Things To Do
in Des Peres
Des Peres is a family-friendly suburb in St. Louis County known for its leafy neighborhoods and convenient access to the larger metropolitan area. It blends comfortable residential living with major shopping and dining hubs, including West County Center. The area benefits from proximity to parks, trails, and the cultural attractions of nearby St. Louis.
Visitors will find a laid-back pace paired with easy day trips to urban sights and outdoor escapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Des Peres Park with a refreshing walk along the scenic trails. Enjoy the beautiful landscape as you watch the sunrise and listen to the tranquil sounds of nature. Don’t forget to grab a coffee and a light breakfast at a nearby café before your adventure begins.
After your morning stroll, have lunch at one of the local eateries known for their delicious sandwiches and salads. Spend your afternoon exploring the playgrounds and sports facilities available in the park, or play a round of disc golf with friends. This is a great time to relax and soak in the lively atmosphere.
As the sun sets, consider attending one of the community events held at the park or nearby facilities. For dinner, head to a cozy restaurant that features local cuisine and craft beers. End your day by taking a peaceful walk or drive around the neighborhood to admire the charming homes adorned with twinkling lights.
Kickstart your day with a visit to the Des Peres Family Aquatic Center, where you can enjoy some early morning swimming. The vibrant atmosphere and splash pads are sure to wake you up and get your adrenaline pumping. Grab a light breakfast at the on-site café to refuel for a fun-filled day.
Spend the afternoon enjoying various water slides and lazy rivers, perfect for both kids and adults alike. If you prefer a break from the water, lounge by the pool and soak up some sun. For lunch, pack a picnic or enjoy casual dining at the center while watching the kids play.
As evening approaches, swim until the sun begins to set, transforming the pool into a picturesque scene. Treat yourself to dinner at a family-friendly restaurant nearby, where you can relax while sharing stories about the day’s fun. Cap off the night with a gentle stroll around the area, reminiscing about your aquatic adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🛏️One night in a mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $60-100 |
| 🚗Gas (per gallon) | $3.00-4.00 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong family-friendly environment with good access to parks and shopping
- Proximity to downtown St. Louis for culture and urban experiences
- Suburban layout means car dependence for most activities
- Limited nightlife within Des Peres itself; more options require travel to nearby neighborhoods
Places to Visit in Des Peres
Visit one of these nice places.
A peaceful park with open lawns, trees, and pathways—great for candid family shots or a quiet sunrise session.
Riverside bluffs and woodlands offer dramatic vantage points for landscape photography, especially during golden hours.
Extensive, curated gardens with seasonal color and architecture—the perfect backdrop for colorful close-ups and wide shots.
A large urban park with iconic greens, strolling paths, and historic scenery; a classic setting for outdoor portraits.
Distinctive urban silhouettes and river views; great for cityscape photography and dusk shots along the river.
Food in Des Peres
Des Peres Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A St. Louis staple: fried breadcrumb-coated ravioli typically served with marinara sauce.
Must-Try!
Dishes that feature the distinctive creamy Provel cheese, especially on pizzas and casseroles common in the region.
Slow-cooked Missouri-style ribs with a bold, smoky barbecue sauce; pairs well with local sides like coleslaw and baked beans.
A rich, sweet dessert native to the area—often found in bakeries and cafes around St. Louis.
Casual, hearty sandwiches reflecting local comfort food influences; available in several casual eateries nearby.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market in downtown St. Louis offering produce, meats, and prepared foods—great for sampling local snacks and produce.
Seasonal market near Tower Grove Park with fresh produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat foods from local vendors.
Urban market offering a mix of groceries, prepared foods, and eateries—good for trying regional bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly greetings and polite conversation are common; a cordial, patient attitude is appreciated in stores and restaurants.
Residential areas are generally quiet and respectful; avoid loud conversations in public spaces and be mindful of traffic and parking etiquette.
Tipping for service is customary in restaurants and cafes; address staff politely and thank them for assistance.
Safety
Tipping in Des Peres
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tipping 15-20% at restaurants is customary. Round up for small services and consider tipping service staff in cafes or bars accordingly.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for smaller vendors and farmers markets. ATMs are common in shopping centers and near major park areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, and take advantage of shaded parks and indoor venues during peak heat.
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes. Great for outdoor photography and hiking; keep rain gear handy for sudden showers.
Crisp air and fall colors; comfortable hiking weather and scenic city views. Perfect for longer walks and park outings.
Colder but manageable with layered clothing; occasional snow scenes and quieter outdoor spaces. Indoor cultural venues and cafes provide warmth and activity.
Des Peres at Night
Hiking in Des Peres
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking routes along the Meramec River with bluff views and forested sections.
Urban-nature trails with educational programs and seasonal wildlife viewing nearby.
Airports
How to reach Des Peres by plane.
Main regional airport offering domestic flights; easy access via interstates from Des Peres for both business and leisure travel.
Smaller airport serving the greater metro area with some regional connections; alternative when STL is busy.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Des Peres and adjacent suburbs attract many families and working professionals, contributing to a stable, community-focused atmosphere.
The region features a mix of racial and cultural backgrounds typical of the St. Louis metro; diversity varies by neighborhood and city planning.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in local leagues and school programs; nearby stadiums and parks host community games.
Common recreational activity in gyms, schools, and community centers across the region.
Growing participation in youth and adult leagues with many fields in parks and club facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Des Peres.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in the metro: look for veggie burgers, salads, grain bowls, and cheese-forward dishes. When ordering, ask for meat-free modifications and check for stock of dairy-free options if needed.