Life in Columbia
If you’re looking for a place with big-city energy, small‑town friendliness, and endless things to do, Columbia, Missouri is the perfect fit. More than 36,000 college students call CoMo home, and with 118,000 residents, you’ll find the perfect mix of buzzing campus life and a warm local community.
Just two hours from Kansas City and St. Louis, Columbia is a hub for live music, festivals, coffee shops, outdoor adventures, college sports, foodie spots, and all‑around good vibes.
Why Students Love CoMo
- The perfect blend of college‑town energy + welcoming community
- Festivals like True/False Film Fest & Roots N Blues
- Coffee shops and study spots everywhere
- Affordable living, amazing food, and a walkable downtown
- Beautiful parks and outdoor recreation
- A safe, friendly environment that feels like home
Welcome to The District — Your New Hangout Spot
Downtown Columbia, known as The District, is packed into 20 walkable blocks full of:
- Trendy boutiques & vintage shops
- Local restaurants (yes, the brunch scene is real)
- Coffee shops perfect for studying or people-watching
- Live music venues & theaters
- Street art, murals, and an all-around creative vibe
And the best part?
It’s all just steps from the Stephens campus.
Life Outdoors — Adventure Awaits
Columbia is an outdoor lover’s dream. Whether you like hiking, biking, kayaking, or just soaking up sunshine between classes, CoMo has it all.
Right here in the city:
Quick day trips (<20 minutes):
Adventure weekends (<1.5 hours):
- Lake of the Ozarks State Park
- Mark Twain State Park
- Ha Ha Tonka State Park
- Graham Cave State Park
- Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park
Bringing a Pet?
Columbia is super pet-friendly! Explore areas where pups can run, splash, and make friends too.
Like to Bike?
Columbia is one of Missouri’s most bike‑friendly cities.
Hop on Bike Boulevard, which literally runs through Stephens’ campus, giving you easy access to:
- Downtown
- Stephens Lake Park
- Tons of local trails
