Des Peres, MO
- About the City
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Medical Institutions and Healthcare
- Museums and Unique Landmarks
Des Peres is an affluent suburb of St. Louis, Missouri, known for its high quality of life, excellent parks, and as the headquarters of major financial firms like Edward Jones.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Des Peres, Missouri.
- Administrative Role: Des Peres is a city in St. Louis County, Missouri, United States. It is a suburban municipality and does not serve as a state or county seat .
- Regional Context: The city is located in the state of Missouri, within the large metropolitan area of St. Louis. St. Louis County is the most populous county in Missouri and is known for its numerous suburban communities, historic sites, and its role as a major center for commerce and healthcare in the Midwest.
Date of Foundation and Age
- Year of First Mention/Founding: The area was first settled as a mission by French Jesuits and the Kaskaskia Native American tribe around December 3, 1700, making it one of the oldest settlements in Missouri. However, it was not incorporated as a village until 1934 .
- City's Age: The area has been inhabited by European settlers for approximately 324 years (as of 2024). As an incorporated city, it is 90 years old.
- Founder and Name Origin: The settlement was founded by French Jesuit missionaries and the Kaskaskia people. The name "Des Peres" is French for "The Fathers," honoring these priests . The city also takes its name from the nearby River Des Peres .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 38°35′51″N 90°26′53″W .
- Location Relative to Natural Objects: Des Peres is located in the eastern part of Missouri, on the western side of the Mississippi River, which is approximately 15-20 kilometers to the east. The River Des Peres, a tributary of the Mississippi, flows nearby .
- Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 186–188 meters (610–617 feet) above sea level .
- Geographic Type: Des Peres is a suburban city situated on the gently rolling terrain typical of the region.
City Type and Economic Specialization
Des Peres is primarily an affluent residential suburb and a significant business center. Its economy is characterized by:
- Corporate Headquarters: It is the international headquarters of the financial services firms Edward Jones Investments and Scottrade .
- Retail and Commerce: The city has a strong retail sector, with major shopping centers and businesses located along Manchester Road.
- Administrative Center: It serves as a local government hub for its residents.
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Des Peres was 9,193 .
- Population Class: Des Peres is classified as a small city.
- Demographic Features: The city is known for its high median household income ($173,672), well above both state and national averages, and a high rate of married-couple families .
City's "Business Card" (Brief)
Des Peres is a prosperous St. Louis suburb that masterfully blends residential tranquility with commercial vitality. Known as the home of financial giant Edward Jones and the beloved children's museum, The Magic House, it offers residents and visitors a wealth of well-maintained parks, top-rated schools, and a high quality of life just minutes from downtown St. Louis.
Landmarks and Attractions
The Magic House, St. Louis Children's Museum
- Overview: This is the premier attraction in Des Peres and one of the top children's museums in the country. It is a must-visit destination for families .
- Description: The Magic House is an interactive, hands-on museum spread over 55,000 square feet. It features a vast array of exhibits designed to stimulate creativity and learning in children, including a three-story beanstalk, a children's village, a maker studio, and a bubble room .
- History: Founded in 1979 by Mary and Jay Goff, it began in their family home and moved to its current, much larger location in Des Peres in 1985 .
- Location: 516 S Kirkwood Rd, St. Louis, MO 63122. It is situated right on the border of Des Peres and Kirkwood.
Des Peres Park
- Overview: The central recreational hub of the city, a large and well-maintained park offering a wide range of outdoor activities .
- Description: Covering over 100 acres, Des Peres Park features multiple walking and biking trails (including a popular 1.6 km paved loop), two fishing lakes, well-equipped playgrounds, sports fields for soccer and baseball, picnic areas with grills, and fitness stations .
- Highlights: The park is known for its scenic beauty, particularly around the lakes, and serves as a focal point for community events and seasonal festivals .
- Location: 1000 Des Peres Rd, Des Peres, MO 63131.
The Lodge Des Peres
- Overview: An upscale, state-of-the-art community center that acts as a modern gathering place for residents .
- Description: The Lodge boasts impressive amenities, including indoor and outdoor aquatic facilities, a fully equipped fitness center, a walking and running track, gymnasiums for basketball and other sports, and multi-purpose rooms for events and classes .
