McBride Homes has built over 40,000 new homes across the metro area and we are proud to celebrate over 75 years building St. Louis.
McBride Homes offers ample product lines, price points, and the best value for new construction homes.
We are your hometown homebuilder and a name you can trust to build your new dream home!
We’re so happy you are here! Whether you are making the move alone or have a family in tow, you will be pleasantly surprised to find beautiful homes at affordable prices throughout St. Charles County. To help in your home search, Relocating in Saint Charles County magazine introduces you to the many diverse neighborhoods that make up St. Charles County (pages 10-16). There are unique urban, suburban and rural acreages available that will match your lifestyle and sensibilities. To make your home search a pleasant experience, enlist a successful real estate agent. Your agent will quickly assess your needs and steer you in the direction that will ensure a successful transition to your new home.
While you are checking out the neighborhood vibes, focus on where the kids will attend school. The public school districts all have high ratings as do the many private schools throughout the county. Take your time, you’ll find the school that is a natural fit for your family (pages 22-31).
Oh, and what fun you’ll have here. Did you know that Augusta was our nation’s first wine region? Yes, before Napa Valley. We also claim to have the longest biking trail in the Nation that starts near downtown St. Charles and runs 240 miles west following the old Katy Railroad Line. It’s a pet-friendly trail dotted with small towns offering family-owned restaurants, wineries, bike rental shops and some of the best scenery in Missouri.
St. Charles County has a small-town feel, but, in reality, we are the fastest-growing region in Missouri. Enjoy the region’s rivers, lakes and rolling hills, coupled with top-ranked hospitals, universities, sports teams and historic neighborhoods and landmarks. The St. Charles County live, work, play experience is one you won’t ever want to leave. Before you know it, you will be inviting friends and family to your new home.
See you around!
Suzie
Owner/Publisher
OWNER/PUBLISHER: Suzie Osterloh
ART DIRECTOR: Kim Dillon
MANAGING EDITOR: Maya Brenningmeyer
COPY EDITOR: Kevin Weaks
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Anne Matheis, Bill Brecht, Sam Zide
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jaden Harper, Julie Brown Patton, Melissa Mauzy, Hiba Syed
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Colleen Poelker
DISTRIBUTION MA STER : Barney Osterloh
MARKETING/SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST Zoe Miller
DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES: bosterloh@stlouishomesmag.com
ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: sosterloh@stlouishomesmag.com
St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles magazine
Relocating in Saint Charles County Magazine 255 Lamp & Lantern Village Town & Country, MO 63017 Phone 636-230-9700 www.stlouishomesmag.com
PRESIDENT: Suzie Osterloh
VICE PRESIDENT: Barney Osterloh
Relocating in Saint Charles County magazine is published and printed once a year by Distinctive Lifestyles, LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright ©2024 Distinctive Lifestyles, LLC. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.
Volume 1, Number 1.
NEIGHBORHOODS
Find the perfect St. Charles community to call home.
HOME FEATURE HOSPITALS
This creative couple constructed their dream home in collaboration with their trusted design/build team.
Your guide to Pre-K through secondary education.
St. Charles County is home to top-notch hospitals with multiple outpatient locations across the county.
St. Charles Landmarks
Parks and Recreation
Wineries and Restaurants
Innsbrook
The Hub
On the cover: The Katy Trail runs alongside the Missouri River and is open to bicyclists, pedestrians and equestrians in select locations along the trail.
Home to Missouri’s first State Capitol, historical sites, outdoor excursions and more, St. Charles County is packed full of opportunity. When choosing where to live, there are important items to take into consideration, from amenities to new developments. The list is endless. Read on to discover what’s happening in Missouri’s fastest-growing county.
An hour from downtown St. Louis, Augusta sits among rolling hills along the Missouri River. Founded in 1855, the town crowns itself as America’s First Wine Region. Enjoy historical sites, Katy Trail access points, wineries, restaurants, antique and specialty stores, as well as a brewery and quaint B&B’s. Families, bicyclists, joggers and dogs are all welcome to explore the nature trails and all this historic town has to offer.
One of the oldest towns in St. Charles County, Cottleville is located north of Weldon Spring and is easily accessible off Hwy 364. The city holds over 210 acres of parks and a historic downtown filled with shops and restaurants including Frankie Martin’s Garden, an outdoor food truck garden. Cottleville’s homes range from single-family ranches to townhomes. New subdivisions are popping up around the area to accommodate its growing population.
Located between O’Fallon and Lake Saint Louis, Dardenne Prairie is a hub of activity. With numerous public parks, pickleball courts, summer concerts and more, it’s a great spot for growing families. Homes and subdivisions and are served by Wentzville, Francis Howell and Fort Zumwalt school districts.
Fischer & Frichtel is a local, family-owned and operated company which was founded in St. Louis in 1945. Known for our legendary construction quality, on-staff carpentry team and exceptional customer service, we build homes, villas and townhomes throughout St. Charles and St. Louis Counties, or on your land! For details, please visit FandFHomes.com, or call 314-283-6510.
