Saint Charles is full of activities for those who love culture, history, and outdoor fun. This charming city offers a wide range of attractions that will satisfy any traveler looking to fill their itinerary with memorable experiences.
From charming shops and historic sites to lively festivals and natural beauty, there’s plenty to see and do. This guide will walk you through 16 top things to do in Saint Charles, ensuring your visit is exciting and enjoyable.
Whether you’re a food lover eager to try local dishes or an adventurer ready to explore riverside trails, Saint Charles provides the perfect setting for relaxation and adventure. Experience the warmth and hospitality of the local community as you discover each unique activity on your list.
Table of Contents
Below are the 16 best things to do in Saint Charles
1. Hitting the Bricks tours show you St. Charles’s best-kept secrets.
As you walk the brick-lined streets, knowledgeable guides share incredible stories from over 250 years of Saint Charles’ history. Whether you’re a history buff or a casual tourist, these tours provide an engaging way to learn about the area’s founding, its role in westward expansion, and notable historical figures who walked these paths.
Tours are available most weekends and are suitable for all ages, making them a perfect family activity or a solo adventure.
2. You won’t believe how beautiful the countryside in Missouri is.
Saint Charles is your gateway to the Historic Missouri Wine Country, where lovely wineries await. This region, renowned for its scenic beauty and artisanal wines, offers a delightful retreat for wine enthusiasts. Visitors can tour multiple wineries to taste award-winning wines, learn about the wine-making process, and enjoy the tranquil countryside settings.
Many wineries also host events, provide local cuisine, and offer live music, making a trip here a culturally enriching experience. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or new to wine tasting, Missouri Wine Country promises a memorable excursion.
3. Unique antiques, fashionable clothing, and artistic creations abound in the area’s specialty shops.
Shopping along Historic Main Street in Saint Charles is like stepping back in time. The street is lined with charming shops housed in well-preserved buildings that date back to the 19th century. Here, you can browse various unique offerings from stylish clothing and handmade jewelry to home décor and artisanal foods.
Many shops feature locally made products, providing a taste of the local craftsmanship and culture. With its charming ambiance and friendly shopkeepers, Main Street offers a shopping experience combining nostalgia with a modern twist, ensuring something to captivate everyone.
4. You’ll love Frenchtown’s antique stores if you’re a collector.
For those who treasure the thrill of the hunt, Frenchtown in Saint Charles offers an antique shopping paradise. This vibrant district is known for its eclectic array of antique shops, each filled with treasures from yesteryear.
From vintage furniture and retro décor to rare books and collectibles, shoppers can find items as rich in history as they are in character.
The shop owners in Frenchtown are often passionate about their collections and eager to share stories about their finds, making shopping here not only a pursuit of unique items but also a personal experience connecting with the past.
5. The Augusta Plein Air Art Festival is a riot of color and inspiration each year.
Augusta drew artists from across the nation on April 25.
The Augusta Plein Air Art Festival is a significant event where artists capture the outdoor beauty of Saint Charles on canvas. Held annually, this festival invites artists from various locations to paint landscapes, town scenes, and the vibrant life of the region in real time.
Visitors have the opportunity to watch art come to life before their eyes and can even purchase their favorite pieces. The festival also includes workshops, demonstrations, and art sales, making it a lively gathering for art lovers and families alike.
6. Anime St. Louis attracts tourists with its lively cultural scene.
Anime St. Louis is a popular convention for fans of Japanese culture and animation. This annual event brings together a diverse crowd of enthusiasts eager to celebrate their favorite anime, manga, and video games.
The convention features panels with industry experts, cosplay competitions, merchandise vendors, and opportunities to meet voice actors and artists. It’s a vibrant community event that offers fun and entertainment for newcomers and seasoned fans.
7. It’s easy to be creative at the Foundry Art Centre.
The Foundry Art Centre serves as a hub for the arts in Saint Charles, providing a space where creativity meets community. This dynamic facility hosts a variety of artistic activities including exhibitions, performances, and educational programs.
