Fall is one of the best times to get out and explore Cape Girardeau. As the weather cools down and campus comes alive with events, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season without going far. Grab a fun drink, explore local spots, or visit a pumpkin patch with friends.
Whether you need something to do between classes or want to spend your Saturday with friends, Cape Girardeau has plenty to offer. Grab a jacket, invite a few friends and make the most of fall near campus.
What Can I Do in Downtown Cape During Fall?
Of course, there’s plenty of fun fall things to do throughout the community. Every Saturday from 8 a.m.-noon, the Cape Riverfront Market takes place on S. Spanish St. The last day for visiting the farmers market this year is October 31, ending with a Haunt & Harvest Festival that’s sure to get you in the spirit. This is a great spot to grab breakfast, buy a pumpkin, or just shop around. While you’re downtown, stop by Red Banner Coffee Co. for great local fall drinks and the best chai lattes in town.
What Pumpkin Patches & Haunted Houses are Near SEMO’s Campus?
If you really want to get into the Halloween spirit, pumpkin patches and haunted houses are a must. Locally, Grace Church’s Pumpkin Patch sells a wide variety of pumpkins and gourds for reasonable prices. Knowlan Family Farms in Jackson is also a great spot for both pumpkins and apple picking, and if you’re lucky you might even get to see a highland cow!
If you’re looking to make a day out of your adventure, the Perryville Pumpkin Farm and Beggs Family Farm are both great options. These give you the whole pumpkin patch experience, complete with hayrides, corn mazes, and home-baked goods. Both farms are less than an hour drive from Cape Girardeau.
For a true scare, two places to get spooked are the Haunted Hall of Horror and Glenn House. The Haunted Hall of Horror at A.C. Brase Arena is open every Friday and Saturday in October from 7-10 p.m. for only $12 per person. This year, they’re also hosting a student night where SEMO students can purchase an $8 ticket for Halloween night with their SEMO ID.
For those who aren’t scared of actors in costumes, a Glenn House Ghost Tour is perfect. This historic museum is right by the River Campus and comes with a plethora of ghost stories. To schedule your tour, contact the Glenn House at (573) 587-4248.
Where are the Best Outdoor Fall Spots in Cape?
For fans of chilly fall hikes, Cape Girardeau has several spots for long walks over crunchy leaves. Capaha Park is perfect for a leisurely walk around the lake. The La Croix Trail and Trail of Tears are beginner-friendly hikes, perfect for seeing all the fall colors Cape has to offer. The Conservation Center is also a great spot for nature trails and hands-on indoor exhibits when it gets too cold.
For animal lovers, amp up the fun by taking an adoptable dog on your hike. SEMO Pets, the local no-kill shelter, offers Adventure Tails from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. every day except Tuesdays. This is a free program that allows you to take out a shelter dog for the day, and if you’re in a club that requires community service, this can also count as volunteer hours. They host puppy and kitten yoga classes each month, which are the best way to get in that cuddly fall mood.
On-Campus Events
If you don’t want to leave campus, there are plenty of events for you. Crisp Museum is always hosting fun, free events for students at the River Campus. Visit Crisp Museum's website to see the full events calendar and register for a class.
Fall is also a prime time for student organizations to host their fundraisers. Check out the SEMO events page for fun, affordable fall activities to do with your friends.
Athletic Events
No fall is complete without some football, and a Redhawk gameday is hard to beat. The football tailgate begins three hours before kickoff, with food trucks and free drinks lining the street. A fan favorite at any tailgate is the Redhawk Walk, when the football team marches through the street, led by the band and spirit squads, so fans can cheer them on before they head into the stadium. If you're lucky, you may even get a smile from Head Football Coach, Coach Tuke!
Athletics are in full swing all year long. Stop by an upcoming basketball, volleyball, or soccer game and see why the Redhawks are the best in the OVC. Plus, home games are free for all students, and most include a fun giveaway. For information on game promotions, be sure to follow @thenestsemo on Instagram for sneak peeks at exclusive giveaways. A full sport-wide schedule can be found at semoredhawks.com.
One of the best things about fall in Cape is that you don’t have to travel far to find something to do. Whether you’re grabbing coffee downtown, going to a football game, or just taking a walk with friends, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the season. You may even find your new favorite fall spot along the way. Consider this a sign to live out your coziest, fall dreams- Cape Girardeau edition.