• Day Trip,  Hikes,  Hiking,  History,  Kids,  Missouri

    Visit to the Charming River City of Cape Girardeau, Missouri

    Cape Girardeau is a thriving river community located near the bootheel of southeastern Missouri. Rich in history and culture, the town features an array of attractions for all ages. The city makes a great getaway from St. Louis as it is a an easy 2 hour drive down I-55. We recently spent a day exploring the area and left wanting extra time to see even more. Here are our recommendations on some of the best places for a great visit.…

  • Day Trip,  History,  Illinois,  Kids

    Family Fun in Springfield, Illinois

    We were recently in Springfield, Illinois for another event and managed to squeeze in some sightseeing as well. This state capital is full of history and attractions. Even better, many of the things to see and do are free! The biggest draw here is the huge collection of buildings and museums related to Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln made his home in Springfield for 17 years before becoming president of the United States in 1861. The downtown area is full of various…

  • History,  Illinois,  Kids,  St. Louis

    French Colonial History Comes Alive at Illinois’s Fort de Chartres

    Rising from the farm fields in southern Illinois is an impressive stone fortress celebrating 300 years of history. Long before the United States was established, the French ruled over southern Illinois. The proximity to the Mississippi River, the hunt for precious metals, and the rich farm ground established this area as of strategic importance. Fort de Chartres is one of the best historic sites in the state and recreates this era of Illinois’s history under French rule. History of the…