Looking for a quick, cabin-fever busting getaway this winter? We’ve got you covered with a weekend full of local wine and beer, performing arts, fine dining and more so you can shake off those winter blues in Cape Girardeau to escape from the ordinary for a little while.

Start your Friday with a leisurely meal that sets the pace for the weekend; The Southerner features a refined take on a classic southern menu, with cast iron brussel sprouts so good you’ll be converted to the vegetable after one bite. Need a place to stay? Browse lodging options here.

Saturday morning, head to downtown Cape Girardeau for a cup of coffee at Dynamite. They roast their specialty blends in-house; a bag of coffee is a great souvenir to bring home. The Winter Storm Latte with espresso, dark chocolate and a hint of macadamia nut is a perfectly cozy way to start your Saturday. Take a walk along the Mighty Mississippi at Riverfront Park, just steps away from Dynamite, and watch barges head up and down river as you sip your coffee. If the weather’s nice, don’t miss the Mississippi River Tales Mural on the town side of the flood wall, where storyboard panels spell out the story of Cape Girardeau’s history while the mural panels bring it to life.

Grab a pizza and a pint at Minglewood – this local brewery located within a few minute’s walk of the riverfront has a robust menu of beers, and the pizza is a perfect pairing. Swing by local boutiques while you’re downtown; Southern Loop is a new addition to Main Street, where you’ll find more unique shops and antique stores full of treasures.

After lunch and shopping, sample local vino at River Ridge Winery, tucked in the hills above the Mississippi River just south of Cape Girardeau in a centuries-old farmhouse. In the other direction, northwest of Cape Girardeau, you’ll find Apple Creek Vineyard and Winery along the banks of Apple Creek, with lovely views and frequently scheduled live music.

Indulge in a meal you’ll remember for a long time at 36, a classic high end restaurant on Main Street or at Celebrations, another fine dining establishment in a quirkyhouse downtown. After dinner, take in a show at the River Campus – Mary Poppins the Musical, Beethoven’s 5th Symphony, and Spring Into Dance are all coming up. View our full calendar of events here. Swing by Isle Casino Cape Girardeau after the show for live music and drinks.

Sleep in Sunday morning and grab brunch at Gabriel’s – you’ll have a hard time deciding between the tiramisu french toast, truffle quiche and caprese frittata, but I know you’re up to the challenge. After lunch on your way out of town, a visit to Bollinger Mill State Historic Site and Covered Bridge is well worth the 25 minute drive northwest of Cape Girardeau. Walk across the old covered bridge and take a tour of the four-story mill, where the antique milling equipment is still in place.

I hope your weekend in Cape Girardeau makes the rest of winter a little more tolerable. Come back and see us anytime, and share your adventure with #VisitCape.