Sikeston Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Sikeston, Missouri, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Sikeston

Sikeston is a small city located in Southeast Missouri. With a population of just over 16,000 people, Sikeston is a charming destination that offers visitors a taste of Midwestern hospitality. The city is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, Sikeston has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Sikeston

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sikeston Depot Museum and Gallery - The museum is located in a beautifully restored train depot that dates back to 1901. Visitors can learn about the history of the railroad and see exhibits on local art and culture.
  • Missouri Delta Medical Center Museum - The museum showcases the history of healthcare in Sikeston and features exhibits on medical instruments, vintage photographs, and healthcare artifacts.
  • Bootheel Youth Museum - The museum offers hands-on exhibits and interactive displays for children of all ages.

Natural Attractions of Sikeston: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Rotary Park - The park boasts hiking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a lake for fishing and boating.
  • Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge - The refuge is a paradise for nature lovers and features miles of hiking trails, fishing, and nature observation towers.
  • Lake Wappapello State Park - The park offers visitors a chance to relax on the beach, fish, and hike through the Ozark foothills.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sikeston

Sikeston has many trails for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • New Madrid Historical State Park Trail - The trail is approximately 4 miles long and winds through the park’s historic sites.
  • Magnolia Road Trail - The trail is about 4 miles long and is popular with both hikers and bikers.
  • Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge Trail - The refuge offers five hiking trails with varying lengths and difficulty levels.

Best Things to Do in Sikeston: Activities and Tours

  • Mississippi River Cruise - Take a leisurely cruise along the Mississippi River aboard a riverboat.
  • Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo - The annual rodeo is held every August and features big-name performers such as Luke Bryan and Eric Church.
  • Sikeston Farmers Market - The market is open on Saturdays from May to October and offers a variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables, homemade jams, and artisanal crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sikeston

Day 1: Explore Sikeston’s historical landmarks Day 2: Explore outdoor attractions Day 3: Take a Mississippi River cruise Day 4: Try some of Sikeston’s best restaurants Day 5: Visit the local farmer’s market Day 6: Kayak on Lake Wappapello Day 7: Relax at a local spa

Food and Drink Scene of Sikeston

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sikeston-style Chili - Served over spaghetti noodles, this unique chili is a local specialty.
  • Sikeston-style BBQ - Sikeston is known for its BBQ, with some of its popular BBQ joints being Lambert’s and Hickory Log.
  • Fried Catfish - A summertime staple, this dish is often served with hush puppies and coleslaw.

Local Beverages

  • Missouri Bourbon - Missouri is home to several excellent distilleries that produce some of the world’s finest bourbon.
  • Wine - Missouri is home to some excellent wineries, and visitors can enjoy wine tasting and tours.

Where to Stay in Sikeston: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hampton Inn - A comfortable, affordable hotel located just off of I-55.
  • Drury Inn & Suites - A clean and comfortable hotel with a convenient location and excellent amenities.
  • Comfort Inn & Suites - A friendly hotel that offers great value for money.

What to Buy in Sikeston: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local crafts - Visit the farmers market or local fair for handmade crafts by local artisans.
  • BBQ sauce - Bring home a taste of Sikeston with a bottle of its famous BBQ sauce.

Local Culture and Customs of Sikeston

Sikeston is a friendly and welcoming destination that values hospitality and community. Visitors should expect a warm welcome and may even make lifelong friends.

Best Time to Visit Sikeston

The best time to visit Sikeston is during the summer months, from May through August. The weather is pleasant, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. If you’re looking for a quieter trip, consider visiting during the fall or winter.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sikeston

Do:

  • Do enjoy the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Do explore the city’s history and culture.
  • Do be friendly and engaging with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural beauty of the area.
  • Don’t forget to tip the waitstaff at local restaurants.
  • Don’t engage in illegal activities or violate local laws.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sikeston

Sikeston is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should take standard precautions while exploring the city. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables in public places.

Health in Sikeston

Sikeston has several hospitals and medical centers that provide high-quality healthcare services. Visitors should have health insurance coverage and consult with their healthcare providers before traveling.

Getting to Sikeston: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sikeston

  • Cape Girardeau Regional Airport - Located about 30 miles from Sikeston.
  • Lambert-St. Louis International Airport - Located about 130 miles from Sikeston.

Bus Stations Near Sikeston

  • Greyhound Bus Station - Sikeston - Located in the heart of downtown Sikeston.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive or take a train to Sikeston. Amtrak serves several nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Sikeston

Visitors can rent a car, take a taxi, or use rideshare services to get around the city. Biking and walking are also excellent options for exploring the town at a leisurely pace.

Where to Go Next from Sikeston: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cairo, Illinois - Located just across the Mississippi River, Cairo is a small town with a rich history and stunning architecture.
  • St. Louis, Missouri - Located about 2 hours north of Sikeston, St. Louis is a vibrant cultural hub with unique food, music, and art.
  • Memphis, Tennessee - Located about 2 hours south of Sikeston, Memphis is a city known for its music scene, BBQ, and southern hospitality.

Conclusion

Sikeston is a wonderful destination for anyone seeking a taste of Midwestern living. With its rich history, natural beauty, and warm and welcoming people, Sikeston is an excellent place to visit. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s landmarks, enjoy the outdoors, or indulge in some delicious food and drink, Sikeston has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience the magic of Sikeston for yourself.