It’s time to celebrate! Graduation is a huge milestone, and Missouri’s university cities are teeming with great spots to mark the occasion. From memorable experiences to unforgettable meals, it’s time to celebrate all that hard work with some Missouri flare in university cities across the state!
University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou)
The Vibe: A classic college town bathed in black and gold – colors to wear when out on the town celebrating. Photos by the iconic columns are a must, but there’s lots of hot spots to see and enjoy in Columbia.
The Group Activity: Grads the only ones who’ve been learning. The world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales get their education at Warm Springs Ranch, and you’re invited to see them in action. The official breeding facility for the renowned horses lets visitors get a close-up look at how they’re trained and cared for. It’s an unforgettable field trip for groups, horse enthusiasts or anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind experience.
The Celebration Meal: Raise a glass to your graduate in Rocheport at Les Bourgeois Vineyard, about 15 minutes outside of Columbia. The estate has something for everyone, including The Blufftop at Rocheport, a lunch spot with the breathtaking view of the Missouri River as its backdrop. Or, if you’re staying at The Broadway downtown, have dinner and drinks on the rooftop or at its 11Eleven restaurant.
Missouri State University (MSU), Springfield
The Vibe: Maroon and white as far as the eye can see. It’s a true Midwestern hub blending a homey Ozarks energy with a large university feel. Pay tribute to the bear head, then leave the student union for these Springfield-area celebration spots.
The Group Activity: Up for a little more learning, and a lot more fun? Check out Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium to see nature up close and personal. There’s a 1.5-million-gallon aquarium teeming with more schools (of fish!), not to mention mammals, reptiles and birds galore. Wildlife galleries immerse visitors in the sights, sounds and even smells of extreme habitats, a surefire crowd-pleaser for your group.
The Celebration Meal: At graduation, students throw their hats high in the sky; at Lamberts Café in Ozark, it’s the rolls that get “throwed!” Catch a fresh hot roll and tuck into a generous portion of home-style meals and fixings from a spot that makes every day feel like a celebration. If you want a rowdy and fun celebration, look no further than this spot about 15 minutes away from Springfield.
University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL)
The Vibe: UMSL is very St. Louis – focused atmosphere with spirit, urban yet professional. There’s sure to be plenty of red and gold in the Gateway City.
The Group Activity: If you’re looking for a wildly-fun time – and for free admission — look no further than the Saint Louis Zoo. It’s 90 acres filled with rare and endangered animals, unique experiences that bring you from the ground into the trees and beside the water, and endless adventure. Take some truly unique graduation photos at this iconic spot not far from campus at Forest Park!
The Celebration Meal: Your party can toast to the graduate while iconic restaurants in St. Louis’ iconic Hill District toast the raviolis. Head to Charlie Gitto’s or Mama’s On The Hill for fantastic Italian cuisine that can’t be beat. There’s lots of room for a big celebration, and they’re exceptional spots for quieter dinners, too.
University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC)
The Vibe: Classic Kansas City sophistication, blending artsy and upscale. The royal blue and gold reflect the city’s famous fountains and jazzy roots.
The Group Activity: you don’t have to have a degree in fine arts to enjoy them! While in Kansas City, check out the nearly 40,000 pieces at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Pose for a graduation portrait among 35 pieces in the Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park, and peruse collections of everything from photography and architecture to art from different cultures across the world. Entrance is free, and you’ll want to bring a piece of the visit home from the gift shop.
The Celebration Meal: While you’re in the Barbeque Capital of the World, the perfect celebration spot should be clear. Check out Jack Stack Barbecue’s Freight House location for classic dining space in the Crossroads with lots of history. Or there’s the sister location in Country Club Plaza, bringing the famous flavor to a hub of boundless shopping and entertainment that keeps the party going! Don’t miss the excellent lunch and dinner menus, or the wide array of handcrafted cocktails.
University of Central Missouri (UCM), Warrensburg
The Vibe: UCM has that homey feeling. It’s the beating heart of its tightknit community, and it’s a true college town. For the Mules out there, the colors are red and black.
The Group Activity: About 20 minutes away from Warrensburg, you’ll find the perfect spot for colorful grad photos or a laid-back walk reflecting on the past few years at Powell Gardens. There’s 900 acres of gorgeous plant life and unique architecture to experience, and a marketplace to fuel up on snacks or souvenirs to mark the occasion.
The Celebration Meal: UCM students – and visiting alums – have enjoyed Heroes Restaurant and Pub for decades now. There’s so much character in the cultural memorabilia you’ll find inside, and a great selection of hearty and lighter dishes, eclectic beer and classic cocktails to make it a party.
