It can sometimes be challenging to compete with places like the East and West Coast when it comes to attractions, but the Midwest always exudes a special charm when it steps up to the plate, and Missouri is no exception! From local wineries to niche cultural experiences, there are so many things you can get from The Show-Me State that you can’t get anywhere else! Whether you’re visiting friends, family, traveling for business, or simply passing through Cape Girardeau for any other reason, here are a few things you can’t miss while you’re in town.
Get in Touch with a Bit of History
Missouri is a great place to get a scoop or two of history, and Cape Girardeau is no exception. There are many historical sites to visit and learn about throughout town, like the Fort D Historic Site. Fort D was constructed during the Civil War with the primary goal of protecting Union troops. Despite Confederate pressure, Fort D never fell to any Confederate attacks, and remained steadfast throughout the war.
There are plenty of other historical gems to discover as well. You can explore the Cape River Heritage Museum housed within a former police and fire station. Inside these walls guests will find exhibits that are changing constantly, tours, groups, and other social events open to the community and the general public.
And it’d be a crime to leave out another historical figure in the town. If you’ve never witnessed a world record before, here’s your chance! Deep in the heart of Cape Girardeau, thirst quenchers and reasonable portion size haters alike will be thrilled to find the World’s Largest Cup of Soft Drink, recognized officially by the World Record Academy. You won’t find that in New York!
Treat Yourself to Some Wine Country
Another delightful offering that Missouri as a whole provides is a plethora of wineries and vineyards to visit, explore, and enjoy. In Cape Girardeau, wine enthusiasts can find Hunter Valley Winery, the oldest winery in Cape County. Sipping on some delicious wine and looking over the beautiful view of the lake—what could be better?
Guests can enjoy a variety of wines grown on the property including Chambourcin and Chardonnay. If you’re dragging along non-wine-lovers, microbreweries are available to enjoy as well! Take a stroll through the sculpture park to appreciate the work of several artists, enjoy the gourmet food baskets, and have a wonderful afternoon at this fine Girardeau establishment.
Explore a Little Mystery
We all crave a little excitement in our lives, and for a lot of us, that can mean reading exciting stories or watching tense movies. Thrillers and suspense films can be even more intense when they’re based in reality, especially when that reality is one that you can visit. In Cape Girardeau, you can do just that.
In 2013, Cape Girardeau put on its acting shoes to embody the role of North Carthage, a fictional Missourian town that housed the events of the movie “Gone Girl”. Rosamund Pike, Ben Affleck, Neil Patrick Harris, Tyler Perry, director David Fincher, and the whole film crew were set up in Cape Girardeau to bring this movie to life, and to bring the town to the silver screen.
“Gone Girl” enthusiasts can take a tour of the different sets and locations in the town, including the Riverfront Park and The Bar. Please remember, that the Gone Girl House itself is an actual home where people live, so kindly be respectful!
Snag a Great Deal
Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for. What’s the Midwest without great yard sale culture? Cape Girardeau also has a lot of other second-hand opportunities, including charming antique stores. For example, Annie Laurie’s, is a Cape Girardeau antique store that hosts a curated selection of both vintage and high-quality new merch, as well as plants for all of the plant parents out there. Pastime Antiques is another store with a wonderful selection to get lost in!
Of course, if you’re looking for local Cape Girardeau yard sales, you’ll have to put your yard sale sleuth hat on. Fortunately, with some special tips and tricks on finding great garage sales, you’ll have your targets picked out in no time. From history to wine and second-hand stores, Cape Girardeau is ready to offer a wonderful time. Long live the yard sale!