Scenic drive shows off history and beauty of the area

With the price of gas becoming a constant source of concern for drivers, a sightseeing trip around the area could seem irrational for some. But several local towns want to prove otherwise.

The 22nd annual Mississippi River Valley Scenic Drive is Saturday and Sunday and features 12 Southeast Missouri communities. Each stop will offer its own attractions, including food, festivals, music, vintage baseball, crafts, living history events, camping and scenic views. Event co-founder Estelee Wood got the idea after traveling to craft shows in Illinois.

"I'd be up in Peoria, and they have the Spoon River Drive. It was such a fun experience that attracted lots of people," Wood said. "But I thought that Southeast Missouri would have its own charm for something like that. With all of the historic sites, beautiful landscapes and charming communities here, it's such a great drive."

Southeast Missouri State University's director of the Center of Regional History, Frank Nickell, heads up the drive. He says the event is more than just a trip around the area.

"From the beginning, the thought was about how we could call attention to the great history in our communities. We want this drive to be educational and interesting for everyone," Nickell said. "I know that the weather can sometimes deter people from getting out, but don't let it. We've always had it during the fourth weekend in April, and it has rained 16 of our previous 21 drives. But it's still always fun and a great family event. People always really enjoy it, rain or shine."

This year's participating towns include Altenburg, Brazeau, Burfordville, Cape Girardeau, Commerce, Farrar, Frohna, Jackson, Marble Hill, Oak Ridge, Old Appleton and Pocahontas. Each town will have several stops, from the Lutheran Heritage Center and Museum in Altenburg to the Pie Safe in Pocahontas.

"You can really discover so much along this drive. People in these towns are eager to tell you more about their own corner of Southeast Missouri, too," said Chuck Martin, director of the Cape Girardeau Convention and Visitors Bureau. "Here in Cape alone we'll have seven different spots participating. This really marks the beginning of the leisure travel and tourist season."

Nickell said gas costs aren't new to drive participants and the free attractions make up for fuel expenses.

"When we started this, gas was $1.01 a gallon, which was concerning even then. But you don't spend much beyond gas. You could almost eat your way around the stops," Nickell said. "And you don't have to drive to every spot to get a great experience. You could almost spend all day in any one of the communities. But it does give you a nice variety going to two or three places."

For more information about the drive and a brochure and map that lists all attractions and events, stop by the Cape Girardeau Convention and Visitors Bureau or call 275-7487.

jsamons@semissourian.com

388-3641

Pertinent address:

400 Broadway, Cape Girardeau