Columbia, Missouri — Several affordable road trips within a day’s drive of Columbia offer spring break escapes for students attending the University of Missouri and travelers across central Missouri.
With thousands of students studying at the University of Missouri, nearby destinations across Missouri and the central United States provide travel opportunities that often require only a few hours on the road, according to regional tourism agencies.
One of the most popular drives heads south to Lake of the Ozarks, where visitors explore waterfront parks, scenic lake drives and hiking trails surrounding one of Missouri’s largest reservoirs.
Students also frequently travel southeast to Ha Ha Tonka State Park, known for its castle ruins, karst landscapes and hiking trails overlooking the Lake of the Ozarks region.
Another common getaway is Branson, a tourism destination in the Ozark Mountains known for live entertainment venues, Table Rock Lake and outdoor recreation areas.
Travelers looking for a larger city experience often head east to St. Louis, where visitors explore landmarks including the Gateway Arch National Park, Forest Park and historic neighborhoods along the Mississippi River.
Farther west, Kansas City, Missouri, offers museums, historic districts and entertainment areas such as the Country Club Plaza and the revitalized riverfront.
Columbia’s location along Interstate 70 places lakes, caves and major Midwest cities within reach of a manageable road trip.
For younger travelers and college students managing tight budgets, these destinations provide opportunities to explore the Ozarks and Midwest while staying within driving distance of the University of Missouri campus.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
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