I'll be getting to Columbia the Thursday morning before the Missouri game. Is there anything that I can't miss while I'm there? Anything local that might be fun to do Thursday or Friday?
The best listings for local music, bars, etc. are in the entertainment parts of the two newspapers, vox in the Missourian and Go in the Tribune. Lots of bars downtown because it's right next to campus. If the weather cooperates, I send (or take) people to my favorite hangout by the Missouri River,Cooper's Landing.
Went to HS in Columbia, '92 UT grad,get back every few years, definitely check out Flat Branch and Harpos for beer food. If you're looking for nice place, check out CC Broilers. Blue Note for live bands. Rag Tag for art house movies. Don't miss Shakepeare's for pizza/beer, by far the coolest place in town. Also Booche's on 9th for beer/pool/sliders.