We’ve been “historically awesome since 1769” — it’s true. St. Charles, originally known as Les Petites Cotes ("The Little Hills"), is the oldest city on the Missouri River. While history remains a major draw for visitors (don’t miss a photo-op at the Lewis & Clark Statue), our charming town has grown into a modern city fueled by dining, arts & entertainment, and a regular calendar of festivals and events.
We want to make it easy for you to enjoy it all when you visit St. Charles, Missouri. So here’s everything you need to know to make it a smooth and memorable trip.
Getting Here & Getting Around
St. Charles is conveniently located for those traveling by plane or by car. The city sits just 10 miles from St. Louis Lambert International Airport and 23 miles west of St. Louis. It’s also within easy reach of I-70, I-64 (US 40/61), and I-270.
Once you’re here, walking is encouraged, especially in some of the most popular areas, like the brick-lined Historic Main Street and Frenchtown Historic District. The accessible St. Charles Trolley is a free alternative for exploring the broader downtown. It runs from May to late December, on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Those with cars will find ample parking, and the St. Charles Parking App can help you locate a spot. (Heads up: the parking lots around Historic Main Street are free!) Taxis and rideshare services are also readily available.
Must-See Attractions
St. Charles overdelivers on things to do. Get acquainted with the area by strolling along two of our most beloved corridors: Historic Main Street (a self-guided walking tour will introduce you to downtown’s rich cultural heritage) and Frenchtown, where antique shopping reigns supreme (explore the vibrant stories that shaped this community on the Frenchtown self-guided walking tour).
Explorers Lewis and Clark’s last stop before they departed on their famous expedition was in St. Charles. Learn all about it (and see operational replicas of the keelboat and pirogues they used) at the Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum. History buffs will also be excited to learn that the sons of frontiersman Daniel Boone created the Boone’s Lick Trail in the 1800s — a riverside path that eventually fed into the Santa Fe and Oregon trails, critical routes for those heading west. Learn more about this famous frontiersman at the Historic Daniel Boone Home in Historic Missouri Wine Country.
Among St. Charles’ top attractions is the riverfront, a beautiful area to unwind, get some exercise, or simply take in the view. Frontier Park offers panoramic river views and, often, live music, festivals, and local food trucks.
Dining Highlights
It’s easy to find something delicious to eat at St. Charles’ restaurants. Follow the good taste of locals by seeking out smoothies at Picasso's Coffeehouse, fried chicken for lunch at Gingham's Homestyle Restaurant, baked potato soup at Magpie's Cafe, combo platters at Salt + Smoke, or tacos for dinner at La Tia & Panchos Cantina & Grill.
St. Charles also has an impressive array of coffee shops. Visit Course Coffee Roasters for locally sourced beans, Upshot Coffee Brake Shop for creative drinks, Mocha Point Yemeni Coffee for global flavors, or La Belle Vie for a cozy break.
We’re also known for our sweet tooth. Find St. Louis’ iconic gooey butter cake at Fig and Lyle’s. Grandma’s Cookies has been voted USA Today’s Best Cookie Shop, and SugarBot Creamery takes you right back to the 1950s with its retro soda fountain shop charm.
Fun fact: the town of Augusta in Historic Missouri Wine Country is the first American Viticultural Area (AVA) to be recognized, back in 1980. Today, eight wineries call the southwest corner of the county home, and the neighboring B&Bs and guest houses mean you can indulge safely and comfortably.
Seasonal Tips
St. Charles is a year-round destination, but the city shines particularly bright over the holidays. The annual, monthlong Saint Charles Christmas Traditions® festival brings old-fashioned Yuletide cheer to Main Street for an experience unlike any other in the country.
Visit in the spring when flowers take over downtown for Main Street in Bloom. Don’t miss the Daisy Hunt, especially if you’re traveling with young kids.
Summer brings free, live music on Main Street, the family-favorite Festival of the Little Hills arts and crafts event, and Riverfest, our Fourth of July celebration that’s capped off with an incredible fireworks display over the Missouri River.
Fall sees ideal weather for hiking and biking through autumn’s foliage along the Katy Trail, a 240-mile-long, former rail route that passes by various historic landmarks, wineries, breweries, and restaurants. Festivals also take over the calendar, from St. Charles Oktoberfest to the beloved celebration of all things Halloween at Legends & Lanterns®.
Insider’s Advice
Go beyond St. Charles’ hot spots with visits to areas that locals frequent, such as August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area for catfish, bass, crappie, and muskie fishing (and trout fishing from November 1 to early February), the Foundry Art Centre for world class exhibitions in a former train car factory, the tucked-away, cinema-themed Kubrick’s bar, or Broemmelsiek Park for stargazing.
Have questions or want more advice on where to go and what to do? Our Tourism Center is located in the heart of the city, at 230 S. Main St. Other great resources include our free visitor magazine (request it in digital or physical form) and our monthly e-newsletter.
There’s no shortage of fun to be had while visiting St. Charles, Missouri. So what are you waiting for? Explore more of our attractions, events, and things to do. Plan your trip today!