Columbia, Missouri

Columbia is a city located in the heart of Missouri, USA. It’s home to the University of Missouri and has a population of around 123,000 people. Here are some interesting facts and things to do in Columbia:

Education:

• The University of Missouri (Mizzou) is a major attraction in Columbia, with a strong reputation for its journalism, business, and engineering programs.
• Stephens College, a women’s liberal arts college, is also located in Columbia.

Culture:

• The city has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and performance venues.
• The Columbia Farmers Market is a popular spot for fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
• The Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival is an annual event that celebrates blues, roots music, and barbecue.

Outdoor activities:

• The city has several parks and green spaces, including the Katy Trail State Park, which runs along the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad line.
• The MKT Trail is a 8-mile path that connects to the Katy Trail and offers walking, jogging, and biking opportunities.
• Lake of the Woods is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming.

Food:

• Columbia is known for its BBQ joints, such as Broadway Diner and Boiler Room.
• The city has a variety of restaurants serving everything from Italian to Mexican cuisine.
• The city’s craft beer scene is growing, with breweries like Columbia Craft Brewing Company and Flat Branch Pub & Brewing.

History:

• The city was founded in 1821 and has a rich history dating back to the Lewis and Clark expedition.
• The Missouri State Capitol building is located in Columbia and offers guided tours.
• The Black History Museum showcases the city’s African American heritage.

Other attractions:

• The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is about a 2-hour drive from Columbia.
• Kansas City is about a 2.5-hour drive away and offers attractions like the National World War I Museum and Memorial.
• The Mark Twain National Forest is about an hour’s drive from Columbia and offers camping, hiking, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Overall, Columbia is a charming college town with a rich history, vibrant culture, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.