Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Columbia, Missouri? Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll find plenty of options here.
On my recent visit to Columbia, I partnered with Visit Missouri to explore this beautiful area. I had never been to Missouri before and had no idea what to expect. But this state totally blew me away!
My husband, our 18-month-old son, James, and I flew into St. Louis and drove out to Columbia. We stopped at some incredibly unique places in Columbia and the surrounding areas, and I can’t wait to share them with you!
Many of these places were picked out by the experts at the state’s tourism board, but we also got recommendations from locals while we were in the area.
All in all, these are some very fun and unique activities to do in Columbia and around this charming city that will make your time there unforgettable! And there is plenty to do for all interests and budgets!
But first, let’s cover a bit about the city itself, in case you’ve never been!
What is Columbia, Missouri, known for?
Columbia is a city known for its journalism, public art, and being home to three prestigious colleges.
It has a rich history and culture, as well as a vibrant downtown with delicious foods and plenty of things to do.
You can also enjoy the natural beauty of the forested hills and rolling prairies surrounding the city.
Is Columbia worth visiting?
Yes! As a travel blogger, I’m constantly looking for beautiful, fun, and unique places to visit. Columbia definitely qualifies!
This charming city has something for everyone, whether you’re into art, culture, nature, or sports. You can explore the lively downtown area, enjoy scenic trails and parks, or catch a game at the University of Missouri.
Columbia is also known for its festivals, music scene, and diverse cuisine. You’ll never run out of things to do and see in this friendly and welcoming place.
Where should you stay in Columbia, MO?
If you are looking for a place to stay in Columbia, you have plenty of options to choose from. Whether you want a cozy bed and breakfast, a convenient hotel near the university, or a luxurious boutique hotel, you can find something that suits your taste and budget.
Here are some specific hotels that you might want to consider:
Voco The Tiger Hotel: Here’s where we stayed on our trip to Columbia! This historic hotel dates back to 1928 but has been beautifully renovated to offer contemporary amenities and style. It’s located near the University of Missouri campus and the Missouri Theatre. The hotel also has two restaurants, a speakeasy bar, a spa, and a ballroom. We loved our stay here! Our king room had a huge bathroom where we put Jamesy’s travel crib to separate him from us at night. Between the elegant decor and spacious room, it was exactly what we needed.
The Broadway Columbia: This 4-star hotel is located in the heart of downtown Columbia, within walking distance of many shops, restaurants, and attractions. The hotel features modern rooms, including some with balconies with city views. As an added bonus, this hotel also has a rooftop bar.
Wingate by Wyndham Columbia: If you’re looking for something a bit cheaper, this 3-star hotel offers convenience and comfort at an affordable price. It’s located near Columbia Regional Airport, downtown Columbia, and the University of Missouri. It has spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and a hot tub, among other amenities.
Unique Things to Do in and around Columbia, Missouri
Now let’s get to it! Here are the most unique and fun things to do in Columbia and the surrounding areas!
1. Explore Rock Bridge Memorial State Park
We love this spot because of its unique natural formations; they make this one of the most unique things to do in Columbia! Rock Bridge Memorial State Park is home to over 2,000 acres of scenic landscapes, including a natural rock bridge (hence the name), sinkholes, caves, streams, and forests. You can hike, bike, and horseback ride through scenic trails, or picnic in this beautiful park.
Don’t miss its highlight, the Devil’s Icebox Trail, which leads you to a 63-foot-high natural tunnel where you can see an underground stream and cool off in the summer. The trail will take you about 30 minutes to an hour, as it’s only half a mile (or 0.8 km) long. However, keep in mind that there are a lot of stairs you’ll need to climb. More information can be found here!
2. Taste Some Local Wines
Wine lovers or those looking for great date spots in Columbia: here are two perfect things to do in Columbia’s surrounding areas!
While you can find Missouri wines served throughout the town, I’ve got two great scenic vineyard options for you: Stone HIll Winery in Hermann and in The Blufftop at Rocheport.
Stone Hill Winery
The first is Stone Hill Winery, located in Hermann, just over an hour away. We stopped here on our drive to Columbia from St Louis, and I just knew I had to include it on this list.
