Overland, MO
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Local Recreation
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Institutions
Overland is a suburban city in St. Louis County, Missouri, known for its community parks, historic sites like the Lackland House, and being the headquarters of Build-A-Bear Workshop.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Overland, Missouri.
- Administrative Role: Overland is a city in St. Louis County and is not the county seat (which is Clayton). It functions as a suburban municipality within the St. Louis metropolitan area .
- Regional Context: The city is located in the state of Missouri, specifically within St. Louis County. This region is the core of Greater St. Louis, a major economic and cultural hub in the American Midwest, known for its iconic Gateway Arch, world-class zoo, and as a center for corporate headquarters like Emerson Electric and Monsanto .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Historical Names: The area was originally known as "The Overland Park," named after a wagon train stop for travelers heading west from St. Louis in the early 1820s. It was briefly incorporated as "Overland Park," but the name was shortened to "Overland" in 1919 to avoid postal confusion with the larger city of Overland Park, Kansas .
- Nicknames: Overland has been historically nicknamed the "Trampoline City," though the origin of this nickname is not well-documented .
Date of Foundation and Age
- Founding and Incorporation: The area was first settled in the early 1820s. The town was officially incorporated as a fourth-class city in 1939. As of 2026, Overland is 87 years old since its official incorporation .
- Founding Figures: The site's early history is tied to the famous frontiersman Daniel Boone, who constructed a single-room cabin in the area near what is now Lake Sherwood. Later, prominent St. Louis businessman Dennis Lackland built the historic Lackland House in 1844 .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 38°41′55″N 90°22′09″W (38.69861, -90.36917) .
- Positioning: Overland is situated in St. Louis County, approximately 14 miles (22.5 km) northwest of downtown St. Louis. It lies just south of the historic Kingshighway (Kings Road) to St. Charles .
- Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 200 meters (650 feet) above sea level .
- Landscape: It is a suburban municipality located on the generally flat to gently rolling plains of the Missouri River watershed, characteristic of the region .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Overland is primarily a suburban residential and retail center within the St. Louis metropolitan area. Its economy is characterized by:
- Corporate Presence: It is the world headquarters of Build-A-Bear Workshop .
- Industrial Operations: It hosts concentrate manufacturing operations for Dr Pepper Snapple Group .
- Local Retail and Services: The city supports a healthy retail district, including the Overland Plaza shopping center and local eateries like Chimi's Fresh-Mex and Skeeters Frozen Custard .
- Employment Hub: Its location places it within a short commute of major St. Louis-area employers such as the Boeing plant, Monsanto, and Emerson Electric .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the population of Overland was 15,955 .
- City Class: Overland is classified as a small city.
- Demographic Trends: The city is characterized by a dense suburban population with a mix of families and individuals. It has seen demographic shifts over the decades, becoming increasingly diverse. In the 2020 census, the racial makeup was 55.9% White, 22.7% African American, 3.2% Asian, and 16.2% Hispanic or Latino of any race .
"Visiting Card" of the City (Briefly)
Overland offers a quiet, family-friendly suburban atmosphere with convenient access to the urban amenities of St. Louis. Known for its historic ties to Daniel Boone and the pioneer "Overland Trail," the city today features community-focused parks, a spring-fed lake for fishing at Wild Acres Park, and unique local attractions like the miniature wonderland of Dan's Emerald Forest . Its prime location near Lambert International Airport and major highways makes it a practical and charming base for exploring the greater St. Louis region .
Geography
Water Bodies
- Lake Sherwood (Spring-fed Lake): Located within a private, gated community, this 12-acre spring-fed lake was originally developed in 1877 as a private residence. Its dam spills into the headwaters for the River des Peres. While the lake itself is private, it is a significant geographic and historical feature of the area .
- Wild Acres Park Lake: This 2.5-acre spring-fed lake is a public recreational area within Wild Acres Park. It is regularly stocked with fish, including largemouth bass, and is surrounded by a paved walking trail, making it a popular local spot for fishing and relaxation .
National and Natural Parks (Nearby)
While there are no national parks within Overland's city limits, several significant state and municipal parks are located nearby:
- St. Vincent County Park: Located just a short drive (about 15 minutes) from Overland, this park offers scenic trails, a picturesque lake, and excellent opportunities for birdwatching and hiking in a tranquil, wooded environment .
