How is it already November of my senior year of college? The more time that passes, the more things I want to do while I still go to Mizzou! Looking back at the last three years I’ve spent in Columbia, I realized I had a choice: admonish myself for taking any of that time for granted or make the absolute most of the time I have left. The choice was easy. With that, I put together a bucket list of things I have to experience before I put on my cap and gown!
It is so easy to get trapped in a Mizzou-centric bubble, but senior year is all about bursting it. Here are a few of my Columbia must-dos to inspire your own list!
Wynnsome Cake & TEa
As I inch closer and closer to postgrad life, I’ve become obsessed with tea. I find tea to be not only flavorful and nourishing but also very mature. With this newfound preference, I stumbled upon Wynnsome Cake & Tea, a cafe in downtown Columbia. Simply going, though, isn’t what is on my bucket list — taking a Wynnsome University class is. They offer a wide array of cozy classes and though most of the fall ones have passed, there are still a few that pique my interest. Some of the offerings include “Coffee Roasting 101” on Nov. 14, “The Perfect Pair: Introduction to Food and Beverage Pairing” on Nov. 19, and “The Art & History of Tea” on Nov. 20. I would love to get to a class before the semester ends.Â
Columbia Farmers Market
It’s almost embarrassing to admit I’ve gone over three years without visiting the Columbia Farmers Market, but I’m working towards fixing that. It is a year-round farmers market located at the MU Health Care Pavilion. I love supporting local businesses and this feels like a really impactful and fun way to do so. Winter markets operate from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays, so I’ll definitely stop by to grab some groceries and meet some of the mid-Missouri vendors before winter break!
Battlefield Lavender
Battlefield Lavender is a short drive outside of Columbia but worth the mileage, it seems. It is Missouri’s largest lavender farm (added bonus –– if you’re an Emily Henry fan, it will make you feel like you’re living in “Funny Story.”) Though the lavender season typically runs during the summer months, there is still plenty to do! Particularly, I am interested in taking one of their embroidery classes. I really want to squeeze in a trip to Battlefield Lavender during my time in Columbia because lavender farms are so unique and sure to be restful.Â
Ragtag Cinema and Uprise Bakery
I’ve been to Ragtag once but haven’t made my way to its counterpart, Uprise Bakery yet. They share a cozy space downtown, making them the ultimate pair for an off-campus evening. Uprise serves some cafe classics right next door to Ragtag’s independent film screens. There are so many movies out right now that I’m itching to see, and supporting a small business would be the cherry on top of my perfect movie night. Plus, on a college-kid budget, Ragtag is far more affordable than larger theaters.Â
First Fridays
Finally, I feel the need to experience First Friday. On the first Friday of every month, the North Village Arts District holds a free event where local art galleries showcase their work. There’s food, music and a great community feel. This one is a very important add-on to my list because it reminds me of an event called “Third Thursday,” a similar street fair my hometown had growing up. Crossing this off before I graduate will bring a little piece of nostalgia to my college town experience.
Other Events and Resources
There are events going on all the time in Columbia! Be sure to check out Visit Columbia MO Events whenever you have a free weekend — it’s a great resource to see what pop-up markets, festivals and live music are happening around town, and something I sourced frequently when making my personal bucket list. Â
I wish I had started this bucket list earlier because four years really does go quickly. If you are a freshman or sophomore, it’s never too early to start one. To my fellow juniors and seniors — it’s never too late to embrace your college town before you say goodbye.