The Surprising Missouri Town That Makes An Excellent Weekend Getaway
By Liz Oliver|Published September 17, 2018
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Liz Oliver
Author
Liz is a Missouri native with a B.A. in English from Mizzou and a M.A. in Non-Profit Administration from Lindenwood University. She works for a STL metro-area community college and enjoys writing, traveling, and indoor cycling. Her true passion is forcing her encyclopedic knowledge of Missouri facts on uninterested strangers from across the globe!
Summer vacation already seems like a far away memory. It’s time to take a well needed weekend trip to a great Missouri town full of history and character. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors, learn a bit about Missouri history, and experience family fun all weekend long. Whether you’re planning an adult getaway or a short family excursion, Cape Girardeau is, surprisingly, an excellent choice for a weekend getaway.
Sitting on the banks of the Mississippi River in southern Missouri is Cape Girardeau. With just under 40,000 residents, this city still retains its small town charm.
One of the most iconic homes in Cape is the Glenn House. Constructed in 1883, the Glenn Family lived in the ultra modern home until 1915. The home is a perfect example of how a family with moderate means would have lived in the river town at the turn of the 20th century.
Take advantage of the beautiful Riverfront Bridge Park for great views of the fall foliage and the river. It's a great scenic spot, perfect for watching riverboats come in.
Steamboats taking voyages up and down the Mississippi River often dock in Cape for a short period of time. There are only a few riverboats left on the Mississippi, so these boats typically draw a large crowd.
Families love spending time at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center. Check out exhibits featuring Native American artifacts, aquariums, and wildlife viewing areas. It's the perfect place to enjoy and learn about the great outdoors.
Enjoy a fine class of wine from one of the three area wineries. The Mississippi River Hills Wine Trail is a fun little route that can easily be done in a day. Be sure to bring a designated driver, it's easy to have a bit too much fun out at the wineries.
Cape is also home to Southeastern Missouri State University. Over 10,000 students attend this public university. Visit campus on a Saturday and catch a home football game for some real excitement.
Dine out downtown at one of the many great restaurants. You may even recognize once local eatery from the mega motion picture - Gone Girl. It's a fun, local spot where you can feel like you're a part of the story.
Stay in a gorgeous old building down by the riverfront. From the second floor balcony you can get a fabulous view of the city. Find the listing for this vacation rental here.
Plan a fun trip with your family or loved one to Cape this fall. Start your trip with a quick stop at visitor's center to make sure your weekend goes perfectly!
