If it’s been said once, it’s been said a thousand times: St. Louis is a city of neighborhoods. With 79 unique ones and many beautiful suburbs, each vibrant community has its own fascinating history and unique shops, restaurants and attractions. We can only scratch the surface of all the StL has to offer, but we asked our contributors to share some of their favorite places to visit across the metro.
Central West End
The Central West End is full of life. Its tree-lined streets are home to lively restaurants and bars, unique shops and historic residences, some that date back to the 1904 World’s Fair. Just a stone’s throw from Forest Park, the vibrant area has an energy all its own.
T&S‘ Pick: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
—Beth Chesterton
Cheltenham
This neighborhood traces its roots back to 1798. Named after the city in England, it became synonymous with fire brick production in the 19th century. Historically, it’s also been a center of education, serving as home to Forest Park University and Kirkwood Seminary, the first university in the U.S. to be chartered solely for women. Today, the neighborhood is full of bars, restaurants, coffee shops and parks.
T&S‘ Pick: Cool Stuff.
—Wendy Jablonow
Chesterfield
The largest city in west St. Louis County, Chesterfield is known for its shopping, but you don’t want to miss its wide variety of dining options or unique annual events, such as the River City Bluegrass Festival, Chesterfield Wine & Jazz Festival and Pedal the Cause. ‘Head west’ on Hwy. 40 to see all the community has to offer.
T&S‘ Pick: Kim’s Bakery
—Stephanie Wallace
Clayton
Established as a seat for St. Louis County’s government, Clayton is a hub of business, culture, dining and retail. Combining a metropolitan downtown with chic residential neighborhoods, you’ll find plenty to explore—whether you’re taking a walk in Shaw Park, grabbing a cup of coffee or shopping local boutiques.
T&S‘ Pick: Protzel’s Delicatessen
—Robert Paster
The Grove
Known as the Manchester Strip in the late 19th century, this nearly mile long stretch between Kingshighway and Vandeventer is home to a diverse range of more than 50 businesses. You can find great places to eat and drink, hit the dance floor at various clubs, grab a brew (coffee or beer) and more. Diverse, colorful and vibrant, The Grove is a thriving cultural hot spot.
T&S‘ Pick: Gezellig
—Cydney Moore
The Hill
Famous for its Italian markets, bakeries and restaurants, The Hill has deep roots in local history. The neighborhood was home to world-class athletes like Yogi Berra and Joe Garagiola. Today, this historical part of the city remains a tight-knit,
family-friendly place for locals and visitors alike to explore.
T&S‘ Pick: Dominic’s
—Mike Claiborne
Kirkwood
The O.G. St. Louis suburb, the community is walkable, bikeable and even train-able—thanks to the historic Amtrak depot. From quaint to hip, Kirkwood is full of unique spots to explore. Stroll the shops downtown, catch a show at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center and definitely don’t skip out on dinner.
T&S‘ Pick: National Museum of Transportation
—Jennifer Beckerle
Ladue
The city of Ladue came to be more than eight decades ago when the villages of LaDue, Deer Creek and McKnight merged into one. Today, the area is known for luxurious neighborhoods and avenues dotted with mature trees. Along with restaurants and parks, visitors can explore local boutiques that offer everything from upscale fashion and jewelry to European and American antiques.
T&S‘ Pick: PALM Health Cafe
—Joan Berkman
Overland
The community was first settled in the early 1820s, when people traveling westward would stop overnight at what became known as “The Overland Park.” Daniel Boone constructed a single room cabin in the area near the current location of Lake Sherwood and Wyland Elementary School. Along with several beautiful parks, the community also features county landmarks like Lackland House and Alexander McElhinney Log House.
T&S‘ Pick: Taqueria Durango
—Colin Miller
Princeton Heights
This South City neighborhood was named after the old Princeton Creamery on Kingshighway Boulevard near Gravois. Before being incorporated into St. Louis City, it was known as Gardenville thanks to the farmers who grew fruits and vegetables to sell at the nearby Soulard Market. The farmland eventually gave way to urban development, and the area is now home to a variety of restaurants and shops.
T&S‘ Pick: Onesto
—Bill Beggs Jr.
Richmond Heights
Local legend has it that the area’s name was suggested by Civil War general Robert E. Lee, who thought the topography resembled that of Richmond, Virginia. Prominent residents who have called Richmond Heights home include Charles Lindbergh, Arthur Ashe and Jack Buck. Today, you can shop, eat and more in the charming neighborhood.
T&S‘ Pick: Fozzie’s Sandwich Emporium
—Patty Hannum
Shaw
One of the oldest and most intact neighborhoods among St. Louis City’s historic districts, Shaw is home to both Tower Grove Park and the Missouri Botanical Garden. The area also has experienced a renovation renaissance with shops and restaurants opening for residents and visitors alike to enjoy. Explore the history and character of this unique neighborhood.
T&S‘ Pick: Fiddlehead Fern Cafe
—Suzy Gorman
South Grand
Just across Tower Grove Park from the Shaw neighborhood sits another historic area. Known for its International District, South Grand offers a variety of activities from eclectic shops to a huge array of ethnic restaurants. A self-guided walking tour offers the opportunity to explore some of the neighborhood’s historic buildings.
T&S‘ Pick: Jay International Foods
—Julia Johnson
Webster Groves
With more than 300 homes in the area listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Webster Groves has a long history, but it’s hardly stuck in the past—although you won’t want to miss historic sites like Hawken House. The vibrant community is home to an abundance of great eateries, unique shopping opportunities and performances from cultural institutions like Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and Opera Theatre of Saint Louis.
T&S‘ Pick: Larson Park
—Julie Streiler