It all began here. Located on the Missouri River, St Charles was the first city explored west of the Mississippi River and was the starting point for the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The second largest city in the state, St Charles is popular with history buffs and those seeking a nice reprieve from the St Louis crowds.
St Charles was the first state capital before it was changed over to Jefferson City. The Expedition is the city’s pride and joy with exhibits, museums and landmarks related to it dotted throughout town. Tours are on hand for those wanting to see the trails the explorers took as they discovered the new frontier.
Not wanting to be stuck in the past, St Charles also offers festivals throughout the year of varying themes, such as the Riverfest in July featuring fireworks mirrored across the river and one of America’s top craft shows, Festival of the Little Hills. The most well attended festival, which is also the country’s largest of its kind, is the Christmas Festival. From the day after Thanksgiving until Christmas, you’ll see the entire city decorated and Christmas characters and carolers parading the streets - the closest you may get to meeting Santa.
Highlights
Daniel Boone Home: learn about this iconic legend who was Missouri’s favorite frontier man at this open-air museum displaying numerous 19th century homes.
First State Capitol of Missouri: this interpretive center is located next to Federal-styled buildings and tours here offer interesting accounts of St Charles’ history and culture.
The Foundry: a good place to view local artists’ work and performances. Classes are also on hand throughout the year.
Katy Trail: an excellent bike trail that follows the path taken during the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
Lewis and Clark Boat House and Nature Center: the highlight of this new exhibit is the expansive diorama of the Lewis and Clark Trail.
Our Lady of the Rivers: the 25-foot high Blessed Virgin Mary statue overlooks the nearby town of Portage des Sioux.
St Charles County Historical Society: explore the history of the famous area with tours, exhibits and a library.
National Equestrian Center: located in nearby Lake St Louis, the center features horse and dog shows as well as fairs and festivals throughout the year.