Artists can work in studio spaces, and visitors can engage with art through interactive exhibits or participate in workshops and classes. The center promotes the arts and nurtures talent across all disciplines.
8. Lindenwood Theater is a beacon of must-see performances.
The Lindenwood Theater is a key cultural venue in Saint Charles, offering a range of performances throughout the year. Located on the campus of Lindenwood University, the theater showcases talent in various forms including plays, musicals, concerts, and dance performances.
With its modern facilities and intimate setting, it provides a perfect evening out for those looking to enjoy high-quality entertainment. Whether you’re interested in classical theatre or contemporary performances, the Lindenwood Theater has something to offer everyone.
9. The Katy Trail is a gateway to outdoor adventures.
The Katy Trail is a renowned outdoor destination in Saint Charles, offering miles of path that runs along the Missouri River and through scenic landscapes. This trail is perfect for biking, hiking, and enjoying nature.
It stretches across the state, providing visitors with stunning views and a peaceful setting to exercise or relax. The trail is also connected to several local parks and historic sites, making it an excellent option for a day trip filled with discovery and outdoor activity.
10. All around St. Charles, you can find captivating and inspiring public art.
Saint Charles boasts a rich collection of public art that enhances the city’s cultural landscape. Throughout the city, you can find murals, sculptures, and installations that celebrate local history and creativity.
These artworks are located in parks, along bustling streets, and in public buildings, offering an accessible way for visitors to engage with art. A self-guided tour can lead you to these inspiring pieces, providing insight into the community’s artistic spirit.
11. City streets are transformed by the unique parade held at night.
The Electric Christmas Parade is a highlight of the holiday season in Saint Charles. This nighttime event features floats, marching bands, and performers, all illuminated by thousands of lights.
Local organizations and businesses participate, making this parade a festive and community-oriented event. Families gather along the route to enjoy the dazzling displays and holiday music. It’s a magical experience that celebrates the spirit of Christmas and brings joy to people of all ages.
12. Come to the Riverwalk Market for wonderful family times.
The St. Charles Riverwalk Market offers a delightful family outing with its mix of local vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts. Located along the picturesque riverwalk, this market is a weekly event where families can enjoy not only shopping but also live music and food stalls.
It’s an excellent opportunity for children and adults alike to explore local flavors and crafts while spending quality time together outdoors.
13. The Harmony event combines community with history.
The History in Harmony Event is an annual celebration in Saint Charles that combines historical presentations with musical performances. This event reflects on the city’s rich heritage through stories told by historians and tunes played by local musicians.
It’s a unique way to learn about the past while enjoying the harmonious blend of narrative and song, making history accessible and entertaining for all ages.
14. There is lively nightlife and fine dining on Main Street.
Main Street in Saint Charles is the heart of the city’s dining and nightlife scene. This lively district offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a cozy coffee shop, a gourmet meal, or a place to enjoy live music and cocktails, Main Street has it all.
The area comes alive at night, providing a welcoming atmosphere for socializing, dining, and entertainment. It’s the perfect place to end a day of exploring Saint Charles or to spend a night out on the town.
15. The parks of St. Charles are perfect places for outdoor adventure.
Saint Charles boasts a variety of parks that offer countless recreational opportunities for adventure seekers. These parks feature extensive trails for hiking and biking, playgrounds for children, and picnic areas for families. Some parks also have water features, such as lakes or rivers, where visitors can fish or canoe.
With well-maintained facilities and beautiful natural settings, these parks provide a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and engage in active pursuits.
FAQs
St. Charles is renowned for its historic Main Street, festivals like the Festival of the Little Hills, and scenic parks along the Missouri River.
The richest neighborhood in St. Charles is often considered to be New Town. This area is known for its upscale homes, beautiful lakes, and lively community atmosphere.
Dining on Main Street.
Historic Main Street Shopping.
Nightlife and Entertainment.
The number one tourist destination in Missouri is often considered to be Branson. Branson is famous for its lively entertainment scene, with numerous theaters hosting a variety of shows.