Stone Hill Winery is a great place to experience the history, culture, and beauty of the Missouri Rhineland. This winery was established in 1847 by German immigrants and became the second-largest winery in the United States by the 1870s. It has won numerous awards for its wines, especially its Norton, which was declared “Best Wine of All Nations” at the Vienna World’s Fair in 1873.
You can enjoy a free guided tour of the winery and its impressive wine cellars, which are the largest underground limestone cellars in North America!
You can also taste some of the finest wines in Missouri, from dry to sweet, and shop for regional goods and artisanal treats at the gift shop.
There’s also an on-site restaurant- we had some tasty potato pancakes here!
The Blufftop at Rocheport
If you’d rather stay closer to Columbia, check out The Blufftop at Rocheport.
This family-owned winery is situated on a bluff overlooking the Missouri River and offers a panoramic view.
You can sample some award-winning wines at the tasting room, go on a wine tour, or relax on the outdoor patio with live music and snacks. You can also buy some bottles of wine to take home or as gifts for your friends and family!
There are a few different parts to The Blufftop at Rocheport: you’ve got the A-Frame Winegarden, the Blufftop Bistro, and the Tasting Room in three separate locations (just a few minutes’ drive away from each other).
Their wine garden and bistro both offer a stunning view of the Missouri River and the Katy Trail, as well as a variety of wines from local and regional wineries. You can sample different wines at the tasting room or savor a mouthwatering meal at the bistro.
If the weather is nice, the A-Frame Winegarden has an epic multi-level patio with the views I mentioned earlier, and I highly recommend it. This makes for the perfect Columbia date spot or friend hangout location!
3. Enjoy a Show at the Missouri Theatre
The Missouri Theater is a historic landmark that was built in 1928 and restored in 2008. The theater is modeled after the Paris Opera House and features a stunning interior with a domed ceiling and ornate décor. It hosts a variety of performances, such as concerts, musicals, ballets, operas, comedies, and films.
4. Meet the Budweiser Clydesdales
Did you know that you can actually meet the famous Budweiser Clydesdales? Warm Springs Ranch in Boonville is the official breeding farm for these gentle horses, and they offer a unique opportunity to see them up close and learn about their history and lifestyle!
Warm Springs Ranch is open for tours from March to October, and for a special holiday event from the end of November to December. You can book your tickets online here. The standard tour costs $20 for adults, $10 for kids ages 3 to 12, and is free for those 2 and under. The tour includes a self-guided walk through the facility, photo opportunities with the Clydesdales, and access to snacks and beverages.
Unfortunately, when we were in the area in early November, they hadn’t opened for the special holiday tours, but we could still see some of the Clydesdales from the road. Next time we’re in Columbia, we will do a tour here! It definitely is a must-see destination and one of the best things to do near Columbia for families, horse lovers, or Budweiser fans!
5. Shop in The District
We loved staying at the Tiger Hotel because of its proximity to this fun area! The District is the heart of downtown Columbia and offers a variety of shops, boutiques, galleries, restaurants, bars, and cafes.
You can find everything from clothing, jewelry, books, art, antiques, souvenirs, and more!
You can also enjoy some cultural events and festivals that take place in The District throughout the year, such as First Fridays.
6. Discover the wildlife at the Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area
If you love nature and wildlife, you will also be amazed by the Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area! This 4,431-acre area is home to more than 300 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
You can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, canoeing, or just observing the natural beauty of the area. It offers scenic views of the Missouri River and the surrounding hills.
The best time to visit is in the spring and fall when the wetlands are filled with migrating waterfowl and shorebirds. You can also see bald eagles, herons, egrets, and many other birds of prey.
7. Explore Shelter Gardens
Shelter Gardens is a stunning botanical garden that features a variety of plants, flowers, sculptures, and over 300 varieties of trees and shrubs. You can stroll along the paved paths, admire the colorful blooms, listen to the soothing sounds of the waterfall, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
The Shelter Gardens also has a one-room schoolhouse, a replica of the home of the founder of Shelter Insurance, and a sensory garden for the visually impaired. It’s open every day from dawn to dusk, and best of all: admission is free! It’s one of the best free things to do in Columbia!
