Welcome to Columbia, home of the University of Missouri Tigers! If you’re heading to town to catch a game at Mizzou, here’s what you need to know about where to stay, eat, drink, and tailgate. First, a few key facts:
- SEC Team: University of Missouri Tigers
- Coach: Eliah Drinkwitz
- Stadium: Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium
- Fun fact: The namesake of the stadium, Don Faurot, helped lay the original sod in 1926.
Where to Stay in Columbia
Columbia offers hotel options for every type of traveler — including one with a very special rooftop space!
The Broadway offers stunning views of Columbia from its rooftop bar. Image: The Broadway Columbia
The Broadway Columbia
1111 East Broadway, Columbia, MO 65201 • (573) 875-7000
A Hilton hotel within walking distance of the Mizzou campus, The Broadway Columbia is a comfortable option for your stay.
The Tiger Hotel
23 South 8th Street, Columbia, MO 65201 • (573) 875-8888
School spirit runs deep at The Tiger Hotel, and most hotel guests will be Mizzou fans. This full-service boutique hotel is conveniently located in the city.
Hampton Inn and Suites Columbia
1225 Fellow’s Place Boulevard, Columbia, MO 65201 • (573) 214-2222
Hampton Inn and Suites Columbia is just a short walking distance from the Mizzou campus and only a couple of miles from downtown Columbia. It’s a good home base if you’re interested in exploring all that the area has to offer.
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Where to Eat & Drink Columbia
If you’re looking for a bite to eat ahead of the game or perhaps items to pick up for your tailgate (including adult beverages, of course), here are some of your best bets located near campus.
Broadway Diner
22 South 4th Street, Columbia, MO 65201 • (573) 875-1173
Open at 6 a.m Wednesday through Sunday, you can fuel up for the day’s festivities at Broadway Diner. We hear you’ve got to try their signature breakfast dish. “The Stretch” — a plate of hashbrowns loaded up with eggs, chili, cheese, peppers, and onions (customizable with plenty of add-ons).
CC’s City Broiler
1401 Forum Boulevard, Columbia, MO 65203 • (573) 445-7772
There’s a good amount of quality beef in Missouri, and CC’s City Broiler is a popular steakhouse. Carnivores, stop by this local hotspot to get your fix.
CJ’s Hot Wings
704 East Broadway, Columbia, MO 65201 • (573) 442-7777
Hot wings are a welcome addition to any tailgate, and CJ’s Hot Wings is famous around town. You may want to stop by the shop, too — it’s on Columbia’s busiest street!
Como Smoke and Fire
4600 Paris Road, Ste. 102, Columbia, MO 65202 • (573) 443-3473
Homemade sauces and house-smoked barbecue make Como Smoke and Fire a killer source for your tailgate spread. If you aren’t up for doing any day-of cooking, cater from Como.
Shakespeare’s Pizza
225 South 9th Street, Columbia, MO 65201 • (573) 449-2454
Serving up the best pizza in town for 45 years now, Shakespeare’s Pizza is a must for your weekend in Columbia. Don’t just take our word for it; it was recently voted “Best College Hangout in the Nation.”
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Bars in Columbia
If you’re in the market for a pre- or post-game drink, here are a few hotspots to check out — equally well-suited to celebrating or drowning your sorrows.
Columbia is home to a lively set of local favorite bars. If you like a little post-game competition, Willie’s Pub & Pool is a good bet!
The FieldHouse + Willie’s Pub & Pool + Bullwinkle’s
1107 East Broadway, Columbia, MO 65201 • (573) 673-6473
The FieldHouse, Willie’s Pub & Pool, and Bullwinkle’s are favorite hotspots for locals and tourists alike. Each space offers a unique atmosphere as well as daily specials.
Hole in the Wall Speakeasy
910 Business Loop 70 East, Columbia, MO 65201 • (573) 442-7491
As the second smallest bar in North America, Hole in the Wall Speakeasy is a cozy dive bar in the heart of Columbia. This local spot also offers daily specials.
On the Rocks
1011 East Broadway, Columbia, MO 65201 • (573) 874-0680
Offering signature cocktails, Jumbo Shots (the largest shots in Columbia!), and low-priced martinis, On the Rocks is a great bang for your buck.
The Roof
1111 East Broadway, Columbia, MO 65201 • (573) 875-7000
As the name suggests, The Roof is a rooftop bar on the eighth floor of The Broadway Columbia (pictured above). In addition to handcrafted cocktails, the bar offers sweeping views of downtown, fire pits, and occasional live music.
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Where to Tailgate in Columbia
Think parking lot party for your Mizzou tailgate. Bring a tent for cover, pack some food and drinks, and you’ll find your crowd. Here are a few tailgating tips:
- If you’re looking to take your tailgate to the next level, bring your RV or bus to Truman Landing.
- Don’t forget to pack some lawn games: cornhole and ladder toss are popular options.
- There are some lots (priority parking tailgate areas) reserved for members of the Tiger Scholarship Fund.
SB TIP:
If you don’t feel like driving or using a rideshare option, consider taking the Columbia Transit shuttle bus. Visit gocomotransit.com to see where the bus has pick-up and drop-off locations.
Go Tigers!
Click HERE for the complete SEC City Guide!
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