Columbia may not be the most well-known city in Missouri, but it is certainly one of the most interesting—and fun! A college town boasting the acclaimed University of Missouri (Mizzou) and located not far from either St. Louis or Kansas City, Columbia is a small city with a big heart. Because it is a college town, Columbia tends to be thought of as artsy and eclectic. That said, there really is something for everyone.
Home to Mizzou, Columbia, as you’d expect, is all about education and culture, probably why there are a number of fascinating museums to check out. From the highly acclaimed Museum of Art and Archeology for those history buffs to the Artlandish Gallery which spotlights local artists and their works, you could easily spend a couple of days getting lost in Columbia culture.
With rolling hills and that quaint college atmosphere, Columbia has also come to be known for its parks and gardens. Among the most popular are the Mizzou Botanic Gardens, the award-winning Shelter Gardens as well as Rocky Bridge Memorial State Park—famous for the “Devil’s Icebox.”
Because of its size, safety factor and just the fact that there are so many interesting sites and eclectic shops/restaurants to check out, many opt to spend their day strolling through Columbia. Create your very own “walking tour” as you travel down the Grindstone Nature Area right in Downtown Columbia or hit the many local wineries and breweries tucked into various Columbia enclaves.
As it is a college town, Columbia has become known in the state of Missouri for its many festivals. Something of a festival mecca, Columbia hosts among others: Show-Me State Games, Art in the Park, and the Roots N Blues N BBQ Fest. Pretty much any time of year, you will find a festival to attend here.
Mizzou offers a beautiful campus, with plenty of events, and SEC sports. Columbia is a destination for college basketball and football fans.
Columbia's winter is chilly, with temperatures ranging from the 20s to 40s Fahrenheit. While snowfall is common, it's typically not overwhelming. Winter offers a quieter atmosphere on the University of Missouri campus as students are on winter break. Visitors can explore indoor attractions like the Museum of Art and Archaeology, attend concerts and performances at the Missouri Theatre, or enjoy cozy cafes and restaurants throughout the city.
Spring in Columbia brings milder temperatures, with highs in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit. The city's parks and gardens start to bloom with colorful flowers and blossoms. Spring is an excellent time for outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking on the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail or enjoying picnics at Stephens Lake Park. The downtown district comes alive with spring festivals, art shows, and outdoor events.
Columbia's summer is warm, with temperatures in the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. The city's parks, lakes, and pools become popular spots for swimming, boating, and outdoor recreation. Summer offers opportunities to attend live music concerts, visit local farmers' markets, and enjoy outdoor dining in downtown Columbia. The city's cultural scene thrives with various art exhibitions and theater performances.
Fall in Columbia is beautiful, with temperatures cooling down to the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit. The foliage in the city's parks and surrounding areas turns into warm autumn colors, creating a picturesque setting. Fall is an excellent time for scenic drives along the countryside and attending fall festivals and football games at the University of Missouri's Faurot Field. The city's lively atmosphere extends into the evening with outdoor events and entertainment.