Fine historic estates and properties, coupled with lush green landscapes, lend themselves to Kirkwood's quiet sophistication. An inner-ring suburb of Saint Louis, Kirwood and its storied charm date back to 1853, offering residents and visitors opportunities to explore the community’s legacy while enjoying modern-day amenities.
Whether you’re looking to experience a family-friendly weekend activity or an evening out for fine dining and drinks, Kirkwood features a collection of unique shops, restaurants, cafes, and other alluring locales. Spend a day in Kirkwood and explore the appeal that makes Kirkwood one of the best places to live and visit in Missouri.
Explore the Frank Lloyd Wright House
Among Kirkwood’s leading attractions is the Frank Lloyd Wright House in Ebsworth Park — an architecturally significant residence designed by the famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Tucked away on 10.5 acres of grassy field, the 1,900-square-foot Frank Lloyd Wright House is only one of five Wright designs in Missouri. It was initially built for Russell and Ruth Kraus. The Kraus House is the celebrated architect’s first building in the St. Louis area.
A visit to this historic destination allows visitors to learn about the community’s cultural impact on 20th-century architecture. Bucolic and serene, the Wright-designed home reflects Kirkwood’s charisma while telling the story of a vibrant community where people love to work, live, shop, and play.
Visit Kirkwood Farmers’ Market
Kirkwood Farmers’ Market offers visitors the chance to experience the close-knit community’s lively energy in the heart of downtown Kirkwood — a thriving business district with more than 100 local businesses. The market is a trademark of Kirkwood vibrancy and offers exceptional opportunities to try unique places to eat, shop, and have fun with friends, family, and neighbors. The market was founded in 1976 by the City of Kirkwood as a bicentennial project. It has captivated visitors for decades as the embodiment of all the great things Kirkwood real estate offers.
Marvel at The National Museum of Transportation
Families and transportation enthusiasts have enjoyed The National Museum of Transportation since 1944. The museum works tirelessly to curate the world's most extensive collection of its kind. For generations, the museum has sought to protect and interpret North America’s transportation heritage through various exhibitions and activities to delight audiences of all ages.
The museum features more than 190 exhibits, so guests can view vehicles spanning various eras and admire unique rail, transit, and automobile collections. The museum hosts events throughout the year, including Children’s Special Playtime/Celebrations, creating memorable experiences for the entire family.
Play at The Magic House
Discover a magical playland that provides opportunities to explore hands-on exhibits and educational programs for children's varied special interests and needs. Visitors enjoy a range of interactive learning experiences for students of all ages.
Open all year round, The Magic House is available for field trips, family STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) nights, scout programs, summer camps, and more. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of healthy food options at the Picnic Basket Cafe, where you’ll find delicious meals and snacks made with whole grains and fresh ingredients, most of which are grown on-site.
Shop and dine in downtown Kirkwood
Downtown Kirkwood is 16 square blocks of pedestrian-friendly shops, boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and other venues unique to the vibrant community. You’ll find turn-of-the-century buildings with more than 100 specialty shops and restaurants here. If you’re looking to enjoy elevated yet casual dining, you’ll want to pop into Café Provencal, where you'll find the best French food in St. Louis. Suppose a stroll past Kirkwood homes for sale ignites your cravings. In that case, you won’t want to miss out on trying delectable desserts at Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate, which features craft and gourmet chocolate confections.
If you want to try something new and exciting, consider stopping by One 19 North Tapas and Wine Bar. They offer a unique dining experience of Spanish-influenced tapas to enjoy in the heart of downtown Kirkwood. If you're new to Kirkwood, looking for Kirkwood homes for sale, and looking for souvenirs to capture the memory of the visit, Checkered Cottage is a quaint shop offering gift ideas and more. For authentic St. Louis gifts, Sammysoap offers 100% all-natural soaps and gifts handmade in St. Louis. Little wonder it's a favorite destination among locals. Next door to Sammysoap is Great Harvest Bread Company. The staff is extremely personable, and you can sample any of their dozens of artisan breads before buying.
Enjoy historic Kirkwood landmarks walking tours
A stroll through some of Kirkwood’s historical landmarks and views of the elegant architecture of eras gone offer reminders of the community’s rich history. From the Coulter Feed Store Building (built in 1912) to Heinzelmann Bakery Building (constructed in 1899), you’ll explore the architectural beauty of Kirkwood real estate as you listen to stories of some of the area’s most prominent residents.
Enjoy a weekend excursion through Kirkwood’s architecture, history and culture, and experience the delightful climate the community offers. The walking tours allow you to discover hidden gems, discuss famous landmarks, and enjoy the company of friends and neighbors who share a similar fascination for all things Kirkwood.
Admire Kirkwood’s natural beauty
Known for its lush green spaces, Kirkwood’s Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center offers visitors an escape into an educational nature oasis tucked within 112 acres of oak-hickory forest. Visitors enjoy three paved trails and one disabled-accessible trail offering interpretive signage.
Powder Valley is a nature lover's haven to enjoy exquisite landscapes indoors and outdoors. There is a nature center, gift shop, and innovative educational exhibits, including an aquarium, a bee hive, and a range of exciting activities to enjoy season after season. Visitors of all ages can stop by to experience the wonders of nature in Kirkwood.
Looking to learn more about Kirkwood and its neighboring communities? If you’re interested in selling or buying a home in Kirkwood, contact the trusted St. Louis real estate expert, Michael Knoll, at [email protected] or by calling 314-884-8430. You can also visit Mike on TikTok @mikeknollrealtor.
