Ladue, MO

County: St. Louis

History

Ladue, Missouri

Ladue, Missouri is a small suburban community located in St. Louis County. The area was originally settled by European immigrants in the early 19th century. The land was primarily used for farming, and the community remained rural for many years.

The name "Ladue" comes from Ladue Road, which runs through the area and was named after the Ladue family, who were early settlers in the region. The family owned a large farm and other land in the area.

In the late 19th century, as the St. Louis area began to grow rapidly, wealthy residents of the city began looking for a retreat from the urban environment. The high ground and natural beauty of the Ladue area made it an attractive location for these individuals to build large country estates. As a result, many grand homes were constructed in Ladue during this period.

In 1936, Ladue officially incorporated as a village, with its own government and municipal services. Over the years, the community continued to grow and develop. Following World War II, suburbanization in the United States led to an influx of new residents to the area. Many of these new residents were attracted to Ladue's reputation for excellent schools and quality of life.

Today, Ladue is known as one of the most affluent communities in the St. Louis area. It is characterized by large estates, tree-lined streets, and a low population density. The township has strict zoning regulations in place to preserve its residential character and aesthetics.

Ladue is also home to many notable institutions and landmarks, including Ladue Horton Watkins High School, one of the top-ranking public high schools in Missouri. The area is also known for its numerous parks and recreational areas, including Tilles Park, which hosts the annual "Winter Wonderland" holiday light display.

Overall, Ladue's history reflects its transformation from a rural farming community to an affluent suburban area known for its beauty, exclusive properties, and high standard of living.

Attractions

Ladue Reservoir Park

Ladue Reservoir Park

A beautiful park with walking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas.

Plumer House

A historic home built in the early 1900s, offering tours and a glimpse into the town's history.

The Gazebo at Ladue Crossing

A charming spot for relaxation, live music, and community events.

The Fields Fine Art Gallery

Showcasing modern and contemporary artwork from local and international artists.

Layton Art Collection at the Saint Louis Art Museum

A renowned art museum featuring a vast collection of artwork from various eras and cultures.

Ladue Horton Watkins High School Performing Arts Center

Home to theatrical performances, concerts, and other cultural events.

St. Louis Country Club

A prestigious private golf club with a challenging course and beautiful landscapes.

Shaw Nature Reserve

Located nearby in Gray Summit, this 2,400-acre nature reserve offers hiking trails, gardens, and educational programs.

St. Louis Zoo

Just a short drive away, the St. Louis Zoo is home to a wide variety of animal species and offers family-friendly exhibits and activities.

Downtown St. Louis

Ladue is located just outside of downtown St. Louis, providing easy access to popular attractions like the Gateway Arch, City Museum, and Busch Stadium.

Climate

Ladue, Missouri, experiences a humid continental climate characterized by hot and humid summers, and cold winters. The city is located in the central part of the United States, and is subject to weather patterns typical of the Midwest.

Summers in Ladue are hot and often humid, with average high temperatures in the mid to upper 80s Fahrenheit (around 30 degrees Celsius). July and August are the warmest months, with temperatures occasionally reaching into the 90s Fahrenheit (around 32-35 degrees Celsius). Humidity levels can be high, making the temperatures feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, which contribute to the overall precipitation in the area.

Winter in Ladue is cold, with average high temperatures in the 30s (around 0-4 degrees Celsius). January is the coldest month, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common during the winter months, and the area typically sees around 16 inches of snow annually. Cold fronts from the north and west can bring frigid temperatures and occasionally severe winter storms.

Spring and fall seasons in Ladue are mild and transitional. Spring temperatures gradually warm up, with average highs in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit (around 15-25 degrees Celsius). Fall temperatures start to cool down, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to the 70s Fahrenheit (around 15-25 degrees Celsius) in September, and dropping further into the 50s Fahrenheit (around 10-15 degrees Celsius) in November. Both spring and fall seasons can bring some precipitation, but they are generally characterized by pleasant weather conditions.

Overall, Ladue experiences four distinct seasons, with hot and humid summers, cold winters, and mild transitional seasons. It is important to note that climate patterns can vary from year to year, and extreme weather events such as heatwaves or severe winter storms can occur at times.

Neighborhoods

Ladue, Missouri is a wealthy suburb located in St. Louis County, just west of the city of St. Louis. It is known for its upscale homes, large estates, and beautiful tree-lined streets. Although Ladue is often referred to as a single neighborhood, it is actually comprised of several smaller neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Ladue:

Old Warson

Considered one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Ladue, Old Warson is known for its large estate homes set on sprawling lots. The area is home to the prestigious Old Warson Country Club and offers a private and secluded atmosphere.

Frontenac

Located in the southeast corner of Ladue, Frontenac is another affluent neighborhood. It features luxurious homes on large lots and offers a mix of large estates and newer, custom-built homes. Frontenac Plaza, an upscale shopping center, is also located here.

Deer Creek

Deer Creek is an established neighborhood with a mix of older, traditional-style homes and newer construction. It offers a more diverse range of home styles and sizes compared to some of the other Ladue neighborhoods. The area is known for its lovely parks and proximity to highways and shopping centers.

Bellerive Acres

Bellerive Acres is a small neighborhood in Ladue known for its tree-lined streets and mid-century ranch-style homes. This area offers a more affordable option compared to some of the other Ladue neighborhoods, making it attractive to a wider range of residents.

Ladue Estates

Ladue Estates is a secluded neighborhood that features homes on large, wooded lots. The area offers a peaceful and private setting, with many homes backing up to woods or open spaces. It is known for its tranquility and sense of solitude.

Each neighborhood in Ladue has its own charm and appeal, but they all share a sense of exclusivity and luxury. The area is highly sought after for its top-rated schools, beautiful homes, and convenient location, making it one of the most desirable places to live in the St. Louis metropolitan area.

Nearby Cities