A historic hub, Defiance is an area full of possibility. Containing the Historic Daniel Boone Home, local wineries, breweries and spots for hiking, it’s the perfect spot for a day trip. Can’t-miss-spots include Good News Brewing, the Katy Trail and numerous bed and breakfasts throughout the area. Defiance is also known for its antique shopping and river excursions.
Settled in 1836, Flint Hill is in the northwestern corner of St. Charles County. Known for its small town appeal, Flint Hill is surrounded by farmland and countryside but its proximity to Wentzville and surrounding towns makes it convenient for residents to access numerous amenities. With new developments popping up around the area, there are many opportunities for single-family homes within new subdivisions. Residents can enjoy Flint Hill Market, a local grocery store, and Friendship Brewing Company, a local brewery with locations in Wentzville, Flint Hill and Hannibal.
Built on the edge of two man-made lakes, Lake Saint Louis offers plenty of recreational opportunities, making it a popular settling place for both retirees and young families. In addition to water sports, Lake Saint Louis offers riding stables, hiking trails, ball fields, an 18-hole championship golf course and Missouri's only Von Maur department store. One of the top 10 "Best Places to Live: Money magazine's 2009 list of America's best small cities," Lake Saint Louis boasts homes that accommodate a large spectrum of lifestyles and budgets. Homes range from small, efficient condominiums to luxury residences on the edge of the lake.
Founded in 1839, New Melle was created by immigrants from Melle, Germany. The scenic town is located at the intersections of highways Z, D and F, about 37 miles west of St. Louis. Amenities include the New Melle Sports and Recreation Center, BooneDuden Historical Society and Museum, Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall and the Blue Star Memorial Marker. The town is in the Francis Howell School District and is served by Daniel Boone Elementary School. Homes are mainly in large subdivisions and New Melle’s Fire Protection District is the largest in the county.
At Lombardo Homes, we don’t just build homes. We help families lay the foundation of their future. We believe a new home should be more than just a place to live; it should be the place where families build traditions that will be handed down from generation to generation and create memories that will last a lifetime.
With numerous communities across St. Charles—including Anywhere Lombardo, our build-on-your-lot company—we offer a price, product, and community for everyone. Scan the QR code to tour one of our homes and learn more!
New Town St. Charles is a master-planned community located north of St. Charles’s Historic Main Street. Homes by Whittaker constructed the homes within the community, planned around their vision of bringing coastal living to Missouri. Surrounding these vintage-style homes are streets lined with wellmaintained sidewalks perfect for walking or biking. New Town currently has a market, cafe, churches and three lakes available for fishing, swimming, canoeing and kayaking. Three parks are located within the community for public use, as well as an amphitheater for community events.
As the former state capital and launch point for the Lewis and Clark Expedition, St. Charles is steeped in history and charm. Founded in 1765, the city’s downtown is paved with cobblestones and has retained its traditional look and feel. Main Street offers fine dining, antique shops, boutiques and museums. Despite its reverence for its heritage, the city is forward-thinking, with many prosperous companies headquartered there. As a result, St. Charles’ housing options include older, historic homes, as well as newly constructed developments.
O’Fallon consistently ranks high among best places to live in the region, including being ranked in the top 100 cities on the list of “Best U.S. Suburbs to Buy Your First Home”, (Today’s Homeowner, 2023), and #7 “Safest Cities in Missouri”, (www.safewise. com, 2023). O’Fallon is the seventh-largest city in the state of Missouri with a population of more than 93,000 residents. In addition to the vibrant parks and recreation activities for residents and visitors, O’Fallon is the home of major corporate partners such as Mastercard’s Global Operations Center and Citi’s Global Consumer Banking. O’Fallon has a "Tradition with Vision", and is your place to call home.
Originally settled in 1829, St. Paul had steam flour mills, gristmills, churches and a parish school before being incorporated into St. Charles County in 1976. The town has two parks, Wilke Park and P.J. Peine Park, which is still being developed. It’s a growing community with a small town feel. There are opportunities for new construction, large neighborhoods and homesites.
Located west of St. Charles, St. Peters was founded by French traders in the late 1700s. St. Peters has grown from a small farming area of 486 people in 1970 to a large suburban community, home to more than 60,000 people and 2,500 businesses. This growing city has been recognized nationally, such as on Money magazine's "Best Places to Live: Money's list of America's best small cities."
Weldon Spring is located just over the Missouri River and is one of the closest towns to St. Louis County. Its convenient location makes it easy for residents to reach nearby Francis Howell School District, private schools and local universities. Weldon Spring has many parks, including the Weldon Spring City Park, featuring playgrounds, disc golf courses, ponds for fishing and more. Most homes are located within neighborhoods and range from single-family ranches to two-story homes.
Located just west of the Missouri River off of I-64/40, residents of WingHaven enjoy quick access to Chesterfield and a 30-minute drive to downtown St. Louis, but they also have the advantage of
Photography courtesy of Gateway Realty Group
enjoying all that WingHaven has to offer, including jogging trails, swimming, golf, spa, library, shops and fine dining.
