Things To Do
in Cape Girardeau
Cape Girardeau is a city located in southeast Missouri, along the Mississippi River. It is known for its rich history, including being a major river port and Civil War battleground. The city is home to Southeast Missouri State University, providing a vibrant college atmosphere.
Visitors can explore the historic downtown area, visit parks and gardens, and attend cultural events throughout the year.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the beautiful Cape Girardeau Riverfront while enjoying the scenery. Grab breakfast at a local café to fuel up for the adventures ahead.
Visit the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center to learn about local wildlife. Complete the afternoon with a leisurely picnic at a nearby park.
Dine at a local restaurant that offers classic Missouri cuisine. Enjoy the sunset views over the river for a perfect end to the day.
Visit the Cape Girardeau History Museum to dive into the region's rich past. Participate in a guided tour for a more in-depth experience.
Explore the historic downtown area, admiring the architecture and local shops. Stop for lunch at a quaint bistro with regional flavors.
Attend a live performance at the Boardwalk Theater for an entertaining evening. Enjoy a nightcap at a local pub afterward.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance and charming downtown area.
- Access to the Mississippi River for recreational activities.
- Friendly community and small-town feel.
- Good educational institutions including Southeast Missouri State University.
- Affordable cost of living compared to national averages.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields.
- Weather can be extreme, with hot summers and cold winters.
- Public transportation options are limited.
- Limited entertainment and nightlife compared to larger cities.
- Potential for isolation due to rural location and distance from major urban centers.
Best Activities in Cape Girardeau
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore hiking trails, campgrounds, and scenic overlooks at Trail of Tears State Park.
Visit the nature center for wildlife exhibits, educational programs, and nature trails.
Enjoy the scenic views of the Mississippi River and take a leisurely walk in the park.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cape Girardeau with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cape Girardeau
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge
Provides panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding natural landscapes
Scenic overlooks with views of the Mississippi River and the rolling hills of the Ozarks
Features an observation deck with expansive views of the Mississippi River and downtown Cape Girardeau
Food in Cape Girardeau
Cape Girardeau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savor the tender and flavorful BBQ ribs, a regional specialty, at BBQ restaurants like Dexter Bar-B-Que.
Must-Try!
Experience the unique tangy and crispy fried pickles, a beloved local snack, at establishments like Broussard's Cajun Cuisine.
Indulge in the rich and decadent gooey butter cake, a traditional dessert, available at Katy O'Ferrell's Publick House.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cape Girardeau better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Downtown Farmers Market for locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and occasional food trucks offering a variety of street food.
During the SEMO District Fair, enjoy an array of classic fair foods such as corn dogs, funnel cakes, and cotton candy.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cape Girardeau, it is important to respect people's personal space and avoid standing too close or touching others without permission.
Punctuality is valued in Cape Girardeau, so it's considered respectful to be on time for appointments and meetings.
Using polite language, maintaining eye contact, and offering a firm handshake are important aspects of respectful behavior in Cape Girardeau.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cape Girardeau with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cape Girardeau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Cape Girardeau, United States, especially in the service industry. It is customary to tip 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for services such as hairdressing, taxi rides, and hotel staff. Tipping is a way to show appreciation for good service and is often expected in these situations.
Payment in Cape Girardeau follows standard practices common in the United States. Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and cash is also a common method of payment. Contactless payment methods and mobile wallets are becoming more prevalent. Checks are less commonly used for everyday transactions and are typically used for larger purchases or bill payments. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cape Girardeau.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Cape Girardeau. Moderate temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities.
Warm and humid weather, ideal for enjoying outdoor events and water activities along the Mississippi River.
Beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures make fall a great time to visit Cape Girardeau for outdoor adventures.
Cold temperatures with occasional snowfall, but festive events and holiday celebrations make it a charming time to visit.
Cape Girardeau at Night
Hiking in Cape Girardeau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful nature center with trails that offer a mix of elevation and scenery, ideal for hiking.
Located just south of Cape Girardeau, this state park offers several miles of hiking trails with views of the Mississippi River.
This trail provides a scenic route around Horseshoe Lake, perfect for those looking for a flat, easy hike.
A little further away, this refuge offers various trails for hiking, surrounding wetlands, and diverse wildlife.
Located north of Cape Girardeau, these trails offer an opportunity to hike through wetland areas with plenty of bird watching.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cape Girardeau through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cape Girardeau by plane.
Located approximately 110 miles northwest of Cape Girardeau, STL is the busiest airport in Missouri and offers numerous domestic and international flights.
Located about 120 miles southwest of Cape Girardeau, MEM is a major airport serving the Memphis area and is a hub for FedEx Express, as well as offering various domestic and international flights.
Located around 160 miles southwest of Cape Girardeau, LIT serves the Little Rock area and provides domestic flights along with some international connections.
Situated about 300 miles southeast of Cape Girardeau, BNA is a significant airport in Tennessee offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Approximately 300 miles north of Cape Girardeau, ORD is one of the busiest airports in the world providing extensive domestic and international flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Cape Girardeau, consisting primarily of individuals identifying as non-Hispanic white.
The second-largest demographic group, comprising individuals who identify as Black or African American.
A smaller group encompassing individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin, including various ethnic backgrounds.
A minority group representing individuals of Asian descent, including various subgroups such as Chinese, Indian, and Filipino.
Individuals who identify with two or more racial categories, reflecting a growing demographic trend.
A small demographic group consisting of individuals identifying as Native American or Alaska Native.
A very small group representing individuals from Pacific Island nations.
The Soul of Cape Girardeau
Discover the essence of Cape Girardeau through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Cape Girardeau, with local schools and community leagues actively participating in games and tournaments.
Little leagues and high school teams thrive in Cape Girardeau, making baseball a favored pastime during the spring and summer months.
High school football attracts significant local support, with passionate fans attending games and celebrating team spirit.
Youth soccer leagues are prevalent, and the sport is growing among schools and recreational programs.
Popular among schools and community centers, volleyball is commonly played both indoors and on beaches or parks.
Running groups and events, such as marathons and charity runs, are common, promoting fitness and community involvement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cape Girardeau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Visitors can find an abundance of vegetarian options at various restaurants and cafes, including flavorful salads, vegetable stir-fries, and creative plant-based dishes.
Cape Girardeau features numerous eateries offering vegan-friendly choices, from hearty grain bowls to plant-based burgers and dairy-free desserts.
Those seeking gluten-free options can explore dedicated menus at select eateries, ensuring a diverse range of culinary delights without compromising dietary preferences.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cape Girardeau with these cultural adventures.
