Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Chesterfield, MO

  • Published 2022/10/06

The charming city of Chesterfield lies in Missouri’s St. Louis County.

Known as the “City of Volunteers,” it is the most extensive suburban area outside of St. Louis.

Chesterfield earned its moniker because of its citizens’ involvement in many charitable causes.

It remains a helpful community and is also an emerging travel destination in the Midwest.

If you plan to travel to Chesterfield, you will be in for many treats.

This young city, founded in 1988, boasts many attractions, from historical places, natural sites, and parks to excellent food and fascinating culture.

To give you ideas for your next getaway, here are the best things to do in Chesterfield, Missouri:

Explore the Missouri River

View of Missouri River in Chesterfiel

Wspin / Shutterstock.com

Since Chesterfield meanders through the vast Missouri River, exploring it on a boat would be best.

This river stretches more than 2,300 miles from the Rocky Mountains of Colorado to the Mississippi River south.

Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy various outdoor recreation at this river.

While visiting Chesterfield, you’ll find numerous parks and boat launches to enjoy water-related activities such as boating, kayaking, and fishing.

At the same time, you can hike through the riverside and enjoy wildlife viewing at some parts in and outside the city.

Some of the most convenient accesses to the Missouri River in Chesterfield are the River’s Edge Park and some portions along White Road.

There’s something exciting waiting for you at the Missouri River, whether you’re a seasoned outdoor adventurer or someone who wants to see its beauty.

Explore the Wonders of the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House

The Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House is probably one of the most famous attractions in Chesterfield.

You can find this famous butterfly house within Faust Park.

After opening in 1998, it already housed more than 1,500 free-flying butterflies.

It’s also home to more than 150 tropical plant species.

In addition, you’ll be treated to captivating sights while roaming inside its 8,000-square-foot facility filled with butterflies, exhibits, flowering plants, and other features.

One of the best ways to enjoy visiting the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House is to a join guided tour to see its most famous sections.

Take as many photos as possible, and learn fascinating information about its featured collections.

Spend Alone Time at Central Park

Visit Central Park if you’re yearning for some alone time to meditate or perhaps want space from everyone else.

Head to this park along Lydia Hill Drive and enjoy its tranquil atmosphere, green open spaces, and lush tree lines, which you can sit under and relax.

The park spans over 38 acres and has a terrific playground, an amphitheater, a lakeside trail, picnic areas, and a swimming pool.

Many locals frequent Central Park to enjoy outdoor recreation and relaxation.

So, you know where to take refuge in Chesterfield whenever you want some alone time.

Wander through Faust Park

View of Faust Park

Paul Knittel from St. Louis, United States, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Faust Park spans over 200 acres featuring some of Chesterfield’s most famous attractions.

After opening in 1968, this park hasn’t ceased to be famous among locals and visitors, making it a must-see attraction in the city.

Including this park in your itinerary while visiting Chesterfield is highly recommended because of the wide array of outdoor recreation you’ll enjoy.

The St. Louis Carousel and the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House are some of the most famous attractions at Faust Park.

Besides these attractions, you’ll also enjoy other outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and sports.

If you’re too lazy to do outdoor activities, this park is also excellent for relaxation and enjoying its laid-back environment.

Journey through the Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail

The Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail is an emerging trail system popular among outdoor enthusiasts and hikers.

You can find this trail near Railroad Park.

It mainly features a 10-mile paved trail featuring the natural suburban beauty of Chesterfield.

Many people love to hike and do other outdoor activities because of its fascinating way of exploring the riverside trails of the Missouri River.

Whether you’re only having a relaxing hike or perhaps going for a run, this trail is excellent for an outdoor adventure.

While hiking, running, or biking, you can explore the entire area further through a 17-mile looped trail that takes you to various parts in and outside Chesterfield.

Don’t forget to pack your hiking boots when traveling to Chesterfield because chances are, you’ll find yourself exploring the Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail.

Bring Back Memories at the St. Louis Carousel

Chesterfield is home to a nostalgic attraction called the St. Louis Carousel at Faust Park.

It’s an excellent place in the city to rekindle your childhood or let your kids experience what it’s like riding on a classic carousel.

Historically, this carousel is a treasure of the yesteryears since it’s been running since 1921 through the Philadelphia-based Dentzel Company that constructed it.

It mainly features 60 hand-carved wooded horses, four deers, and two sleighs that everyone can ride on.

Visiting the St. Louis Carousel offers a nostalgic, wholesome experience, especially if you bring your family.

After riding and taking terrific photos with the carousel, you can proceed to its gift shop for souvenirs.

Indulge in Some Retail Therapy at Chesterfield Mall

Inside view of Chesterfield Mall

Mike Kalasnik from Charlotte, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Chesterfield Mall is a famous shopping center in the city.

This mall in Chesterfield Center features over 30 shops and more than a dozen restaurants, making it a perfect location for leisure.

Since opening in 1976, this mall remained popular with locals and visitors.

It has numerous anchor stores such as Macy’s and AMC Megaplex theater.

Head to this mall if you’re itching for leisure time, especially shopping and dining.

Besides shopping and dining, Chesterfield Mall has a family arcade, sports facilities, an art gallery, and other features, making your visit there worthwhile.

Make Your Best Swing at Topgolf St. Louis

Are you itching for a round of golf but too lazy to chase the ball down the green?

You can head to Topgolf St. Louis on North Outer 40 Road and swing to your heart’s content at its top-notch hitting bay.

