Things To Do
in Chesterfield

Chesterfield is an affluent suburban enclave to the west of downtown St. Louis in Missouri. The city blends shopping corridors, parks, and family-friendly attractions with easy access to the broader St. Louis metro culture. It centers around Faust Park, The Streets of Chesterfield, and nearby Creve Coeur Lake, offering a mix of outdoor recreation and convenient dining.

The community is known for well-kept neighborhoods, strong schools, and a relaxed, walkable center in key commercial zones.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Chesterfield
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Chesterfield Historical Society to immerse yourself in the rich history of the area. After learning about the local heritage, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring the flavors of the region. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets to admire the charming architecture and quaint shops.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the Chesterfield Mall for some shopping and entertainment. Browse through a variety of stores or catch a movie at the theater to relax and enjoy some leisure time. Grab lunch at one of the mall's eateries, sampling local cuisine.

evening
:

As the sun sets, make your way to a local restaurant for a delightful dinner that showcases Chesterfield's diverse dining scene. After your meal, consider attending a live performance or local event, which often feature talented musicians and artists. Wind down your evening with a peaceful walk in a nearby park, taking in the serene surroundings.

day 2
Nature Adventures at Babler State Park
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast before heading to Babler State Park for a day of outdoor adventure. Hike the scenic trails surrounded by nature, breathing in the fresh air as you take in the beauty of the landscape. Make sure to pack a picnic to enjoy mid-hike amid the trees.

afternoon
:

After exploring the trails, spend your afternoon birdwatching or simply relaxing at one of the park's picnic areas. The peaceful ambiance allows you to reconnect with nature while soaking up the sun. Capture the memories with photographs of the lush greenery and various wildlife.

evening
:

Return to Chesterfield for a casual dinner at a local pizzeria famous for its signature pies. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and reflect on your day spent in nature. For a sweet ending, stop by a nearby ice cream shop to treat yourself to a delicious dessert.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-15
Coffee in a cafe$3-5
🧃Grocery staples per week$60-90
🚗Gasoline per gallon$3.50-4.50
🏨Night in a mid-range hotel$100-180

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly suburban environment with strong schools
  • Great mix of shopping, parks, and access to city attractions
  • Limited nightlife within the suburb itself
  • Bike and foot traffic are best in specific districts; overall car-dependent

Places to Visit in Chesterfield

Visit one of these nice places.

Faust Park and Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House

A picturesque combination of gardens, glass conservatories, and fluttering butterflies ideal for nature photography.

The Streets of Chesterfield

Pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, fountains, and seasonal decorations provide attractive urban photography opportunities.

Creve Coeur Lake Waterfront

Sunsets over the lake, boats on the water, and tree-lined shores offer scenic water views.

Castlewood State Park Trails

Riverside bluffs and forested trails with vantage points overlooking the Meramec River.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chesterfield

Chesterfield’s dining scene blends Midwestern comfort with global flavors, anchored by family-friendly eateries and convenient spots in The Streets of Chesterfield and nearby outlets. As part of the St. Louis metro, it benefits from barbecue traditions and diverse international options.

Chesterfield Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

St. Louis-Style BBQ Ribs

Pork ribs with a thin, tangy tomato-based sauce; widely available at area BBQ joints near Chesterfield.

Must-Try!

Toasted Ravioli

A regional favorite—breaded and fried ravioli often served as an appetizer with marinara sauce.

Gooey Butter Cake

A signature St. Louis dessert with a rich, cake-y texture and a butter-sugar glaze.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

St. Louis Premium Outlets Food Court

A variety of quick-serve options and familiar American classics ideal for a casual meal after shopping.

The Streets of Chesterfield Food scene

Casual eateries, food trucks, and outdoor seating offering burgers, pizza, and global bites in a walkable district.

Seasonal Farmers Markets (nearby towns)

Seasonal farmers markets in the region often feature fresh produce, baked goods, and local specialty treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chesterfield has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, often with thunderstorms. Winters are cold with occasional snow. Spring and fall bring milder temperatures and enjoyable outdoor conditions, though weather can be variable in shoulder seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

General Courtesy

Polite greetings, holding doors for others, and respectful conversation are valued. Personal space and quiet behavior in residential areas are appreciated.

Tread Lightly in Public Spaces

Keep noise down in residential neighborhoods after certain hours and follow local signage in parks and trails.

Safety Guide

Safety

The area is generally safe for visitors with typical suburban precautions. Stay aware of traffic while exploring commercial districts, lock vehicles, and utilize well-lit areas after dark. Have contact information for local emergency services and know the location of nearby healthcare facilities in case of urgent needs.

Tipping in Chesterfield

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a 15-20% tip is customary for good service. Tips for baristas or counter service are optional but appreciated for exceptional service.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still common in smaller venues. Mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly supported in shops and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm to hot days with humidity; afternoon thunderstorms are common. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and take advantage of outdoor venues with shade and water.

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes; great for outdoor photography and park visits. Expect occasional rain showers; carry a light jacket.

Autumn

Pleasant temps and vibrant fall foliage in parks and streetscapes. Ideal for outdoor walks, hiking, and photographing fall colors.

Winter

Cool to cold weather with occasional snow. Indoor attractions and cozy dining become appealing; layering is key for outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Chesterfield at Night

The nightlife in Chesterfield is low-key, with casual bars and family-friendly venues in The Streets of Chesterfield. For more vibrant options, a short drive into St. Louis offers craft breweries, live music venues, and downtown nightlife with diverse clubs and entertainment. Expect early evenings around dinner time and a relaxed bar scene rather than large nightclubs in the immediate suburb.

Hiking in Chesterfield

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Castlewood State Park Trails

Riverside trails with forested sections and scenic overlooks of the Meramec River; suitable for moderate hikes.

Creve Coeur Park Trails

Lakeside loops and wooded paths ideal for easy to moderate hikes and family outings.

Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center Trails

Forest trails near St. Louis with wildlife viewing and interpretive signage; accessible for all ages.

Airports

How to reach Chesterfield by plane.

Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL)

Major regional hub serving domestic and international flights; typically about 20-30 miles from Chesterfield, depending on routing and traffic.

MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLD)

Regional airport serving southern Illinois and the greater St. Louis area; more limited service but a practical option for some connections; roughly 40-60 miles away.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkability is strongest in commercial areas like The Streets of Chesterfield and around Faust Park. Most neighborhoods are car-dependent, with sidewalks along major streets and limited long-range pedestrian access between far-flung destinations. The downtown and shopping districts offer pleasant, short walks with seating and shade options.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Strong school systems and family-friendly amenities attract many households.

Young Professionals

Commuters and professionals enjoy proximity to St. Louis job centers and suburban conveniences.

Retirees

Quiet neighborhoods and accessible healthcare facilities appeal to retirees seeking a suburban lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Cardinals culture in the broader metro area; community leagues and youth travel teams are common.

Soccer

Strong youth and club leagues with many families participating across the suburbs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic varies by time of day, with heavier congestion on I-64/US-40 and I-270 during rush hours. Local arterial roads like Boone’s Crossing and Clarkson Road can be busy on weekends and during shopping-season peaks. Public transit options exist but the area is largely car-dependent; plan for parking in busy commercial districts.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chesterfield.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for salads, veggie burgers, grilled vegetables, and plant-based entrees; most spots can accommodate substitutions with a heads-up.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Access to healthcare is strong in the St. Louis metro area, with several hospitals and clinics within a short drive. Residents and visitors can reach major facilities in nearby municipalities for emergency and routine care, while urgent care centers and specialty clinics are spread across the region.

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