- Unique Feature: It is a cornerstone for community spirit, offering a wide array of recreational programs, fitness classes, and social events for all ages .
- Location: 1050 Des Peres Rd, Des Peres, MO 63131.
Phantom Forest and Bittersweet Woods
- Overview: Two adjacent conservation areas that offer a unique natural escape within the city .
- Description: These 13-acre and 10-acre "urban wildlife areas" are administered in cooperation with the Missouri Department of Conservation. They feature trails that wind through native woods, providing opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and experiencing local flora and fauna.
- Unique Connection: Phantom Forest is named after the "Phantom" comic strip, as its donor, Ray Moore, was the strip's original illustrator. The land was donated to preserve its natural state .
- Location: Access is via a single entrance on Barrett Station Road.
Geography
Water Features
- River Des Peres: The city shares its name with this river, a 23.7-mile-long tributary of the Mississippi River. Its tributaries, including Deer Creek and Two Mile Creek, run through the area, shaping the local landscape .
- Dougherty Lake: A residential lake adjacent to the Phantom Forest and Bittersweet Woods conservation areas. It adds to the scenic beauty and wildlife habitat in the northwestern part of the city .
Parks and Protected Areas
Beyond the major destinations, Des Peres maintains several other parks:
- Harwood Park, Pioneer Park, Sugar Creek Park: These smaller neighborhood parks provide additional green space, playgrounds, and recreational opportunities for local residents .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Des Peres has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) according to the Köppen climate classification . This is characterized by cold, wet winters and hot, humid summers. The city experiences four distinct seasons.
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Spring is an excellent time to visit, with mild to warm temperatures and the blooming of flowers and trees in the city's many parks. It can also be rainy. This is one of the best times for hiking in Phantom Forest or enjoying Des Peres Park .
- Summer (June-August): Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures frequently reaching the low 30s°C (high 80s°F to low 90s°F). This is a great time to enjoy the outdoor pool at The Lodge or the air-conditioned exhibits at The Magic House.
- Fall (September-November): Fall is another ideal visiting period. The weather cools down, and the foliage in areas like Phantom Forest and along the trails at Des Peres Park puts on a spectacular display of autumn colors .
- Winter (December-February): Winters are cold, with average highs often near or just above freezing (0°C / 32°F). Snowfall is common but not typically extreme. It's a quiet time to visit indoor attractions.
Transport
Major Highways
Des Peres is strategically located for automotive travel, with easy access to the St. Louis region's major thoroughfares.
- Interstate 270 (I-270): This major interstate highway forms part of the city's eastern boundary, providing a direct route north and south around the St. Louis metro area.
- Manchester Road (Missouri Route 100): This is the primary commercial artery running east-west through the heart of Des Peres, lined with shops, restaurants, and businesses.
Public Transportation
- Bus Service: Public transit in Des Peres is provided by Metro Transit (St. Louis). Bus route 57 runs along Manchester Road, connecting Des Peres to other St. Louis County communities, including Clayton and the West County Mall .
Train Service
- Kirkwood Amtrak Station: The nearest passenger rail station is the Kirkwood Amtrak Station, located approximately 4 miles (a 58-minute walk or short drive) south of Des Peres. It is served by the Missouri River Runner line, which runs between St. Louis and Kansas City .
Biking and Trails
Des Peres is connected to the region's growing network of greenways.
- Grant's Trail: The eastern trailhead for a spur of the popular Grant's Trail is accessible from nearby I-44. This paved trail offers scenic views and is used for biking, running, and walking .
- Local Trails: In addition to the paths in Des Peres Park, the conservation areas offer natural-surface trails for hiking .
Airports
- Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL): The primary airport serving the region is located approximately 15-20 miles north of Des Peres, a drive of about 20-30 minutes via I-270 and I-70.
Commuter Data
Despite the available options, the vast majority of residents commute by car. The average one-way commute time is 21.2 minutes, which is shorter than the US average .
- Drive alone: 85.8%
- Work from home: 7.5%
- Carpool: 4.5%
- Public Transit: 0.1%
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Des Peres offers a convenient cross-section of the St. Louis dining scene, featuring both local specialties and a diverse range of international options .
