Columbia, Mo Couple’s Itinerary

If you aren’t in town for True/False, Roots & Blues or some other weekend-long event, you might be wondering “what is there to do in Columbia, MO”. The answer is: “A LOT!”. So we’ve put together a 3-day Itinerary for couples looking to make the most out of their trip to Columbia.

Day 1

The first day of the itinerary is all about hitting the Columbia, MO staples. Get ready to live a day in the life of a CoMo resident!

Coffee Zone
You’ll be hard pressed to find a better way to start your day than at Coffee Zone off 9th street. This family owned and operated cafe has been serving CoMo for over 20 years, specializing in Mediterranean bites and featuring a very large variety of coffee. If you’re really in need of a pick me up, get the rocket fuel (but understand you have been warned)!

After breakfast, take a stroll or grab a Bird scooter to explore downtown! Coffee Zone is only a few blocks away from the infamous University of Missouri Columns.

Main Squeeze

Main Squeeze is a must lunch spot when you’re in Columbia. From sandwiches to juices and smoothings, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. This is one of those places where you can tell their very meticulous about where they get their ingredients. You’ll leave Main Squeeze ready to take on the rest of the day – which is a good thing because it’s time for a bike ride!

CoMo Trails
Did you know Columbia has 278 miles worth of nature trails?! If you like the outdoors, you’re going to love Columbia. The MKT trail begins downtown and connects to the famed Katy Trail. One of the best things to do is rent an electric bike from Pedego off 4th street so you can enjoy the trail at your leisure.

Barred Owl
There’s a lot of debate around this subject, but Barred Owl is the best restaurant in Columbia. Locally-sourced ingredients, a constantly changing menu, phenomenal cocktails and the spacious, inviting atmosphere truly makes the Barred Owl experience you won’t forget. Be sure to book a reservation in advance!

Day 2

We’re going to hit the nostalgic establishments of Columbia on Day 2. These are the spots people will ask you about when you tell them you just got back from a trip to CoMo. After a full day yesterday and that extra cocktail at dinner, you might be getting a later start than planned but that’s okay! We’ve got you covered.

Cafe Berlin
This is where Columbia brunches. If you’re looking for a large, delicious breakfast Cafe Berlin is where you’ll get it. They don’t take reservations so plan to wait in line, but you won’t regret it. There’s a line for a reason.

Logboat Brewery
Next stop is Logboat, the largest craft brewery in Columbia. They have a beer for every beer snob and a couple cocktails if that’s your preference. The vibe here is always right and one of those places you can find yourself hanging out at for hours on end. This is why there’s normally a food truck parked outside!

Shakespeare’s Pizza & Booche’s
No Columbia itinerary is complete without Shakespeare’s, and while the downtown location has been renovated it’s still considered the original location. Booche’s is a burger joint right down the street.

Shakespeare’s and Booches are the 2 nostalgic restaurants in Columbia people will ask about when you’re back from your trip. Do we really expect you to eat pizza and a burger for the same meal? Yes, we do! Don’t get intimidated though, Booche’s burgers pack a lot of flavor in their smaller than average patties.

CJ’s Hot Wings
CJ’s Hot Wings on Broadway has been around for 30 years and it’s easy to see why. They are consistently rated one of the best wing spots in Columbia and perfect for a quick, lighter meal after a jam-packed day of food and drinks.

Pressed
Pressed is the newest establishment you’ll visit on Day 2, but the perfect way to end a day exploring Columbia’s most popular locations. They have great cocktails and view of downtown and the Tiger Hotel sign.

Day 3

Day 3 is reserved for the new, up-and-coming places around town that we feel will be around for awhile.

Beet Box
Located behind Logboat, Beet Box has quickly become the talk around town. The menu is always changing, but the homemade pop-tarts are their signature. Go, get a pop-tart and whatever else they’re serving, and enjoy!

After breakfast, walk over to the Art District to check out local and national work!

Pizza Tree
Pizza two days in a row? Yes. Pizza Tree is constantly coming up with innovative pizzas, which can all be ordered by the slice! Located just off 9th street, it’s easy to grab a couple pieces to go and enjoy as you mozy around downtown.

44 Canteen
Mexican and cocktails. Doesn’t get much better than that! 44 Canteen is a really fun spot to enjoy your last meal in town.