"A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself." -Josh Billings
 
Our 4-legged, furry friends are more than just loyal companions; they’re members of our family. They love us unconditionally, and only want the same in return. So the next time you’re headed out for a stroll, need to replenish your stock of puppy supplies or want to pick up a quick bite for lunch, consider heading downtown and bringing Fido along.

Did you know downtown Cape Girardeau is home to a gourmet dog boutique?  Mississippi Mutts is a friendly shop on Broadway that provides a place for you to take your dog to enjoy some well-deserved social interaction, to pick up a few toys and some new treats from their delicious bakery, while stocking up on his or her everyday supplies. If you and your dog can use a little help with obedience training, sign up to take part in their training classes.

Sherry Jennings, owner of Mississippi Mutts, says that people take their dogs to downtown Cape more than any other area. She calls our area ‘unique’ because you can take your dog for a walk, or you can take them to get wine or lunch with you. A variety of places downtown are available to explore with your dog. “More and more places are becoming pet friendly,” added Jennings.  She believes the growing dog friendly atmosphere makes downtown a more relaxing place, even for those who do not own dogs. 

Some of the downtown locals even bring their dogs to work. “It’s proven, when you take your dog to work it lowers stress and increases productivity,” Sherry noted. She definitely should know. Have you seen her dog Murphy out-and-about downtown recently? He has become a downtown fixture with enough love to for everyone. Dog-friendly work places are becoming more and more popular in our area. 

One example is Wynn from Cape Paint and Glass. He brings Harley, his golden retriever, to work every day. You’ll see them soaking up some fresh air and getting in some exercise around downtown almost every day during the lunch hour. If you stop in the shop, Harley is one of the first to say hello and welcome you in. ‘Harley has become our official greeter here at the office,’ commented Beverly, the office secretary. ‘He’s definitely brought some life and excitement to the business.’

Another famous downtown dog is Santino. If you haven’t seen Santino working in Sloan + Themis during the day with his owner Claire, you may have seen him wandering around many of our downtown Cape Girardeau shops. ‘People go nuts over him,’ Claire exclaimed! ‘He runs all types of errands downtown and he loves to get positive attention from everyone he comes in contact with.’ The girls at Mississippi Mutts will sometimes even keep him for a while after they are done grooming him to play.

Many downtown businesses have outdoor seating that helps make the area more dog-friendly. You can always see pups outside Cup ‘N’ Cork, Socials, Mediterranean on Broadway or Dynamite Coffee. What better way to relieve stress than a latte or a casual lunch with your best friend?

Another great downtown opportunity for dogs is the Cape Riverfront Market. During the warmer months this outdoor market plays host to local produce and craft vendors, musicians and an array of other specialized suppliers. Some vendors even have healthy dog treats for your furry family members. The casual, fun-for-everyone Market atmosphere is an excellent environment for these four-legged friends, so be sure to bring them along.

Downtown Cape Girardeau does provide a dog friendly environment and invites you to bring your dog to shop or eat downtown. But don’t forget your doggie bag!

Prior to about four years ago when I began working at Old Town Cape, I had never really shopped downtown Cape or any downtown area for that matter. When I needed to buy something I visited a big box store to find what I needed. However, once I began working downtown, I quickly discovered all of the hidden treasures that I had been missing…not only that, but the service you receive at a small business and the friendships you form are priceless.

After becoming a downtown junkie, I even started to incorporate visits to other downtown areas when planning trips, but it didn’t take too long to realize that something was missing. There were no guides or signage to inform me of the small businesses that each area was home to. Therefore, I had to spend more of my time roaming around looking for businesses and less time actually visiting them. For someone like me who loves shopping, this was a problem.

After returning back to Cape from a trip to a small town in Virginia, I decided that downtown Cape had the same need as other downtown areas because it too had no way for visitors to know what it had to offer. Granted the area does have “wayfinding” signage making it easier to find downtown, but there was no guide available once visitors arrived – or should I say there wasn’t.

