An hour south of St. Louis, Saint Genevieve is Missouri’s oldest town. It was founded in 1735 by French Canadian settlers. The historic small town has some of the best-preserved vertical log structures in the world. In a day trip, you can tour many of the historic sites and get a feel for French Colonial life. There are also locally owned shops, restaurants and even wineries to check out while you are there.
Start your day at Beanik Café and Pastry for coffee and baked-from-scratch pastries. Then, head over to the Ste. Genevieve Welcome Center. Here you can get a great introduction to all the town has to offer and purchase a Historic Tour Passport to save money on admission to many of the historic sites.
The Jacques Guibourd House, the Felix Vallé State Historic Site (part of the Missouri State Parks), Green Tree Tavern, and the Bauvais- Amoureux House are all worth a visit and included in the $15 passport. You will learn about the specific architecture used here called “poteaux-en-terre” (post in earth) and see restored and recreated colonial life.
The Centre for French Colonial Life has temporary and permanent exhibits to educate visitors about early French life in the area. There is also a guided tour of their buildings dating from the late 1780s through the 1820s.
After you’ve gotten your fill of history, head to Grapevine Grill at Chaumette Vineyards and Winery for lunch and a wine tasting. Dine on the sweeping porch overlooking Chaumette’s scenic hills and vineyards. Established in 1990, Chaumette is one of the Midwest’s premier wineries.
After lunch, head back to the streets of Ste. Genevieve for some shopping. The ASL Pewter Foundry has beautifully handcrafted pewter pieces that are based on historic designs. European Entitlements is another specialty shop that sells fine European home décor and garden items made and manufactured only in Europe.
Saint Genevieve is a unique place with plenty of things to see and do for a memorable visit!