Founded in 1855, Wentzville was named for Erasmus Livingston Wentz, the chief engineer of St. Louis, Kansas City and Northern Railway. Contemporary, rustic ranch homes and farm sites are all available at affordable prices, along with newer two-story homes. Conveniently located on I-70 west of St. Louis, Wentzville combines a rural lifestyle with convenient living, as it offers easy access to the commercial, educational and recreational amenities of St. Louis.
Armed with a file of ideas and a detailed wish list, this creative couple constructed their dream home in collaboration with their trusted design/build team.
By Melissa Mauzy
Photography by Anne Matheis
Architect: LR Spraul
Builder/Design: Liston Design Build
Liston Design Build used stamped concrete flooring and a wood treatment on the exterior porch ceiling to elevate the style of the home.
When the to-do list of projects and renovations ran out at their previous residence, a St. Charles couple set their sights on something bigger. “We decided we wanted to build,” says the homeowner.
The couple turned to Keith and Jeanne Liston of Liston Design Build to help them make their dreams a reality. “We have worked with Keith and Jeanne for more than 15 years,” the homeowner says.
The initial concept for the home was based on the couple’s ranch-style lake house. “We like how we live at the lake and how it works for our family,” the homeowner says. The team worked with architect Larry Spraul of LR Spraul for more than a year to conceptualize and finalize the plans for the design.
Liston says the hands-on approach to creating the home is the philosophy of Liston Design Build. All the work is done up front prior to the building phase so that everyone involved has a good idea of what the end result will be. It allows tweaks and changes to be made to the plan to make the client’s desired design a reality and makes the whole experience more custom to their wishes.
Vaulted ceilings with cedar beams carry your eye from the entry foyer through to the great room, which includes built-in bookshelves and a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace.
For the exterior, the homeowners knew they wanted a stone facade. Cedar trusses and rock in the landscape create a rustic, French Country look. A large front porch, with a swing the homeowners just love, creates an inviting first glance into the home. A plank stamped concrete porch and tongue-and-groove wood on the exterior ceilings elevates the level of style and craftsmanship of the home.
An oversized front door and transom window lead you into the home’s entryway where the distressed beams mimic the exterior. The great room features a stunning floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace flanked by custom-built bookshelves painted dovetail. “The darker paint color provided depth and worked well with the interior color scheme," Jeanne says. Liston’s craftsmen built the shelving on site to the exact sizes needed for the homeowner’s specific decorative pieces.
At nearly 7,500 square feet, the house still feels very warm and inviting. Engineered hardwood in a maple
and friends.
laid in varied widths blankets the entire home’s floors, and Liston selected Sherwin Williams’s agreeable gray for the walls. “It’s a warmer gray that works well with everything,” she says.
One of the couple’s main requirements in the new home’s design was for the main living spaces to be open. The kitchen flows right into the great room and allows easy access between the two spaces. A massive quartz topped island separates the rooms with two oversized geometric pendants illuminating the additional counter space.
After living in the home for more than a year, the homeowner says she wouldn’t change a thing. The couple is forever grateful for the collaboration with Keith and Jeanne Liston in creating their dream forever home. The homeowner says, “We feel like we’re at our lake house when we are at home.”
Comfortable, cozy, classic and planned to perfection. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources and additional photos.
Your guide to elementary and secondary education in St. Charles County.
School selection is one of the most important items homeowners look at when planning their move. With six public school districts, 30 private schools and three colleges, St. Charles County has something for every family and is only continuing to grow.
Families living in St. Charles county have access to multiple educational programs ranging from public to private to Montessori. School districts feature high-quality extracurricular activities, resources and learning opportunities.
The county is also home to a number of Catholic and Lutheran elementary and secondary schools. A short distance from St. Louis, the seventh largest Archdiocesan school system in the country, there are multiple Catholic schools across the county. In addition to this, there are a number of award-winning Lutheran schools in the area. On the next few pages, find more about featured schools from St. Charles County.
Founded in 1863, All Saints Catholic School proudly serves as a coeducational institution that provides comprehensive education from Preschool through eighth grade. Passionate educators are dedicated to creating an environment that fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love for learning. We offer a rigorous curriculum that prepares our students for future academic and personal success, and our commitment to instilling Catholic values is evident in our daily prayer, religious education, and service-oriented activities, all aimed at developing a strong moral compass in each student. At All Saints, our classrooms seamlessly blend innovation with tradition, promoting individual talents and interests in a nurturing atmosphere.
Thanks to our small class sizes, our educators are able to provide personalized attention, adapting to unique learning styles and ensuring that every student thrives. Beyond academics, All Saints offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service, which enrich our students’ educational experience. By choosing All Saints, you opt for a community that values faith, academic excellence, and comprehensive development, all of which prepare young individuals for a successful and impactful life. Join us in shaping the compassionate, responsible leaders of tomorrow. allsaints-stpeters.org / 636-397-1440 ext. 2.
Founded in 1818 by St. Philippine Duchesne, the Academy of the Sacred Heart is a Catholic, independent school for children of all faiths. The Academy educates boys and girls in Pre-K through eighth grade, providing an exceptional foundation and creating joyful, life-long learners.
