organic greens, heritage meats, or just an excuse to browse, this market makes your morning.

In spring, stalls burst with tulips and asparagus. Summer brings blueberries and baskets of peaches. And in fall? Pumpkins, apple cider, and sunflowers as tall as your kid. There’s live music most Saturdays, plus food trucks and shaded tables if you feel like lingering.

Tip: Bring cash for smaller vendors, though many now accept cards.

11. Wander the Shelter Gardens

📍 Address: 1817 W Broadway, Columbia, MO 65203

Shelter Gardens feels like a secret, even though it’s hiding in plain sight. Just off busy Broadway, this tranquil, five-acre garden is free to enter—and almost always blissfully quiet. It’s the kind of place you stumble upon while visiting family, then return to every season after.

Over 300 varieties of trees, shrubs, and flowers bloom here in carefully arranged beds, each one labeled for curious gardeners. In spring, the air is sweet with lilac and peony; by summer, roses steal the show in a riot of color. There's a small waterfall tucked in one corner and a koi pond near the back, plus benches placed just right for daydreaming.

Kids love the replica one-room schoolhouse, a nod to Missouri’s rural history. Adults love the sense of calm—a place where phones stay in pockets and shoulders drop a little.

It’s ideal for an after-lunch stroll or quiet morning meditation. Pack a book, a camera, or a journal, and just be for a while.

12. Have a Drink at Top Ten Wines

📍 Address: 111 S 9th St, Columbia, MO 65201

There’s wine, and then there’s wine with soul—and Top Ten Wines gets that. Tucked just off Columbia’s main drag, this cozy, dimly lit shop is part retail, part bar, and all heart. There’s no snobbery here—just warm, knowledgeable staff who treat you like an old friend the minute you walk in.

The by-the-glass list is tight but smart, always including a few lesser-known gems like orange wines, chilled reds, or Missouri-grown Norton varietals. The atmosphere is unhurried—perfect for date night, solo sipping, or catching up with a friend over a shared bottle.

Live jazz or acoustic sets pop up on Friday nights, adding a sultry layer to the already mellow vibe. If you love a good cheese board or want a bottle to take back to your Airbnb, they’ve got you covered. Not sure what to pick? Just ask. The staff will steer you right every time.

13. Take a Day Trip to Rocheport

📍 Address (central): 202 Central St, Rocheport, MO 65279

Sometimes the best part of a Columbia trip is what’s just outside of town—and Rocheport is the quintessential example. Only 20 minutes west, this tiny Missouri River town is rich with charm, history, and wine-soaked views. It’s the kind of place that feels like a mini-vacation within your vacation.

Start with a walk (or bike ride) along the Katy Trail, which hugs the river and snakes beneath towering limestone bluffs. You’ll pass wildflowers, river overlooks, and maybe even a bald eagle if you're lucky. From there, head to Les Bourgeois Vineyards, where their Blufftop Bistro offers panoramic views of the Missouri River and a wine flight worth lingering over.

Downtown Rocheport is all antique stores, artisan shops, and cozy porches. Grab a coffee at Rocheport General Store, explore the historic Rocheport Tunnel, and finish with dessert from Meriwether Café & Bike Shop.

Perfect for fall color drives, spring picnics, or romantic afternoons—it’s Columbia’s best-kept getaway.

14. Dig Into Mid-Missouri Barbecue at Buckinghams or Como Smoke & Fire

📍 Addresses:

• Buckinghams Smokehouse BBQ: 3804 Buttonwood Dr, Columbia, MO 65201
• Como Smoke & Fire: 4600 Paris Rd #102, Columbia, MO 65202

You can’t come to Missouri and not eat barbecue—it’s practically a state law. In Columbia, the two places locals swear by are Buckinghams Smokehouse and Como Smoke & Fire. Each has a fiercely loyal fanbase, and honestly? You can’t go wrong with either.

Buckinghams is the OG. It’s unpretentious, consistent, and serves up classic hickory-smoked meats with a side of nostalgia. The pulled pork is tender, the ribs fall-off-the-bone, and their tangy-sweet sauce is the kind you’ll try to smuggle home in a squeeze bottle.

Como Smoke & Fire brings a more modern flair—think smoked brisket nachos, juicy turkey sandwiches, and bold house-made rubs. Their burnt ends, when available, are legendary.

Both spots offer dine-in or carryout, making them perfect whether you’re road-tripping or just hungry after a hike.

15. Experience Stephens Lake Park in All Four Seasons

📍 Address: 2001 E Broadway, Columbia, MO 65201

If you only have time for one park in Columbia, make it Stephens Lake Park. It’s a year-round retreat, with something magical in every season. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom along walking paths. Summer brings swimming, paddleboarding, and Shakespeare in the Park. Come fall, the trees blaze gold and orange. And in winter? Locals lace up their skates and glide across the frozen lake.

Spanning 116 acres, the park offers multi-use trails, an amphitheater, picnic shelters, a waterfall, and even a splash pad for kids. It’s a place where you can lay out a blanket and read, toss a frisbee, or watch ducks paddle by as you sip your morning coffee.

The park also hosts free concerts and outdoor movies during warmer months—so keep an eye on the city's parks calendar if you're visiting in summer.

Bring a thermos, a snack, and someone you love. Stephens Lake is the slow-down-you-didn’t-know-you-needed.

