Oct. 14, 2025
Contact: Janese Heavin, heavinj@missouri.edu
Photos by Abbie Lankitus and Gretta Cohoon
At the University of Missouri, a campus tour isn’t just a walk. It’s an experience.
Sign up for a visit, and the Mizzou Tour Team will guide you through some of our most iconic buildings and landmarks while answering your questions about student life.
Be sure to keep an eye out for these 10 things you’ll find at Mizzou.
1. The Columns
The six limestone Columns that rise over Francis Quadrangle survived a fire in 1892 and now stand as the ultimate symbol of Tiger pride and determination. We use them to welcome new students during Tiger Walk, to congratulate graduates at Senior Sendoff and to take countless selfies in between.
2. Black and gold
They’re more than school colors; they’re a lifestyle. And we celebrate with everything from T-shirts and hoodies to coffee cups and keychains. Ready to dress like a Tiger? Find your black and gold spirit at The Mizzou Store.
3. The Missouri Method
Peek inside any of our academic buildings, and you’ll find students at work: Missouri School of Journalism students breaking news, engineering students programming robots, music students composing new sounds. Everywhere you look, someone’s creating something, be it research, art, solutions or memories. It’s called the Missouri Method — our philosophy of learning by doing — and it’s at the heart of everything we do.
4. Squirrels
The squirrels on campus are fearless. They’ll stare directly into your soul while holding a half-eaten bagel. And they’re not the only animals here. Across Mizzou, you’ll find all sorts of furry and featured friends — including dogs, birds and mules.
5. Traditions
Tigers take their traditions seriously. You’ll see it when you pass the bust of David Francis, a former University of Missouri curator and Missouri governor. Legend has it that students who rub his nose will get an “A” on their next test and judging by the shine, plenty of Tigers believe it works. Other traditions include our 150-plus-year-old rivalry with Kansas, singing the alma mater after every athletic event and, of course, celebrating the largest Homecoming in the country.
6. Jesse Hall
You can’t miss it. The tall dome of Jesse Hall is the crown jewel of Mizzou’s skyline. Inside, you’ll find friendly admissions staff ready to answer your questions about applying to Mizzou. It’s both historic and welcoming — a true campus landmark.
7. Faculty who care
At Mizzou, professors are world-class researchers who will also become your mentors and biggest cheerleaders. Whether they’re authoring a groundbreaking study, leading a class or advising students during office hours, our faculty make learning personal.
8. MizzouRec
MizzouRec, the student recreation complex on campus, is more than a gym, it’s a destination. With courts, aquatic features, a climbing tower, eSports and a variety of fitness classes, there’s something for every interest and skillset. Whether you’re training for your next intramural game or floating the Tiger Grotto’s lazy river, MizzouRec has a way to help every Tiger stay active and unwind.
9. Missouri Student Unions
Meet up for lunch or find a cozy spot to study at the Mizzou Student Center — the go-to place to recharge between classes and the social hub of campus. Nearby, Memorial Union offers a quieter, more historic atmosphere with study nooks and meeting rooms perfect for focus and reflection. Whether you’re in the mood for energy or tranquility, the Missouri Student Unions give every Tiger the space they need.
10. The “Z-O-U” moment
It happens to every future Tiger — the moment you realize you belong here. You hear the call of the “M-I-Z” and instinctively reply “Z-O-U.” That’s when you know you’ve found your home.
Ready to see for yourself? Schedule a campus tour today.