A rigorous curriculum is enhanced by a focus on written expression, hands-on science, international language, engaging art and music classes and daily PE. With 3D printers and drones, plus coding and video production, students develop technology skills necessary for their future. Eighth Class graduates attend the region’s finest high schools and maintain a lasting relationship as alumni.
One of 25 Network of Sacred Heart Schools in the U.S. and Canada, the Academy is located on a historic and beautiful 10-acre campus in St. Charles and draws from 24 zip codes in the metro area. For more information, visit ash1818.org or call 636-946-6127.
Where faith, education, and service converge to shape confident, compassionate, and socially responsible individuals. Embark on a journey of growth, discovery, and faith with us, as we work together to inspire young hearts and minds, preparing our students to excel academically and make a positive impact in the world. At All Saints faith-based education comes alive, and every child is known, valued, and loved.
Academic Excellence
A curriculum designed to inspire a love for learning and foster critical thinking skills.
Faith-Based Values
We nurture our Catholic faith, moral development, and a sense of social responsibility.
Innovative Programs
STEM initiatives, arts, and extracurricular activities spark curiosity and creativity.
Inclusive
We
A leader in education for over 150 years, Assumption School offers a faith-based, private school education with smaller classroom sizes and tuition assistance. With a separate Early Childhood Learning Center featuring a creative curriculum and hands-on X-STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, art and math) classroom, our preschool and kindergarten students have the foundation for academic success and can continue that educational excellence at the elementary school level. Students have access to 1-1 technology, gifted programs for grades 3-5, STEM, Spanish, and an accelerated STEM Robotics program. Our test results show that Assumption students exceed learning expectations in Math and Reading.
Assumption School has an 8:1 student-educator ratio, including learning consultants and a counselor, and transforms each student through the power of faith formation and knowledge. In addition to offeringweekly Mass and Prayer Service, we have a therapy dog onsite named Crusader and offer afterschool, summer and athletic programs year-round!
Schedule a tour today!
636-240-4474 / info@abvmtech.org.
St. Charles Community College is pushing beyond expectations, reimagining higher education, and creating the most innovative and future-focused environment for higher learning in our region.
A highly regarded public, comprehensive two-year community college in St. Charles County, Missouri, SCC offers associate degrees and certificate programs in business, technology, manufacturing, engineering, agriculture, culinary arts, education, science, nursing/ healthcare, arts, humanities, the trades, and more. SCC also provides community education classes for lifelong learners. Visit stchas.edu or call 636-922-8000 to set up a tour.
St. Joseph School.
St. Joseph School is a parochial school of the Archdiocese of St. Louis, faithful to the Magisterium of the Roman Catholic Church, dedicated to serving children and families by providing a Christ-centered learning environment where children grow in faith, truth and love. Student scores in core subject areas are consistently higher than the national average across our 1,000 students Pre-K through 8th. As the largest parish school in the Archdiocese of St. Louis, we have a competitive tuition that includes discounts for parishioners and families with multiple children. St. Joseph School—Living the Truth in Love! For more information, visit stjoecot.org/school or call 636-441-0055.
St. Patrick School.
St. Patrick School has offered a challenging education and living faith to students for over 100 years. Our mission is to provide quality education in a Catholic environment that promotes the love of God, positive self-esteem, personal responsibility, and respect for others and the world around us following the example of Jesus Christ. We endeavor to foster growth through our teaching ministry by proclaiming the gospel message of hope, peace and justice taught and lived in a faith community that worships together. A unique aspect of our program are our Faith Families. Students Kindergarten through eighth grade are grouped together into Faith Families that meet throughout the year to grow in faith and foster community. www.stpatrickwentzville.org/school, 636-332-9913
Whitfield, an independent, coeducational school for grades 6-12, offers engaging, active learning through a foundational, liberal arts curriculum. Here, we marry challenging coursework with transformative experiences to instill citizenship, critical thinking, and leadership skills—and to prepare students for college and everything after. Learn more and schedule a tour: www.whitfieldschool.org, 314-434-514, admissions@whitfieldschool.org
St. Charles’ local choice for full-service concierge home remodeling services.
From initial concepting through design renderings and finish selections to the last final, perfect touch, Liston Design Build can help you bring your vision and home to life – personalized to your every want, need, routine, desire, and more.
St. Charles County’s award-winning library system provides a wealth of knowledge and resources to its community.
By Maya Brenningmeyer
With more than ten locations and a bookmobile, St. Charles City-County Library system is conveniently placed within driving distance of most homes in the county. Serving as a local hub, each library location is equipped with free Wi-Fi, fax/scan/copy services, public computers, meeting rooms, free notary service and curbside service. At select locations, local residents are able to register for a passport with an appointment.
For those who are unable to make the trip out to a library location, the ‘Library to You’ Bookmobile visits a set list of locations every other week. The Bookmobile has free Wi-Fi and Chromebooks available to use on-site. Visitors can also pick up holds and return materials, as well as print, copy and scan documents. For
those looking to pick up a new book, a small collection is available on the Bookmobile, as well as staff members who can help new residents register for a library card.
