Keeping kids learning and engaged in educational activities during the summer months can be tough. Cape is lucky to have some fantastic venues, both in nature and in the air conditioning, that are sure to entertain and educate kids of all ages.

The Cape Girardeau Nature Center’s Facebook page offers events for children of all ages. From a wildlife feeding frenzy to nighttime hiking and drawing fish lessons to family outdoor cooking events. Don’t forget to stop by any time to hike miles of beautifully wooded trails or go inside the facility for air-conditioned fun including nature exhibits, a play area, freshwater aquariums and even a two-headed snake!

Lazy L Safari is another great spot to see wildlife! You can get up close and personal at this unique walk-thru zoo and experience over 50 different species of exotic animals! Even better, no appointment is needed as they’re open seven days a week. Lazy L also offers several “encounter experiences” including gemstone mining, geode cracking and a dino dig!

If you need to cool off from the sweltering heat, Cape Splash Family Aquatic Center is sure to please all members of the family. Open daily, Cape Splash has beginning swim lessons, a lap pool, water slides, a splash pad, a lazy river and can even host a birthday party. Don’t forget to stay tuned to their Facebook page for their special events like Doggy Swim Day, Luau Party for families and Preschool Playtime!

And of course, don’t forget Cape’s Discovery Playhouse, a great place for kids to have fun and learn at the same time! With interactive exhibits, school-aged children get to become a dentist, shop in a grocery store, splash in a water garden, drive a fire truck and so much more! They offer an array of summer camps and fun events throughout the year like Zumba dance parties and Easter “Breakfast with the Bunnies!” Discovery Playhouse is a location kids will enjoy coming back to week after week to explore new exhibits!

For even more family fun ideas, remember to visit the Family Fun Guide for ideas on where to go!