Des Peres, MO
County: St. Louis
History
Des Peres is a suburb located in St. Louis County, Missouri. The area was originally inhabited by the Osage Native American tribe before European settlers arrived in the early 19th century.
The name "Des Peres" is French for "of the fathers," referring to the Jesuit missionaries who settled in the area. The Jesuits established the St. Paul Catholic Church in the mid-1800s, which still stands as one of the oldest churches in Des Peres today.
In the late 19th century, the construction of the Missouri Pacific Railroad brought significant growth to the area, leading to the development of several small communities. The Des Peres post office was established in 1879, marking the official recognition of the town.
During the early 20th century, Des Peres remained primarily rural, with farming and agriculture as the main economic activities. However, the expansion of St. Louis and the development of nearby suburbs led to increased residential and commercial growth in Des Peres.
In 1959, the City of Des Peres was officially incorporated, encompassing an area of approximately 4 square miles. The population steadily grew in the following decades, and the city developed into a predominantly residential community with thriving retail and commercial areas.
Des Peres is known for its excellent schools, high quality of life, and convenient access to the city of St. Louis. The town has maintained its suburban charm while offering a range of amenities, including parks, recreational facilities, shopping centers, and golf courses.
Overall, the history of Des Peres reflects its transformation from a rural farming community to a vibrant suburb with a strong sense of community and a desirable location.
Attractions
West County Center
This large shopping mall offers a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Des Peres Park
A beautiful park with walking trails, picnic areas, sports fields, playgrounds, and a fishing pond.
Manchester Highlands
A popular outdoor shopping center with a variety of stores, eateries, and entertainment options.
St. Louis County Library Des Peres Branch
A modern and well-equipped library that offers books, digital resources, and various community programs.
The Lodge Des Peres
A community center with fitness facilities, a gymnasium, an indoor pool, and various recreational programs for residents and visitors.
Buder Recreation Center
A sports and recreational facility that offers indoor and outdoor swimming pools, fitness classes, sports courts, and a gymnasium.
Des Peres Cinema
A small neighborhood movie theater that screens new releases and offers a unique movie-watching experience.
Des Peres City Center
A complex that includes a city hall, police department, court services, and a library. It also hosts various community events and programs.
Aberdeen Heights
A senior living community that offers a range of amenities and services, including independent and assisted living options.
Sugar Creek Park
A small community park with playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas.
Climate
Des Peres, MO has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are typically warm and humid, with average high temperatures in the mid to upper 80s Fahrenheit (around 30 degrees Celsius). July is the hottest month, with temperatures occasionally reaching the 90s Fahrenheit (around 32-35 degrees Celsius).
Winters in Des Peres are generally cold, with average lows in the 20s Fahrenheit (-4 to -6 degrees Celsius) and occasional dips below freezing. January is the coldest month, with average high temperatures in the mid to upper 30s Fahrenheit (around 2-4 degrees Celsius).
Spring and fall in Des Peres are characterized by mild temperatures and moderate precipitation. Spring brings blooming flowers and temperatures gradually increasing from the 50s to the 70s Fahrenheit (around 10-20 degrees Celsius). Fall sees the reverse, with temperatures gradually dropping from the 70s to the 50s Fahrenheit (around 20-10 degrees Celsius).
Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with an average of about 40 inches (1,000 mm) annually. Rainfall is fairly consistent, although summer months tend to receive slightly higher precipitation.
Snowfall is common during the winter months, with an average annual snowfall of around 17 inches (43 cm). Snow usually begins in late November and continues through March.
Overall, Des Peres experiences a diverse climate with distinctive seasons, providing residents with a range of weather conditions throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Des Peres is a small city located in St. Louis County, Missouri. It is known for its upscale residential areas, low crime rates, and excellent school districts. While Des Peres is a relatively small city, it is surrounded by several other neighborhoods that offer a variety of amenities and attractions. Here are some neighborhoods near Des Peres:
Frontenac
Located to the east of Des Peres, Frontenac is a wealthy suburb known for its large estates, upscale shopping centers such as Plaza Frontenac, and beautiful parks. It is home to many affluent residents and offers a luxurious and exclusive lifestyle.
Kirkwood
Situated to the southwest of Des Peres, Kirkwood is a historic suburban community with a charming downtown area known as Kirkwood Station. It features unique shops, restaurants, and parks. The neighborhood is also famous for its strong sense of community and highly regarded school district.
Town and Country
North of Des Peres is the affluent community of Town and Country. It boasts large, luxurious homes on spacious lots, and offers an abundance of recreational amenities like golf courses, country clubs, and parks. Town and Country is known for its serene and suburban atmosphere.
Ballwin
Located to the west of Des Peres, Ballwin is a vibrant and family-friendly neighborhood. It offers a wide range of housing options, from single-family residences to townhouses and apartments. Ballwin is known for its excellent schools and numerous parks, making it an attractive place for families.
Manchester
Manchester is situated to the northwest of Des Peres and is a popular neighborhood known for its strong community spirit and excellent schools. It features a mix of residential areas, parks, and shopping centers, including the popular West County Center.
Chesterfield
To the north of Des Peres is the thriving community of Chesterfield. It offers a diverse range of residential areas, from suburban neighborhoods to upscale developments. Chesterfield is known for its extensive shopping options, such as Chesterfield Mall and the popular outdoor shopping and dining area known as Chesterfield Valley.
These are just a few of the neighborhoods near Des Peres, each offering its own unique characteristics and attractions. Whether you're looking for a quiet and upscale community, a family-oriented suburb, or access to bustling shopping areas, there is a neighborhood near Des Peres to suit various preferences and lifestyles.