After about a year’s worth of establishing guidelines on what information to include for visitors, gathering information on the businesses and attractions, and laying out the design, Old Town Cape launched their Downtown Guide in the summer of 2014. It is a full-color guide, complete with a comprehensive listing of shops, restaurants, personal services, arts and entertainment and more in downtown Cape. If you haven’t checked it out, I encourage you to stop by Old Town Cape, the Cape Girardeau Convention & Visitors Bureau, Isle Casino Cape Girardeau or most of the downtown retailers to see one for yourself – you won’t be disappointed!

Although I no longer work at Old Town Cape, I do still work downtown and enjoy seeing people from all over stroll the area. Now, thanks to the help of many partners, they are able to use the guide to find the small business that carries just what they are looking for.
    
               

This post is written by guest blogger, Nicholle Hinkle, Director of Donor Relations at United Way of Southeast Missouri.

Did you know that there are over 100 pieces of public art in Cape Girardeau? And that 85 of those pieces are located downtown? Our community is full of art in many ways, shapes and forms and it thrives off of the many talents that the local artists bring. In fact, come April 4th, two local artists will each have sculptures in the city's first ever Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit: On Broadway.

Before we go further, however, let's rewind time a bit. Two years ago, a group of community members from the City of Cape Girardeau, Arts Council of Southeast Missouri, Old Town Cape, and the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce came together to form the Public Art Committee. This group worked to develop a public art policy to give framework and guidelines on how public art would be managed. Following City Council approval of the policy, the effort to host an outdoor exhibition began. Pretty cool, huh?

In August of last year, the committee released a prospectus to invited artists with the hope that the project would increase the number of arts-related activities within the region and provide an additional revitalization strategy for Old Town Cape. Proposals for consideration from the artists were due in October and the jurying process culminated in mid-November. The exhibit was juried by Tom Stancliffe, Professor of Art at the University of Northern Iowa, who has exceptional experience in creating sculptures, jurying exhibitions, and assisting communities in arts development strategies.

The two sculptures I mentioned earlier along with five others will be unveiled at a special reception kick-off event at 6 p.m. on April 4 at the Vasterling Suites Courtyard (Broadway & Fountain) and you're invited! Remarks will be given by Stancliffe and committee members and appetizers will be provided by Port Cape Girardeau. Following the reception, I encourage you to walk Broadway to view the pieces that will be in place for one year - you won't be disappointed!

The pieces are as follows:

'Splintering' by Beth Nybeck (Kansas City, MO)

'Quill' by Dan Perry (Waterloo, IA)

'Natures Quintet' by Stephanie Sailer (Swisher, IA)

'Lineage' by Ben Pierce (Cape Girardeau, MO)

'Victoria' by Chris Wubbena (Cape Girardeau, MO)

'Home Spun' by Andy Arvantes (Chicago, IL)

'Immigrants' by Mike Baue (West Chicago, IL)

For more information on the exhibit, visit the Cape Girardeau Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit website or Facebook page. I'll see you on the 4th!

This post is written by guest blogger, Julie Turnipseed, Executive Director of Warresnburg Main Street.

Many years ago I had the opportunity to visit Old Town Cape for the first time. I arrived via the American Queen on a scheduled stop. I remember then thinking what a great place it was and how friendly the people were and that I would like to make a return visit.

I had the opportunity to return last week to attend the Missouri Main Street Manager's Meeting. Marla Mills, Executive Director of Old Town Cape, and Steven Hoffman, Director of the Historic Preservation Program at Southeast Missouri State University, gave us a walking tour of downtown and driving tour of the beautiful city.

I was impressed by the many friendly downtown business owners as well as the many unique stores and restaurants. The downtown district was very clean and inviting. It is evident of the abundance of community pride in Cape Girardeau. I am a 26 year veteran of downtown revitalization and have visited many historic downtowns, not many have the great mix of viable businesses that I saw in downtown Cape.

