Fall is just around the corner. It’s a season of excitement and beauty—from the colorful foliage and crisp weather to pumpkin spice everything and seasonal fashions like cozy sweaters and stylish coats. Things at West County Center are promising to be just as dynamic this autumn. Thanks to unique stores and dining options, there’s a lot to fall for at the Des Peres shopping center.

One of the best things about fall is getting outside and enjoying the beauty of the natural world. West County Center has you covered for all of your autumn adventures thanks to Gearhead Outfitters. Originally founded in Jonesboro, Arkansas, as a bikeshop, the store has grown to be a nationwide destination known for offering a wide variety of outdoor and active brands. “Our selection is unique to us,” store manager Matthew Miller notes. “Everyone adventures differently, but you can find travel supplies, outdoor equipment, accessories, clothing and shoes. It really is a one-stop shop, and our staff is here to help you navigate all of the options.” Gearhead Outfitters’ selection includes Hoka, Patagonia, Yeti, Free People Movement, Vuori, On Running, Cotopaxi and more.

The store’s West County Center location is its only one in the St. Louis region. Miller notes that it has been a natural fit for the brand. Gearhead Outfitters is dedicated to building strong relationships within the communities it calls home, and the shopping center has provided ample opportunities to connect with St. Louis. “Working at West County Center has been an amazing experience,” he says. “Our mission is to be a retailer the community loves and can count on. This location brings together so many people from across the region, and we’ve gotten to connect with local nonprofits and organizations. It’s a wonderful environment.”

Gearhead Outfitters is just one of the unique shopping experiences offered at West County Center. The shopping center is home to a variety of St. Louis-exclusive retailers. These include offerings for fashionistas like Brighton Collectibles, Camille la Vie, Offline by Aerie, Soma and Tradehome Shoes. You also can find unique experiences for kids—and kids at heart—like LEGO and Sweet & Sassy. For those looking for something delicious, there is J. Gilbert’s, California Pizza Kitchen, Jamba Juice and Lolli & Pops. This fall, the shopping center will welcome Garage. The Montreal-based retailer is best known for its fashion-forward everyday basics.

More exciting changes are on the horizon this autumn at West County Center. Popeyes will be serving up its famous fried chicken in the food court. If you’re looking for something different, don’t miss the now open Miniso. Inspired by Japanese specialty stores, the company offers a wide variety of affordable, well designed products, ranging from tech to home goods to fashion. “When you visit West County Center, you’re not getting the typical mall experience,” senior marketing director Sean Phillips notes. “It’s a unique place to shop, and you can find stores and brands that aren’t available elsewhere in St. Louis. We hope people will come out and see what we have to offer.”

Fall adventures are waiting for you at West County Center thanks to a variety of St. Louis-exclusive retailers and restaurants. Pictured on the cover: Matthew Miller and Bailey Lynn of Gearhead Outfitters. For more information, visit shopwestcountycenter.com.

Cover design by Julie Streiler
Cover photo by Colin Miller of Strauss Peyton Photography

Pictured at top: Gearhead Outfitters store manager Matthew Miller
Photo: Colin Miller of Strauss Peyton Photography