Cosmo Park

Columbia Cosmopolitan Recreation Area, commonly known as Cosmo Park, is the largest municipal park in Columbia, Missouri, spanning 533 acres. It is a central hub for recreational activities and community events. The park serves as a venue for the annual Show-Me State Games and numerous athletic tournaments throughout the year, including soccer, football, lacrosse, softball, baseball, golf, and skateboarding. Originally built on the site of Columbia's former Municipal Airport, remnants of the airport layout can still be seen in aerial imagery.

The park offers a diverse range of amenities catering to all age groups and interests. One highlight is the Steinberg Playground, the largest playground in Columbia's park system, alongside a separate tot lot for younger children. For sports enthusiasts, Cosmo Park features multiple fields, courts, and facilities, including 19 soccer fields, 6 football fields, 8 lighted tennis courts, and an 18-hole golf course, the L.A. Nickell Golf Course. Unique attractions like a remote control car track, a roller hockey rink, and bocce ball courts add to the diverse offerings.

Nature lovers can enjoy walking or biking along the park's numerous trails, such as the Bear Creek Trail, Cosmo Nature Trail, and Rhett’s Run Mountain Bike Trail. Dogs are welcome in the 70-acre leash-free Bear Creek Nature Area, though certain restrictions apply. The park also includes two fishing lakes, Nickell Lake and Antimi Lake, making it popular among anglers.

Families and groups can take advantage of the park's picnic areas, including seven reservable shelters and two non-reservable options. With seven restroom areas, many open seasonally, and year-round access to selected facilities, visitors are ensured convenience. Additionally, Columbia Skate Park offers an extensive 28,000-square-foot area for skateboarders and inline skaters. Whether for an athletic event, a leisurely stroll, or a family outing, Cosmo Park accommodates a broad spectrum of activities.