Cape Girardeau is a port town located along the Mississippi River in southeastern Missouri. Locals affectionately refer to it as “Cape.” The area around Cape Girardeau includes towns such as Scott City, Dutchtown, Gordonville, and Jackson. The region is filled with nature-rich spots and attractions that both children and adults can enjoy together. Let’s explore the charm of Cape Girardeau!
1. Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center
Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center is surrounded by natural scenery like ponds and forests, giving it a museum-like atmosphere. The 50-acre woodland features tulip and poplar trees, while the wetlands are home to rushes and sedges. The ponds and marshes are also popular for birdwatching, particularly for waterfowl.
The center also offers opportunities to learn about Native American crafts, aquariums, honey production, and the cultural and natural resources of Southeast Missouri through its exhibits. Beyond educational experiences, visitors can also enjoy activities like fishing, hiking, and gardening—making for a fun-filled visit.
If you have any questions during your visit, feel free to ask the staff—they’re known for their friendly assistance.
Name: Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center
Address: 2289 County Park Dr, Cape Girardeau
Official Website: https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/places/cape-girardeau-conservation-nature-center
2. Century Casino Cape Girardeau
Century Casino Cape Girardeau is a multi-use entertainment facility with a casino at its core. You can enjoy over 900 gaming machines, 21 table games, and 4 live-action poker tables.
If you get hungry, you can dine at one of the four restaurants on the premises, which include steakhouses and buffets. Since the casino partners with a hotel, booking both together can sometimes get you a better deal for your stay.
Name: Century Casino Cape Girardeau
Address: 777 Main St, Cape Girardeau
Official Website: https://www.cnty.com/cape-girardeau
3. Cape Safari Park
Lazy L Safari Park is a walk-through zoo where you can see over 50 types of exotic animals up close, including alligators and zebras.
Visitors walk along the main road within the park grounds to meet the animals. At each destination, you can enjoy unique experiences where you can interact with the animals. In addition, there are plenty of other activities such as renting animals for parties, riding camels, and even gemstone mining experiences at nearby quarries.
There are benches and picnic shelters for watching animals, as well as a gift shop and snack stands that are convenient for souvenirs and breaks—making it an enjoyable outing for families, friends, or couples.
Name: Cape Safari Park
Address: 2763 Co Rd 618, Cape Girardeau
4. Discovery Playhouse
Discovery Playhouse is a museum that offers children opportunities to play, discover, and learn. It is designed for children 11 years old and under, with many exciting experiences available.
The hands-on activities include shopping in a grocery store, becoming a dentist, learning about money at a bank, and more. One example is “Grandma Ruth’s Farm,” where kids can experience milking cows, harvesting vegetables, and selling produce in a farm-themed grocery store. This is a place where children can fully enjoy new and unknown discovery experiences.
Name: Discovery Playhouse
Address: 502 Broadway St, Cape Girardeau
Official Website: https://discoveryplayhouse.org/
◎ Summary
From casinos to children's theme parks, Cape Girardeau offers a wide variety of attractions. Beyond the places introduced here, you can also enjoy walking along the Mississippi River or visiting nearby state parks. Find the sightseeing spot that suits your style in this nature-rich port town and enjoy it to the fullest!