In the last couple of days, Columbia has been cold and rainy. During weather like this, it’s easy to get stuck in a dating rut: since Starbucks and the Student Center offer coffee, comfort and proximity to dorms and classes, why venture anywhere else? This Valentine’s Day, though, skip the café and go on an adventure to some of Columbia’s coolest places. Listed below are five places in CoMo to spend a classy and memorable Valentine’s Day.
1. Ragtag Cinema and Uprise Bakery:
The Ragtag Cinema is a unique place to grab dinner and a movie. Hidden away on Hitt Street, Ragtag features a range of films produced from Hollywood to Bollywood and everywhere in between. Grab dinner from the Uprise bakery, where you can get pizza, cucumber sandwiches or cherry almond danishes, among other options, and eat on one of the couches in the theatre. Together, Ragtag and Uprise have something for everyone: the movies are thought provoking, the atmosphere attractive and the food incredible.
2. The MKT Trail:
The MKT Trail, which runs along the Flat Branch creek, is a beautiful place to have a picnic and enjoy nature. If you’re feeling especially motivated and have no classes this Valentine’s Day, walk or bike the 11 miles to McBaine to see Missouri’s largest bur oak, estimated to stand at over 90 feet. This is a great opportunity to get to know your date without the distractions of campus or downtown.
3. Aladdin Hookah Bar:
The Aladdin, located on 9th street, is a great alternative to the typical club/bar scene. At Aladdin, you can smoke a variety of hookah flavors while lounging on Middle Eastern-style benches and listening to international pop music. You can talk to your date or soak in the scene; either way, you’ll come out feeling happy and relaxed.
4. The Canvas on Broadway:
If you’re looking for a social and artistic way to spend the 14th, go to The Canvas on Broadway: there, you and your date, along with other people, will paint versions of the same picture with help from the instructor. Express yourself by creating a pretty painting (which can double as a gift in the future!), no matter your level of ability. Plus, if your date isn’t going well, you’ve got other people to talk to.
5. Chong’s Oriental Market and Global Market:
Ever wondered what goat meat tastes like, or how to make egg rolls? Find out with your date: at Chong’s Oriental Market, on Locust Street, and Global Market, on 4th street, you’ll find diverse ingredients such as mochi balls and rose juice. Even if your attempt at international cuisine doesn’t work out, you’ll still have a lot of fun with your date.
These are just some of the swanky Columbia places to enjoy on Valentine’s Day. Where will you be spending yours?
Photo Credits:
moviecitynews.com – voxmagazine.com – collegecures.com