Jan. 21, 2026
Photos by Gretta Cohoon, Sam Cox, Abbie Lankitus and Reagan Manis
There are endless ways to explore the University of Missouri. From experiences that help make Columbia home to timeless campus traditions, here are 25 things every Tiger should check off their list during their Mizzou journey.
1. Have a picnic on Francis Quadrangle.
Grab a blanket, a couple of friends and your favorite snack and take a moment to relax at one of Mizzou’s most iconic locations.
2. Try every flavor at Buck’s Ice Cream.
Buck’s Tiger Stripe Ice Cream is legendary, but there are even more flavors to explore. Made fresh on Mizzou’s campus by students in the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, Buck’s offers premium ice creams in a wide variety of flavors. And you can never have too much ice cream.
3. Tour Mizzou’s Botanic Garden.
Mizzou’s campus is a certified botanic garden and arboretum with close to 6,000 trees and more than 200 plant varieties. Experience the beauty of Mizzou from a unique perspective and book a public tour.
4. Walk across the Engineering Shamrock (or don’t).
Installed to commemorate St. Patrick, the patron saint of engineers, the shamrock is said to bring students more than just luck. Legend has it, those who walk across it are destined to fall in love with an engineer. Take stroll across it if you feel like tempting fate.
5. Attend a Mizzou Arts production.
Live orchestras, touring shows and student-run productions are just some of the performances you can experience through Mizzou Arts in the College of Arts and Science.
6. Read a book in Peace Park.
It’s hard to beat the serenity of sitting among the trees. Grab a book (for a class or just for fun), find a bench and enjoy the peaceful feeling that gives this park its name.
7. Take a course outside your major.
Don’t be afraid to venture outside your comfort zone and take classes that can both fulfill your degree requirements and broaden your horizons. For inspiration, take a look at this list of 11 must-take classes at Mizzou.
8. Explore space at the Laws Observatory.
Located on top of Physics building, the Laws Observatory is open to students on Wednesday evenings, weather permitting. Peek through the telescope to see the stars, then view a small astronomy exhibit — including a collection from NASA Mission Control.
9. Take a selfie at the MIZ statue.
One of campus’ newest landmarks, the MIZ statue, located outside the Reynolds Alumni Center, is the perfect spot to snap a picture that shows your Tiger pride.
10. Volunteer on campus.
Tiger Pantry. Caring for Columbia. Mizzou Alternative Breaks. These are just a few of the many ways to give back to campus and the Columbia community.
11. Study in the Grand Reading Room in Ellis Library.
The Grand Reading Room is the perfect place if you crave silence as you study. Not to mention the tall windows and classic architecture make you feel like you’re living out a quintessential college moment.
12. Rub David R. Francis' nose before an exam.
Campus tradition says that students who rub the nose of David R. Francis on Francis Quadrangle will get an “A” on their next exam. There’s nothing wrong with a little extra luck but maybe don’t let that replace a good study session.
13. Go swimming at Tiger Grotto at MizzouRec.
Head to MizzouRec and experience an oasis in the heart of campus at Tiger Grotto. Complete with waterfall, lazy river, hot tub and sauna, it’s the perfect place to relax and recharge.
14. Visit a museum.
Two Mizzou museums are located in Ellis Library. The Museum of Art and Archaeology is home to a collection of more than 16,000 objects from six continents spanning five millennia. The Museum of Anthropology showcases collections that will broaden your understanding of human behavior, past and present.
15. Attend an event hosted by the Campus Activities Programming Board.
Whether it’s a signature event such as the Midnight BBQ or a quick craft between classes, CAPB hosts fun and engaging events throughout the year.
16. Explore downtown Columbia.
With restaurants, music venues and boutique shopping, The District in downtown CoMo has something for everyone to enjoy.
17. Attend a Mizzou sporting event.
Wear your best black and gold, sing the fight songs and cheer on the Tigers at everything from women’s gymnastics to SEC football.
18. Play an intramural sport.
Intramural sports at MizzouRec are a great way to stay active while connecting with your fellow Tigers.
19. Join a club or organization.
With more than 750 ways to get involved at Mizzou, there’s something for everyone. Find a club or organization that best fits your interests — or start one of your own.
20. Attend a Mizzou Homecoming event.
Homecoming isn’t just a football game. Celebrate your Mizzou pride and connect with your fellow Tigers through events such as the Homecoming Blood Drive, the parade, Decorate the District and more.
21. Study abroad.
Earn credits toward your degree while gaining a global perspective. Whether it’s a semester-long stay or a quick winter break exploration, Mizzou Study Abroad has a variety of programs to help you fuel your adventurous spirit.
22. Visit every Mizzou dining hall and restaurant.
With dining halls, restaurants, cafes and markets, there are plenty of options for eating on campus. Make your own mini food tour and try them all.
23. Practice self-care at the Wellness Resource Center.
Mizzou’s Wellness Resource Center is here to help you live your best life while navigating college. Stop by for one of their guided meditations or drop in to unwind in the massage chair.
24. Walk, run or bike on the MKT Trail.
With various access points around campus, the MKT Trail is the perfect opportunity to get out and enjoy nature — while also getting a little exercise.
25. Run through the Columns at Tiger Walk and Senior Sendoff.
Take part in classic Mizzou traditions. Run through the Columns toward Jesse Hall as a freshman to symbolize the start of your time at Mizzou. Then, as a senior, run back through them toward downtown Columbia to symbolize your graduation.
