Want to get out of Cape Girardeau for a daycation? If you’re up for a bit of an adventure, we’ve got some ideas for attractions within two hours of SEMO.
Ste. Genevieve, Mo. — 1 hour, 6 minutes
You might have driven past it before, but you should stop in and see what Ste. Genevieve, Mo. has to offer. Great food? Check! Unique shopping? Check! And we can’t forget about the great attractions like Pickle Springs Natural Area. For the history buffs, there are guided tours offered at most historic sites in town!
Mark Twain National Forest, Mo. — 1 hour, 24 minutes
The Mark Twain National Forest has over 750 miles of trails. Love backpacking, horseback riding, mountain biking, or taking a day hike? With a variety of trail types and lengths, this national forest will have something you’re bound to enjoy for a daycation. This forest sprawls across southern Missouri, so make sure you pay attention to where the trails are located. If you’re an experienced hiker, check out the Silver Mine and Turkey Creek trails. The Cedar Glade trail is popular for novice hikers. There are also many opportunities for water-related activities and scenic drives within the forest.
Bonne Terre, Mo. — 1 hour, 33 minutes
To the east of Ste. Genevieve is the city of Bonne Terre. Home to one of the world’s largest caverns. As its name suggests, Bonne Terre Mine was once used to mine lead but is now open for tours. Walking tours are available for the first two levels, while boating and scuba tours are available for the lower levels. While in Bonne Terre, be sure to check out the Space Museum, which has exhibits on all things interstellar.
Illinois Caverns State Nature Area, Ill. — 1 hour, 40 minutes
The Illinois Caverns State Nature Area is for experienced cave explorers. This cave is wild and is not guided by a tour. Get ready to climb and swim to see the underground waterfalls that fill this system! The cave is free to enter, but you must sign a waiver, go in a group of at least four people, and wear a hard hat.
Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, Mo. — 1 hour, 44 minutes
Taum Sauk Mountain State Park should be on your Cape Girardeau daycation bucket list. Missouri’s highest point (at 1,772 feet) is easy to reach by taking a short hike from the parking lot. If you want to take a longer hike, go to Mina Sauk Falls, Missouri’s tallest waterfall. It’s a three-mile hike, but the views are stunning and well worth the trip. Need to refuel? The nearby cities of Ironton and Pilot Knob offer some great dining options. Looking for more attractions within two hours of Cape Girardeau? Elephant Rocks State Park, home to some amazing geological formations, is a short 25-minute drive from Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.
St. Charles, Mo. — 2 hours, 3 minutes
Just north of St. Louis, St. Charles is full of history and beautiful views. From shopping on historic Main Street to walking along the Katy Trail, there’s something for everyone in St. Charles. Many one-of-a-kind eateries pack the Historic District. Up for something more immersive for your daycation? Head up during one of the festival seasons, from Legends and Lanterns in October to Christmas Traditions in December.
Carlyle Lake, Ill. — 2 hours, 10 minutes
A beach in the Midwest? You betcha! Carlyle Lake has four beaches, seven hiking trails, and miles of biking trails. Want to be on the water? Rentals are available for pontoons, sailboats, and kayaks. Carlyle Lake has two golf courses if you’re feeling up for a round of 18 holes. After hitting the trails, the green, or the waves, head into the town of Carlyle to grab some food.
But Don’t Forget…
If big-city travel is more your style, we’ve got you covered too. We’re a short drive to St. Louis (1 hour, 51 minutes) and Memphis (2 hours, 37 minutes). Thinking bigger? Catch a quick flight to Chicago from the Cape Girardeau Regional Airport.
Let’s Start Exploring!