Ready to explore Cape Girardeau? Let me take you through some of my favorite spots to hang out, eat, and make memories in Cape Girardeau as a SEMO student!
Cape West Cinema
Starting off with one of my favorite pastimes... seeing a movie at the ! I love it for its unbeatable deals. Tuesdays are the best—you can see any movie for just $5. Plus, if you bring your student ID on Thursdays, tickets are only $6. For me, Cape West Cinema is a great way to treat myself during a busy week, spend time with my friends, and the atmosphere and prices make the whole experience extra enjoyable! 
Annie Laurie's
When I am in the mood to shop, one of my favorite places is Annie Laurie’s! It’s packed with unique vintage furniture, clothing, accessories, and more, all handpicked with care. There’s always something new to discover! It’s the perfect spot to explore with friends and make a day of it! Across the street is The Indie House collaborative retail space supporting women-owned businesses! Featuring local favorites like Better Days Studio. This spot brings together a range of products, from handmade goods and apparel to unique art, gifts, and more. You’ll find a welcoming atmosphere full of creativity and community, making it easy to discover new favorite shops!Burritoville
I love Burritoville because it’s more than just a place to grab a bite—it’s a Cape Girardeau tradition. Located right by SEMO’s campus, it’s the go-to spot for satisfying all my cravings. Whether I’m craving a dirty fry burrito, a cheesy quesadilla, or some loaded fries, Burritoville always hits the spot. It is perfect for a quick bite with friends, a study break refuel, or a pre-game tradition. Alumni love it so much they come back just for a taste of B-Ville, so get ready, it’s about to be your new favorite spot, too!
Top of the Marq
For a great night out in Cape Girardeau, I can’t recommend Top of the Marq enough! With its unique atmosphere, delicious food and drinks, it’s the perfect spot to spend time with friends, whether I’m celebrating something special, catching up with friends, or have family in town to visit, Top of the Marq always feels like the perfect choice for any occasion. I personally love Top of the Marq for its incredible views and the overall experience—it’s the perfect spot for a night out. The smashburger and truffle fries are AMAZING —they’re a must-order every time, though Top of the Marq can be a bit pricey. 
When I’m looking for something more budget-friendly, I head over to Ebb and Flow or Soiree! At Ebb and Flow, you can kick back and enjoy live music and if you’re in the mood for a fun, unique experience, head to Soiree, a tiki bar with a lively atmosphere created by the same people who own Annie Laurie’s. Both places bring the good vibes without breaking the bank, perfect for a fun night with friends!
Trail of Tears State Park
Cape Girardeau is home to plenty of beautiful hiking trails and scenic locations just waiting to be explored. One of my favorites is the Trail of Tears State Park. Whether you're up for a hike or just want to enjoy nature, the park has something for everyone. The drive through the park is equally breathtaking, with stunning views around every turn. Personally, my favorite way to unwind is by driving through the park in the fall to take in the vibrant colors and reconnect with nature! Don’t forget to check out the lookout, it is amazing!
Conservation Nature Center
I love the Nature Center because it is a great hiking experience, and completely free! Explore the beautiful trails and enjoy the atmosphere. Plus, if you're into fishing, bring your gear because you can fish right there! Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to experience the best of Cape's natural beauty!Speck Pizza
Pizza is one of my favorite foods and luckily for me Cape Girardeau is the place to be when craving some! Some of my favorite places include: Minglewood, where you can indulge in mouth-watering pizzas in a vibrant atmosphere. Encore, for a classic pizza experience with a local twist. Spec, where they offer a pizza menu that's sure to impress, and Pagliai’s, a local spot where you can enjoy some of the best traditional pizza in town. Trust me, if you’re a pizza lover, these spot won’t let you down!
Rock 'n' Roll Drive-In
Rock 'n' Roll Drive-In just outside of Cape is the place to be for a night out! It's super cheap, making it the perfect spot for a budget-friendly activity. Around Halloween, it gets even more exciting with spooky surprises like Freddy Krueger walking up to cars while you're watching classic horror movies like Halloween. It is always a blast!
Cape Splash Family Aquatic Center
The Cape Splash Family Aquatic Center is an exciting outdoor water park packed with water activities and always one of my go-to spots! Whether I am looking to relax or make a splash, this park has something for everyone. Drift along the lazy river, unwind in the swirl pool, or take on any of the water slides. In the off-season, the park is decorated with festive Christmas lights for a fun drive-by experience. It's just one of those places that brings good vibes, whether I'm soaking up the sun in the summer or enjoying a cozy drive by the lights in the winter!
Cape Girardeau has a way of feeling like home, no matter how long you've been here. These spots have made my SEMO experience special. I hope this guide inspires you to explore and make memories. Grab your friends, try something new, and enjoy the town!
Have fun,
Izzy Mostek