538 Independence Street
Cape Girardeau, Missouri
573-334-0405
The Cape River Heritage Museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the unique character of southeastern Missouri. The museum hosts ever-changing exhibits, educational programs, special tours, community, and social events that are open to families, school groups, organizations, tour groups and the general public. The museum is located in an old police and fire station that dares back to 1908. Exhibits at the museum cover topics such as Native Americans in Missouri from prehistory to present and rocks, fossils, and minerals found only in Missouri. Visitors can learn about locals who impacted Missouri history such as Marie Watkins Oliver, Senator Willard Vandiver, Louis Houck, and Louis Lorimier. A 150-year old tribute exhibit includes vintage uniforms, photos, and memorabilia including a 1950 long ladder truck and vintage firefighting equipment. Learn about the life on the Mississippi River through photos, a pilot house, riverboat gear, and stories about the people and events. Regional exhibits are ever changing. The museum features rotating exhibits, presentations, archival research, workshops, and special events. At the museum’s gift shop unique items made by Missouri artisans including wooden toys, jewelry, art prints, books written by local authors and more can be found.
Visiting the Cape River Heritage Museum
Mid March - Mid December
Thursday - Saturday: Noon - 4 pm
There is a small admission fee to visit the Cape River Heritage Museum
A note on accessibility: The handicapped accessible entrance is located on the side of the building by the parking lot. Not all exhibits in the museum are accessible.
Learn more about the community of Cape Girardeau
Cape River Heritage Museum's Facebook page - The official Facebook page of the Cape River Heritage Museum