Downtown Columbia has a great urban vibe. Midway between St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is called the Athens of Missouri with good reason. The city center draws students and adventure seekers from all over the state and from farther away as well. Downtown has an art museum and a ballet company, supported by an accomplished community of practicing artists who live and work in the heart of Missouri.
Framed by the University of Missouri on the south, Stephens College on the east, and Columbia College of Missouri on the north, the square mile of Downtown Columbia has a lively youthful air. Its ZIP code is 65201, just like much of Columbia, but the Downtown has a special spirit in its busy streets and crowded cafes.
Students, artists, and professionals live in apartments, condominiums, and rental lofts throughout the nationally recognized historic district of downtown. They meet in the many restaurants and clubs, and attend performances at the Missouri Theatre or the Macklanburg Playhouse.
For outdoor recreation, the MKT trail passes just to the east of Downtown Columbia. One of many trails built on an old railroad right of way, the MKT is ten feet wide, with a crushed limestone surface nearly ideal for strolling, jogging, or bicycling. In winter, folks use the MKT for cross-country skiing.
The trail connects to the Katy Trail on the south, which extends all the way to the city of St. Charles. From St. Charles, knowledgeable riders can make connections to the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, once a vital link on Route 66, and bicycle across the Mississippi.
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