Ste. Geneviève Missouri

Colonial History and Beyond

Settled by French Canadians in the early 1700s, Ste. Geneviève is Missouri’s oldest permanent European settlement. This deep-rooted history is evident in the Historic Downtown District, where splendid French-colonial architecture lines the narrow streets. The homes and buildings preserved in downtown’s National Historical Park are some of the only surviving examples of poteaux-en-terre and poteaux-sur-sole structures in North America. Before venturing away from downtown, head to ASL Pewter to admire a wide range of pewter jewelry, drinkware and serving pieces forged by award-winning local artisans. Nearby, the Museum Learning Center offers exhibits on Ste. Geneviève’s early Indigenous inhabitants, its French and German settlers and more recent local history – including ties to the infamous Jesse James Gang. Come face to face with life-sized dinosaurs in the Hall of Giants, which displays geological specimens and fossils from Missouri’s prehistoric past. Even more historic delights are just a boat ride away. The Ste. Geneviève-Modoc River Ferry connects Ste. Geneviève to southern Illinois, with stops at Fort de Chartres State Historic Site, the Pierre Menard Home and Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Park along the way.

Outdoor Adventures

Pine trees, sandstone canyons and rapid streams decorate the landscape of Hawn State Park, a natural oasis just a 20-minute drive from downtown. Hike along a waterfall on the Pickle Creek Trail, camp overnight with scenic views or pack lunch to enjoy a picnic while bird watching. During the summer, cool off at River Rapids Water Park. Enjoy a full day of fall fun at Bloomsdale Fun Farm with live music, pumpkin houses, a petting zoo and more. Animal lovers can’t miss a trip to Crown Valley Tiger Sanctuary to admire big cats and learn more about conservation efforts. Insider tip: Book the sanctuary’s Early Bird Tour for a chance to see the tigers in the morning hours when they’re most active.

Spectacular Spirits

Missouri’s French settlers brought their wine-making techniques with them. Today, these traditions are alive and well. Check out Chateau Sainte Genevieve to sample a wide variety of local libations and enjoy lawn games, then vineyard-hop over to Chaumette Vineyards & Winery, where Midwest-produced wines are complemented perfectly by panoramic views. Sip and savor, then book an overnight stay at onsite private suites and villas to keep the luxurious vibes going. Beer lovers aren’t left out, either: Charleville Brewery & Winery offers guided tours that give you a front row seat to the brewing process. Stop by the Tasting Room to experience the iPourIt Wall, a unique self-serve experience where you can sample Charleville’s house-made beer and wine offerings, along with a curated selection of other craft beer, sodas and even Charle-Rita cocktails.