St. Charles, Historical settlement in St. Charles County, Missouri, United States
St. Charles sits on the banks of the Missouri River and displays a historic core with brick and timber buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. The main thoroughfare runs parallel to the water and connects residential neighborhoods with a commercial district spanning several blocks.
A French-Canadian fur trader founded the settlement in 1765 on the Missouri and named it Les Petites Côtes. The town served as Missouri's first seat of government from 1821 to 1826 before the capital moved to Jefferson City.
The downtown area reflects French and German influences in its street names and building styles, echoing early settlers who lived along the river. Local shops sell craft goods and regional specialties that visitors can find in the preserved storefronts.
The downtown area can be explored on foot, with sidewalks running along the commercial street and toward the riverfront. Parking lots sit near the center and allow direct access to restaurants and shops.
A bridge over the Missouri carries both railroad tracks and vehicle lanes, linking the town to the neighboring county. River boats dock along the shore and offer excursions that let passengers board and disembark at historic landings.
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