Columbia, MO · Guide

Things to do with kids in Columbia

Last updated October 11, 2026 · 13 places

1. 01

   Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

   4.8 (1,666)5901 South Highway 163, Columbia, MO 65203, USA
   CalmBest for school-age

   Explore diverse trails like the Sink Hole Trail, visit Devil's Icebox Cave, and marvel at the natural rock bridge. The park features creeks with small aquatic life and opportunities for exploring caves with flashlights.

   Parent tip · Wear mud boots if visiting after rain or if exploring near the stream.
2. 02

   Stephens Lake Park

   4.7 (2,637)2001 E Broadway, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
   LivelyAll ages

   This city park provides paved walking paths around a sparkling lake, multiple playgrounds, and a spray ground for warm days. It's a beautiful and peaceful spot offering picnic tables, shelters, and a sledding hill.

   Parent tip · The outer loop is quite long; the shorter loop around the lake offers a more manageable walk.
3. 03

   Shelter Gardens

   4.8 (957)1817 W Broadway, Columbia, MO 65203, USA
   CalmAll ages

   A peaceful garden featuring a koi pond, beautiful flowers, and well-maintained walking paths. It's a serene setting ideal for enjoying nature, with seasonal blooms and a tranquil atmosphere.

   Parent tip · Spring is a particularly vibrant time to visit for the blooming flowers.
4. 04

   Columbia Cosmopolitan Recreation Area (Cosmo Park)

   4.7 (1,818)1615 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, MO 65202, USA
   LivelyBest for school-age

   This park boasts extensive playground areas with varied obstacle courses, tire climbs, and a treehouse theme play place. It offers ample benches and shaded spots, making it suitable for extended family outings.

   Parent tip · The playground has distinct areas with unique features, keeping children entertained for hours.
5. 05

   Capen Park

   4.8 (400)1600 Capen Park Dr, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
   CalmBest for school-age

   Offering a variety of trails, including paved, gravel, and dirt paths, this park is ideal for hiking and biking. Enjoy scenic lookout points and peaceful walks through wooded areas.

   Parent tip · Some paved trails offer better accessibility, while dirt trails provide a more natural experience.
6. 06

   Grindstone Nature Area

   4.7 (480)2011 Old 63 S, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
   CalmAll ages

   This nature area features a nice paved trail suitable for biking and a clean creek for wading. It connects to Capen Park and offers easy walking and a peaceful ambiance.

   Parent tip · Bathrooms are available in the parking lot.
7. 07

   Katy Trail - McBaine Trailhead

   4.8 (157)Katy Trail, Columbia, MO 65203, USA
   CalmBest for school-age

   This trailhead for the Katy Trail offers a flat, gravel and dirt path perfect for walking, running, or biking. Enjoy views of bluffs and the Missouri River, with destinations like Coopers Landing nearby.

   Parent tip · The trail is easy to walk, run, or bike, making it accessible for various activities.
8. 08

   Cosmo-Bethel Park

   4.6 (673)4500 Bethel St, Columbia, MO 65203, USA
   CalmAll ages

   A neighborhood park featuring a fishing lake with swans and fish, a clean playground, and a paved path for walking. It's a tranquil spot with picnic tables and restrooms.

   Parent tip · The 1/2 mile walk around the lake is a pleasant, easy activity.
9. 09

   Gans Creek Recreation Area

   4.7 (240)3350 E Gans Rd, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
   LivelyBest for school-age

   This area offers wide open spaces suitable for kite flying, soccer, or football, along with walking paths and shaded areas. It's a well-maintained park with clean restrooms.

   Parent tip · Plenty of open space makes this a good spot for various field games.
10. 10

    Bonnie View Nature Sanctuary

    4.7 (224)3300 W Rollins Rd, Columbia, MO 65203, USA
    CalmAll ages

    A nature sanctuary with a unique log playground, paved trails, and wooded paths. It's a place to observe wildlife, including deer and birds, with picnic areas and restrooms available.

    Parent tip · Much of the park is sunny, so early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended for comfort.
11. 11

    Museum of Art and Archaeology

    4.7 (212)1020 Lowry St, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
    CalmBest for school-age

    This museum offers a well-curated collection of art and Egyptian antiquities. It's a small but impressive space where visitors can spend about an hour.

    Parent tip · Admission to the museum is free.
12. 12

    Albert-Oakland Park

    4.5 (694)1900 Blue Ridge Rd, Columbia, MO 65202, USA
    LivelyAll ages

    This park is packed with activities, including a swimming pool, sports fields, tennis courts, disc golf courses, and playgrounds. It features a 1-mile multi-purpose trail and fitness circuit.

    Parent tip · The paved trail is suitable for stroller walks and offers some shaded sections.
13. 13

    Three Creeks Conservation Area

    4.6 (249)Columbia, MO 65201, USA
    CalmBest for school-age

    This conservation area offers numerous trails with river crossings, bluffs, and cave features. Be prepared for potentially wet conditions and varying terrain.

    Parent tip · Consulting a map before you go is advisable, as it can be easy to get lost.