Crestwood, MO

County: St. Louis

History

Crestwood, Missouri

Crestwood, Missouri is a suburb of St. Louis located in St. Louis County. The area which now encompasses Crestwood was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Osage and Mississippians. However, European settlers began to arrive in the area in the early 19th century.

The history of Crestwood as a municipality begins in the mid-20th century. In 1922, businessman Fred Kohlmeier purchased a large tract of land in the area and established Crestwood Estates, a residential subdivision. The area remained largely rural until after World War II when it experienced significant suburban development.

Crestwood was officially incorporated as a village on September 6, 1949, with a population of under 500 residents. The village continued to grow, and on February 24, 1956, Crestwood was officially recognized as a city. Throughout the following decades, residential and commercial development expanded in the area.

One noteworthy aspect of Crestwood's history is the Crestwood Plaza shopping mall, which opened in 1957. At the time of its opening, the shopping center was one of the first in the region and brought significant economic growth to the area. However, in recent years, Crestwood Plaza has faced decline and redevelopment, with parts of it being demolished to make way for new developments.

Another significant event in Crestwood's history occurred in the 1970s when the government decided to construct a highway, known as I-44, through the city. The construction of the highway led to the displacement of some residents and businesses, but it also provided better transportation infrastructure to the area, connecting Crestwood to St. Louis and other parts of the region.

Today, Crestwood is a thriving suburban city with a population of around 11,000 residents. It offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, and recreational facilities. Despite facing some challenges throughout its history, Crestwood remains a desirable place to live in the St. Louis metropolitan area.

Attractions

Crestwood Aquatic Center

Crestwood Aquatic Center

A public swimming pool with water slides, lazy river, and a splash pad.

Grant's Park

A community park with picnic areas, playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails.

Sappington House Museum

A historic house museum featuring artifacts and exhibits on the local history.

Crestwood Plaza

A shopping center with various retail stores and restaurants.

Whitecliff Park

A large park offering tennis courts, soccer fields, a disc golf course, and a lake with fishing and boating opportunities.

Grant's Farm

A nearby attraction in Grantwood Village, featuring a petting zoo, tram rides, and opportunities to see exotic animals.

Laumeier Sculpture Park

A contemporary art museum and outdoor sculpture park with walking trails and unique artwork.

Missouri Botanical Garden

Located in nearby St. Louis, it is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States, featuring beautiful gardens, exhibitions, and events.

St. Louis Science Center

A hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater.

Saint Louis Zoo

Located within Forest Park in St. Louis, it is a famous zoo with a wide variety of animal exhibits and educational programs.

Climate

Crestwood, Missouri has a humid subtropical climate. It experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year. Summers are typically hot and humid with average high temperatures reaching the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 30-32 degrees Celsius). Heatwaves are not uncommon, and temperatures can occasionally exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).

Winters in Crestwood are generally cold, with average temperatures in the high 20s to low 40s Fahrenheit (-2 to 5 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is moderate, with an average annual snowfall of around 18 inches. However, snowstorms can occur, bringing heavier snowfall and potentially impacting daily life.

Spring and fall are transitional seasons in Crestwood. Spring is mild, with increasing temperatures and occasional rainfall. Fall is typically pleasant and comfortable, with cooler temperatures and colorful foliage.

Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of around 40 inches. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, and occasional severe weather, including tornadoes, can occur.

Overall, Crestwood, MO experiences a mix of hot, humid summers and cold winters, with transitional seasons showcasing moderate temperatures and changing landscapes.

Neighborhoods

Crestwood is a city located in St. Louis County, Missouri. While Crestwood itself is relatively small, it is divided into several distinct neighborhoods. Here are some of the different neighborhoods within Crestwood:

Whitecliff

Whitecliff is a residential neighborhood located in the southern part of Crestwood. It is known for its tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and family-friendly atmosphere. Whitecliff Park, a popular community park, is located in this neighborhood and offers amenities such as playgrounds, sports fields, and a lake.

Grantwood Village

Grantwood Village is a neighborhood situated in the eastern part of Crestwood. It is characterized by larger homes and is often considered one of the more upscale areas within Crestwood. The neighborhood is known for its privacy and proximity to Grant's Farm, a popular destination for families.

Crestwood South

Crestwood South is a neighborhood located in the northwestern part of Crestwood. It is mainly a residential area with a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. This neighborhood offers a quieter lifestyle and easy access to shopping centers and other amenities.

South Watson Area

The South Watson Area is located in the southern part of Crestwood and is known for its commercial developments. This area features numerous retail outlets, restaurants, and other businesses, making it a popular shopping destination for both residents and visitors.

Sappington

While technically not a part of Crestwood, some sections of Sappington fall within the Crestwood ZIP code boundaries. Sappington is a neighboring community and offers a mix of residential and commercial areas. It has its own charming downtown area, Sappington Square, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and services.

These are just a few examples of the neighborhoods within Crestwood, each with its unique features and character. Whether you are looking for a quiet suburban lifestyle, upscale living, or convenient access to shopping and entertainment, Crestwood has a neighborhood to suit various preferences.

Nearby Cities