- Forest Park (St. Louis): Approximately 25 minutes from Overland, this massive urban park is one of the largest in the U.S. It is home to major regional attractions, including the free-admission Saint Louis Zoo, the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, and the Saint Louis Science Center, all set amidst beautiful walking trails, lakes, and picnic spots .
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Located about 20 minutes from Overland, this is one of the nation's oldest botanical gardens in continuous operation. It features stunning landscapes, thematic gardens like the Japanese Garden, and a dedicated children's garden, offering a relaxing and educational experience .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Overland experiences a humid subtropical climate (Köppen: Cfa) , characterized by four distinct seasons. It features hot, muggy summers and cold, snowy winters. The city is partly cloudy year-round .
Average Temperatures by Month
Temperatures vary significantly throughout the year. The hottest month is July, with an average high of 89°F (32°C) and low of 71°F (22°C). The coldest month is January, with an average high of 41°F (5°C) and low of 25°F (-4°C) .
| Month | Avg. High (°F / °C) | Avg. Low (°F / °C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 41 / 5 | 25 / -4 |
| February | 46 / 8 | 29 / -2 |
| March | 57 / 14 | 38 / 3 |
| April | 68 / 20 | 49 / 9 |
| May | 76 / 24 | 58 / 14 |
| June | 85 / 29 | 67 / 19 |
| July | 89 / 32 | 71 / 22 |
| August | 87 / 31 | 69 / 21 |
| September | 80 / 27 | 61 / 16 |
| October | 68 / 20 | 50 / 10 |
| November | 55 / 13 | 39 / 4 |
| December | 44 / 7 | 29 / -2 |
Precipitation and Humidity
- Annual Precipitation: Overland receives a significant amount of rainfall, averaging around 40 inches (1,016 mm) per year .
- Wettest Month: May is typically the wettest month, with an average of 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain and 12.3 days of measurable precipitation .
- Snowfall: Snowfall is common in winter, with January seeing the most snow, averaging 3.6 inches (9 cm) .
- Humidity: Humidity levels can be high, especially in summer, often reaching an average of 84%, contributing to the muggy conditions .
Best Time to Visit
Based on weather conditions, the best times to visit Overland for warm-weather outdoor activities are from late May to early July and from late July to late September, when temperatures are comfortably warm and rainfall is relatively lower .
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up considerably, but this is also a period of significant rainfall, especially in May.
- Summer (June-August): Hot and muggy, with July being the peak of summer heat. This is ideal for visiting parks and enjoying water-based activities.
- Fall (September-November): Temperatures cool down to very pleasant levels, and the foliage changes color, making it a beautiful time for scenic drives like the nearby Great River Road .
- Winter (December-February): Cold and snowy. While outdoor activities are limited, it's a good time for visiting indoor attractions in nearby St. Louis.
Landmarks and Attractions
[Dan's Emerald Forest]
This is a unique and beloved roadside attraction and a true hidden gem in Overland.
- Description: Dan's Emerald Forest is a whimsical miniature world painstakingly created by landscaper Dan Schmidt in his front yard. Starting in the late 1990s, he transformed his property with waterfalls, miniature trees, buildings, and a network of G-scale model trains that run from the yard into his basement .
- Features: The display features ever-changing miniature tableaus, which have included a miniature drive-in theater, a scene of railroad strikers, and a church with newlyweds. The yard is illuminated at night, and a park bench is provided for visitors to sit and enjoy the intricate details .
- Location: 8851 Windom Ave., Overland, MO .
- Significance: It is a testament to local creativity and a popular spot for those seeking quirky and offbeat sights, rated "Worth a Detour" by Roadside America .
[Lackland House]
The Lackland House is a significant historical landmark representing Overland's pioneer heritage.
- Description: This antebellum home was built in 1844 by Dennis Lackland, an early settler and prominent St. Louis businessman. It is one of the oldest standing structures in the area and offers a tangible link to the region's pre-Civil War history .
- Location: The house is located on Lackland Road, which was named after its builder .
[Wild Acres Park]
This is a key city-maintained park that combines historical estate grounds with modern recreational amenities.
- Description: The park is situated on the former Garnett Estate, a property built in 1907. The city acquired and maintains it as a public park, offering a secluded natural area with walking paths and the popular 2.5-acre spring-fed fishing lake .
- Activities: Visitors can fish for stocked species like largemouth bass, walk or jog on the paved trail around the lake, and enjoy the peaceful, wooded setting .
[Mort Jacobs Park]
Another of Overland's larger parks, known for its natural landscape.
