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Step Back Into History in St. Charles, Photos & Story By: John Gasawski | ||||||
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West of St. Louis, is the charming town of St. Charles, Missouri. St. Charles is often referred to as the Williamsburg of the Midwest because of its character and charm. If you venture off Interstate 70 and follow the signs to the Main Street Historic District, you will find friendly people, a slow relaxing pace, quaint shops, eateries, and a strong sense of history. The love and pride of the local residents is evident in the beauty and architectural restoration work along both sides of Main Street and in The Frenchtown Historic District. Strolling the Main Street cobblestones, I immediately become aware of a variety of delightful shops beckoning me to enter. I keep my eyes open for the recommended antique and collector’s shops. My quest is for limited edition Hummel’s or hand made dollhouses and kits. My taste also fancies art works, hand-crafted stained glass lamps and windows, jewelry, clothing, and furniture. While strolling Main Street I notice that St. Charles offers all this and I make a mental note to visit these shops prior to leaving.
The Festival of the Little Hills If I’m in St. Charles in August, I can be found at the Festival of the Little Hills. This is the largest Festival of the year, drawing more than 300,000 visitors. The Festival celebrates the founding of St. Charles, originally named Les Petites Cotes, or “The Little Hills”. Activities include over 300 crafters and artisans, special entertainment, beer gardens, food and a children’s corner. Admission is free. Frenchtown Historic District
Missouri Vacation Planning Order FREE Missouri Travel Brochure!. For contact information on the feature above and local area events in Missouri click here to visit USA Travel Magazine's Missouri Business Listing. Missouri Features Celebrate The Fourth of July In Independence ~ * ~ Kansas City, MO Events To Enjoy Year-Round ~ * ~ Step Back Into History in St. Charles ~ * ~ Fun At The Zoo In Missouri ~ * ~ Mini-Guide to St. Louis, Missouri by eTravelogue.com ~ * ~ Year-Round Events, Entertainment & Exciting Outdoor Activities In Branson
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"Explore America's Backyard where the miles are measured by memorable moments shared with family and friends."
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In the early 1800’s St. Charles was a small French settlement where the explorers Lewis and Clark stopped on their journey west. In 1821 St. Charles became the first capital of Missouri and grew to be a bustling river port and commercial center. At that time you could find a wide variety of goods and services, including legal and accounting services, food, clothing, art, etc. Today Lewis and Clark could find the same goods and services plus more.
Several dining establishments make my favorites lists. Imagine being served American fare in a 100 year old restored 3 story building. That’s what I experience when dining at the Lewis & Clark American Restaurant and Public House. I always request patio seating where I can enjoy the Main Street foot traffic and view the Missouri river. Then there’s the Mother-In-Law House for fabulous coconut cream pie. Two of my favorites.
No trip to St. Charles is complete
without a walk through The Frenchtown Historic District. The District is a truly
fascinating place. It is approximately 26 blocks of unique French Colonial
architecture. This style is unique to Quebec, New Orleans, and St. Charles.
