One of the best parts of traveling to see your team play is getting to experience a new place. These mini vacations give you the chance to cheer on your team, try new restaurants, make new friends and see new sights. There are also new experiences to be had within just a short drive of Columbia! If you have a spare afternoon, here are a few places to check out right here in mid-Missouri.
Only 30 minutes away…
Rocheport
West on I-70 to exit 115, Right on Highway BB
Just a short drive on I-70, Rocheport is a charming town set on the Missouri River. Spend an afternoon exploring the variety of antique shops, taking a walk on the Katy Trail and enjoying the delicious food at restaurants like Abigail’s. In the evening, head up to Les Bourgeois Vineyards to sip outstanding wines and have an amazing dining experience at their blufftop bistro while you watch the sun set over the river bluffs.
Jefferson City
US 63 South
Missouri’s state capital, Jefferson City, is full of rich history. Tour the state capitol building, the governor’s mansion, and experience the city’s newest attraction, the Missouri State Penitentiary Tour. When Alcatraz was built, the Missouri State Penitentiary was already 100 years old. Now the facility is open for tours and it’s an experience you simply won’t want to miss.
Fulton
East on I-70 to exit 148, right on US-54
While in Fulton, be sure to visit the National Churchill Museum. The museum has resources describing who Winston Churchill was, what he did during the course of his long life and why his legacy continues to inspire new generations today, nearly 50 years after his death. Come experience the National Churchill Museum and learn about the man many consider to be the man of the 20th century and whose example lives on into the 21st.
Within an hour…
Clark
US Highway 63 North to State Highway P
The Amish settlement near Clark is the 3rd largest settlement in Missouri. You’ll see Amish farmers working their fields with horses and plows. Quilts, molasses, produce, bakery goods and other items are available at various farms. Please respect the Amish culture and refrain from taking photos of individuals.
Arrow Rock
West on I-70 to exit 98. Right on MO-40 North
The entire village of Arrow Rock is a designated National Historic Landmark and is full of friendly people, charming shops and fascinating historical attractions. If you’re in Arrow Rock in May-November, be sure to see if you can add a performance at the Lyceum Theatre to your agenda. The theatre is one of Missouri’s oldest professional regional theatres and professional actors, directors, designers and technicians from across the country take residence in Arrow Rock for several months to bring the audience outstanding musicals and plays.
Hermann
East on I-70 to exit 175, right on MO-19 South
Also sitting on the Missouri River, Hermann is a town rich in German heritage. Hermann is also home to a wine trail, featuring seven local wineries throughout the historical town. Each weekend in October, Hermann explodes with its Octoberfest and you can also enjoy dining, museums, shops and biking on the Katy Trail.
Gameday In Columbia 