This article is presented in partnership with Visit Columbia.

Columbia hits all the right notes when it comes to live music venues.

A former movie palace and vaudeville hall, the Missouri Theatre has evolved into a premier destination for concert-goers. The 1928 building earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and was restored with meticulous care a decade ago. The lovely, original baroque and rococo design influences remain, including the 1,800-pound Italian crystal chandelier. But best of all is the sound, which is rich and full in this building, making the 1,200-seat theater an ideal venue for any musical genre from opera to pop. The building also serves as home for The Missouri Symphony Society, which performs throughout the year but most notably during its popular Hot Summer Nights concert series.

The University of Missouri’s iconic Jesse Hall is the administration building for Mizzou, and its auditorium is booked year-round with top-rate entertainment. More than 200 concerts, speeches, plays and other events take the stage at Jesse each year. This venue, along with the Missouri Theatre, hosts the University Concert Series, which brings national and international acts to Columbia. Jesse Hall with 1,732 seats, has long held the distinction of being the largest indoor performance venue in the city.

Catch the best regional acts and plenty of big names in the music biz at The Blue Note in downtown Columbia. It’s the college-town music venue that most college towns only wish they had, and Columbia residents have been lucky enough to attend concerts at The Blue Note since 1980. Grab a beer at the bar, stake out a table, or let the music move you to the dance floor. In the summer, watch for the Downtown Columbia Summerfest outdoor shows, right outside The Blue Note, on 9th Street. The list of musical elite who have visited The Blue Note is long, including REM, Florida Georgia Line and the Dave Matthews Band. Take a chance and go see an act you’ve never heard of because those who pass through The Blue Note are often on their way to becoming the next big thing.

Rose Music Hall is The Blue Note’s little sister, and although the venue shares the same cool and casual vibe, it has its own special appeal. The indoor space accommodates about 150, ideal for intimate concerts by regional faves and up-and-coming artists, but with its expansive patio and adjoining park, Rose has become a favorite destination for those who like their music al fresco. A full bar and a full plate of Pepe’s made-to-order tacos add to the experience. Downtown Columbia Summerfest has some of their shows here, too.

The music is free and the scenery can’t be beat at Cooper’s Landing. Located on the banks of the Missouri River, Cooper’s Landing just south of Columbia celebrates and protects the wildlife and ecological diversity of the site, while providing a welcome escape from the city. It’s a haven for local musicians who find an enthusiastic audience for their original music. You’ll find some of the best Thai food around, along with summertime barbecue, beer and wine. Camping and boating facilities bring plenty of families to Cooper’s Landing, creating opportunities for the generations to unplug and bond beside a rolling river while the music plays.

Murry’s has been serving food with a side of jazz since 1985. The Columbia eatery is as beloved for its live music as it is for favorite fare like Brock’s Green Pepper Rings and Gooey Butter Cake. Dine while you indulge in world-class jazz, including frequent concerts by artists from the “We Always Swing” Jazz Series. Local musicians Tom Andes and Leighton Rhoden frequently anchor the stage.