Wells - Saint Louis, MO

Dating back to before the Civil War, the once rural area of Wells-Goodfellow flourished in the 1920s and 1930s with major developments adding single family homes, duplexes and apartment buildings. This transformed the neighborhood into an attractive place to raise a family, which has remained true to this day.

Wells-Goodfellow's relatively central location in St. Louis allows families searching for a fun weekend afternoon exploring the city's offerings plenty of choice. The City Museum in downtown St. Louis brims with exciting activities and unique art. You'll climb structures, crawl through tunnels and brave the 10-story slide, a favorite attraction of many who frequent the museum. Those desiring a mellow alternative should not miss the Saint Louis Art Museum. With free admission, the building and its extension house more than 30,000 works of international art.

As the soul food hub of St. Louis, Wells-Goodfellow provides residents with a wide range of options and varying takes on the local favorite. Keeping with the family-oriented vibe, Wells-Goodfellow relegates bars and nightlife to its corners, though they remain easily accessible. St. Louis barbecue maintains a storied tradition of smoked pork and sauce-soaked ribs.

Both local barbecue enthusiasts and those looking to try St. Louis' trademark taste for the first time should not pass up CBS Barbeque. Located at the corner of Belt and St. Louis Avenue, CBS Barbeque puts a soul food spin on the St. Louis barbecue classics. The desserts are homemade, and pie lovers should not miss out on a slice of warm pecan pie.

As the name would suggest, Mom's Kitchen serves up classic soul food favorites with a smile. The down-to-earth and welcoming staff make you feel right at home, which might be why Mom's Kitchen remains a Wells-Goodfellow favorite. Stop by for breakfast to take advantage of the all-you-can-eat deals. Standout dinner dishes include sweet yams and the best homemade macaroni in the city.

Goody Goody Diner brings classic diner atmosphere and charm to the Wells-Goodfellow area. The focus on service at Goody Goody Diner means coffee cups stay filled and the staff is always up for a friendly chat. The chicken and Belgian waffle combo remains a staple. Those looking for something a bit different should order the Hobo Breakfast Combination for a heaping plate of scrambled eggs, sausage, onion, tomato and hash browns coated in white gravy and topped with cheddar cheese.

Nightlife in Wells-Goodfellow stays relatively low-key, but those in search of a good time won't be disappointed. When a true night out is in order, the abundant nightlife of downtown St. Louis can be reached in under 15 minutes.

Route 115 runs along the northern edge of Wells-Goodfellow and connects to Interstate 70 east of the neighborhood, ensuring ease of travel throughout the city and beyond. In addition to the Lyft and Uber services, a range of taxi cab companies from the greater St. Louis area provide transportation throughout the city. The Metro Transit of St. Louis services Wells-Goodfellow with bus stops along Goodfellow Boulevard, Union Boulevard, St. Louis Avenue and Dr. Martin Luther King Drive.

Limited public parking is available for a fee on major roads, and bike lanes run alongside many of the prominent roads. Wells-Goodfellow and its immediate surroundings remain compact enough to make walking to bars and restaurants an option in many areas, though those wanting to travel after sundown should consider calling a cab or driving.

First established in 1947 and named after brothers who once played on the park's grounds, Barrett Park features all the necessary amenities for a weekend family excursion. In addition to the pavilion, picnic tables, fountain, playground and various sports fields, the expansive greenspace makes a perfect place to toss around a Frisbee or play fetch with your dog.

The St. Louis Art Fair hosts its festival off Forsyth Boulevard in the heart of Clayton each September. The event showcases a stunning mix of commissioned and local pieces, live bands and interactive opportunities for the kids.

The cost of living in Wells-Goodfellow averages 8 percent lower overall than the St. Louis city average. Those looking to travel toward the city's center can take bus route 90 south on Goodfellow Boulevard and hop on the Metro at the Forest Park station. If you're going to be quick, you can pay $3 for a two-hour transfer pass. If you plan to spend the whole day out, purchase a one-day pass for $7.50.

One bedroom apartments in the Wells-Goodfellow area average out to $550 per month. Beer runs around $5 at most local pubs, and the St. Louis gas average hovers around 14 percent lower than the national average.

The City Plaza in northeast Wells-Goodfellow along route 115 collects a variety of well-known stores in one place. Browse the discount racks at Simply Fashion and Rainbow 526 or try on a new pair of sneakers at Foot Locker before picking up something for dinner at the local Schnucks.

Located southwest of Wells-Goodfellow on the corner of Delmar and Westgate, Phoenix Rising carries an array of unique gift items, including jewelry, cards and stationary, making the trip just beyond city limits well worth it. From knee-high socks and tote bags to ornaments and wallets, Phoenix Rising provides gifts for any occasion. The friendly staff are happy to help you if you're in search of something specific and can gift wrap any purchase free of charge.

Schnucks and Price Chopper serve as options for local supermarkets, conveniently located in the City Plaza and along Goodfellow Boulevard respectively.