June 11, 2025
Contact: Janese Heavin, heavinj@missouri.edu
Photos by Abbie Lankitus, Rosemary Frank, Sydney Winn and Mizzou Visual Productions
Whether you're a proud Tiger, a future student or a local looking for a new adventure, spend a day at the University of Missouri this summer.
Discover world-class museums and peaceful gardens, play a round of golf, or enjoy a day shopping and dining on campus.
Here are 10 ways to discover Mizzou this season — and perhaps find a few surprises along the way.
1. Learn at the Museum of Art and Archaeology.
Explore 60,000 years of human expression at the Museum of Art and Archaeology. With objects from six continents, this world-class collection celebrates both ancient traditions and modern creativity. Wander at your own pace or book a group tour to dive deeper into the fascinating stories behind the art.
Location: 520 S. 9th St., Room 1, Ground Floor, Ellis Library
Cost: Free
Website
Bonus: Check out the Museum Store for artful gifts, creative décor and Missouri’s only Art-o-Mat — a vending machine dispensing miniature masterpieces.
2. Play a round at Gustin Golf Course.
Perfect your swing — or start fresh — at Mizzou’s Gustin Golf Course. Spanning 127 acres, this 18-hole championship course offers scenic beauty and a welcoming atmosphere for all skill levels. Not up for a full round? Sharpen your skills at the driving range or sign up for a lesson. Whether you're training for a tournament or just enjoying a sunny afternoon, Gustin delivers a first-class golf experience.
Location: 18 Stadium Blvd.
Cost: Daily fees vary
Website
Bonus: While you’re there, check out Peachtree at Gustin, featuring salad, assorted snacks, sandwiches and a variety of beverages.
3. Stroll the Mizzou Botanic Garden.
Take a serene walk through Mizzou’s campus, designated as an official botanic garden and arboretum. Four self-guided trails showcase hundreds of tree species and seasonal blooms. Don’t miss the new Healing Hike, a tranquil path co-created by MU Health Care to support wellness through nature.
Location: Across campus
Cost: Free
Website
Bonus: Make it a challenge with a tree-themed scavenger hunt. Print clues or follow along online, then return to the site to check your answers.
4. Explore campus landmarks.
Let history and heritage guide your steps. From the iconic Columns and Tiger Plaza to hidden gems such as the Yielding Spire sculpture and ancient stone Chinese guardian lions outside the Missouri School of Journalism, campus is a gallery of meaning and memory. Stop by the MIZ Pocket Park outside of the Reynolds Alumni Center for a photo-worthy moment beside the new “MIZ” sculpture — perfect for families and future Tigers alike.
Location: Various
Cost: Free
5. Treat Yourself at Buck’s Ice Cream
Nothing says summer on campus like a treat from Buck’s Ice Cream. Open noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, Buck’s serves up handcrafted flavors made fresh right here at Mizzou — including the iconic hometown favorite, Tiger Stripe. Stop in for a scoop or bring a cooler and take home a tub to share (or not).
Location: 1406 E. Rollins St.
Cost: Prices vary; cashless location (local checks accepted)
Website
6. Wander Jefferson Farm and Garden Extension and Education Center.
Reconnect with nature. Jefferson Farm and Garden Extension and Education Center features 3,200 feet of paved walkways, scenic views, native habitats and hands-on exhibits. Visit the animals, learn about pollinators and Missouri crops, and enjoy the views.
Location: 4800 E. New Haven Road
Cost: Free
Website
Bonus: Celebrate the beauty of butterflies at the 8th Annual Butterfly Festival from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 21. Explore native butterfly species, make crafts and take part in family-friendly learning activities.
7. Shop at The Mizzou Store
Show your Tiger pride with gear from The Mizzou Store, where campus spirit meets curated style. From Nike and Lululemon gear to Mizzou Botanic Garden-inspired items by Missouri artist Jenny McGee, you’ll find something for every fan. Great gifts, iconic merch and limited-edition items await.
Location: 901 E. Rollins St.
Cost: Free to explore — prices vary by item
Website
8. Eat at Mort’s. Or Panda Express. Or Savor Kitchen.
While you’re at the Student Center, fuel your summer adventure with a bite to eat at one of six dining spots. Try hand-breaded chicken and juicy burgers at Mort’s or enjoy the comfort of orange chicken at Mizzou alumni-owned Panda Express. Dining locations are open to the public, but hours vary so be sure to check the website.
Location: 901 E. Rollins St.
Cost: Prices vary; all locations cashless
Website
Bonus: Looking for fresh, allergen-friendly eats? Savor Kitchen offers customizable bowls, salads and pastas — all made without wheat/gluten, fish, tree nuts and other top allergens. It’s open to the public inside Johnston Hall, 1100 Rollins St.
9. Make it a family night at the theater.
Experience the magic of live performance with Mizzou Summer Repertory Theatre. Kicking off June 18, Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery delivers laughs and intrigue, followed by Disney’s The Little Mermaid, opening July 3 — a family-friendly dive into an underwater dreamscape. Reserve your seats early!
Location: Rhynsburger Theatre, 505 Hitt St.
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Website
Bonus: Extend your evening with a night of world-class jazz with the University Concert Series. Don’t miss the Carlos & Laura Perez-Mesa Memorial Concert, featuring the internationally acclaimed Hilario Durán Quartet live at 7 p.m. on Sunday, June 22, at Missouri Theatre.
10. Get active — or cheer on the athletes — at the Show-Me State Games.
Join the excitement of Missouri’s largest multi-sport festival, hosted at Mizzou. With more than 40 sports ranging from basketball and bowling to track and field, the Show-Me State Games welcomes athletes of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re competing, volunteering or cheering from the stands, there’s no better way to show your Missouri pride.
Location: Various
Cost: Entry fees vary; free for spectators and volunteers
Website
Bonus: Be part of the action by volunteering to help register athletes, manage events and bring the games to life. Sign up today.
Getting around at Mizzou
While many lots are reserved year-round, Mizzou offers convenient metered parking for visitors across campus. Use the interactive map to find the closest visitor spots near your destination or check the venue’s website for specific directions and parking tips.
