Originally established as a planned community to serve as the seat of Boone County, Columbia, Missouri soon became a center for education and innovation with the founding of the University of Missouri in 1839.

Over the years, Columbia has grown into a lively college town, blending its historical roots with a progressive spirit.

Today, visitors can explore its historic downtown, enjoy local state parks, and experience its commitment to local agriculture. Staying at an organic farm in Columbia offers a unique opportunity to connect with the area's agricultural traditions while enjoying the city’s modern amenities.

For this guide, there’s no set time stamps as it’s all about relaxing and recharging.

An interior view of a chair and oversized floor lamp with large glass windows overlooking a private deck and pond

Where to Stay in Columbia, Missouri

• The Dock House at Mother Farm

Friday Itinerary

Travel into town, with a stop at one of our favorite breweries.

Friday Overview

• Bur Oak Brewing Company
• Shakespeare’s Pizza
• Check in

Dinner: Bur Oak Brewing Company

Why is Bur Oak Brewing Company one of our favorites? First, there’s Clyde himself—a feline who can be found wandering the warehouse and also the inspiration behind one of their signature brews. Secondly, their brews are distinctive, featuring a selection of exceptional cream ales. Perhaps what’s most unique is their creative concoctions that blend two beers together.

Stop here on your way in and order a pizza from Shakespeare for dinner on night one.

Saturday Itinerary

Today is all about recharging. Choose from several things to do—from enjoying quality time on the farm to listening to live music up the street.

Saturday overview

• Farm tour
• Hike at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park
• Paddleboard or kayak
• Live music at Pierpont

A deck overlooking a pond with morning fog

Farm Tour

Part of this experience is staying on a working farm. Whether you are familiar with organic growing practices or just curious, you’ll absolutely want to meet the Hosts and learn the farm’s story.

Organized rows of edible plants at an organic farm

Paddleboard & Kayak

A Missouri summer is best spent in the water. We love this stay for its private pond. Float around, take a quick dip, and enjoy all the wildlife—you might even catch the farm’s ducks swimming by.

A farm duck standing along the shoreline of a pond with a man kayak fishing — One of the farm's duck standing on the ponds "beach"

Snacks & Games

Take a break from the sun and enjoy snacks and games inside. We’re a fan of charcuterie boards for lunch on the go. Looking for two-player board games to bring with? Read our recommendations.

A simple and easy lunch idea, a charcuterie board — *A savory assortment of cheeses, meats, fruit, olives, and crackers*

Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

Known as a cave state, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park features several notable natural formations typical of “Karst” topography. Explore caverns, streams, and hiking trails in this Missouri State Park only 10 minutes away from the farm.

DINNER

Opt for a one-pot meal to simplify cooking, as there's only one induction cooktop available. Our recommendation? Green chicken chili.

Glowing clouds at sunset over a clover field

Pierpont for Live Music

In the warmer months, check out Pierpont General Store for live music Saturday evenings.

A hand holding a root beer bottle from a St. Louis, Missouri bottling company — *Grab a drink and listen to local music at Pierponts*

Sunday Itinerary

Enjoy a slow morning before checking out.

Sunday overview

• Fresh farm eggs for breakfast
• Check out

Faux olive tree and a large window overlooking the pond

Columbia, Missouri

Where to Stay in Columbia, Missouri