This historic Mississippi River town of 35,000 is the medical, educational and commercial headquarters for southeastern Missouri. Cape Girardeau is home to Southeast Missouri State University. Visitors come to explore the history of Cape and enjoy shopping opportunities.

In Old Town Cape, the historic riverfront district, visitors can see and feel the Mississippi's influence on this town while enjoying antique, craft and specialty shops, art galleries and restaurants. The history of Cape Girardeau plays out on the Mississippi River Tales Mural, a 24-panel mural along the floodwall. Historic buildings, Old St. Vincent's Church and Glen House, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Cape River Heritage Museum and the Red House Interpretive Center are dedicated to Cape's history. There are several Civil War sites throughout the area.

The Cape Girardeau area offers many scenic views of the Mississippi. Cape Rock Park, site of the original French trading post, overlooks the river. Scenic drives are available, either north or south of Cape, along the Great River Road. Nearby, the Trail of Tears State Park, a part of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, provides history exhibits, Mississippi River views, fishing, camping, swimming and hiking, backpacking and horse trails.

Cape Girardeau is located 120 miles southeast of St. Louis and 180 miles north of Memphis. It is accessible via Interstate Highway 55 and U.S. Highway 61. A variety of lodging options are available including bed and breakfasts.