With Cape Girardeau's spectacular natural vistas, new tourism developments and historic past, it offers the perfect solution for any visitor to the area. From the Bollinger Mill and Covered Bridge Historic Site to dining at the Port Cape Girardeau Restaurant, Cape Girardeau provides a great historic adventure.
This 19th century gristmill processed grain for area farms until the mid 1940s. Waterpower is still used to grind cornmeal on the original burrstones during guided tours of the four-story mill. The oldest covered bridge remaining in Missouri is located adjacent to the mill.
Located on Route 34 just west of Cape and Jackson, 573-243-4591
Designed to commemorate the visit of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark in November 1803. “Don” Louis Lorimier, Cape Girardeau’s founder, welcomed the expedition members at his home, the Red House. The center houses an early 1800s exhibit that reflects the lives of early settlers of the “Old Cape Girardeau District.”
128 S. Main St., 800-777-0068
Locally owned and operated, Bella Italia serves an enticing Italian menu in a friendly dining atmosphere. They have a private room that can hold up to 70 people.
20 North Spanish St. 573-332-7800
Built in 1853, this is a fine example of 15th-century Italian Renaissance architecture, predominately built in Gothic style with some Roman influence. An unusual feature is the medieval design plaster masks portraying characters from the Miracle and Mystery Plays. On the National Register of Historic Places, the Church is designated as a Chapel of Ease. This attraction has an audio tour that you can dial into from your cell phone.
30 S. Main St., 573-335-3852
Restored rooms depict life around 1900, reflecting a Victorian elegance. Completed in 1883, it has been restored and placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
325 S. Spanish St., 573-335-1631
What better way to wrap up this day of historical touring than to dine in one of the oldest standing structures west of the Mississippi River? Hickory-smoked barbecue, catfish, prime rib, chicken breast, pork tenderloin and Belaire potatoes are specialties.
19 N. Water St., 573-334-0954
Here, they feature a full menu, bar and live entertainment. Ragsdales Pub is located directly below the Buckner, on Water Street by the river wall opening. Ragsdales features all of the Buckner microbrews, spirits, darts, pool and a juke box.
132 N. Main, 573-334-4677