Originally founded in 1769 as “Les Petites Côtes”, Saint Charles is a historically rich city that now forms part of St. Louis’ suburban sprawl. It was once a significant river port and played an important role in the westward expansion of the United States. During the 1920s, Saint Charles served as Missouri’s capital.
Things to do in St. Charles
Hugging the riverfront is the St. Charles Historic District, which preserves the site of the Missouri River’s first permanent European settlement. It was here that Lewis and Clark departed for their Corps of Discovery Expedition in 1804 and where the first state capitol in Missouri was built. Comprised of four connected brick buildings, the capitol houses recreated government meeting rooms filled with historic artefacts.
Replicas of the keelboat and pirogues used during the landmark 1804 exhibition are on display at the Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum, which occupies a two-storey building overlooking the Missouri River. Browse the Native American artefacts on display in the second-floor exhibit and admire the largest indoor mural in the state, “Missouri River Walk”. Adjacent to the museum is Bishop’s Landing and a large sculpture depicting Lewis and Clark.
Changing exhibitions and concerts are showcased at the Foundry Art Centre, which also houses 20 studios where you can watch creative artists at work. It can easily be accessed along the Katy Trail, a 382-kilometre-long route that follows the northern bank of the Missouri River. In Saint Charles, it passes through Frontier Park with its picnic shelters and outdoor stage.
Getting around St. Charles
Saint Charles is around 30 minutes’ drive from St. Louis and 15 minutes from St. Louis Lambert International Airport, which has flights to destinations across North America. Regular buses connect to Saint Charles and travel throughout the city, connecting most of its attractions.