Wanting to get out of Cape and explore? If you’re up for a bit of adventure, we’ve got some ideas.
Ste. Genevieve, MO - 1 hour, 6 minutes
You might have driven past it before, but you should stop in and see what Ste. Genevieve has to offer. Great food? Check! Unique shopping? Check! And we can’t forget about the outstanding attractions, including Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary and Pickle Springs Natural Area. There are even activities for the history buffs, and a tour is offered for the historic sites in town.
Bonne Terre, MO - 1 hour, 33 minutes
To the east of Ste. Genevieve lies in the city of Bonne Terre, home to one of the world’s largest caverns. As its name suggests, Bonne Terre Mine was used to mine lead but is now available 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.
Taum Sauk Mountain State Park - 1 hour, 44 minutes
Taum Sauk Mountain State Park should be on your Cape Girardeau bucket list. The tallest point in Missouri (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. Want to do more exploring? Elephant Rocks State Park, home to some amazing geological formations, is a short 25-minute drive.
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, including food. There are restaurants aplenty here, including some one-of-a-kind eateries in the Historic District. Up for something more immersive? Head up during one of the festival seasons, from Legends and Lanterns in October to Christmas Traditions in December.
Carlyle Lake, IL - 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!