8. Experience Nightlife at The Blue Note
The Blue Note is a popular spot for live music and entertainment in downtown Columbia. It hosts local and national acts from various genres and has hosted some of the biggest names in rock, blues, jazz, country, and hip-hop!
You can also catch some comedy shows, trivia nights, karaoke nights, and dance parties at this lively place. (Oh, and you can also dance the night away at the attached club, Rose Music Hall!)
9. Taste Local Flavors at the Columbia Farmers Market
If you love fresh, local, seasonal food, you should definitely check out the Columbia Farmers Market! It’s one of Missouri’s top markets, where you can find various products from over 80 vendors, all within a 50-mile radius of Columbia. Fresh produce, baked goods, meats, cheeses, flowers, and more are all available here! You can also chat with the vendors and learn about their products and practices.
You can enjoy the market every Saturday, from 8 am to 12 pm in April to October and from 9 am to 12 pm in November to March.
It’s located at Columbia’s Agriculture Park behind the ARC. It’s not just a place to shop but also a place to have fun, learn, and connect with your community. You can participate in free kids activities, SNAP programs, cooking demos, live music, and more.
Don’t miss one of the best things to do in Columbia to support local farmers and artisans while shopping and tasting the best of mid-Missouri!
10. Hike the Summit at Pinnacles Youth Park
We loved doing the Summit Trail at Pinnacles Youth Park! You can experience some of Missouri’s natural history and beauty along this 0.8 mile (1.3 km) trail loop. It takes you to the top of some amazing rock formations that are over 300 million years old! You’ll get to enjoy stunning views of the Silver Fork Creek Valley and the surrounding forest.
The trail is rated as moderate, but it can be challenging in some parts, particularly when you have to climb over some rocks.
However, I will say that we aren’t hikers and we successfully did this hike with our 18-month-old. The hardest part is climbing up the rocks- at one point you’re essentially walking on the top of rock cliffs. You’ll also have to cross a creek- it was pretty dry when we went but know there’s a possibility of getting your feet wet!
When we visited in mid-November, most of the trees were dead but we saw some stunning red leaves on the hike to the summit!
The park is privately owned, but it’s open to the public year-round. Dogs are allowed, but they must be on a leash.
11. Treat Yourself to Columbia’s Famous Shakespeare’s Pizza
You know this place is special when two strangers ask you if you’ve tried it… that was our experience! Shakespeare’s Pizza is a local favorite that has been serving pizza since 1973.
You can choose from various toppings, crusts, and sauces to create your own pizza or order one of their specialty pizzas, such as the Vegetablenarian, the Meat Lover’s, or The Darwin. You can also try some of their salads, sandwiches, wings, and desserts.
There are three different locations in Columbia, but regardless of where you go, you’ll find a casual and cozy atmosphere. (Looking for a night in? You can also order online for take-out, or get your pizza delivered to your door!)
12. Explore the Beautiful University of Missouri Campus
Having a beautiful college campus in the heart of the city makes Columbia incredibly unique! The University of Missouri campus is a stunning place to go for a stroll or catch a game. The iconic columns, lush gardens, historic buildings, and friendly atmosphere make it a unique and beautiful spot to walk around.
Whether you are walking along the Francis Quadrangle, admiring the art at the Museum of Art and Archaeology, or cheering for the Mizzou Tigers at Faurot Field, these are all unique things to do in Columbia!
13. Visit the Museum of Art and Archaeology
Speaking of the Musuem of Art and Archaeology, it deserves its own spot on this list of unique things to do in Columbia! This museum is closed for renovations at the time of writing but is expected to open very soon, by the end of 2023!
It is located on the campus of the University of Missouri and showcases a collection of more than 16,000 objects. You can admire artwork and artifacts from various cultures and periods, such as Greek and Roman sculptures, European paintings, Asian ceramics, African masks, Native American textiles, and contemporary pieces from local and international artists. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs throughout the year.
