Fight back the winter blues with these six Columbia activities 

Even though the spring semester is officially underway, the Midwest  will be wrapped up in the frosty clutches of winter for a few more weeks if Punxsutawney Phil is correct. While Missouri winters are incredibly unpredictable, Columbia has some fantastic ways to beat back the blues and take advantage of the oddly warm February weather. 

Here are six fun activities, both on and off-campus, that will make your winter more enjoyable while also introducing you to a bit more of CoMo.

Events Off-Campus: 

Stephens Lake Park:

Columbia’s Stephens Lake Park is perfect for recreation year-round, but its several hills provide the perfect opportunity for sledding during the winter. After sledding, guests can warm up at the Collins Shelter fire pit before hitting the lake for skating if the conditions permit it. 

The park can be found not too far away from campus, with Sled Hill located right off of its entrance at 2001 Broadway. The park is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. 

Papa’s Cat Café:

Chase away those winter blues in the company of adoptable cats, coffee and delicious pastries. Papa’s Cat Café is Columbia’s first coffee shop with furry friends to keep customers company. 

Customers who make reservations receive a free speciality drink and have their time playing with the more than 20 cats guaranteed. Their menu includes classic coffee drinks, alcoholic beverages, specialty lattes and a rotating array of snacks. Even better, the café offers events such as Wine Night, Book Club and even yoga.  

Papa’s Cat Café can be found at “kitty corner” from the EatWell market on Providence Road. While the coffee shop is closed on Monday and Tuesday, it is open the rest of the week from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Mud Room:

A local business nestled in The District, The Mud Room is the perfect place for creative people when the winter chill sets in.

Customers have the opportunity to unleash their inner artist by painting their own ceramics. The studio offers walk-in painting, groups and birthday parties, and classes for varying prices. 

The Mud Room is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays with Wednesdays exclusively open for groups by appointment. On Thursdays, the studio is open from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. 

Shoppes at Stadium and the Columbia Mall:

Fix your shopping and Chick-fil-A craving at these popular destinations in Columbia. Conveniently situated right next to each other, both locations offer a wide selection of stores and restaurants.

In the Shoppes at Stadium, you can grab a meal from Pancheros before going shopping at stores such as Dick’s Sporting Goods, Old Navy or Bed, Bath, & Beyond. The Shoppes is also home to the newly opened second flagship of Peggy Jean’s Pies, a local female-owned business. 

The Columbia Mall has 81 stores, including Aerie, American Eagle, Torrid, Barnes & Noble and Target. There’s also a food court with a wide array of options, from Panera Bread and Wendy’s to Auntie Anne’s, Charleys Philly Steaks and Stir Fry 88.

Polar Plunge:

A beloved winter tradition here in Columbia, the Polar Plunge is sponsored by Special Olympics Missouri. Participants walk, run or crawl into freezing water while raising money that benefits Special Olympics at local schools.

To participate, individuals must raise $75 by the day of the event, Saturday, March 12 at Bass Pro Shops. Funny costumes are highly recommended! There is also a virtual plunge option for those who don’t feel comfortable participating at the in-person event. 

There is also the option to form or join a team, making this a fantastic opportunity to support a great cause with fellow organization members, family and friends. 

Events on Campus:

MU has a diverse array of events, activities and organizations that occur every day on campus. Whether you want to watch a movie, do some crafting, meditate or learn some new life skills, MU has options for you.

Check out MU Engage for upcoming events and keep an eye on the @stufftodoatmu Instagram page for exclusive giveaways, event information and games.

Edited by Shannon Worley, sworley@themaneater.com