Red House Interpretive Center: A Glimpse into Early Cape Girardeau
Explore the reconstructed 1797 trading post of Louis Lorimier, where the past comes alive in Cape Girardeau's historic downtown.
Step back in time at the Red House Interpretive Center, a reconstruction of Louis Lorimier's 1797 trading post, a pivotal hub between St. Louis and Memphis. Explore exhibits detailing early settler life, Lorimier's trading post, and the visit of Lewis and Clark in 1803.
A brief summary to Red House Interpretive Center
- 128 Aquamsi St, Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 63703, US
- +1573-335-1631
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the operating season (May to October) to ensure the center is open.
- Check out the gardens on the north side of the house to see plants typical of an early 19th-century garden.
- Consider scheduling a guided group tour on a weekday for a more in-depth experience.
Getting There
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Walking
The Red House Interpretive Center is located in downtown Cape Girardeau at 128 Aquamsi Street. If you are already in the downtown area, for example, near the Riverfront Bridge Park or Old St. Vincent's Church, it is easily accessible on foot. From Main Street, look for Aquamsi Street, which runs toward the Mississippi River flood wall. The Center will be on your left. Walking is free.
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Public Transport
The Cape Girardeau County Transit Authority (CGCTA) provides public transportation within Cape Girardeau. Check the CGCTA website for the most up-to-date route information and schedules to plan your trip to the Red House Interpretive Center. From a bus stop, you may need to walk a short distance to reach 128 Aquamsi Street. As of July 2025, bus services are free. However, it is advisable to confirm this before your trip.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Cape Girardeau. A ride from a central location like the Century Casino to the Red House Interpretive Center would likely cost between $8 and $15, depending on demand and time of day. Confirm the fare before you begin your trip.
Discover more about Red House Interpretive Center
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