We were shown the many historic homes and buildings throughout the community and I was impressed with the number that have been restored. We also toured parts of the University and were shown the restoration projects that are currently in progress. I couldn't help but think how vibrant and alive downtown Cape Girardeau is and what a great job Marla, Steven and others have done to make this community what it is today.

As I was leaving to head back to Warrensburg, I thought to myself that I would like to make a return visit to Cape Girardeau sometime soon to once again experience the many friendly and unique businesses downtown.

Congratulations and thank you for the opportunity to visit downtown Cape!

This post is written by guest blogger, Laurie Everett, owner of Annie Laurie's Antiques and downtown resident.

Living downtown is a culture within itself. The riverfront, the nightlife, and the restaurants are all part of the excitement. This is my business, but it is also where we live. My shop is Annie Laurie's Antiques and I share the loft dwelling with my husband, our son and our two pets.

We live on Broadway and often times eat, sleep and breathe downtown. We could very easily not have to leave the downtown for days at a time. This is our dog, Lex, and we can often be found walking around with various parts of downtown. This picture was taken at a historic building across from the Federal Building. When in bloom, there are many green areas on our leisurely strolls.


Have I mentioned that there is some amazing art downtown? I love the metal midcentury piece on the outside of this building.


I also enjoy a good parade and many of them travel down Broadway. Here are some pictures from the past two Southeast Homecoming parades. They are so much fun!


One of my favorite shops is The Plant Lady. Her shop is loaded with all types of plants for all seasons. You never know what surprises you may find.


My absolute favorite part of living downtown is the Cape Riverfront Market. There is a great satisfaction that comes with eating fresh local food. I could easily do all of my grocery shopping there during the market season. Here are some items that I picked up this summer.


I often use the backdrop of the downtown for various photo shoots for the shop. This picture was taken in the fountain by the courthouse.


Our family pictures were even taken by the Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge.


I love a great auction. I attended one recently that was held at The Salvation Army right here in downtown. It doesn't get much better than that.


Right across the street is Baisch and Skinner where I get a lot of flowers and greenery for the shop. It is only open to dealers, but it is so great to have them four blocks from where I live. They are a great resource for my design jobs and events.


If I'm having one of my many allergies or just need to get a prescription filled, I always go to Broadway Prescription Shop. They do deliver, but I'm only one block away.


Most recently I attended a CASA Speakeasy Soiree at the Port Cape Girardeau Yacht Club. It is the perfect place for a worthy cause.


So, if you ever ask me what there is to do in downtown Cape, my question back to you will be what's not to do in downtown Cape? See you there!

This post is written by Murielle Gaither, Director of the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri.

Whether you have been in town for weeks or years, chances are you've heard of First Friday with the Arts. This iconic event was started in 2003 when the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri moved to their current Main Street location, deep in the heart of Old Town Cape. Every First Friday of the month, local galleries host a First Friday Art Walk. During this time, each gallery stays open for later hours (5 to 9 p.m.), and many provide light appetizers or beverages for visitors to enjoy while perusing the artwork. Some galleries, like the Arts Council, feature new artists or displays each month. Others change their displays every other month, or as often as they are able to. Many galleries even feature live music or performances to coincide with their First Friday opening!

With this event, arts folks hoped to encourage Southeast Missouri residents to visit downtown each First Friday, enjoy regional arts, and engage with the artists featured in the galleries. Now, ten years later, the event has grown to include each of the twelve galleries throughout Cape Girardeau, and visitors from as far north as Ste. Genevieve, and south as Sikeston and Charleston, regularly visit for good wine and great art.

Given the popularity of the event for arts folks, other downtown businesses take advantage of the extra foot traffic, and stay open for later hours as well. Stores like Annie Laurie's Antiques and Stash regularly open their doors to First Friday visitors, and some even offer fun promotions or events specifically for First Friday. These events change every month so if you're interested in knowing who is doing what, you'll have to check out the monthly schedule!

