Weekdays filled with classes and evenings spent in dining halls can leave you clueless when wondering where to take your out-of-town visitors for the day. While there’s no denying that Shakespeare’s and The Heidelberg are crowd favorites when it comes to classic, delicious places to grab a bite (and definitely worth paying a visit, especially if you and your parents are new in town), Columbia’s street scenery is host to a wide variety of small businesses and restaurants that make it unique.
Consider these outing ideas that will help you show off your town at its best.
Start your day off with a cup of piping hot coffee in a relaxing, cozy environment at **Lakota Coffee Company.** Located on Ninth Street, Lakota’s rustic western decor is homey, making it the perfect spot to settle down and plan out your day. Plus, the menu boasts more than just coffee — a large selection of delectable pastries and hearty soups and sandwiches make Lakota the perfect stop for breakfast or lunch.
Of course, a weekend visit from the parents just wouldn’t be complete without a little shopping — so stop by **Calhoun’s.** In typical boutique fashion, the shelves of this artsy shop house plenty of accessories and scarves to help you doll up your tailgating attire. What sets Calhoun’s apart? Its eclectic array of household items, greeting cards, artwork and quirky-cool trinkets — rest assured that everyone in the family can find something they like here.
If fresh air and exercise is more up your family’s alley, why not call your parents ahead of time and tell them to bring their mountain bikes and/or hiking boots? With 15 miles of bike and hiking trails, **Rock Bridge Memorial State Park** is a Columbia landmark and a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of campus. It may not sound like the typical activity for you and your parents, but the crisp fall air and beautiful scenery may be just the rejuvenating break you need to get through the next week.
Why not take in a show while they’re here? Located downtown, **The Blue Note** is one of Columbia’s most beloved concert venues. It’s host to a seemingly never-ending cycle of great bands and fun shows, often with surprisingly low ticket prices. Don’t forget to check The Blue Note’s calendar online before your parents get to town — there may be a show or concert they’d enjoy attending with you.
Wondering where to take your folks for dinner?
**Addison’s** is perfect for a casually upscale night out. The menu offers a wide array of different items to suit any taste and is known for its striking artwork, laidback atmosphere, and wide selection of beers.
Rather get off the beaten path? **Murry’s** is the perfect place to unwind, sit back, and enjoy a meal accompanied with live music from some of the best jazz musicians around. Incorporating the soul of an old-timey jazz club with good food and a relaxed vibe, Murry’s is right up your alley if you’re looking to get away from the campus crowd and enjoy a classy evening out. Just make sure you plan for dinner there on a Friday or Saturday night; they’re closed most Sundays.