St. Charles City-County Library doesn’t stop at just books. The library system also holds regular events and classes for the public. Kids and teens can enjoy youth book clubs including a club centered around teen graphic novels, a family book club and a "tweens read" book club. Storytimes, Time for Twos and Tiny Tots classes are available in the morning throughout the week for babies, toddlers and their caregivers. Select locations also hold additional events during the month ranging from sewing classes to walking groups and art classes.
Visit www.stchlibrary.org for hours and upcoming events.
Augusta 198 Jackson St., Augusta, MO 63332
Boone’s Trail 10 Fiddlecreek Ridge Rd., Wentzville, MO 63385
Cliff View 10 Cliff View Dr., Wentzville, MO 63385
Corporate Parkway 1200 Corporate Parkway, Wentzville, MO 63385
Deer Run 1300 North Main, O’Fallon, MO 63366
Kathryn Linnemann 2323 Elm Street, St. Charles, MO 63301
Kisker Road 1000 Kisker Rd., St. Charles, MO 63304
McClay 2760 McClay Rd, St. Charles, MO 63303
Mid Rivers Mall 2004 Mid Rivers Mall, St. Peters, MO 63376
Middendorf-Kredell 2750 Hwy K, O’Fallon, MO 63368
WingHaven 7435 Village Center Dr., O’Fallon, MO 63368
The Bookmobile visits these locations every other week. Visit www.stchlibrary.org for specific dates and times.
Broemmelsiek Park 1795 Hwy DD, Defiance, MO 63341
Jaxson Estates Corner of Touchdown and Gold Drive, Foristell, MO 63348
LINC St. Charles County 9 Love Park Lane, Wentzville, MO 63385
Lauderdale Realty 1299 Highway DD, Defiance, MO 63341
National Equestrian Center
6880 Lake St Louis Blvd, Lake St Louis, MO 63367
O'Fallon Lakes Apartments 9300 O'Fallon Lake Drive, O'Fallon, MO 63366
Oglesby Park 2801 W Meyer Rd, Foristell, MO 63348
Peine Lakes Apartments 2010 Peine Rd, Wentzville, MO 63385
Portage Des Sioux (Library Lot) 1825 Commonfield St., Portage Des Sioux, MO 63373
St. Charles Fire Station #4 3201 Boschertown Rd, St. Charles, MO 63301
St. Joseph Catholic Church 1390 Josephville Rd, Josephville, MO 63385
St. Paul Catholic Church 1223 Church Rd., St. Paul, MO 63366
Stonemoor Subdivision 99 Golden Gate Pkwy., Foristell, MO 63348
West Alton City Park (starting June 10) 15100 MO-94, West Alton, MO 63386
By Maya Brenningmeyer and Ashley McGoff
St. Charles County is home to countless historical sites and new areas to explore. If you’re looking for a quick and easy day trip, here are some of St. Charles County’s local gems.
Located just 30 miles west of St. Louis lies the quaint town of St. Charles. Step back into colonial times when visiting historic South Main Street. Enjoy a day of shopping where more than 125 boutiques, restaurants, and attractions line the streets. Stroll along the original brick-paved streets or take a magical carriage ride to appreciate the scenery. Be sure to visit the Lewis and Clark Boathouse & Museum and learn how the duo discovered the Gateway to the West. Also, don’t pass up the Missouri Artists on Main which
features over 50 original works of fine art from Missouri artists.
If you’re looking to take a trip back in time, the Historic Daniel Boone Home is just off Highway F in Defiance. Featuring a reconstructed 19th century village and gift shop, the site is free for visitors to walk the grounds. If you’re looking for a guided tour, tours of the Daniel Boone Home are available for a fee, as well as guided tours of the grounds. In addition to this, artisan demonstrations, living history programs and an unforgettable Christmas light display are held seasonally. Make sure to take a break at the Grand Pavilion or look around the Old Peace Chapel during your visit.
Finally, no Saturday is complete without a visit to the farmer’s market! The Lake Saint Louis Farmer’s Market, located at The Meadows shopping center, is an award-winning market featuring a plethora of local vendors. Open from the beginning of April through the first week of November, the farmer’s market is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon, rain or shine. Enjoy local produce, artisans, music and more. Don’t forget to bring your furry friends. Dogs are allowed at the Lake Saint Louis Farmer’s Market as well.
St. Charles County offers a vast array of outdoor recreation. From dog parks to lakes to campsites, there’s an endless amount of fun and history to explore at St. Charles County parks.
By Maya Brenningmeyer
= dogs are allowed and a dog park is available on site.
= dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times, no dog park
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Located just off Highway DD, Broemmelsiek Park offers beautiful hiking trails and outdoor activities just a short drive from Lake Saint Louis. The park features nine miles of hiking trails, accessibility for biking and equestrian use, lakes, opportunities for fishing, hiking and paddleboarding. For families with children, a large playground and dog park are also available on the property.
