Columbia, MO · Guide

Rainy-day activities for kids in Columbia

1. 01

   Daniel Boone Regional Library

   4.8 (506)100 W Broadway, Columbia, MO 65203, USA
   CalmAll ages

   This public library features a dedicated first-floor play area for children and an extensive collection of books and DVDs for all age groups. It is a welcoming space where families can spend time together, and the facility even provides snacks and a book sale area.

   When to go: no wait weekdays

   Parent tip · Check out the first floor play area for kids and look into the weekend book sales for affordable finds.
2. 02

   Ragtag Cinema

   4.7 (594)10 Hitt St, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
   LivelyBest for school-age

   This independent art house theater provides an eclectic selection of indie films and a cozy, personal atmosphere. The venue includes a bakery, bar, and record store on-site, making it a multifaceted indoor stop for an afternoon of entertainment.

   When to go: walk-in only

   Parent tip · Visit the on-site bakery for a snack before the movie and enjoy the crisp sound system in the small theater.
3. 03

   Columbia Public Library

   4.8 (169)100 W Broadway, Columbia, MO 65203, USA
   CalmBest for preschool

   An airy, multi-floor space that is highly regarded for its impressive children's section and specialized kids' programming. The facility is well-suited for families with young children, offering interactive spaces and helpful staff to assist with new library cards.

   When to go: no wait weekdays

   Parent tip · The children's section is excellent for a two-year-old to explore for several hours.
4. 04

   GQT Forum 8

   4.5 (1,350)1209 Forum Katy Pkwy, Columbia, MO 65203, USA
   Kids' menuLoudBest for school-age

   A traditional cinema offering comfortable seating with significant leg room and affordable ticket prices. The theater is known for its $6 Tuesday specials and a friendly staff that assists families with mishaps like spilled drinks.

   When to go: reserve on weekends

   Parent tip · Visit on Tuesdays for discounted tickets or Wednesdays for flashback movie screenings.
5. 05

   The State Historical Society of Missouri Center for Missouri Studies

   4.8 (105)605 Elm St, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
   CalmBest for school-age

   This clean and modern facility on the Mizzou campus offers free entrance to its art gallery and historical exhibits. It is an ideal spot for genealogy research or a quiet educational walk-through on a Saturday afternoon.

   When to go: no wait weekdays

   Parent tip · Spend time in the second-floor spaces which are well-maintained and quiet for a few hours of exploration.
6. 06

   Museum of Art and Archaeology

   4.7 (210)1020 Lowry St, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
   LivelyBest for school-age

   A free museum featuring a variety of permanent and rotating archaeological collections. It provides a focused educational experience that is particularly useful for sheltering from bad weather, though it can become busy with school groups.

   When to go: walk-in only

   Parent tip · Extend your visit by heading to the library next door to see the plaster sculpture collection.
7. 07

   Boone County History & Culture Center

   4.7 (153)3801 Ponderosa St, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
   CalmAll ages

   This center features well-curated exhibits on local history and model houses illustrating the past. While some buildings are outdoors, the main museum and gallery provide indoor educational activities and occasional family events with music and food.

   When to go: walk-in only

   Parent tip · Ask at the front desk for a free tour of the historic building interiors.
8. 08

   Columbia Mall

   4.2 (5,701)2300 Bernadette Dr, Columbia, MO 65203, USA
   Kids' menuLoudAll ages

   A large indoor shopping center equipped with a carousel, a food court, and a large arcade featuring bowling. It offers a broad range of entertainment options for children including a dedicated kids' play area and an escape room.

   When to go: no wait weekdays

   Parent tip · The food court features a merry-go-round that is a hit with younger children.
9. 09

   Sager Reeves Gallery

   4.7 (70)1025 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
   CalmAll ages

   A light and airy art gallery with warm wooden floors that welcomes all visitors to browse curated shows. The staff is friendly and happy to discuss the artwork with families, making the small space accessible even with kids in tow.

   When to go: walk-in only

   Parent tip · The gallery is small enough to see everything easily without overwhelming children.
10. 10

    University of Missouri Libraries, Ellis Library

    4.7 (61)Ellis Library and Auditorium, 520 S 9th St, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
    CalmBest for school-age

    The primary research library on the MU campus offers vast resources and spacious seating areas. While more academic in nature, the staff is responsive to safety concerns involving children within the facility.

    When to go: walk-in only

    Parent tip · Stick to the first floor for more comfortable seating as upper floors feature older wooden furniture.
11. 11

    The Broadway Shops

    4.2 (948)2703 E Broadway, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
    Kids' menuLivelyAll ages

    A large shopping plaza with a variety of service-based businesses and casual dining. It is a convenient stop for errands and family-friendly meals like all-you-can-eat wings at the local Applebee's.

    When to go: no wait weekdays

    Parent tip · Utilize online check-in for hair appointments to save time while shopping.
12. 12

    Rock Bridge Shopping Center

    4.1 (1,179)E Nifong Blvd, Columbia, MO 65203, USA
    Kids' menu likelyLivelyAll ages

    A neighborhood shopping center featuring an assortment of restaurants and retail shops. The dining options provide a cozy atmosphere with low lighting and sports on TV, suitable for a casual indoor meal.

    When to go: walk-in only

    Parent tip · This center is a known spot for finding a wide variety of homemade pies.