14. Get Ice Cream at Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream
Here’s one of the best places to visit in Columbia if you’ve got a sweet tooth – they have the most delicious ice cream! Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream has been serving up creamy, flavorful ice cream since 1999, using only the freshest ingredients and local dairy products.
Whether you crave a classic vanilla cone, a decadent sundae, or a creative flavor like lavender honey, Sparky’s has something for everyone. Sweet cream ice cream is my all-time favorite flavor, and Sparky’s has the best I’ve ever had! We stopped here each day we were in Columbia because it was just that good!
15. Experience the True/False Film Fest
While we haven’t experienced this festival ourselves, it’s supposed to be one of the best events in Columbia for film lovers! And its unique nature means I just had to include it on this list.
Typically held in early March each year, the True/False Film Fest showcases the best of documentary filmmaking from around the world! You can watch screenings of innovative nonfiction films, attend panels, and listen to live music. You’ll also get to interact with filmmakers, artists, musicians, and fellow film lovers in a vibrant and friendly atmosphere.
16. Go ATVing at Finger Lakes State Park (or simply enjoy the views!)
If you love adventure and nature, you should definitely try ATVing at Finger Lakes State Park in Missouri. This park offers over 70 miles of trails for all skill levels, from beginner to expert.
You can enjoy the scenic views of the lake, the forest, and the hills as you ride your ATV through the park. You can also camp, fish, swim, kayak/paddleboard/canoe, or picnic at the park. Or, if you’re into photography like me, you can head there early to try to capture a mirror-effect on the lakes!
Note: ATVs are not available to rent at the park itself, but you can rent ATVs from Central Missouri Off-Road Park in nearby Fayette, which is half an hour’s drive away from Finger Lakes State Park. You’ll need to purchase a one day permit to ride your ATV in the park.
17. Discover the Largest Collection of Mitchell Motorcars
This is one of the best things to do around Columbia for vintage car lovers! And even if you aren’t one (I know nothing about cars), I bet you’ll still love a tour of Lewis Miller’s Mitchell Motocar Collection in Boonville, Missouri.
This was actually one of the most fascinating and unique tours I’ve done! This amazing museum showcases so many rare and classic automobiles from the early 20th century, all lovingly restored and maintained by Lewis Miller, a retired engineer, car enthusiast, and direct descendent of the Mitchell family.
This large private collection of cars from The Mitchell Wagon Company, Wisconsin Wheel Works, and the Mitchell-Lewis Motor Company is constantly in the process of growing and being restored.
As you walk through the space, you can imagine how these cars were used back in the day and really feel the history here. You’ll learn fun facts about vintage cars and how they were designed and used. You can admire the elegant designs and intricate details (they are absolutely works of art!), as well as the fascinating history of these vehicles, some of which are the only ones of their kind in existence.
The museum is open by appointment only, so make sure to call ahead and book your visit.
PS. Just next door at the Boonville Visitor’s Center, you can see the free River, Rails & Trails Museum.
This is a great stop to learn about the history of Boonville – which was settled by a woman! – and the surrounding area!)
18. Ride Bikes on the Katy Trail
One of the best things to do near Columbia to experience the beauty and diversity of Missouri is to ride down the Katy Trail.
It’s the longest-developed rail-trail in the country, stretching for 240 miles from Clinton to Machens. It passes through scenic landscapes, historic towns, and cultural attractions. You can bike, walk, or, in some sections, horseback ride along the trail, and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.
Whether you want to explore the whole trail or just a section of it (that’s what we did), you’ll find plenty of places to stop, rest, and learn along the way.
A great way to rent bikes and hop on the trail is to stop at the Meriwether Café and Bike Shop for lunch and bike rentals! It’s right on the Katy Trail in Rocheport and serves simple, scratch cooking made with locally sourced ingredients. We loved everything that we ordered here! It was delicious – don’t miss out on their lavender lemonade!
Once you’ve refueled, you can easily rent a bike from them and take off down the trail. I recommend taking the trail to the right until you reach the tunnel (it’s about a half mile away), then heading back and continuing the trail in that direction. We rented a bike with a child attachment and stopped at a playground on the way to the tunnel so that James could run around!
