Columbia
Columbia has regularly been called one of “America’s best places to live” by Money magazine, Men’s Journal, and other national publications. It’s a warm, friendly, vibrant college community, conveniently located midway (just 2 hours) between Kansas City and St. Louis, 30 minutes from the state capital, Jefferson City, and just over an hour from the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks.
A cosmopolitan city with a population of more than 100,0000, Columbia enjoys a healthy economy thanks in part to three college campuses (MU and two private colleges), a major medical community serving mid-Missouri, a large insurance headquarters, and federal and state government agencies.
There’s always something to do in Columbia. Students can enjoy concerts, art exhibits, dramatic productions, and other cultural, educational, and recreational activities. Downtown Columbia is a lively area with restaurants, pubs, nightclubs, coffee houses, art galleries and shopping all within three blocks of campus.
Housing
If you are looking for housing once you are admitted, there are a variety of apartment complexes throughout Columbia, and the Residential Life office has created a guide to living off-campus. There are also a limited number of university student apartments available. You are welcome to ask one of our student ambassadors for some ideas!
Learn More
The District
– The heart of downtown, 110 unique shops, 70 bars and restaurants, 45 live performances a week
Our Beloved CoMo – Mizzou Alumni Association clues you in on Columbia’s Best
Visit Columbia MO! – events, sights and sounds, your guide to all Columbia
City of Columbia – all kinds of info for new residents!
What do you like to do? Without a doubt someone in Columbia has similar interests.
Outdoor Activities
Running, Hiking & Biking Trails - Columbia is perfect for biking and running, with over 40 miles of trails, including a link to the statewide KATY Trail.
Columbia Parks – Over 80 area parks for relaxing, hiking, rock-climbing, and even some spelunking!
Mizzou Botanic Garden
– Enjoy the natural beauty of MU’s campus just strolling between classes.
Sports
Columbia offers both spectator sports and opportunities to participate yourself.
All Things MU Athletics - Saturdays in the fall mean MU football, and a host of other Big XII sports are available all year long.
Mizzou Rec Center
– Ranked as the best campus recreation facility in America by Sports Illustrated; featuring a 35-foot rock climbing wall, a 50 m competitive pool and much more.
Annual Must-Attend Events
Columbia and the MU campus offer festivals and events to keep you entertained.
True/False Film Fest
- four days, six venues, filmmaker commentaries, non-stop films from a wide variety of genres.
Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival
– 3 outdoor stages, 30 acts, BBQ contest, BBQ vendors, ½ marathon, something for everyone.
We Always Swing Jazz Series – over 15 events annually, small venues, large venues, celebrate the American art form known as “jazz”
9th Street Summerfest – and a continual stream of current music groups brought to Columbia by The Blue Note
Artrageous Fridays
– local galleries host visitors with music, wine, conversation, and an introduction to the local art community
MU Concert Series
– country music, comedy, Broadway shows, dance, classical, international performers
Business
Last Edited: 11/14/2011