Hit the Bricks, History in Every Step

Experience 250+ years of Saint Charles History... in one hour!

Join our HisTOURy Guides as they invite you to "Hit the Bricks" for a walking tour through history. Discover the fascinating people, places, and moments that have made Saint Charles historically awesome since 1769.

Discover the area that called to the adventurous spirit of pioneers and famous explorers. Walk in the footsteps of early legislators, scoundrels, and even a (literal) saint. Learn how Main Street weathered the Civil War, the industrial revolution, and the ever-changing times. One thing is guaranteed, you'll never look at Saint Charles the same way again.

We currently offer two tours:

THE KEY TO THE WEST: PIONEERS, EXPLORERS, & TRADERS... OH MY!
[400-900 S blocks]

From the settlement of French Canadian fur trapper Louis Blanchette to Lewis & Clark's Corps of Discovery, learn about Saint Charles' pivotal role as the launching point of explorers and adventurers during its first century and a half. Along the way, uncover a forgotten graveyard, hear the story of a nefarious plot hatched by an American vice president, examine the role railroads played in local history, and find where two literary celebrities had a Saint Charles connection.

FRI & SAT:   10:30 AM    |    SUN:   12:30 PM

MO THAN MEETS THE EYE: SURPRISES OF THE FIRST STATE CAPITAL
[300 S - 300 N blocks]

Learn about the important role that Saint Charles played as Missouri's first state capital, stand where tumultuous events helped ignite a spark leading to the American Civil War, discover Saint Charles' unlikely starring role in the world of entertainment, meet a local saint, learn how ordinary citizens aided the war effort during World War II, and more!

FRI & SAT:   12:30 PM   |    SUN:   2:30 PM

• Tours are limited to 15 people
• Each tour is $7 per person 
• Children under 10 are FREE with an adult purchase
• Tours begin at the Tourism Center (230 South Main St.)
• Walking tours are held rain, shine, or snow. In the event of inclement weather, an indoor guided tour will be offered. 
• Our tours last about an hour, participants should expect to be standing or walking for a majority of the time. We walk at a moderate pace. Please wear appropriate footwear and dress for the weather.
• Should you not be able to attend the tour and need to cancel your booking, we will grant you a refund with a 48 hour cancellation notice. After that point, the tour is non-refundable.

Tours are offered every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday - except on the following dates:

August 2023:
August 18, 19, & 20 (Festival of the Little Hills)

October 2023:
October 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, & 29 (Legends & Lanterns®)

November 2023:
November 24, 25, & 26 (Christmas Traditions®)

December 2023:
December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, & 24 (Christmas Traditions®)

December 29, 30, & 31

If you are interested in booking a group tour, please click here.