- Description: This park features rolling, wooded acreage with tall trees and hiking paths, providing a more rustic outdoor experience within the city .
[Norman Myers Park]
This park serves as a major community athletic and event hub.
- Description: Formerly known as Taylor Field, this large park features a significant athletic field with a one-third-mile running track. It is also home to the annual Overland Lion's Fair, a key community event .
Transport
Main Airports
- St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL): Overland's most significant transport advantage is its proximity to this major airport. Located less than 5 miles away, it is one of the closest suburbs to the airport . The airport offers numerous domestic and international flights. Due to this proximity, residents and visitors can enjoy a very quick commute to and from the terminals, though aircraft noise can be noticeable in some parts of the city .
Public Transportation
- MetroBus: Public transportation in Overland is provided by MetroBus, part of the Bi-State Development Agency's Metro system. Multiple bus stops are located throughout the city, offering a viable option for getting to surrounding areas, including connections to the MetroLink light rail system that serves the greater St. Louis region .
Major Highways
Overland's location offers excellent connectivity for drivers via several major highways:
- Interstate 170 (I-170): This freeway runs through the eastern end of the city, providing a direct and quick route to Clayton and connections to other interstates .
- Interstate 70 (I-70): Easily accessible from Overland, this major east-west transcontinental highway provides routes to downtown St. Louis (approximately 14 miles away) and westward across Missouri .
- Highway 180 / St. Charles Rock Road: This is a major arterial road running through Overland, providing access to numerous local businesses and connecting to St. Charles .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Overland's dining scene offers a mix of beloved local spots and authentic international flavors, with a particularly strong representation of Mexican cuisine.
Chimi's Fresh-Mex
Chimi's Fresh-Mex is a popular local eatery famous for its sizzling fajitas and margaritas. It's a go-to spot for residents looking for a lively atmosphere and classic Mexican-American fare .
Skeeters Frozen Custard
Skeeters Frozen Custard is an Overland institution. There’s always a line as residents flock to try the frozen treats and rotating flavors of custard, making it a classic stop for a sweet, creamy dessert .
La Vecindad Paleteria
For a more traditional and authentic experience, La Vecindad Paleteria is a vibrant Mexican street food and ice cream establishment. This neighborhood gem is celebrated for its wide variety of traditional treats .
- Savory Specialties: The restaurant excels in authentic Mexican street foods. Customers rave about the tender and flavorful lengua (beef tongue) tacos, which are often mentioned in reviews for their richness and authenticity. Other favorites include chorizo, chicharrón con cueritos, fish tacos, and quesadillas with asada. For a true taste of Mexico, try the elote (Mexican street corn, served in a cup) .
- Sweet Treats: La Vecindad is also a premier destination for frozen treats. They offer a wide variety of paletas (Mexican popsicles) in unique and refreshing flavors like coconut, mango, tamarindo, and spicy tamarind. Their ice cream is known for using real fruit, with flavors such as coffee, pralines, and cookies and cream. A standout dessert is the fresas con crema (strawberries with cream) .
- Dietary Options: The shop thoughtfully separates its treats into water-based and milk-based options, making it easy for lactose-intolerant guests to find something delicious .
Overland Farmers' Market
For local produce and homemade goods, the Overland Farmer's Market has been a community staple for 16 years. It runs every Saturday from May through October, offering homegrown and homemade products directly from local vendors .
Museums
While Overland itself is a small city, it is home to a unique historical site, and the nearby city of St. Louis offers a wealth of world-class museum experiences.
Overland Historical Society/Log House
For a deep dive into local history, visit the Overland Historical Society/Log House. This site preserves the heritage of the area with authentic 19th-century structures .
- The Log House: The centerpiece is an authentic two-story log house dating to the mid-1800s. It was originally located overlooking the Missouri River and was carefully dismantled and rebuilt on its current site. The house is built in a classic "dog-trot" design, referring to the open breezeway between two separate log cabins, which was later enclosed .
- Historic Buildings and Exhibits: The site also features a log barn with a collection of tools and farm implements, including a covered wagon and buggy. A reconstructed smokehouse and an authentic "single-seat" outhouse, built as an Eagle Scout project, are also on display .
- Museum and Gift Shop: The Society has acquired an additional property that now serves as a museum, gift shop, and office. The museum features exhibits on the history of Overland and the Overland Trail, as well as displays of antique toys, accessories, and firearms. One room is dedicated to memorabilia from the local Ritenour School District .
Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art (in nearby Overland Park, KS)
Note: While this museum is in the city of Overland Park, Kansas, it is not located in Overland, Missouri. It is included here to prevent confusion, as the two cities share a name. Overland Park is a separate suburb of Kansas City, approximately 250 miles west of Overland, MO .
Sport and Local Recreation
Overland offers residents and visitors several opportunities for outdoor recreation and sports, primarily through its well-maintained city parks.
Wild Acres Park
Wild Acres Park is a central hub for outdoor activity in Overland. Its main attraction is a 2.5-acre spring-fed lake that is stocked with various fish species, including largemouth bass, making it a popular spot for local fishermen. A paved walking trail surrounds the lake, offering a scenic route for walkers and joggers .
Frank Munsch Community Center
The Frank Munsch Community Center is a focal point for community athletics and events. It hosts numerous youth camps throughout the year and provides athletic facilities for residents. The center is also a venue for community gatherings, such as kids' Easter egg hunts and charcuterie classes .
Woodson Park Tennis Courts
Residents looking to play tennis can head to the Woodson Park Tennis Courts to work on their backhand .
Universities and Educational Institutions
There are no four-year universities located directly within the city limits of Overland, Missouri. However, the city is part of the Ritenour School District and is in close proximity to a wide range of higher education options in the St. Louis area.
Local School District
Overland is served by the Ritenour School District. Public school students in Overland may attend Marion Elementary, Ritenour Middle School, and Ritenour Senior High School. Ritenour Senior High operates its own functional radio station, KRHS 90.1 FM. For families considering private education, The Christian Academy of Greater St. Louis, which is located nearby, scored an A-minus grade on Niche .
Colleges and Universities Nearby
Overland's location in St. Louis County places it within a short drive of numerous colleges and universities. There are 39 colleges within 50 miles of Overland, enrolling over 139,000 students .
- Closest University: The nearest four-year university is Fontbonne University in St. Louis, located just 4.6 miles from Overland .
- Top-Ranked University: The highest-ranked institution in the area is Washington University in St. Louis, which is ranked #20 in the nation by CollegeSimply. It is also the largest in the area, with an enrollment of over 17,000 students .
- Closest Community College: For two-year programs, the closest community college is Saint Louis Community College, approximately 6.8 miles away. It is known for its open admission policy and affordable tuition .
- Specialized Institutions: Nearby, Mid-America College of Health Sciences offers programs in practical nursing, dental assisting, medical assisting, and other health-related fields .
Healthcare Institutions
Overland, Missouri, is served by several major hospitals located in the greater St. Louis area. These institutions provide comprehensive medical services, from emergency care to specialized treatments.
Mercy Hospital St. Louis
Mercy Hospital St. Louis is a renowned healthcare institution with a long-standing history of providing exceptional medical care. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and neurology. The hospital is known for its highly skilled medical professionals and top-notch facilities .
SSM Health DePaul Hospital – St. Louis
SSM Health DePaul Hospital is another prominent facility committed to providing compassionate care. It offers a wide range of medical services, including maternity care, surgery, cardiology, neurology, and urology .
St. Luke's Hospital
St. Luke's Hospital is a leading healthcare institution known for its patient-centered care and innovative medical practices. It focuses on personalized treatment plans and offers services such as emergency care, cardiology, orthopedics, gastroenterology, and pediatrics .
Christian Hospital
Christian Hospital is a trusted healthcare provider that has been serving the community for many years. It focuses on delivering compassionate care and offers services including emergency care, maternity care, cardiology, orthopedics, and urology .
SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital – St. Louis
SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital is a reputable institution dedicated to providing comprehensive medical services. With a focus on patient well-being, it offers advanced treatments and personalized care in areas like emergency care, cardiology, neurology, orthopedics, and oncology .
Overland Medical Center
For local, non-emergency care, Overland Medical Center is a group practice located within the community at 2428 Woodson Rd. The center's physicians cover five specialty areas of medicine, including Foot & Ankle Surgery, Gastroenterology, General Dentistry, Ophthalmology, and Podiatry .
LampLight Studio
LampLight Studio is a creative space in Overland dedicated to pottery and glass. It offers fun, creative craft activities for everyone, including entertaining craft parties, pottery and glass classes, and a studio open to the public. The studio also features an art gallery showcasing the work of ceramic artist Rob Miller .