Toasted Ravioli (t-ravs)
A quintessential St. Louis dish, toasted ravioli is a must-try when in the area. Despite its name, the dish consists of breaded and deep-fried ravioli, typically filled with beef, cheese, or spinach, and served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping . It is a beloved local appetizer found in many restaurants and bars throughout the region. For a housemade version, you can visit Circa STL, a restaurant in Des Peres that features a menu full of traditional local dishes . The Village Bar, a long-standing local grill in Des Peres, also offers t-ravs on its menu .
St. Louis-Style Pizza
Another regional staple, St. Louis-style pizza is known for its thin, cracker-like crust that is cut into squares (or "party cut") rather than wedges. It is traditionally topped with Provel cheese, a processed blend of provolone, Swiss, and cheddar cheeses that is white and has a gooey, smoky flavor . Circa STL in Des Peres is one place where you can try this local specialty . Three Kings Public House, a modern gastropub in the city, also offers a globally-inspired menu that includes Italian flatbreads .
Gooey Butter Cake
For dessert, Gooey Butter Cake is a St. Louis original. This rich, dense cake has a bottom layer of cake and a top layer made from cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar, resulting in its signature "gooey" texture. It is a staple dessert in the area and can be found on the menu at Circa STL .
Pork Steak Sandwich
A barbecue favorite in St. Louis, the pork steak sandwich features a tender cut of meat from the pork shoulder, grilled or smoked and typically served with coleslaw. It's a classic, hearty sandwich that reflects the region's barbecue culture. You can find it on the menu at Circa STL , and Sawmill BBQ Pub & Grill in Des Peres is another excellent spot to enjoy local barbecue classics like pork steak and ribs .
Diverse Dining Scene
Beyond the St. Louis classics, Des Peres boasts a diverse culinary landscape. The Daily Bread Bakery & Cafe is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch, offering fresh pastries and hearth-baked pizzas . For Indian cuisine, you have Flavors Indian Cuisine and the slightly more upscale Saffron Indian Cuisine, known for its biryani . Mexican food is well-represented by the family-friendly Casa de Tres Reyes and Rosalita's Cantina, which features a large tequila selection . Grand Mediterranean in the West County Center offers quick-service gyros and falafel , while Porano from the Niche Food Group serves build-your-own pasta bowls and Detroit-style pizza . Tiger 88 Boba and Banh Mi and Tiger Soup Dumplings bring Asian flavors, with the latter specializing in soup dumplings . For a classic steakhouse experience, the family-owned Surf & Sirloin is a long-standing option .
Sport and Sports Legends
While Des Peres itself does not have major professional sports stadiums, it is situated within the St. Louis metropolitan area, a region with a rich sports culture. For fans looking to watch a game, Three Kings Public House in Des Peres is a modern gastropub with plenty of TVs, making it a great spot to catch local St. Louis sports teams in action .
St. Louis Sports Teams
The major professional teams from St. Louis are the primary sports focus for residents of Des Peres:
- St. Louis Cardinals (MLB): One of the most storied franchises in baseball history, the Cardinals have won 11 World Series championships, the most in the National League. They play at the iconic Busch Stadium in downtown St. Louis.
- St. Louis Blues (NHL): The Blues are the city's professional hockey team, who won their first Stanley Cup championship in 2019. They play at the Enterprise Center.
- St. Louis CITY SC (MLS): The city's newest major league team, St. Louis CITY SC, began play in 2023 and has quickly built a passionate following. They play at the state-of-the-art CITYPARK stadium in downtown St. Louis.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Des Peres is in close proximity to several well-regarded colleges and universities, making it a convenient residential area for students and faculty .
Nearby Colleges and Universities
- Missouri Baptist University: Located in nearby Town and Country, this private Christian university is just a short drive from Des Peres. It holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau .
- St. Louis Community College at Meramec: Situated in Kirkwood, this campus is one of the largest in the STLCC system and offers a wide range of associate degrees and certificate programs .
- Webster University: A private university with its main campus in Webster Groves, it is known for its strong programs in business, communications, and fine arts .
- Maryville University: Located in Town and Country, this private university has experienced significant growth and is known for its innovative approaches to education .
- Fontbonne University: A private Catholic university in Clayton, offering liberal arts and professional programs .