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With 603 acres of land, Indian Camp Creek is the largest park in St. Charles County. Containing 10 miles of trails for hiking, biking and equestrian use, the park also features campgrounds. While spending time outdoors, visitors can enjoy fishing, disc golf, a playground and all the scenic prairie views Missouri has to offer.
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Located off Highway 94 in Augusta, Klondike park is unique for its proximity to local wineries and the Katy Trail. At the park, visitors can expect over four miles of natural surface and paved trails and a lake for fishing, kayaking and paddleboarding. The site also features wildlife areas, playgrounds and locations for camping.
Quail Ridge Park
560 Interstate Dr., Wentzville, MO 63385
With more than seven miles of natural and paved trails, Quail Ridge Park is a convenient place to take families and dogs. Home to the National Horseshoe Pitchers Hall of Fame, the park includes fishing lakes and ponds, shelters for picnics, playgrounds, a dog park and an 18-hole disc golf course. Quail Ridge also has an event space that can be rented out for parties and other special events.
Matson Hill Park
670 Matson Hill Rd., Defiance, MO 63341
Situated near the Historic Daniel Boone Home, this park features over six miles of natural surface trails. A new addition to the site are the new gravity-flow mountain bike trails and the Hays Home. Once owned by Daniel Boone’s grandson, the Hay’s Home is a renovated 1830s stone dwelling that holds artifacts, historical furnishings and an exhibit on the main floor.
101 Kisker Rd., St. Charles, MO 63304
2801 West Meyer Rd., Foristell, MO 63348
Located off West Meyer Road near Rotary Park, Oglesby Park is an award-winning outdoor site that holds shelters, natural surface trails, paved trails and a can’t miss playground. The park’s location makes it a convenient drive from I-70 and is a short drive into downtown Wentzville.
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Featuring a reconstructed 19th century village, The Historic Daniel Boone Home is a great place to take in the scenery and learn more about Missouri’s history. Visitors are encouraged to walk the park for free with the option to pay an admission fee for entrance into the Daniel Boone Home. Amenities at the site include guided tours, living history demonstrations, artisan demonstrations, access to the Grand Pavilion and the Old Peace Chapel.
Veterans Tribute Park, located in Weldon Spring, is unique because of its Veterans Memorial Garden. A tribute to St. Charles County soldiers who died in service since World War I, their names are featured on stone panels overlooking the park’s lakes. Along the way, guests can enjoy trails for walking or biking, picnic shelters, a dog park and an accessible playground with a water play area.
1630 Heritage Landing, St. Peters, MO 63303
With easy connection to the Katy Trail, the St. Charles County Heritage Museum offers an educational stop for families. Containing free displays interpreting local and state history, the museum offers a rotating number of exhibits featuring artifacts, documents, uniforms and other interactive components.
The Katy Trail runs alongside the Missouri River and is open to bicyclists, pedestrians and equestrians in select locations along the trail. With more than 20 towns located around the trail, there are plenty of opportunities for lunch stops, winery visits and more. Popular spots for bikers include the Bike Stop Cafe in historic St. Charles, Good News Brewing Company in Defiance and the Augusta Bakery and Coffee Shop.
By Jaden Harper
A NEW OPTION for paddling has recently opened in St. Charles County with the completion of Phase 1 of Dardenne Prairie Blueway at the end of May 2022. The first-of-its-kind water trail in Missouri is beginner-friendly and perfect for kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding and rafting.
The first phase begins at 370 Lakeside Park in St. Peters and ends at Riverside Landing in St. Charles—a 3.5-mile trip. This is just the beginning of a proposed 19-mile route, which would stretch all the way to O’Fallon Sports Park.
370 Lakeside Park, the largest recreational park in St. Peters, encompasses 500 acres and is the perfect spot to park your kayak, stretch your legs or have a scenic lunch. The park offers catch-and-release fishing, boating, RV and tent camping, a spray ground, a dog park and many more amenities. Paddle boats, canoes and bikes are also available to rent.
The brand-new Riverside Landing Park is over seven acres and offers campsites for RVs of all sizes, tents, boat and kayak ramps and plenty of parking. The park also has a children’s playground and an iPaddlePort station, which allows visitors to rent a single or tandem kayak. It’s $20 for a single and $30 for a tandem and reservations can be made online. However, be sure to book early. Rentals
go fast and sometimes sell out.
Phase II of the blueway extends from 370 Lakeside Park to Wolff Park in St. Peters and opened November 2022. Phase III will continue on to Jack Gettemeyer Park and Phase IV will reach O’Fallon Sports Park. Finally, Phase V will end the blueway at Bluebird Meadows Park in St. Charles county.
These scenic parks offer a unique and diverse array of activities that cater to people of all ages. These features combined with the new aquatic opportunities of the blueway will provide residents of St. Charles county and surrounding areas with access to one of the most distinct and varied outdoor recreational areas in the state.
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Pairing food and wine in fabulous ways is easy in St.
By Julie Brown Patton
ith St. Charles being Missouri’s third-oldest city, the region’s restaurants and wineries combine Old World ambiance with cozy, eclectic options. For example, set in a historic home off cobblestone streets of Old Town St. Charles is Bella Vino Wine Bar & Tapas. On Main Street St. Charles, diners get a taste of jalea Peruvian bistro. Or visit Noto in St. Peters, the only area restaurant professing to serve pizza certified by the Associazione Vera Pizza Napoletana.
I talian restaurants, such as Cugino’s (which means cousin in Italian) at The Meadows at Lake Saint Louis, Osteria Forto in O’Fallon, Tony's on Main Street and new-to-open spring 2024 Sauci Pasta in St. Charles, offer incredible flavors and textures.
For new spins on Mexican cuisine, try The Salted Lime at the Ameristar Casino Resort Spa St. Charles or Maracas in New Melle.
The Dog Prairie Tavern in St. Paul provides comfort foods such as fish, shrimp, Dog Pile burgers, clam chowder and hush puppies.
The Grotto Grill in Flint Hill presents intimate dining experiences including lobster ravioli and baked eggplant.
In New Town St. Charles, drop in to Padavan’s NY Pizza & Pinball or to BobaQue for smoked meats. Brand-new Rage-N-Bulls in Weldon Spring is a bar and grill with fried Brussels sprouts and soon-tobe mechanical bull. Town Square Pub N Grub in Dardenne Prairie includes Korean tacos and wicked bean burgers.
When looking for a motorcycle-friendly spot or informal ‘food shack and saloon’ vibe meal, drive to Defiance to Wente’s Roadhouse, being ushered in by a new owner during June 2024. The building from
1930 formerly operated as the Defiance Roadhouse.
H istoric Missouri wine country's Augusta was recognized in 1980 as the first American Viticultural Area. Guests share bottles of award-winning wine throughout the county surrounding Les Petites Côtes (The Little Hills) while enjoying picturesque surroundings from hilltop terraces. Local wineries are open daily, and most feature live music on weekends from April through October.
Enjoy sipping vino, tasting boards, painting sessions or sunset-inspired meals in the Missouri River Valley of St. Charles County at local wineries, such as Defiance Ridge Vineyards, Sugar Creek Winery, Montelle Winery, Chandler Hill Vineyards, Blumenhof Winery, Noboleis Vineyards, Balducci Vineyards and Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant. The Sugar Creek team also produces Judgment Tree spirits, made on-site. Mount Pleasant Estates’ professionals provide guided tours regarding Missouri’s winemaking history first-hand.
Balducci Vineyards produces Norton wine from Missouri’s official state grape. This adaptable, selfpollinating Cynthiana grape varietal has been cultivated in Missouri for nearly two centuries, and is North America's reportedly oldest grape variety commercially grown today.
Burnt Barrel Meadery & Distillery in Lake Saint Louis is considered the go-to destination for handcrafted, small-batch honey-wine, vodka, bourbons and whiskies. Featuring unique wines is The Quarry Wine Garden in Wentzville. Family-owned and operated micro-winery Small Batch Winery also is in Wentzville.
Located in an historic area, the Cottleville Wine Seller is known as an entertainment hub, with a wine garden offering 200-plus different wine labels from around the world.
For those wishing to imbibe frosty beverages on summer occasions, Good News Brewing offers beer and wood-fired pizza on their rooftop patio overlooking the Katy Trail.
Top: Maracas Mexican
Middle: Defiance Ridge
Bottom: Jalea Lucuma cheesecake
Whether you’re looking for an escape from the city or a chance to enjoy the beauty of Missouri’s sprawling landscapes and lakes, Innsbrook is the perfect place for a staycation. Located 45-minutes west of St. Louis, the 7,500 acre campus holds residential properties, event centers, incredible dining options, boutiques and a golf course—all surrounding dozens of beautiful lakes.
Ed Boyce, the late founder of Innsbrook, was inspired to create the community after seeing an A-frame chalet in Aspen, Colorado, and dreaming of bringing a similar scenic getaway to Missouri. Boyce teamed up with Warren Wobbe Sr. and completed the Aspenhof development in Warren County in 1969. From the original 520 acres and 154 chalets, the project would grow 15 times the size of the original development. The name Innsbrook was chosen in reference to a region of Austria known for beautiful A-frames. In Boyce’s words, the development is a mix of “nature, recreation and serenity.”
Innsbrook Resort is the perfect staycation destination, just 45 minutes from of St. Louis.
By Maya Brenningmeyer
Seven hiking trails run through Innsbrook and make it easy to appreciate Missouri’s local ecosystem. If hiking isn’t for you, the lakes are available to swim, boat, fish and more! The community also houses an 18-hole golf course, stables, outdoor games and concert venues for entertainment. If you’re visiting Innsbrook in the summer, the resort’s pool and poolside restaurant are also available for the whole family.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to booking your stay at Innsbrook. Innsbrook Resort, located on Aspen Lake, has a wide variety of home options available based on your needs. The selections include chalets, to condos, luxury homes and treehouses—even private lake-front homes!
Not only is Innsbrook a great vacation destination, it is a great place to set down roots if you’re looking for a more permanent getaway. There are multiple communities on the lake with building options ranging from A-frame cabins to custom homes. If you’re not looking to fully commit to a second home, smaller villas and condos are also available. With multiple community programs, endless recreational activities and countless development opportunities, Innsbrook is the ideal staycation destination.
There’s something for everyone at The Hub, The District’s latest addition to their Chesterfield development and just minutes from downtown St. Charles.
By Hiba Syed Photography courtesy of The Hub
To have a packed, fun family night at the conveniently walkable District of St. Louis is easy and hassle-free. Between shopping, sports, dining and concerts, there’s an exciting attraction for everyone at the city’s liveliest, most dynamic entertainment center. The Hub is the heart of this center, and one of its latest additions. Bordered by attractions such as Main Event, Top Golf and The Factory, it is the perfect place to begin a fun night full of food, music and entertainment.
I n the heart of The Hub, 4-Hands Brewery and Hi-Pointe Drive-In teamed up to provide a one-ofa-kind dining experience. Visitors can enjoy locally crafted beers and burgers while watching sporting events on indoor screens, as well as the outdoor stage. Firepits line the patios to provide additional
warmth and guests are only a step away from Napoli Bros Pizza and Pastaria, a casual Italian restaurant created by Cafe Napoli, and Narwhal’s Crafted, a local frozen cocktail stop with locations in St. Charles and Midtown.
T his 300,000-square-foot redevelopment is still in-process with additional space open on either side of The Hub, providing ample opportunities for additional entertainment spaces and spots for local businesses. While the official opening for the venue was in the summer of 2023, the space was designed with Missouri weather in mind. Equipped with an outdoor stage, sound system and LED screens for live entertainment, as well as casual sit-down restaurants and a beer garden, The Hub can be enjoyed rain or shine.
St. Charles County is home to top-notch hospitals with multiple outpatient locations across the county.
Washington University Physicians are the primary care and specialist physicians representing more than 78 specialties and subspecialties in medicine and surgery including pediatric care, neurology and cardiology. They are national and international leaders in developing the latest medical treatments and procedures to help you achieve a long and healthy life. Patients receive comprehensive medical outpatient and inpatient care at more than 130 locations. Visit our walk-in Orthopedic Injury Clinic now open at Progress West Hospital. Learn more at physicians. wustl.edu
Orthopedic Injury Clinic in St. Charles County
Do you have a recent injury? Get instant access to WashU orthopedic experts, including evenings and weekends, at three area locations.
WashU’s Orthopedic Injury Clinic offers on-site radiology, casting and splinting for ages 5 and above. Walk-in or schedule ahead for sprains, breaks, fractures or minor dislocations. For information, hours and online scheduling, visit Ortho.wustl.edu/InjuryClinic.
Coming soon! We’re excited to open a second St. Charles County location in early 2025.
Mercy, one of the region’s largest employers and one of the 20 largest U.S. health systems, has grown its presence in St. Charles County from two clinics in 2010 to nearly 25 in 2024. In St. Charles County, Mercy offers primary care services with nearly all specialties and has more than 2,500 co-workers who call the county home.
If approved by Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Mercy plans to bring a new 75-bed hospital, emergency services and medical campus to the county. As the lowest cost and highest quality health care provider in the state, Mercy wants to ensure consumers and employers can more easily access its care in the region.
Mercy has five hospitals in the St. Louis metro area and is recognized as a top large system in the U.S. for excellent patient experience by NRC Health. It serves millions annually with nationally recognized care and one of the nation’s largest and highest performing Accountable Care Organizations in quality and cost.
Inspired by their founding religious sisters, SSM Health values the sacredness and dignity of each person. Therefore, they find these five values consistent with their heritage and ministry: compassion, respect, excellence, stewardship and community. Through their participation in the healing ministry of Jesus Christ, communities, especially those that are economically, physically and socially marginalized, will experience improved health in mind, body, spirit and environment within the financial limits of the system.
To make the transition between residences easy for you and your pets, check out these helpful tips from tripswithpets.com.
• Become familiar with leash laws, pet ordinances and pet licensing requirements with the state or county you are moving to.
• If you are renting, carefully review the lease to ensure that pets are allowed before you move in.
• Secure a new vet and have records transferred in advance of your move. Talk to your current veterinarian for referrals or research vets in your new area online.
• Get your pet a new identification tag that includes your pet’s name, your name, new address and phone number.
• Have a plan for how you are going to properly restrain your pet in your vehicle.
• If your move requires an overnight stay to reach your destination, plan ahead for overnight accommodations that are pet friendly.
• Keep your pet secure. Place your pet in a designated safe place where he/she won’t accidentally escape as people are coming in and out of the house.
• Check on your pet frequently and try to maintain a regular feeding, walking and bathroom schedule.
• Prepare your new home. Have all of your pet’s necessities and essentials ready for them on day one so they feel comfortable in their new settings.
• Keep them leashed when not in the house or yard until they are familiarized with the new surroundings.
• Secure pets during move-in. Just as you did on the day you moved out, keep your pet in a safe and quiet place to ensure they don’t accidentally escape.
• Have a recent photo of your pet in the unfortunate event that they do run off during the move.
