Day trips: Easy, fun

More summer vacation planners are looking for things to do and see that are closer to home. Residents of Southeast Missouri are in luck, because this area abounds with lakes, state parks, historical attractions and other interesting places to visit.

Anyone planning a day trip or an overnight stay within easy driving distance can find many options. And there are a couple of excellent resources available.

Tipoff is a free quarterly publication that can be found at stores and restaurants around Cape Girardeau. It is full of information about destinations both here and not so far away.

"Pavement Ends" is one of the more popular blogs on semissourian.com. James Baughn documents interesting places that can easily be turned into a day trip. Best of all, the blog has photos and detailed directions for getting to featured sites.

The Cape Girardeau Convention and Visitors Bureau is also trying to capitalize on the day-trip market by advertising the many interesting things available here and nearby. This marketing campaign makes Cape Girardeau the destination of choice for visitors from five states within leisurely driving range.

Looking for something to do? You don't have to look far.