This sports facility is a famous place in Chesterfield for those who want to enjoy golf without getting sunburns or driving a golf kart.

It mainly features climate-controlled hitting bays equipped with huge screens in each bay for your convenience.

For a more enjoyable experience, Topgolf St. Louis also has a restaurant and a sports bar where you can dine after swinging your clubs.

Witness Live Performances at the Chesterfield Amphitheater

Head to the Chesterfield Amphitheater for one-of-a-kind outdoor entertainment.

This amphitheater is along Veterans Place Drive, featuring a 4,000-seater lawn area.

It’s been renowned throughout the city for its top-caliber acoustics, giving the audience a rich and immersive experience while watching live performances.

It’s one of the city’s most famous locations for concerts, stage plays, and community events.

The Chesterfield Amphitheater is one of the most recommended places to go whenever you’re itching to watch concerts and live bands.

At the same time, you can bring your picnic blanket or retractable chair and lay them down on its spacious green lawn if you’re on a tight budget.

Enjoy a Retro Movie Experience at Marcus Chesterfield Cinema

Front view of  Marcus Chesterfield Cinema

Moab Republic / Shutterstock.com

Marcus Chesterfield Cinema is famous throughout the city for its retro design and feel.

You can find it along THF Boulevard, featuring its huge classic-inspired cinema design.

With its lounge, concession stand, and entrance, its nostalgic vibes will surely take you back to the yesteryears.

However, don’t be deceived by this cinema’s ultimate throwback design because it has a top-caliber picture and audio quality that you’ll experience in one of its multiple-screen theaters.

If you’re a big fan of movies, you’ll surely enjoy your time at Marcus Chesterfield Cinema since it regularly features the latest Hollywood flicks.

Showcase Your Golfing Prowess at The Landings at Spirit Golf Club

The Landings at Spirit Golf Club offers a real-time full-scale golfing experience compared to the Topgolf St. Louis’s hitting bays.

You can visit this golf club along North Eatherton Road.

It mainly features an 18-hole championship course that meanders through the Missouri River.

This course offers you an exciting golf experience, and at the same time, you’ll appreciate its beautiful landscape and peaceful ambiance.

Get captivated by its gorgeous bluffs along the Wildhorse Creek Road while challenging yourself with its links-style fairways and double greens.

Overall, seasoned golfers or newbies will surely enjoy playing a round of gold at The Landings at Spirit Golf Club because of its aesthetics and top-quality facility.

Dive into Outdoor Action at River’s Edge Park

River’s Edge Park spans over 188 acres of green open space, lush tree lines, and numerous amenities.

Visit this park along North Outer Road beside the famous Missouri River.

You can do various outdoor activities, including hiking, paddle sports, fishing, jogging, and playing catch with your dog.

If you’re looking for a place in Chesterfield to enjoy something without spending a single penny, River’s Edge Park is your go-to place.

Besides the outdoor activities you’ll enjoy at this park, you can also unwind and relax, especially in the afternoon when you can lie down on the grass and pass the time.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Beyond the city borders of Chesterfield lies various cities and towns, including the second-largest city in Missouri, St. Louis.

Travel beyond Chesterfield and explore more hidden gems and famous attractions, including the highly recommended places listed below:

Appreciate Nature at Katy Trail State Park

A Sign in Katy Trail State Park

marekuliasz / Shutterstock.com

Katy Trail State Park is the nation’s longest-developed rail-trail system.

It’s located in Clinton, roughly nine miles northwest of Chesterfield.

This park near the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas railroad system features numerous trails leading you to various locations.

View of Katy Trail State Park

Gvolk, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

You’ll surely appreciate the beauty and the challenge you’ll get yourself into by traversing this famous trail.

While exploring Katy Trail State Park, you’ll pass through small towns and cities, making it a worthwhile outdoor experience you mustn’t miss.

Generally, you can engage in various outdoor activities besides hiking.

You can also enjoy horseback riding, cycling, wildlife, and nature viewing.

Roam inside the National Museum of Transportation

Visit the National Museum of Transportation in St. Louis for a fascinating historical side trip.

It’s a 14-minute drive southeast of Chesterfield.

Since its opening in 1944, thousands of curious visitors have seen this museum’s extensive collection of old vehicles.

Inside, you’ll come across airplanes, automobiles, trains, and trolleys dating back centuries ago.

At the same time, the National Museum of Transportation has more than 190 major exhibits, including permanent collections and galleries.

Plunge into Outdoor Action at Castlewood State Park

Castlewood State Park view

Leonard Jerry Horsford / Shutterstock.com

Castlewood State Park is a renowned outdoor attraction in Ballwin, 10 miles south of Chesterfield.

Many love returning to this state park for outdoor recreation.

Before it became a state park, it served as a popular retreat for locals from St. Louis who wanted to relax.

Castlewood State Park

Leonard Jerry Horsford / Shutterstock.com

Today, it’s a top-notch outdoor recreation destination, mainly featuring the beauty and terrain of the Meramec River and valley.

Some best outdoor recreational activities at Castlewood State Park are mountain biking, hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

At the same time, it has various recreational facilities for more adventure.

Final Thoughts

Chesterfield is more than a community that always lends a helping hand.

It’s also an ideal travel destination for those coming from Kansas City, Nashville, and Indianapolis.

Its proximity to St. Louis makes it an ideal jump-off area to explore this vast city.

Of course, there are plenty more hidden gems in Chesterfield for you to explore.

There’s never a dull moment in this city, especially if you use this list of the best things to do in Chesterfield, Missouri, as your itinerary.

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