Photo by Notley Hawkins.
Been a while since you’ve made it back to Columbia? Our hometown was ranked No. 9 on Business Insider’s most recent top-20 list of college towns. Here are some can’t-miss stops if you’re planning to visit your alma mater this fall.
1. The “New” Shakespeare’s Pizza
On the outside, Columbia’s signature college hangout looks different from the one-story, red-brick building of yesteryear, but step inside and it feels familiar. Reopened in September 2016, the iconic pizza parlor went to great lengths to bring back ceiling tiles, wood panels, retro metal signs and other details that preserve the old aura. Student housing occupies the five stories above the restaurant, and a yellow-brick road guides you toward arcade games, party space and restrooms in the back.
Photo by Nicholas Benner.
2. North Village Arts District
This lively neighborhood northeast of 10th and Walnut has something for everyone. Enter through Artlandish Gallery and discover the Catacombs, an unexpected subterranean arts and crafts bazaar. Fretboard Coffee offers specialty roasts and a variety of brewing techniques. Visit with artists onsite at Orr Street Studios and grab a cocktail concocted with craft spirits at Dogmaster Distillery.
3. Logboat
Co-founded by Mizzou alumnus Tyson Hunt, BS BA ’02, Logboat Brewing Co.’s 4,500-square-foot warehouse, brewery and tasting room also features a lush lawn for concerts, picnics and games. The creative brewmasters release seasonal suds throughout the year, and favorites such as Snapper India pale ale and Mamoot English-mild style ale have become popular throughout the Show-Me State.
4. Reynolds Alumni Center
The handsome home of the Mizzou Alumni Association, among other MU departments, turned 25 in April. It remains your Homecoming headquarters for campus information, free refreshments, spirit rallies and giveaways.
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