Southeast Missouri Travel Guide
Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful Southeast Missouri with our comprehensive travel guide, including must-visit destinations and helpful tips.
- Introduction to Southeast Missouri
- List of Places to Visit in Southeast Missouri
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Southeast Missouri
- Best Things to Do in Southeast Missouri: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Southeast Missouri
- Food and Drink Scene of Southeast Missouri
- Where to Stay in Southeast Missouri: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Southeast Missouri: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Southeast Missouri
- Best Time to Visit Southeast Missouri
- Do’s and Don’ts of Southeast Missouri
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Southeast Missouri: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Southeast Missouri
- Where to Go Next from Southeast Missouri: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Southeast Missouri
Southeast Missouri is a region located in the southeastern part of the state of Missouri. Known for its beautiful natural landscapes and rich history, Southeast Missouri offers visitors the chance to explore stunning natural attractions, culturally important museums, and indulge in delicious local cuisine.
List of Places to Visit in Southeast Missouri
The following are the must-visit places in Southeast Missouri:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- The Missouri Delta Cotton Museum, located in Kennett, showcases the history of the cotton industry in the region.
- The Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center is a great place to learn about the rich natural history and biodiversity of the region.
- The Bollinger Mill State Historic Site, located in Burfordville, is a beautifully preserved historic mill that dates back to the mid-19th century.
Natural Attractions of Southeast Missouri: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park is a must-see destination located in Reynolds County, featuring a natural water park, spectacular rock formations, and hiking trails.
- Elephant Rocks State Park, located in Iron County, offers stunning geological formations to explore and scenic views for nature enthusiasts.
- The Trail of Tears State Park, located in Jackson, is a historical site showcasing the stories of the Cherokee Native American tribe as they were forcibly removed from their lands.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Southeast Missouri
Southeast Missouri offers various hiking and biking trails that allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of the region, including the 35-mile long Katy Trail and the scenic Skyline Drive.
Best Things to Do in Southeast Missouri: Activities and Tours
- Take a tour of the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal and learn about the life and works of the legendary American author.
- Take a leisurely boat ride on the Mississippi River and enjoy stunning views of the region.
- Visit the Tower Rock Vineyard and Winery and enjoy a tasting of local wines.
Week-Long Itinerary for Southeast Missouri
Day 1: Visit the Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, hike the Shut-Ins Trail and swim in the natural water park.
Day 2: Explore the Missouri Delta Cotton Museum and learn about the history of the cotton industry in the region.
Day 3: Take a tour of the Bollinger Mill State Historic Site and learn about the history of the 19th-century mill.
Day 4: Visit the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center and enjoy the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region.
Day 5: Take a leisurely boat ride on the Mississippi River and enjoy stunning views of the region.
Day 6: Take a wine tasting tour of the Tower Rock Vineyard and Winery and enjoy local wines.
Day 7: Explore the Trail of Tears State Park and learn about the history of the Cherokee Native American tribe.
Food and Drink Scene of Southeast Missouri
Must-Try Dishes
- Try delicious barbecue at the Missouri Hick BBQ in Cuba.
- Don’t miss out on the famous fried chicken at Lambert’s Cafe in Sikeston.
- Enjoy the best biscuits and gravy and other southern favorites at The Blue Owl Restaurant and Bakery in Kimmswick.
Local Beverages
- Try local wines at the Tower Rock Vineyard and Winery.
- Enjoy locally brewed beer at the Ferguson Brewing Company in St. Louis.
Where to Stay in Southeast Missouri: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Stay at the St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, located in St. Louis, for a luxurious experience.
- Budget travelers can stay at the charming River’s Edge Resort in Eminence.
- The Drury Plaza Hotel Cape Girardeau Conference Center offers comfortable lodging with convenient amenities.
What to Buy in Southeast Missouri: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Purchase beautiful souvenir pottery at the Peach Tree Pottery in Marble Hill.
- Shop for unique souvenirs made by local artisans at the Iron Star Trading Company in Ironton.
Local Culture and Customs of Southeast Missouri
Southeast Missouri has a rich cultural history that is celebrated through music, traditional crafts, and festivals. Visitors can enjoy live music, cultural festivals, and art galleries showcasing the local culture and traditions.
Best Time to Visit Southeast Missouri
The best time to visit Southeast Missouri is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the fall foliage is at its peak. The summer months can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.
Do’s and Don’ts of Southeast Missouri
Do:
- Respect the local culture and traditions.
- Explore the natural beauty of the region.
- Try the local cuisine and beverages.
Don’t:
- Don’t litter or damage the natural landscapes.
- Don’t ignore safety advice when exploring the natural areas.
- Don’t disrespect the local customs and traditions.
Safety and Health
Safety in Southeast Missouri
Visitors should be aware of natural hazards such as extreme weather conditions and rough terrain in some hiking areas. Additionally, it is important to exercise caution when exploring remote areas and to stay alert and aware of surroundings in urban areas.
Health in Southeast Missouri
Visitors to Southeast Missouri should ensure that they are up-to-date with routine vaccinations and should take necessary precautions to protect against tick-borne illnesses, which can be prevalent in some areas. It is essential to stay hydrated and use sun protection while exploring the region.
Getting to Southeast Missouri: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Southeast Missouri
The closest airports to Southeast Missouri are the Lambert-St. Louis International Airport and the Memphis International Airport, both of which are about 2 hours away by car.
Bus Stations Near Southeast Missouri
Greyhound Bus Lines serves Southeast Missouri with busses stopping in Cape Girardeau, Sikeston, and St. Louis.
Other Options
Visitors can also opt to rent a car or use ride-sharing services to explore the region.
How to Get Around in Southeast Missouri
Visitors can get around in Southeast Missouri by renting a car, using ride-sharing services, or booking a tour with local operators. Biking and walking are also great ways to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Where to Go Next from Southeast Missouri: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can explore from Southeast Missouri, including:
- The Ozark National Scenic Riverways
- The Gateway Arch in St. Louis
- The Mark Twain National Forest
Conclusion
Southeast Missouri is a beautiful and culturally rich region with plenty to offer visitors of all interests. Explore the natural beauty, indulge in the delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the unique local culture and traditions.
