20 Attractions to Explore Near First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 is a popular and scenic lake situated in St. Louis County, Missouri. The lake, which covers an area of 320 acres, is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts and water sports enthusiasts. It is a man-made lake that was originally created as a water supply reservoir in the early 1900s. Today, it serves as a major recreational area and an important source of drinking water for the city of Creve Coeur.

Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park is an outdoor recreational facility located in St. Louis County, Missouri, that provides a unique and exciting way to explore nature while getting an adrenaline rush. The park offers a variety of activities, including zip lines, rope courses, and Tarzan swings, all designed to challenge adventurers of all skill levels.The zip line course features over 2,624 feet of high-flying fun, with ten zip lines that soar as high as 50 feet above the ground.

Westport Plaza is a vibrant and bustling destination located in St. Louis County. This 42-acre commercial and entertainment complex offers visitors a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options that cater to every taste and preference.It features over 15 upscale restaurants and bars that offer a diverse range of cuisines, from Italian to Japanese. Visitors can indulge in fine dining experiences or grab a quick bite to eat while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the plaza.

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.

The St. Louis Carousel is a beloved attraction in St. Louis County. The carousel is a beautifully restored, hand-carved masterpiece that was originally built in 1920 by the Dentzel Carousel Company. The carousel features 60 intricately crafted horses, several chariots, and a Wurlitzer band organ that provides the perfect accompaniment to the ride.The carousel was originally located in Forest Park and entertained generations of St. Louisans until it was moved to Faust Park in the 1960s.

Faust Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and history of St. Louis County. With its stunning indoor conservatory, beautifully restored carousel, and historic mansion, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Faust Park.Visitors can enjoy hiking along the park's six miles of trails that wind through the wooded areas and offer picturesque views of the Meramec River.

Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House, located in St. Louis County, Missouri, is a unique destination that offers visitors an immersive experience into the world of butterflies. The 8,000 square feet indoor conservatory is home to over 60 species of native and exotic butterflies that flutter around freely in their natural habitat.Visitors can embark on a self-guided tour of the butterfly house and marvel at the colorful and vibrant butterflies as they feed, mate, and fly around.

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.

Stacy Park is a beautiful recreational area located in St. Louis County, Missouri, that spans over 30 acres of land. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike who seek to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some time in nature.The park features a variety of activities and amenities to suit visitors of all ages. For those who want to stay active, the park offers several sports fields, including baseball, soccer, and volleyball.