Cooper's Landing
This stretch of land on the Missouri River is a lovely place to go hiking, walking, or to eat Thai food. It's a 10 minute drive from south Columbia and is located on the Katy Trail.
Katy Trail State Park (http://www.mostateparks.c...) is a great outdoor resource for bikers and joggers. The MKT Nature and Fitness Trail starts in downtown Columbia accessible near Providence and Locust and at Providence and Stewart. It stretches about 9 miles from downtown Columbia to McBaine. There the MKT connects to Katy Trail State Park, which travels across Missouri from St. Charles to Clinton following old railway lines. Several of Columbia's parks also connect to the MKT, including Flat Branch Park, Forum Nature area, and Hinkson Woods Natural History Area. There are plans to use federal grant money to extend this trail system further.
Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, (http://www.mostateparks.c...), 7 miles south of Columbia, offers outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, caving and so on. Devil's icebox in the park is a great getaway during the hot summer days. A short walk will take you to the mouth of the cave and the chilled air will cool you off.
Finger Lakes State Park, (http://www.mostateparks.c...).
Ragtag Cinema (http://www.ragtagfilm.com...) is an unusual fusion of a high-minded arthouse cinema with a playful, lively beer hall. Showing the best national, international, and locally created films.
Jewell Cemetery State Historic Site, (http://www.mostateparks.c...).
Those interested in Rock Climbing will want to check out Capen Park. Capen park is well-visited by the local climbing community. Capen Park is located near the intersection of College and Stadium for those arriving by car, but may be accessed via Columbia's trails for those who choose to walk, jog, or bike.
The Blue Note historic theater (http://www.thebluenote.com), located on North 9th street in the downtown area. This is a small theater that accommodates around 800 people. This venue always features top new music acts. Regardless what type of music you like, it features acts from country, ska, rock, alternative, indie, metal, comedy, hip hop, blues, etc. Some top acts that have visited the Blue Note include 311, Megadeth, Snoop Dog, Blues Traveler, Public Enemy, Ice T, Red Hot Chili Peppers. It also showcases local favorites like Gravity Kills and The Urge. Enjoy the dance floor and drinks from the extensive bar. Minors are also welcome, however some shows have a small surcharge.