- Logan University: Located in Chesterfield, Logan is a prestigious university focused on chiropractic and health sciences .
- Saint Louis University (SLU): This prestigious Jesuit university in St. Louis has a medical presence in Des Peres. The SLUCare Endocrinology clinic is located at the Des Peres Medical Arts Pavilion II, providing specialized medical services and connecting the university to the community .
Medical Institutions and Healthcare
St. Luke's Des Peres Hospital (Closed)
For many years, St. Luke's Des Peres Hospital, located at 2345 Dougherty Ferry Road, was the primary hospital serving the city . It was a full-service hospital with 88 beds, an emergency department, and a wide range of specialties, affiliated with medical schools like Saint Louis University . It received a safety grade for its performance on various medical outcomes measures . However, as of August 1, 2025, St. Luke's Des Peres Hospital has officially closed .
Major Hospitals Nearby
Following the closure of the local hospital, residents of Des Peres are now served by several major medical centers in the immediate surrounding area :
- Missouri Baptist Medical Center: Located at 3015 North Ballas Road in neighboring Town and Country, this is a large, full-service hospital and a member of BJC HealthCare. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, heart and vascular services, and cancer care .
- Mercy Hospital St. Louis: Situated at 615 South New Ballas Road in St. Louis, this is another major medical center and part of the Mercy health system. It provides a full spectrum of medical and surgical services and is known for its specialized care .
- SLUCare Physician Groups: Saint Louis University School of Medicine physicians also maintain a presence in the area. The SLUCare Endocrinology clinic is located within the Des Peres Medical Arts Pavilion II at 2315 Dougherty Ferry Road, offering specialized outpatient care for endocrine disorders .
Museums and Unique Landmarks
The Legendary Des Peres Pickle Jar
Des Peres is home to one of the most unusual and beloved "landmarks" in the St. Louis area: The Pickle Jar. This is not a museum in the traditional sense, but an ongoing community phenomenon. Sometime around 2012, a jar of pickles mysteriously appeared on the wall of an I-270 highway ramp .
Local resident Barb Steen found it amusing and started a Facebook group called "Team Pickle" to share sightings with friends. The group unexpectedly grew, and today it has nearly 30,000 members—more than three times the population of Des Peres itself . Members act as "war correspondents," posting updates on the jar's condition. When the original jar disappeared in 2015, it was a dark time for the group, but a new jar was placed in 2016, and the tradition was reborn .
Over the years, the pickle jar has become a cultural institution. It is decorated for holidays like Christmas and St. Patrick's Day, and sometimes multiple jars or other items appear . The city's public safety director has even joked that the "mystery" person replacing the jar might be an insider, as no complaints have ever been filed . So ingrained is the pickle jar in local culture that it has its own listing on Google Maps as a "Historical Landmark" and is mentioned on the city's Wikipedia page . For residents and fans worldwide, the pickle jar is a quirky symbol of community and humor.
Museums in Neighboring St. Louis
For more conventional museum experiences, Des Peres residents and visitors are a short drive from the world-class museums in nearby St. Louis, many of which are located in Forest Park and offer free admission :
- Saint Louis Art Museum: Housed in the Palace of Fine Arts from the 1904 World's Fair, its collection spans millennia and continents, featuring works by masters like Max Beckmann.
- Missouri History Museum: Also in Forest Park, this museum explores the history of the St. Louis region, from the Louisiana Purchase to the 1904 World's Fair and beyond.
- Saint Louis Science Center: A hands-on, interactive museum with exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space exploration. It is a great destination for families .
- Saint Louis Zoo: One of the nation's leading zoos, it is renowned for its naturalistic habitats and is consistently ranked among the best in the country. Admission is free.
Circa STL: A Private Museum of Memorabilia
For a unique, private collection of local history, Circa STL restaurant in Des Peres itself is a must-visit. Owner Brian Walsh has filled the 5,000-square-foot space with his collection of St. Louis-themed kitsch and treasures, amassed over nearly 45 years . Featuring displays of area manufacturers, sports memorabilia, and items dating back to the pre-Prohibition era, the restaurant's owner describes it as "like going to a museum of St. Louis history, and you don't have to leave to get a bite to eat or something to drink" . It's a place where you can enjoy local cuisine while being surrounded by the city's nostalgic past.