Students looking for off-campus living can find apartments downtown, homes in friendly neighborhoods and in apartment communities spread throughout the city. The public bus system and shuttle services allow for convenient transportation to and from campus.
The city is home to more than 100 places of worship, including a synagogue and an Islamic center, and features many international grocery stores and restaurants among the local businesses.
The 1938-constructed Missouri Theatre, managed by the University of Missouri, was recently restored to its original grandeur and now attracts major entertainers as well as community performers.
The local art scene in Columbia continues to thrive, with venues including Orr Street Studios, the Sager Reeves Gallery, Artlandish Gallery, Bluestem Missouri Crafts, the Columbia Art League and a flourishing North Village Arts District.
Our city has implemented a program known as Getabout Columbia that encourages cycling, walking and public transportation. The MKT Trail takes cyclists and hikers through the city, linking to the 237-mile Katy Trail that stretches across the entire state of Missouri.
The City of Columbia provides trash and recycling bags through the city’s voucher system as part of your monthly refuse fee. Vouchers can be redeemed at most grocery stores throughout town.
Documentary filmmakers throughout the world participate in this four-day weekend celebrating nonfiction filmmaking as artistic form.
This three-day festival brings together international, national, regional and local artists to represent the music genres of roots, blues, gospel, country, folk, bluegrass, rock and soul. Fans can also enjoy delicious BBQ from local and regional vendors.
Once every quarter, Columbia gets ARTrageous at The District and the North Village Arts District, coming together to enjoy special art events, artists in residence, musical performances and more.
Our public school system annually produces some of the largest numbers of national merit scholars in the state, with 18 parochial and private schools, four special-needs training facilities, an adult education center as well as a lifelong learning institute.
Our Columbia Resources page features healthcare resources both on and off campus.