Maplewood, MO
County: St. Louis
History
Maplewood, Missouri is a small city located in St. Louis County, just minutes from downtown St. Louis. The area that is now Maplewood was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Osage and Sac tribes. European settlers arrived in the early 19th century and established farms in the area.
The community of Maplewood was officially recognized as a village in 1890, and it later became a city in 1908. The name "Maplewood" was chosen due to the abundance of maple trees in the area. At the time, Maplewood was primarily a residential community, attracting newcomers with its proximity to the city of St. Louis, which was accessible via streetcar lines.
In the early 1900s, the area experienced rapid growth and development. Many German immigrants settled in Maplewood, contributing to the growth of businesses, industries, and cultural institutions. Maplewood's central business district began to flourish, with numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues opening along Manchester Road, the city's main commercial thoroughfare.
During the mid-20th century, Maplewood faced challenges as the decline of downtown areas across the country affected its commerce and industry. However, in recent decades, the city has experienced a revival. Efforts have been made to preserve and revitalize Maplewood's historic buildings, resulting in a vibrant and walkable downtown area.
Today, Maplewood is a lively community known for its diverse population, locally owned businesses, and a strong sense of community. The city hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the "Maplewood Sweet Tooth Tour" and the "Let Them Eat Art" celebration, which attracts visitors from across the St. Louis metropolitan area.
Maplewood's historical roots and commitment to preserving its heritage can be seen in the city's well-preserved architecture, charming neighborhoods, and the Maplewood Area Historical Society, which documents and celebrates the city's history.
Overall, Maplewood's history is one of growth, adaptation, and community spirit, allowing the city to thrive and maintain its unique character in the St. Louis area.
Attractions
The Side Project Cellar
A popular wine and beer bar that features a wide variety of craft drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
The Magic House
A children's museum that offers interactive exhibits and educational programs.
Sutton Loop Park
A beautiful park with walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
The Crow's Nest
A local vintage and antique shop that offers a unique shopping experience.
Monarch
A trendy boutique that offers a curated selection of clothing, accessories, and gifts.
Schlafly Bottleworks
A popular brewery and restaurant that offers a range of craft beers and delicious food.
Acero
A locally-owned Italian restaurant that offers a menu of authentic dishes and a charming ambiance.
Ryan Hummert Park
A small park with a playground, picnic areas, and sports fields.
Serendipity Homemade Ice Cream
A family-owned ice cream shop that offers a variety of homemade flavors.
Maplewood Farmers Market
A seasonal market that offers locally-grown produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.
Climate
Maplewood, Missouri experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers in Maplewood are hot and humid with average temperatures in the high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (30-35 degrees Celsius). The city receives a fair amount of rainfall during this season, alleviating some of the heat.
Winters in Maplewood are generally cold, with average temperatures ranging from the low 30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (0-5 degrees Celsius). Snowfall occurs occasionally, with an average of around 18 inches (46 cm) per year. However, snow accumulation can vary significantly from year to year.
Spring and autumn are transitional seasons in Maplewood, characterized by mild temperatures and occasional rainfall. Average temperatures during these seasons range from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10-25 degrees Celsius).
Overall, residents of Maplewood experience a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year, from hot and humid summers to cold and occasionally snowy winters.
Neighborhoods
Maplewood is a suburban city located in St. Louis County, Missouri. It is known for its quaint, tree-lined streets and charming neighborhoods. Let's explore some of the different neighborhoods in Maplewood:
Downtown Maplewood
This area is the heart of the city, offering a mix of historic buildings, local shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It is home to the popular Schlafly Bottleworks, which is a local brewery and restaurant known for its craft beer.
Southwest Garden District
This area is located in the southwestern part of Maplewood and offers a mix of residential and commercial properties. It is known for its beautiful, well-maintained homes, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community. The Missouri Botanical Garden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States, is also located in this neighborhood.
Greenwood
Located in the northern part of Maplewood, Greenwood is a predominantly residential neighborhood. It features a mix of single-family homes, duplexes, and apartments. It has a quiet and family-friendly atmosphere, with parks and playgrounds scattered throughout the area.
Sunnen
Sunnen is situated in the southern part of Maplewood and is primarily a residential neighborhood. It is known for its well-kept homes, large yards, and a tight-knit community. The neighborhood is named after the Sunnen Products Company, a manufacturing company that has been in Maplewood since the 1920s.
Ellendale
This neighborhood is located in the eastern part of Maplewood, near the city limits. It is known for its diverse housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. Ellendale Park, a small but beautiful park, is a central feature of this neighborhood.
Deer Creek
Deer Creek is a newer subdivision located in the southwestern part of Maplewood. It offers a mix of traditional single-family homes and townhouses. The neighborhood is known for its modern design, well-maintained streets, and proximity to local parks, schools, and shopping centers.
These are just a few of the diverse neighborhoods that make up Maplewood, Missouri. Each offers its own unique atmosphere and amenities, making Maplewood a desirable place to live for individuals and families alike.