West End St Louis - Saint Louis, MO

This highly populated area of St. Louis started developing as a place of renowned style, wealth and architecture when pre-Civil War St. Louis was booming with new development. In the 1870s, engineer Julius Pitman was looking for an area to develop as a retreat for those who lived in the city, and he developed the 1400-acre city park, known today as Forest Park.

In 1904, the community received a great deal of attention when it hosted the World’s Fair. The event put a global spotlight on the West End and helped the community gain notoriety from all over the country.

Today, residents interested in the impact of the World’s Fair can visit the World’s Fair Pavilion, which is still open to the public in Forest Park. At the neighborhood's Missouri History Museum, visitors can also see photographs and displays about the community's history and the impact of the event.

Looking for one of St. Louis’s most extensive wine lists? Visit Brasserie by Niche to browse a menu of small plates made for sharing and different wines from all over the world. With a French-influenced menu to tempt diners, patrons can explore all types of exotic dishes, but those really looking for something special should sample the restaurant's escargot. This is one of the few area restaurants that serves the dish.

Residents searching for a more laid back dining atmosphere can visit The Scottish Arms, the area’s local Victorian-style pub, which serves Scottish dishes and other European fare. International futbol games are always playing on the television. For a unique twist on a pub classic, try the lamb burger, a local favorite.

This area of town is also home to many bars and has a great nightlife scene. Vodka lovers seeking a relaxed lounge setting can visit Sub Zero Vodka Bar, where they have an impressive list of global vodkas and an ice bar, in addition to an extensive sushi menu as well. If you are more of a whiskey person, head right across the street to the Gamlin Whiskey House. This establishment stays open late, has a full food menu and serves hundreds of whiskeys from all over the globe.

Traveling by car is quick and convenient for residents in the area, and with Interstate 64/40 and 44 nearby, this neighborhood provides a convenient location for city commuters and those looking to access the suburbs.

While most residents travel by car, parking is limited in the neighborhood. Those attempting to find street parking should be ready to pay and search for a spot. There are some parking garages in the neighborhood, but those also come with a fee.

Fortunately, the area is one of the most walkable in the city, making it convenient for those who wish to get around on foot. Many establishments have bike racks out front for bikers, and the community has many bike-accessible pathways.

Cabs are easy to find in this neighborhood, and Uber is an option as well. The community also has a MetroLink stop for residents wanting to access the city’s rail line. There are several MetroBus stops scattered throughout the neighborhood for those who wish to take the city bus.

While several neighborhoods in St. Louis border the city’s massive Forest Park, the West End is the official home of this city park. The park has its own golf course, several museums, a science center, a free zoo and trails for walking and biking. The park is nearly 1,300 acres in size and has its own public soccer fields, baseball diamonds and tennis and handball courts. Residents are also welcome to fish in the waterways and can ice skate in the winter. After a long day of exploring the park, you can grab a bite to eat at The Boathouse, the park’s official restaurant.

Events such as the LouFest music festival are frequently held in the park. During the summer months, the park’s outdoor theatre, The Muny, has live theatrical productions open for the public. This kid-friendly and dog-friendly park boasts several historic sites throughout its grounds and is often seen as the heart of St. Louis.

Life in the West End carries an average to above-average cost of living. The average domestic beer in the West End, such as locally brewed Bush products, only costs $3 a draft, while residents can expect to pay about $4.25 for imported bottles.

Gas prices in the area are comparable to the rest of Atlanta and settle in around 8 percent lower than the national average. A MetroLink ride to downtown is just $2.50.

The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment is approximately 9 percent higher than the rest of the city, with the average apartment coming in around $782 per month.

Local boutiques make up most of the shopping scene in the Central West End. At Jenny Walker Jewelry, shoppers will find a collection of everyday costume jewelry and accessories to add to their collections.

Pet owners in the West End can visit Wolfgang’s Pet Shop to find a large selection of pet accessories, as well as everyday pet essentials. Leashed pets are always welcome at this establishment for owners who want to take their pooches on a shopping spree.

West End residents can buy their groceries at the local Straubs grocery store. Known for having both everyday essentials and gourmet cooking items, this convenient local grocery has something for shoppers of all types. Neighborhood residents can even create their own accounts at the store to make shopping easier. Those seeking more local fare can visit the Washington University Med School’s farmers market. This market is sponsored by the WUSM Wellness Council and is open on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.