School of Social Work

"The quintessential college town." That’s how U.S. News & World Report has described Columbia.

What makes Columbia quintessential? Its friendly feel and access to the culture, shopping and dining options usually reserved for larger cities. Its proximity: Downtown Columbia borders Mizzou’s campus — so you are within walking distance. Columbia has around 300 restaurants (we’re talking barbecue, Indian, Japanese, Mexican and, of course, pizza), more than 40 concert venues, 25 movie screens and 45 public parks, the Missouri Symphony and the many art galleries and museums in town. And last but not least, the city’s charm (Twilight Festivals, outdoor concerts in summer, its very own True/False Film Festival). More about Columbia.

There is plenty to do outside Columbia — indoors and out. Columbia is just two hours from both St. Louis and Kansas City — see a concert, spend an afternoon at the zoo, check out a professional ball game, visit museums, have relaxing dinners, explore national parks and more.

You can also go rock climbing and spelunking at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, bike on the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail, or swim at Finger Lakes State Park.

For more information about Columbia, please visit http://www.visitcolumbiamo.com.