16. Take a Class (or Browse) at Access Arts or Orr Street Studios

📍 Addresses:

• Access Arts: 1724 McAlester St, Columbia, MO 65201
• Orr Street Studios: 106 Orr St, Columbia, MO 65201

Columbia is full of unexpected creativity—and Access Arts and Orr Street Studios are where that energy lives. Whether you're an aspiring ceramicist or just someone who likes the smell of paint, these community-driven art spaces are totally worth a visit.

Access Arts offers beginner-friendly workshops in pottery, drawing, and printmaking. Even if you’re only in town for a few days, they often host one-off classes where visitors are welcome. You’ll get messy, have fun, and walk away with something real and handmade.

Just a short drive away, Orr Street Studios is home to over a dozen working artists who open their doors to the public during First Fridays and gallery events. Walk through, chat with artists, or pick up a one-of-a-kind piece to take home. The vibe is relaxed, not pretentious.

Together, these two spaces remind you that art isn't just something to admire—it’s something to live.

17. Sip a Seasonal Latte at Fretboard Coffee (Then Stay for the Vinyl)

📍 Address: 1013 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO 65201

Every great town needs a corner coffee shop with heart, and in Columbia, that’s Fretboard Coffee. Tucked in a leafy neighborhood near downtown, Fretboard is equal parts café, community space, and vinyl lounge.

Step inside and the scent of fresh-roasted beans hits first—warm, earthy, nostalgic. You’ll hear jazz playing softly or maybe a local band rehearsing in the back room. This is where Columbia’s creatives recharge: artists sketching in journals, grad students reading thick books, friends trading stories over pour-overs.

Their seasonal drinks are always thoughtful—lavender lattes in spring, cinnamon-maple espresso in fall. But even the basics are dialed in. The baristas are friendly and will happily walk you through their single-origin offerings or help you pair your brew with a locally baked pastry.

Bonus: they sell vinyl records and host live acoustic sets from time to time. It’s a coffee shop that feels more like a living room—with better acoustics.

Conclusion

Columbia, Missouri, may not always be at the top of the travel list, but its mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventures make it a hidden gem worth discovering. Whether you're wandering the beautiful University of Missouri campus, indulging in the city’s culinary delights, or immersing yourself in its vibrant arts scene, there’s always something new to explore. For those planning a trip, Columbia offers a little bit of everything—perfect for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. With its welcoming charm and diverse attractions, it’s no wonder that visitors often return for more. So, next time you find yourself in Missouri, make sure to carve out some time for Columbia—you won’t be disappointed.

Planning to travel to Missouri, Karta has some amazing deals on Missouri Vacation Rentals. 

FAQ

1. What are some unique and uncommon activities to do in Columbia, MO?

Columbia offers a range of unique activities! You can visit the Shelter Gardens, a stunning botanical garden, or head to the Finger Lakes State Park for off-road biking. There's also the Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, perfect for birdwatching and peaceful walks. For something truly different, check out the Museum of Anthropology at Mizzou, where you can explore artifacts from around the world.

2. Are there any hidden gem restaurants in Columbia worth checking out?

Absolutely! Try Sycamore, a cozy spot with fantastic seasonal dishes. Another gem is Café Berlin, known for its delicious breakfast and brunch offerings. If you're into sushi, Kampai Sushi Bar offers a great selection. For a taste of local flavors, try the International Café for dishes from around the globe.

3. Can you recommend any off-the-beaten-path hiking trails near Columbia?

Venture off the beaten path at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, where you can explore the Devil's Icebox Trail, leading to a fascinating natural rock bridge. Another option is the Three Creeks Conservation Area, offering serene trails through forests and along creeks.

4. What are some lesser-known historical sites to visit in Columbia?

Explore the Nifong Park Historic District, home to the Maplewood Barn Theatre and the Boone County Historical Society. For a unique experience, visit the Douglass Park Neighborhood, rich in African American history. You can also explore the Walters-Boone County Historical Museum for insights into local history.

5. Are there any local artisans or craft shops in Columbia that are worth a visit?

Absolutely! Pop into the Artlandish Gallery for a variety of local art and crafts. The Mud Room offers pottery classes and unique handmade ceramics for sale. Check out Makes Scents for locally made candles and soaps, perfect for gifts or souvenirs.

6. How far is it from Columbia, MO to St. Louis?

The drive from Columbia to St. Louis is about 120 miles, which typically takes around 2 hours by car. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus, which usually takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.

7. What are some fun outdoor activities to do in Columbia during the summer?

Summer in Columbia is perfect for outdoor fun! Cool off at the Stephens Lake Park beach, go paddle boating at Twin Lakes Recreation Area, or take a leisurely stroll along the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail. You can also enjoy picnics and concerts at Cosmo Park.

8. Are there any local festivals or events that shouldn't be missed in Columbia?

Definitely! Don't miss the True/False Film Fest, a renowned documentary film festival that takes place annually. Another highlight is the Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival, featuring fantastic music and delicious barbecue. Keep an eye out for the annual Art in the Park event too!

9. Can you recommend any unique shopping experiences in Columbia?

Sure thing! Explore the Columbia Farmers Market for fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. The District offers a variety of boutiques and specialty shops. Don't miss the Mustard Seed Fair Trade for ethically sourced gifts and goods from around the world.

10. What are some insider tips for making the most out of a visit to Columbia, MO?

Be sure to explore the North Village Arts District for its vibrant arts scene and eclectic shops. Take advantage of the bike-friendly nature of Columbia and explore the city on two wheels. And don't forget to sample some local brews at one of Columbia's craft breweries, like Logboat Brewing Co. or Bur Oak Brewing Company.

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