The city of Cape Girardeau, Missouri is a place where the past and present intersect. Irony abounds here as evidenced by its moniker “City of Roses,” which may be surprising to some—given that roses are typically associated with romanticism and Cape Girardeau boasts a rich history related to conflict rather than love. Located along the Mississippi River, this small yet vibrant city was first established in 1733 and has evolved into an important cultural center for those who call it home.
From Civil War battles to musical legends such as Chuck Berry, there’s no shortage of things to explore in Cape Girardeau. Residents can visit the Red House Interpretive Center or take a step back in time at the Old Courthouse Museum, learning about local contributions during World War II while also witnessing firsthand artifacts from several other historical events.
Additionally, visitors have access to various outdoor attractions like Marquette Island State Park or LaCroix Creek Conservation Area, providing plenty of opportunity for taking in all the sights and sounds that come with living near a major river system. Even if you don’t live nearby, there’s still much to appreciate about this unique area of Missouri!