As a Columbia native, I know that because of the University of Missouri, the town is swarming with teenagers and young adults. Obviously, we don't have as many cool places to take Instagram pictures like California or New York, but we do have some hidden gems that I wanna share with everyone who wants a cool Instagram layout or just likes taking pictures.
1. Kaldi's
https://www.instagram.com/p/Blf2gqDH3Po/?taken-by=kaldis_coffee
Kaldi's Coffee is not unique to just Columbia, but it is a fan favorite. Located in the heart of downtown Como and literally minutes away from Mizzou campus, Kaldi's is a hot spot. Not only do they serve delicious coffee and tasty food, but the layout of the shop is so different than other coffee shops in Columbia. The building is surrounded by windows which are great for cute Instagrams of you casually sipping on your latte or you can always choose outside siding for some nice flat lays too. Plus, Kaldi's is a great place to study and catch up with friends too.
2. Yellow Dog Bookshop
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bf4vLR1lEBK/?taken-by=ewrenn_
Yellow Dog Bookshop has been located in downtown Como as long as I can remember, but I didn't check it out until this past March for True/False Film Festival. Bookstores and libraries are my actual weakness and this store is such a hidden treasure. This store is pretty small but has so many different selections of genres, plus the store is insanely cute. Another instagrammable event that Yellow Dog does is their event, Blind Date Books, where they wrap all the books in brown paper and only write a vague description on the outside... could be a cute post on the gram!
3. Broadway Diner
https://www.instagram.com/p/BkiHaVqAsKh/?taken-by=allison___hall
Broadway Diner is the perfect 50's themed photo-shoot spot! The checkered floors and vinyl seating could really spice up your theme, all you need is a nice milkshake and cute outfit then you're good to go. But, make sure you don't show up on a game day or a weekend because the line for brunch can get really long. Definitely go for an early breakfast or dinner special and you'll be golden!
4. The Big Tree
https://www.instagram.com/madisonwis3/
For those Instagram lovers who don't want a theme full of food, I decided to include a nature shot for you guys. The Big Tree is an icon for the Columbia area. It's this huge tree, bigger than any I have ever seen and could make for a really cute dramatic shot or a casual pic with friends like the one above! Check it out on a nice day with, maybe, a picnic photo-shoot, which could be really fun and make for some nice pics to add to your socials.
5. Ragtag Cinema
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bi7Hsh0nu4f/?taken-by=ragtagcinema
Columbia has many options for movie lovers, but Ragtag is kind of unique because they mostly show independent films. The theater is a pretty indie spot and just a more interesting experience than the average movie theaters. So, grab some popcorn, snap a few pics, and check out a film from the True/False Film Festival!
6. Uprise Bakery
https://www.instagram.com/p/BQyx4QoD-Uy/?taken-by=oliviableeker
If you wanna do two photo-shoots in one day, just go right from Ragtag to Uprise Bakery next door. Uprise is really cute and another alternative if Kaldi's seems too mainstream. Uprise has a lot of interesting drinks and food items which makes for a nice brunch or casual study session. I just love exploring new cafes and latte pics for my Instagram, so I would definitely check out this bakery.
7. The Columns
https://www.instagram.com/p/BkFkMIgHm5p/?taken-by=aalarnesonn
For any Mizzou student, the columns are iconic because every new student runs through them for Welcome Week. But, due to the convenience of the location, right on the Quad, I know that during finals, you probably won't be updating your Instagram much. However, most students study on The Columns, so take a five-minute break and snap a pic of you and your study group hitting the books. Getting good grades doesn't mean you can't have some fun too, right?
8. Shelter Gardens
https://www.instagram.com/p/BjyG-eCg6Kp/?taken-by=stephanieziajka
When I was in high school, before every single dance, my squad and I would always go to Shelter to take pics in our dresses before dinner. The lighting is amazing here, plus the flowers and greenery looks so nice in pictures. It really adds a nice pop to your theme! I have also come here for picnics with friends, which makes for some really good memories and really good pictures.
9. Nourish Cafe + Market
https://www.instagram.com/p/BVBS4YcDwzs/?taken-by=lovelenore
Lastly, Nourish Cafe & Market is such a hipster place to not only take pictures, but to eat at. For all the health food lovers and white marble enthusiasts, Nourish is the place to go. They have a variety of salads, smoothies, and an amazing açaí bowl that looks great for your Instagram. Make sure to look up their hours though since they are only open a few hours each day.
So, all the Como locals, Mizzou students, or anyone passing through, if you wanna spice up your Instagram but don't know where to go, definitely check out these spots for inspiration. Columbia has great places for all the food bloggers, nature lovers, and everything in between, so don't get discouraged!
