Things To Do
in Kirkwood
Kirkwood, Missouri is a historic, walkable suburb just outside St. Louis, blending small-town charm with easy access to big-city amenities. Its leafy streets, a bustling downtown corridor, and preserved 19th-century architecture give visitors a sense of timeless Midwestern character. The town centers around a compact, pedestrian-friendly Main Street lined with shops, eateries, and a notable Saturday farmers market. With parks, trails, and quick routes into St.
Louis, Kirkwood serves as a convenient base for exploring both city attractions and natural scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the local café before hitting the slopes at Kirkwood Mountain Resort. The crisp mountain air and breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada will invigorate you as you navigate the pristine trails. Whether you are an expert skier or a beginner, the morning is perfect for warming up with some runs on the resort’s groomed slopes.
After enjoying a few hours of skiing, take a break for lunch at one of the mountain lodges, where you can refuel with delicious comfort food. Spend the afternoon exploring the more challenging runs or perhaps take a ski lesson to improve your technique. As the sun begins its descent, the golden light creates a magical atmosphere on the slopes, making it a perfect time for some breathtaking photos.
Conclude your day with a cozy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring hearty dishes that highlight the region's flavors. After dinner, relax by the fireplace in your accommodation, sharing stories of your adventures with friends or family. If you're up for it, consider a nightcap at a nearby bar, where you can mingle with fellow snow enthusiasts.
After breakfast, gear up for a snowshoeing adventure on the picturesque trails surrounding Kirkwood. The peacefulness of the snow-covered landscape envelops you as you venture into the serene wilderness, where the only sounds are the crunch of snow beneath your feet and the soft rustle of pine trees. Keep your camera ready to capture the stunning winter scenery and perhaps spot some local wildlife along the way.
Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, taking in the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Continue your snowshoeing journey, exploring hidden glades and tranquil meadows that most visitors overlook. The afternoon light casts a beautiful glow over the snowy landscape, creating a perfect backdrop for your adventure.
Return to Kirkwood for a well-deserved dinner at a cozy lodge, relishing in the warmth and comfort of a rustic atmosphere. Afterward, you might want to join a local event or workshop, perhaps learning about winter survival skills or enjoying a live music performance. As the stars twinkle in the clear mountain sky, reflect on your day while sipping hot chocolate by the fire.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏡1-bedroom apartment (city center, monthly) | $1000-1500 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 📶Internet (monthly) | $50-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to St. Louis city attractions while keeping a small-town feel
- Walkable downtown with shops, eateries, and events
- Strong family-friendly vibe and safe neighborhoods
- Access to parks and outdoor recreation nearby
- Good base for day trips to nearby wineries, parks, and museums
- Limited nightlife and big-city nightlife options within Kirkwood itself
- Some shopping choices may be more limited than a larger city
- Dependence on a car for longer trips to the city center or trails
- Traffic on main corridors during rush hours nearby
Places to Visit in Kirkwood
Visit one of these nice places.
Character-rich storefronts, brick sidewalks, and period lamp posts provide classic architectural photography and vibrant street scenes.
Open spaces, water features, and the town hall create opportunities for portraits and candid street photography.
Riverside rock ledges and forested trails offer dramatic natural backdrops and sunset shots.
Outdoor sculpture set amid woodlands provides a mix of art photography and nature textures.
Food in Kirkwood
Kirkwood Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A St. Louis staple: fried ravioli usually served with marinara sauce.
Must-Try!
Thin-crust pizza topped with the distinctive Provel cheese common to the region.
Ribs with a tangy tomato-based sauce, a Missouri barbecue staple.
A rich, buttery dessert that’s a regional specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, meats, honey, and crafts in downtown Kirkwood.
Seasonal appearances around downtown events and farmers market, offering quick bites and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi' and hold doors for others. Be punctual for scheduled meetings and respect local quiet hours in neighborhoods.
Respect lines and personal space; avoid loud conversations in public spaces, especially on public transit.
Safety
Tipping in Kirkwood
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tip 15-20% at restaurants. Round up for smaller transactions and tip service staff for good service; check if a tip is included for large groups.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments and tap-to-pay are common at most shops and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot, humid days with daily sunshine and occasional thunderstorms. Hydration and sun protection are essential for outdoor activities and walks.
Fall brings cooler temps and vibrant foliage along Main Street and park trails—great for photography and outdoor strolls.
Winter can be cold with occasional snow. Layers are important; many outdoor trails stay accessible, while indoor dining options are plentiful.
Spring brings milder temps and blooming trees; this is a lively time for farmers markets and outdoor gatherings.
Kirkwood at Night
Hiking in Kirkwood
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside park with scenic bluffs, forested trails, and views of the Meramec River.
Woodland trails and outdoor sculpture installations suitable for relaxed hikes.
Airports
How to reach Kirkwood by plane.
Major regional and international airport offering domestic and international flights; roughly 20-40 miles from Kirkwood depending on route.
Smaller regional airport serving general aviation; a quick drive from the Kirkwood area.
Regional airport serving parts of the metro area, located in Mascoutah, Illinois, about an hour's drive away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households with school-age children and young professionals; a family-friendly community vibe.
Professionals commuting to St. Louis for work; active in local events and dining scenes.
A stable portion of long-time residents who contribute to a participatory community life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
St. Louis's region is famous for baseball, with local teams and community leagues.
Local youth leagues and recreation departments offer football and soccer programs.
Community centers and parks host pickup games and organized leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kirkwood.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available on Main Street; look for pasta primavera, veggie burgers, salads, and sides at most casual spots.