19. Get close to nature at the Columbia Bottom Conservation Area
This area is located at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers and covers more than 4,000 acres of wetlands, prairies, forests, and fields.
You can observe various wildlife, such as deer, turkeys, beavers, otters, eagles, herons, and pelicans. You can also fish, hunt, boat, or bike in this peaceful and diverse environment.
20. Check Out the Deutschheim State Historic Site
This is one of the best things to do near Columbia for those interested in German-American history. Hermann is a town known for its German heritage; Germans first settled the Missouri River Valley because it reminded them of home.
The Deutschheim State Historic Site preserves several buildings from the 1840s and 1850s that showcase the life and traditions of the early settlers. You can take guided tours of the Pommer-Gentner House and the Carl Strehly House, where you can see original furniture, musical instruments, newspapers, and more. And the visitor center has exhibits and a gift shop where you can find souvenirs and books.
21. Have some fun at the Columbia Cosmopolitan Recreation Area
Looking for a fun and relaxing place to enjoy nature, sports, or family time? Visit the Columbia Cosmopolitan Recreation Area, referred to as Cosmo Park by locals. It’s the largest park in Columbia, with 533 acres of land and plenty of amenities. You can play tennis, golf, soccer, baseball, softball, football, lacrosse, volleyball, bocce ball, or horseshoes.
You can also swim at the aquatic center, skate at the ice arena, relax at the lake, ride your bike, hike on the trails, or fish in the lakes. Or bring your dog to the leash-free area and let them run around!
The park is open from 6 am to 12 am daily, so you have plenty of time to explore and have fun! (Fun fact: It also hosts the annual Show-Me State Games, a multi-sport festival for amateur athletes!)
22. Have some fun at Midway Golf & Games
Here’s one of the best things to do in Columbia for families who love all sorts of games! Midway Golf & Games is a family-friendly destination that offers a range of activities for all ages and skill levels. You can play mini golf, go-karts, batting cages, laser tag, arcade games, and more.
You can also enjoy some food and drinks at the 44 Tavern restaurant or grab some food from the snack bar for a picnic.
These last two items are a bit further away in St Louis, but are definitely worth visiting!
23. Explore the Charming St. Charles Historic District
The St. Charles Historic District is a must-see for anyone looking for ultimate small-town charm. I was blown away when we visited for the first time! This neighborhood has a rich past that you can experience by walking on the original brick-paved street while exploring its many shops and cafes.
Make sure you try Grandma’s Cookies, a local specialty that is known for their – you guessed it – cookies! Other highlights include the Lewis and Clark Boathouse and Museum and the Foundry Art Center.
Next time I visit St. Louis, I want to come here during Christmas, when the town gets decked out and looks like it’s straight out of a Hallmark Christmas movie!
24. Visit the Best Free Zoo in the Nation!
When we arrived in St. Louis, we saw multiple signs saying it was home to the best free zoo in the nation. Then, at a coffee shop one day when we were in Columbia (Nourish Cafe & Market, it’s delicious!), we started talking to a local who asked if we had plans to go to the zoo. We decided that on our way back to St. Louis, we simply had to visit!
Here’s the thing: the St. Louis Zoo is the best free zoo in the nation for many reasons.
First of all, it has a huge variety of animals, from polar bears to elephants, that you can learn about and see up close.
There are amazing exhibits that recreate the natural habitats of the animals, such as The River’s Edge and The Wild, and many fun and educational activities for visitors of all ages, such as animal encounters, keeper chats, shows, and tours.
The zoo is also committed to conservation and research, working to protect endangered species and habitats around the world
And best of all, it is free for everyone to enjoy! So even though we only had an hour and a half to explore before our flight home, it didn’t matter since it’s free (you just pay for parking).
In conclusion…
These are just some of the many unique things to do in Columbia and its surrounding areas.
Whether you’re into nature, culture, history, or adventure, there are plenty of options to suit your interests. You’ll never run out of ways to have a great time in this city.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip today and discover the charm and beauty of this part of Missouri!
Happy exploring!
Jasmine
