Crestwood MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Crestwood, Missouri.
1. Thomas Sappington House Museum
HISTORIC BRICK HOMESTEAD
The Thomas Sappington House is one of Crestwood's most significant historic landmarks and is part of the Crestwood Parks system. This well-preserved historic home offers visitors a glimpse into early Missouri life. The museum showcases period furnishings and artifacts that tell the story of the area's settlement.
2. Father Dickson Cemetery
HISTORIC AFRICAN AMERICAN CEMETERY
Father Dickson Cemetery is an important historical site in Crestwood that has been carefully restored. The Friends of Father Dickson Cemetery organized in 1988 to repair, restore, and preserve this historic cemetery. Visitors can explore the grounds to learn about local African American history and pay respects to those interred there.
3. Whitecliff Park
PREMIER OUTDOOR RECREATION
Whitecliff Park is Crestwood's largest park spanning 85 acres of recreational space. The park features picnic sites, pavilions, playgrounds, tennis courts, athletic fields, sand volleyball courts, a Geocache course, trails, a pond, and even a sledding hill for winter fun. The Crestwood Community Center and Aquatic Center are also located within this expansive park.
4. Grant's Trail
SCENIC PAVED BIKE PATH
Grant's Trail is an 8.5-mile long asphalt paved bike trail that runs through Crestwood. This popular recreational trail provides cyclists, runners, and walkers with a scenic route through the area. The trail connects various neighborhoods and parks, making it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Ferndale Park
CHARMING NEIGHBORHOOD GREEN SPACE
Ferndale Park is one of Crestwood's six city parks, offering a cozy 1-acre green space for residents and visitors. This intimate park provides a peaceful setting for relaxation and casual recreation. Its convenient location makes it an accessible option for those looking to enjoy a brief outdoor respite.
6. Gateway Arch
ICONIC NATIONAL MONUMENT
The Gateway Arch is an iconic 630-foot monument that symbolizes St. Louis and the westward expansion of the United States. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top for spectacular views of the city and the Mississippi River. The surrounding Gateway Arch National Park includes a museum that details the history of westward expansion and St. Louis' role as the Gateway to the West.
7. City Museum
PLAYHOUSE OF RECYCLED MATERIALS
City Museum is a unique attraction constructed from repurposed architectural and industrial objects, creating an immersive playground for all ages. The 10-story former shoe factory features caves, slides, tunnels, and climbing structures that encourage exploration and adventure. This one-of-a-kind museum defies conventional categorization, blending elements of playground, funhouse, surrealistic pavilion, and architectural marvel.
8. Fox Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
The Fox Theatre is a magnificent 1929 movie palace that has been restored to its original opulence and now hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other live performances. Its stunning Siamese Byzantine architecture features ornate gold leaf details, intricate plasterwork, and a grand lobby with a massive chandelier. The theater's rich history and exceptional acoustics make it one of the premier entertainment venues in the Midwest.
9. Butterfly House
TROPICAL BUTTERFLY CONSERVATORY
The Butterfly House provides visitors the opportunity to walk among free-flying tropical butterflies in a glass conservatory filled with lush plants. This educational facility houses over 1,000 butterflies of 60 different species from around the world. In addition to the conservatory, the attraction includes an outdoor native butterfly garden and insect exhibits.
10. Babler State Park
SCENIC WOODLAND RECREATION AREA
Babler State Park encompasses over 2,400 acres of beautiful Missouri woodland just a short drive from Crestwood. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking on trails that wind through forested hills, picnicking in scenic areas, and camping in the park's well-maintained campground. The park also features a visitor center with educational exhibits about local flora and fauna.
11. Center of Contemporary Art
VIBRANT ARTS EDUCATION CENTER
The Center of Contemporary Art (COCA) is a nationally recognized arts education center that offers classes, performances, and exhibitions. COCA's multidisciplinary programs span dance, theater, vocal music, art, and design for all ages and skill levels. The center is housed in a historic synagogue designed by renowned architect Eric Mendelsohn, blending historic architecture with contemporary artistic expression.
12. Gateway Grizzlies Ballpark
MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL FUN
The Gateway Grizzlies offer affordable family entertainment at their ballpark just across the Mississippi River from St. Louis. Spectators can enjoy exciting minor league baseball games with unique concessions, including the famous Baseball's Best Burger. The intimate stadium setting provides excellent views from every seat and opportunities to interact with players and mascots.
13. Forest Park
URBAN OASIS AND ATTRACTIONS
Forest Park is a magnificent 1,300-acre urban park that hosted the 1904 World's Fair and now contains many of St. Louis' major cultural institutions. Visitors can explore the Saint Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, Saint Louis Science Center, and Saint Louis Zoo, all with free admission. The park also features lakes, walking trails, golf courses, and beautiful landscapes for outdoor recreation.
14. World's Fair Pavilion
HISTORIC OPEN-AIR STRUCTURE
The World's Fair Pavilion is a magnificent open-air shelter built in 1909 with proceeds from the 1904 World's Fair. Located in Forest Park, this impressive structure offers panoramic views of the surrounding parkland and serves as a venue for special events. The pavilion's columned design and elevated position make it one of the most recognizable landmarks in the park.
15. The Jewel Box
ART DECO GREENHOUSE
The Jewel Box is a striking Art Deco greenhouse in Forest Park featuring unconventional, cantilevered, vertical glass walls rising 50 feet high. Opened in 1936 to national acclaim, this architectural gem houses seasonal floral displays and tropical plants year-round. The greenhouse's unique design and beautiful interior make it a popular venue for weddings and special events.