Scott City Area Guide

Scott City is located in southeastern Missouri, not far from the Illinois and Kentucky state lines. This small town with a population of under 5,000 residents rests in both Scott and Cape Girardeau Counties. A picturesque, green landscape serves as the background for this all-American town that celebrates its small-town community spirit year-round.

Its close proximity to the Mississippi River allows Scott City to offer its residents healthful, fun water activities that the whole family can enjoy. Take the crew for a day of “floating”, or canoeing down the river. Pack a picnic lunch and get set to relax as you take in the beautiful countryside at one of Scott City’s family-friendly parks. Welcome home to a family-oriented community. Welcome home to a safe town with a very low crime rate. Welcome home to a low cost of living. Welcome home to the four seasons. Welcome home to Scott City!

History

The first-known inhabitants of the area presently known as Scott City were Native Americans of the Osage, Delaware, and Shawnee tribes. White settlers began making their way into the region, and in 1821 Scott County was established, being named after the first Congressman from Missouri, John Scott. The towns of Ancell, Elma, Illmo, and Fornfelt were all consolidated in the mid-1900s to form Scott City.

A railroad bridge was built in 1905, which ran from what was then Illmo (later to become Scott City) over the Mississippi River into Thebes, Illinois. This is still a major landmark of Scott City, known as the Thebes-Scott City Bridge. Common crops grown in the Scott City area were cotton, soybeans, melon and assorted grains.

Attractions and Activities

The Cape River Heritage Museum ~ Step back in time when you visit the engaging exhibits and learn about the ancestors and founders of the area. “Dedicated to preserving and celebrating the unique character of southeastern Missouri.” http://www.caperiverheritagemuseum.com/

Discovery Playhouse ~ Bring the kids to visit all of the unique exhibits this children’s museum offers. From the Fire Department Exhibit to the Grocery Store Exhibit to the Dental Clinic Exhibit, children can become familiarized with adult world settings while playing with their friends. Your kids will definitely want to return again and again, and no two visits will be the same! “Where fun and learning come full circle!” http://www.discoveryplayhouse.org/

Donald C. Bedell Performance Hall ~ Located on the campus of Southeast Missouri State University, this hall plays host to cultural events all year long. From ballet, to live theatrical performances, to concerts, this entertainment hot spot has it all! Donald C. Bedell Performance Hall

River Ridge Winery ~ Less than 10 miles from Scott City, the owners of the winery invite you to come dine and listen to live music at the Fermentation Room Café. You can even spend the night in their Little Log Cabin! “Come as a Customer…Leave as a Friend!” River Ridge Winery

Show Me Center ~ There is always an exciting upcoming event at the Show Me Center, from major band concerts to giant rummage sales to the good ol’ Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Show Me Center

Parks and Recreation

The Scott City Parks Department takes pride in its three beautiful parks that welcome young and old to get outside and enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle. Family-oriented activities are planned for each season. Come join your neighbors and celebrate the seasons in style, as you share laughter and take part in some friendly competition. Also featured are three area lighted, league-sanctioned ball fields.

Contact Information
Parks Director Phyllis Crump
Horseshoe Lane
Scott City, Missouri 63780
Park Office Phone: 573-264-2322
Pool Office Phone: 573-264-3411

Scott City Pool ~ Open all summer long, this is the place to bring the family to cool off and make a splash in the sun. Affordable rates, swim lessons, and even a swim team are featured. http://scottcitymo.org/parkdept.aspx

Cape LaCroix Bluffs Conservation Area ~ Found here are beautiful natural wetlands, limestone bluffs, and amazing forestlands. To go along with the scenery, incredible wildlife can be found all around; reptiles, amphibians, water birds and flying birds of every color, even one of the rarest fish in Missouri, the spring cavefish. More than 63 acres of nature at its finest! Cape LaCroix Bluffs Conservation Area

Events

Annual events take place in Scott City during each of the seasons. The Eater Egg Hunt, Summer Festival, Halloween Parade and Christmas Parade are held every year to the delight of long-time residents and newcomers as well. To keep abreast of upcoming happenings, visit http://scottcitymo.org/citynews.aspx.

Cape Girardeau Storytelling Festival ~ This annual event highlights the long-lost art of conversation. Come revel in tales of yesteryear, and perhaps share a story of your own! “Where the river turns a thousand tales!” http://www.capestorytelling.com/Default.aspx

Donald C. Bedell Performance Hall Events
http://www.semo.edu/rivercampus/events/list.htm