MO
re to Explore
Things to Do in Columbia
MOre to Explore. MOre to Experience.
From live music under the stars to trail runs in the woods, Columbia offers something for every interest, every weekend, and every season. Whether you’re seeking local flavor, family-friendly fun, or the pulse of a Friday night downtown — it’s all here, waiting to be rediscovered.
The District: Columbia’s Downtown Destination
Welcome to the heart of it all. The District is Columbia’s historic downtown — a walkable, energetic hub packed with:
- Boutique shopping and local makers
- Award-winning restaurants and coffee shops
- Live music, street festivals, and public art
- Art galleries, bookstores, theaters, and more
Catch a show at The Blue Note, sip a cocktail on a rooftop patio, browse the North Village Arts District, or join a street festival during First Fridays.
Get Outside: Parks, Trails & Recreation
Love the outdoors? Columbia is home to an incredible parks and recreation system — with 3,600+ acres of parkland and 90+ miles of trails, including the scenic MKT Nature and Fitness Trail which connects to the Katy Trail State Park.
Local Favorites:
- Stephens Lake Park – waterfalls, beach, and walking trails
- Twin Lakes – dog park, fishing, and paddle sports
- Rock Bridge Memorial State Park – caves, trails, and karst formations
- Cosmo Park – disc golf, sports fields, skate park
- Gans Creek Recreation Area – nature, events, and athletics
- Albert-Oakland Park – pool, playgrounds, and picnic spots
Find league sports, fitness classes, pool passes, and more through Parks & Rec.
Cheer Like a Local: Sports & Mizzou Athletics
Columbia is a sports town through and through. As the home of the University of Missouri Tigers, you’ll feel the energy on every game day.
- Mizzou Football at Faurot Field
- Basketball at Mizzou Arena
- Baseball, softball, gymnastics, track & field, and more
- Club sports and intramurals open to the public
Tailgate in The District, join the sea of black and gold, and relive the tradition.
Columbia’s Creative Core: Arts, Culture & Live Music
Columbia’s arts scene is bold, diverse, and always on.
Arts & Galleries
- Columbia Art League – exhibitions, workshops, and Art in the Park
- Orr Street Studios – artist spaces and events
- North Village Arts District – galleries, murals, and monthly art walks
Live Music & Venues
- The Blue Note – iconic downtown music venue
- Rose Music Hall – outdoor concerts under the stars
- Stephens Lake Amphitheater – local music + seasonal events
- Missouri Theater
- The Missouri Symphony
Taste Columbia: Food, Drinks & Local Flavor
Columbia is a foodie-friendly town with hundreds of restaurants — from farm-to-table to global cuisine to barbecue joints with decades of history.
- Late-night eats in The District
- Wine bars and craft cocktail lounges
- Locally roasted coffee shops
- Vegan and vegetarian-friendly options
- Family favorites and hidden gems
Never Miss a Moment:
Events & Festivals
Signature Events
- True/False Film Fest
- Art in the Park
- Show-Me State Games
- First Fridays in the Arts District
- Holiday parade + Living Windows
There’s something happening every weekend in Columbia — and no shortage of ways to be part of it.