Cape Girardeau

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Cape Girardeau's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the Riverfront
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

Visit the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center to learn about local wildlife. Complete the afternoon with a leisurely picnic at a nearby park.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant that offers classic Missouri cuisine. Enjoy the sunset views over the river for a perfect end to the day.

day 2
Discover Local History
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic downtown area, admiring the architecture and local shops. Stop for lunch at a quaint bistro with regional flavors.

evening
:

Attend a live performance at the Boardwalk Theater for an entertaining evening. Enjoy a nightcap at a local pub afterward.

day 3
Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Start your day with hiking at the Trail of Tears State Park. Breathe in the fresh air and take in the natural beauty of the trails.

afternoon
:

Have a packed lunch amid nature and then try fishing or boating on the river. Relax and unwind at one of the scenic overlooks.

evening
:

Return to town for a delicious dinner featuring local seafood. Join a ghost tour to explore the haunted history of Cape Girardeau at night.

day 4
Coffee and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a specialty coffee in a cozy local café. Spend some time journaling or reading before heading out.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby art galleries to admire local artists' works. Participate in a workshop to create your own masterpiece.

evening
:

Dine in one of the city's trendy restaurants offering a fusion of flavors. Wrap up the day by catching a live music event or open mic night.

day 5
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Rent a bike and explore the scenic routes along the river. Stops at various parks will allow you to take breaks and appreciate the views.

afternoon
:

Continue cycling or switch gears to visit local artisanal shops in Cape Girardeau. Grab a delicious lunch with farm-to-table options.

evening
:

End your day with a visit to a local brewery for craft beer tasting and some light bites.

day 6
Art and Inspiration
morning
:

Start the day at the Cape Girardeau Arts Council. Participate in a creative workshop or enjoy a gallery walkthrough.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at an art-themed café that offers a vibrant atmosphere. Spend the afternoon creating your own art piece at a local studio.

evening
:

Attend an art exhibit opening or community art event if available. Savor dinner at a restaurant that showcases art-inspired dishes.

day 7
River Fun
morning
:

Spend your morning at Cape County Park North, where you can hike or relax by the water. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature.

afternoon
:

Head to the river for kayaking or paddleboarding. This will provide an exhilarating experience on the water.

evening
:

Cap off your river adventure with some s'mores around a fire pit at the park.

day 8
Pet-Friendly Fun
morning
:

Take your furry friend to the local dog park for some fun and exercise. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a dog-friendly café nearby.

afternoon
:

Visit a pet-friendly vineyard or farm for activities and tastings. Spend the afternoon strolling together in a pet-friendly area.

evening
:

Enjoy a pet-friendly patio dinner where you can relax and unwind together. Watch the stars in a quiet spot as the day winds down.

day 9
Community Events
morning
:

Check out any local festivals or community events happening in the morning. Join in on activities that showcase Cape Girardeau’s culture.

afternoon
:

Explore any artisan markets or food stalls at the event, sampling local dishes. Enjoy interacting with vendors and other attendees.

evening
:

Wrap up the day celebrating at a concert or event at a local venue. Join the community in enjoying live entertainment together.

Discover Cape Girardeau

Read more in our Cape Girardeau 2024 Travel Guide.

Cape Girardeau Travel Guide