A great way to keep in the know is to sign up for the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri newsletter on our homepage. This newsletter is sent out weekly and informs readers about cultural and arts-related events in the region, including a full rundown of First Friday happenings. For a complete listing of the galleries that participate in First Friday with the Arts, stop by the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri for a brochure, or visit this link. Did you miss First Friday? No problem! The Arts Council of Southeast Missouri Gallery is normally open Tuesday thru Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This post is written by guest blogger, Jen Schwent, Student Worker at Old Town Cape.

Three years ago I moved from Chicago to Cape Girardeau to pursue a degree in Historic Preservation. Since then, I have lived in three different apartments in three different areas of Cape. Transitioning was tough, but now that I live downtown, I feel like I have the best of both worlds! I'm close to everything and the environment reminds me of home, while still giving me the charm of Cape.

One of the great things I enjoy about all the shops, galleries and restaurants that downtown Cape offers is how diverse they are. A lot of them also offer student discounts - score! The mall is great, but the shops that I am within walking distance of beat the mall, hands down. Stash and Philanthropy have the latest trends, but the clothes are unique unlike that shirt you got at the mall that everyone has. There are also a lot of antique shops where one can find special items to decorate their home with or simply find the odds and ends that you've been searching for at a great price. The restaurants downtown are just as unique as the shops. The chain restaurants along the highway are alright, but downtown Cape has so much more variety. One of my favorite things to do is to walk to the Cape Riverfront Market and then stop by Cup N' Cork for a morning coffee. I mentioned that I'm pursuing a degree in H.P., so I can't help but mention all of the historic buildings, art galleries and museums downtown. They all offer great cultural experiences.

The environment of downtown is also amazing! There is always something going on, people to meet, etc. When I hear music and people talking from my balcony, I can feel the heartbeat of downtown and I feel like I'm a part of it.

I'm glad to call downtown Cape my home. This big city girl has finally found where she belongs in this town and I couldn't be happier. If you haven't checked out Old Town Cape and everything that it has to offer, you are certainly missing out. I know that I was.

Cape Girardeau, as a whole, is home to well over 20 parks and natural, green areas. Can you venture a guess on how many of these fabulous public spaces are in or near downtown?

Twelve. Yep, 12. That's about half of the city's most interesting public spaces and parks in a highly-concentrated, walkable, bike-able and fabulously historic area with tons of eclectic shopping and dining options.

Maybe you're one of the throngs of folks that already know and love downtown Cape Girardeau and are diligently following Old Town Cape's latest blog posts. Or, maybe you're one of the few stumbling upon the great things Cape Girardeau has to offer via Google. Whether visiting our gorgeous downtown is a favorite pastime or part of a planned future excursion to Cape, you'll not want to miss some of these free outdoor treasures that add sparkle to the historic district and surrounding area.

Boardman Pavilion
The Boardman Pavilion is conveniently located in one of downtown's largest parking areas along Main Street, across from Hutson's Fine Furniture, making it an excellent place for a break between shops. Grab a snack from one of downtown's restaurants, and then pull up a spot on one of the pavilion's picnic tables.

City Hall Park
This park, located behind Cape Girardeau's City Hall at 401 Independence Street, is a quaint green space with benches and flags.

Common Pleas Courthouse Gazebo
The site of the popular Tunes at Twilight during spring and fall, this park encompasses the grounds of the Common Pleas Courthouse, which wsa completed in 1854.

Indian Park
Indian Park is located at William Street and Lorimier Street. The park contains one shelter, two basketball courts and a play area. Several summer basketball tournaments are held at this park.

May Greene Garden
Tucked behind the former Federal Building, May Greene Garden is located in the heart of downtown at the intersection of Fountain and Themis Streets. Many varieties of flowers and plants grow in this "pocket park." Wooden benches in the park allow for a leisurely rest or a quiet spot to scan the pages of a good book.

