20 Attractions to Explore Near Pere Marquette State Park

The Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge provides an incredible outdoor experience to wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors to the refuge will encounter a variety of habitats, ranging from upland oak hickory forests and wetlands, providing many opportunities for bird watching and more. It also provides visitors with a great place to hike or bike along trails located throughout the 2,384 acres of diverse terrain. Fishing is also allowed in Fourteenmile Creek or the Mississippi River.

Commemorative Air Force Missouri Wing is a fascinating destination located in St. Charles County, Missouri, that offers visitors a unique and immersive experience of aviation history. The Missouri Wing is part of the larger national organization, the Commemorative Air Force, which is dedicated to preserving the legacy of military aviation through the restoration and maintenance of historic aircraft.

Lock and Dam 25 is located along the Mississippi River in Illinois. This man-made structure plays an important role in the navigation of barge traffic along the Mississippi. Spanning 1,294 feet in total length, the dam features 10 single-leaf tainter gates that can be opened or closed to regulate water levels and generate electricity when required. Also included is a lock designed to help transport vessels safely around or beyond the dam.

McNair Park is a popular and well-maintained recreational area located in St. Charles County, Missouri. Encompassing over 112 acres, the park offers a broad range of outdoor activities and facilities, making it an excellent destination for families, sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers.One of the main attractions of McNair Park is its extensive sports facilities, including soccer fields, baseball and softball diamonds, tennis and basketball courts, and a skate park.

Rau Garden is a beautiful natural oasis located in St. Charles County, Missouri, which offers visitors an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The garden boasts an impressive array of flora and fauna, including a vast selection of exotic plants and towering trees that are meticulously manicured to create a breathtakingly beautiful landscape.

Blanchette Park is a popular recreational destination in St. Charles County. This 95-acre park is named after Louis Blanchette, the French-Canadian fur trader who founded the city of St. Charles in 1769.Blanchette Park offers a wide variety of outdoor activities for visitors, including walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. One of the highlights of the park is the Veterans Tribute, a monument honoring the men and women who served in the armed forces.

The Frenchtown Heritage Museum, located in St. Charles County, Missouri, is a significant historical landmark that attracts visitors from all over the country. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the rich French heritage of the area and preserving the memory of the early French settlers who played a pivotal role in the development of the region.

The Frenchtown Historic District in St. Charles County, is a well-preserved neighborhood that offers visitors a glimpse into the area's rich cultural heritage. The district is located along the Missouri River and covers approximately 38 acres.Frenchtown was originally settled by French Canadian fur traders and became a thriving community in the mid-1800s. The neighborhood features beautiful architecture that reflects the cultural influences of the French settlers.

The Foundry Art Centre also hosts an array of educational programs and workshops, designed to inspire and educate visitors of all ages. These programs cover various art forms, from drawing and painting to ceramics and printmaking, and are led by experienced and talented artists.One of the highlights of the Foundry Art Centre is its artist studio spaces, which provide affordable and functional workspaces for local artists.

The Joe Page Bridge is a steel truss bridge spanning an impressive 495 feet across the Illinois River. It was constructed in 1927 and is still used as a major thoroughfare for both vehicle and non-motorized traffic. The use of the bridge has been integral in connecting the areas to the north and south of the river for over 90 years, providing residents with access to trade, commerce and recreation opportunities. The bridge is part of the larger Illinois River Bridge Initiative.

The First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site, located in St. Charles County, Missouri, is a must-visit destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. This site, which served as the first capitol of Missouri from 1821-1826, is a fascinating representation of Missouri's rich political history, offering visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of early Missourians and the political events that shaped the state.

St. Charles Historic District is a charming and vibrant neighborhood located in St. Charles County, Missouri. This district is nestled along the banks of the Missouri River and covers an area of approximately 38 acres.It is renowned for its picturesque cobblestone streets, preserved historic architecture, and unique local shops and restaurants. The area features beautifully restored buildings that date back to the 19th century.

Katy Trail State Park is a world-renowned destination located in St. Charles County, Missouri. This park is a must-visit for anyone who loves biking, hiking, or just enjoying the beautiful outdoors. The park stretches over 240 miles, making it the longest rail-trail in the United States, and runs along the Missouri River, offering visitors stunning views of the water and the surrounding countryside.

Bangert Island, is a unique geographical feature with a fascinating history. The island was once a peninsula, but after the construction of the Missouri River's Chain of Rocks Canal in the early 20th century, it became a true island.The island spans over 523 acres and is an ecological haven for local flora and fauna. It is home to a variety of rare and endangered species of plants and animals and is an important breeding ground for migratory birds such as pelicans and egrets.

Fort Zumwalt Park is a beautiful and family-friendly destination. This 48-acre park offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages, making it a perfect spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.One of the main attractions of Fort Zumwalt Park is the Splash Pad, which is a popular spot for kids during the summer months. The Splash Pad features a variety of water sprayers, fountains, and buckets, providing hours of fun and entertainment for children of all ages.

Fort Zumwalt Park is a family-friendly and well-maintained recreational area located in St. Charles County. The park spans over 48 acres, offering visitors a range of activities that cater to all ages and interests.One of the park's main attractions is the Splash Pad, which is particularly popular with young children during the warmer months. The Splash Pad features a variety of water sprayers, fountains, and buckets, providing hours of fun and entertainment for kids of all ages.

Scott A. Lewis Park is a notable recreational venue covers an area of 88 acres and offers a plethora of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages.The park's centerpiece is its beautiful lake, which is stocked with a variety of fish species, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. Additionally, the park has several picnic areas, pavilions, and playgrounds where families can gather and enjoy outdoor activities while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

College Meadows Park is a hidden gem covering an area of 10 acres, the park offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it a popular spot for families and individuals alike.The park's central feature is its expansive green space, which is perfect for picnics, sports, or just lounging in the sun. Additionally, there are several walking trails that wind through the park's scenic wooded areas, providing visitors with a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Historic Aircraft Restoration Museum is a fascinating museum located in St. Louis County, Missouri, dedicated to the preservation and restoration of historic aircraft. The museum, which was established in 1981, is situated at the St. Louis Downtown Airport, and visitors can see both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters.The museum boasts an extensive collection of aircraft from different eras, including World War II, the Golden Age of Aviation, and the Korean War.

Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park is a breathtaking recreational area situated in St. Louis County, Missouri that covers an expansive area of 320 acres. The lake was initially created as a water supply source over 100 years ago, but it has since become a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts and water sports enthusiasts.Visitors to the park can indulge in a wide range of activities, including fishing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming.