Living in the Lou: St. Charles, A Hidden Gem

0

If you haven’t been to New Town at St. Charles, what are you waiting for??

 

a black, white, and green image of a neighborhood street with houses and trees, and the words, “Living in the Lou: A Neighborhood Series - St. Charles” across the top

 

Nestled in the southwest pocket of St. Charles county is a hidden gem of an area called New Town. If you’re not familiar with the area, you’re missing out. A quaint, charming neighborhood, New Town is a planned community, providing access to shops, parks, and green spaces with a mission to build community and increase walkability for its neighbors.

 

a row of homes along a lake in Newtown, St. Charles

 

Closely located to the Historic Main Street of St. Charles (yes, there is a 15-foot statue of Lewis & Clark) and the Streets of St. Charles, it provides easy access to all kinds of family fun! 

 

Before moving close to the New Town area and being a new St. Charles county transplant, I never knew the area offered so many gems, so I hope this post will help shine a spotlight on our community.

 

 

Animal Park 

A scenic park located right in New Town, littles get an up-close view of some of their favorite animals (structures, of course). With two play structures and a rubber play floor to keep them safe, it’s perfect for toddlers and elementary-aged kids, a close walk to koi ponds, and an open green space for lots of running! End the day by taking in the views of their lake or stopping at one of the quaint and cute food stands. 

3362 ShuttenWay, St Charles, MO 63301

 

 

Frontier Park

Located on the banks of the Missouri River, Frontier Park is a 16-acre park with a deep history. Adjacent to the Katy trail, it’s perfect for bikers, joggers, and long stroller walks. Boasting many festivals throughout the year, it provides a variety of fun with its grand stage and a close walk to Historic Main Street.

500 S Riverside Dr, St Charles, MO 63301

 

Playstreet Museum 

Inclement weather and looking for a fun place for the littles to spark their imaginations? Playstreet Museum is the perfect place. Located on the Streets of St. Charles, Playstreet offers a safe indoor space for kids to enhance sensory play. With open play times (with reservation) and birthday party packages, they offer a lot to be discovered.

1650 Beale St #138, St Charles, MO 63303

 

Grafton Ferry

Located on the banks on Route 94, the ferry carries passengers by vehicle from St. Charles to the docks of Grafton, Il. It’s the perfect afternoon or day trip for families. Starting with a fun ferry ride, dock in Grafton to enjoy a quick lunch and then drive up the riverside to see all the seasonal change. 

St Charles-Grafton Ferry Dr, Portage Des Sioux, MO 63373

 

 

While there are so many festivals and annual events I could name, I’m highlighting two that are a seasonal joy for our family.

 

Lights & Lanterns

Looking for some spooky season fun? Lights & Lanterns is the perfect, kid-appropriate event for families of all ages. Running every weekend through October, you get an up-close peek at the history of Halloween. The cobblestone streets and historic homes give the ultimate Hocus Pocus vibes getting you right in the spirit. 

230 S. Main Street St. Charles MO, 63301

 

Herman’s Farm

A family-owned favorite, this small farm is our go-to place for fall fun, but they offer many seasonal crops and flowers throughout the year. Their pumpkin patch is the real deal offering wagons, pumpkin clippers, and the ability to see exactly how pumpkins are grown. Along with hayrides, a fall play area, and a hearty concessions stand, it’s the perfect place to beat the crowds and get a personalized experience. 

3663 MO-94, St Charles, MO 63301

 

 

Upshot Coffee Brake Shop

Just because you’re in St. Charles county doesn’t mean a shortage of good coffee. Uptown Coffee Brake Shop is a “sister” site to their Cottleville location. Having the best in-house artisanal syrups (savory and sweet) to make the perfect latte, they also give you a unique social media backdrop with cool sights and sounds. 

816 N Kingshighway St, St Charles, MO 63301

 

Streets of St. Charles

Opened in the mid to late 2010’s, the Streets of St. Charles is the prime date night destination. With a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment, you and your partner can pick a new experience every time you visit. Depending on your taste buds, you have diverse menus from fine dining like Prasino or Napoli III to casual eats like Mission Taco Joint and Bar Louie. End the night with a crafted slushie from Narwahls or laughs at the AMC theatres. 

1520 S 5th St, St Charles, MO 63303