Murtaugh Park
Murtaugh Park is a small green space located on a median across from the old St. Vincent's Catholic Church and the Red House Interpretive Center. Named for Rev. James A Murtaugh, C.M., the park was dedicated in 1928. A small section of Aquamsi Street once bordering Murtaugh Park was recently removed, nearly doubling the park's size.

Old Mississippi River Bridge Scenic Overlook and Park
Some of the area's most gorgeous views of the Mississippi River and the recently-constructed Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge have been photographed from the Old Mississippi River Bridge Scenic Overlook and Park, located at 100 Morgan Oak Street. Nestled next to the overlook is a small park and trail adjoining Southeast Missouri State University's River Campus, which incorporates the grounds of St. Vincent's College and Seminary. The seminary was founded in 1838.

Riverfront Park
While strolling down Broadway or Water Street, check out Riverfront Park. Riverfront Park is the docking site for the Mississippi River paddle boats and features a mile-long riverfront walking and biking trail. Murals depicting Cape Girardeau's history dot both sides of the flood wall bordering this park.

The following parks and historic areas are nearby downtown and worth a short walk to drive or visit:

Fort D
Constructed in the summer of 1861 by Union troops under the leadership of John Wesley Powell, Fort D is the only remaining one of four Civil Wat forts that protected Cape Girardeau from the Confederate attack. The earthwork walls remain intact, and historical signage throughout the fort's grounds bring its storied past to life. The Fort D site also contains a limestone building that was constructed in 1937 as a federal WPA project. Fort D is often the site of re-enactments and holiday celebrations. Self-guided tours are available daily from dawn through dusk. The fort is located at 920 Fort Street.

Missouri Park & Old Lorimier Cemetery
Missouri Park and Old Lorimier Cemetery are in close proximity to downtown. Missouri Park, at the corner of Fountain Street and Park Drive, is home to Cape Girardeau's skate park, a half basketball court, and a large green space perfect for outdoor fun. Adjoining Missouri Park, Old Lorimier Cemetery was established in 1808 on a five-acre plot of land set aside by founding father Louis Lorimier as the first public cemetery in Cape Girardeau. There are about 1250 gravestones marking burials at the cemetery, including gravestones associated with prominent family members to Cape Girardeau's history and potentially thousands more burials attributed to Civil War soldiers and unmarked gravesites.

Washington Park
Washington Park is a 3.3-acre neighborhood park located at Washington Lane and Middle Street containing a pavilion and large playground equipment. The park is about one block west of Missouri Park and adjacent to Old Lorimier Cemetery.

A walk downtown is unlike any others. I love pacing the sidewalks next to our beautiful streetscapes, historic buildings and local shops. And what I love most is that no two walks downtown are ever alike. That’s because downtown Cape Girardeau is alive with people and stories.

Just last night I grabbed two friends for a walk: Jessica, who first recruited me, and Jen, a newbie to the Downtown Walking Crew. We started our trek on Broadway where we made pit stops to window shop, enjoy some art and smell the roses.

Next we headed down Main Street to peek in a couple more shops, and enjoy the awesome silhouette of the two unbroken blocks of historic architecture. By this time it was starting to get dark, so Jen decided it was time for ice cream. Usually we walk downtown for the exercise, so ice cream doesn’t make the cut… but like I mentioned every walk downtown is different. This time we decided that exercise and ice cream went together.

We turned on Themis from Main and hit Water Street to grab some ice cream from Port Cape Girardeau’s, Sweet Sixteen window. (This is a must stop on any river visit.)

Close-by a young guy was jamming on his guitar, so we found a bench and chilled out to his sound before wrapping up our walk.


Thanks to my beautiful walking models Jessica & Jen!


Author: Toni Eftink is a Project Manager at Element 74 where she leads custom web projects. She has a huge love for downtown Cape Girardeau and small businesses. You can find her on Google+ and Twitter.