Cape Girardeau is a charming city nestled on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River; with its rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty—Cape truly has it going on. From its lively downtown streets to the peaceful riverfront parks, the city's tourism program, led by Brenda Newbern, Executive Director of Visit Cape, has so much to offer. It is an excellent example to other rural towns in the 573.
Once a bustling trading post in the 18th century, the city has evolved into a thriving hub of art, education, and community. The echoes of the past could still be heard through Cape's historic district, lined with quaint shops, art galleries, charming cafes, fine-dining restaurants, and nightclubs. You can follow Cape's history via the beautiful murals painted on the levy wall at the Missouri Wall of Fame. The river levy paints a vivid picture of days gone by, allowing visitors to step back in time while embracing the modern world surrounding them.
...an excellent place for kids to chalk up a sidewalk, stack stones, or fly a kite soaring high above couples strolling along the Mississippi River.
In the heart of downtown, the sounds of laughter and music echo from the Tunes at Twilight, an evening concert series held on Fridays in spring and fall. First Friday with the Arts, sponsored by the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri, allows tourists and residents to connect with local artists. The recent revitalization of Capaha Park allows kids to connect with nature in the city's heart with a large pond full of ducks to fish, playgrounds, a water park, picnic areas, pillions, and, of course, trees.
The recent revitalization of Capaha Park allows kids to connect with nature
And remember that Cape houses some of the most well-stocked antique shops, such as Annie Laurie's and Pastimes Antiques. All together, Cape's events and shops celebrate life and togetherness, a reminder that in Cape Girardeau, community is not just a word but a way of life.
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On our recent visit to Cape, we checked out a few things Cape has going on with kids. The sound of laughter, mixed with the gentle lapping of the water, creates an excellent place for kids to chalk up a sidewalk, stack stones, or fly a kite soaring high above couples strolling along the Mississippi River. A walk along the river bank is a constant reminder that every day is a chance to create lasting memories in Cape Girardeau. And after a hard day of play, what's better than a visit to Sugar Chic Creamery to sugar up with hand-dipped deliciousness?
Surgar Chic Creamery is always a rush!
Other things going on for kids in Cape are places like the Riverside Pottery Studio, where kids can get their hands deep in clay and make their very own pot or clay frog—lessons or one-off visits are available. Riverside Pottery provides an excellent environment for all levels of learning.
Riverside Pottery provides an excellent environment for all levels of learning.
A kid's day in Cape wouldn't be complete without a trip to the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center, filled with hands-on exploration and natural exhibitions of learning, and it's ALL free. Or what about a kid's self-defense class? Gracie Jiu-Jitsu of Southeast Missouri offers a self-defense system that enables people to defend themselves by using leverage to submit opponents. This is done without throwing punches or kicks. It is a fantastic way to promote an active and healthy lifestyle for kids of all ages. At the Discovery Playhouse, kids can genuinely discover fun interactive things like a bank, a grocery store, a dentist's office, a light airplane, a theatrical stage, and much more. There is a paid admission, but it's a great learning experience for kids.
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu of Southeast Missouri offers a self-defense system that enables people to defend themselves by using leverage to submit opponents.
Cape Girardeau does have it going on; it is a sanctuary where dreams take flight and passions are kindled. Its vibrant culture, rich history, and welcoming embrace are a testament to the indomitable spirit of its people. Cape is a canvas waiting to be painted with your presence—Get Out There!
Das Editor
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