Growing up a mere two hours from the “Gateway to the West,” Country Home Style Editor Jennifer Kopf found herself on many a road trip to St. Louis, Missouri. Today, whether it’s an antiques shopping excursion or taking in a Cardinals baseball game, Jennifer still enjoys scouting the boutiques, home furnishings shops, and restaurants of this Midwestern city for its fun fashion, unique decorating finds, and local sweet treats.

Panorama Antiques & Whimsies
Part of a 6-block area full of antiques stores called Cherokee Antique Row, www.cherokeeantiquerow.com, this shop offers a mix of vintage country and cottage pieces, memoryware, and clever local folk art.
1925 Cherokee St., 314/772-8007

Elizabeth House
Lush fabrics and a cream-and-cocoa palette create a soothing atmosphere in this European-inspired boutique that Jennifer describes as “visual elegance.” Among the layers of lace and linen, find crystal chandeliers, custom jewelry, and European antiques.
7268 Manchester Rd., Maplewood, 314/644-0828; www.elizabethhouse.us

Lusso
This shop (whose name means “luxury” in Italian) is the place to find the perfect gift as well as a little something for yourself. Owners (and sisters) Melissa Nieberle and Drea Ranek offer hip jewelry, books, home accessories, and clothing.
12A N. Meramec Ave., Clayton, 314/725-7205; www.lussohome.com

Soulard Farmers Market
Browse two blocks worth of fresh local produce at this indoor/outdoor farmers market, one of the oldest in the country. Many families have been setting up shop here for 80-plus years. 7
30 Carroll St., 314/622-4180

Ted Drewes Frozed Custard
Stop at this famous frozen custard stand for a cool treat after a long day of shopping. A St. Louis tradition since 1929, this must-stop store, with a location on historic Route 66, features vanilla custard mixed with flavors like the butterscotch-pecan-and-praline-packed “Southern Delight” and the chocolate-and-pistachio “Terramizzou.” If the weather is good, the lines can be long—but it’s worth the wait.
6726 Chippewa, 314/481-2652;
www.teddrewes.com

CENTRO MODERN FURNISHINGS
With a mission to meld modern decorating influences with the Midwest market, this Central West End home furnishings store delivers eclectic furniture, lighting, and accessories that will help give your home a great country modern mix.
4727 McPherson Ave., 314/454-0111;
www.centro-inc.com

OTHER NOTABLE SHOPS

Left Bank Books houses an extensive used book section and an in-store art gallery.
399 N. Euclid; 314/367-6731;
www.left-bank.com

Rick Ege, owner of R. Ege Antiques, offers antiques with unique features and window displays that take your breath away.
1304 Sidney; 314/773-8500;
www.regeantiques.com

In addition to Panorama Antiques & Whimsies (already mentioned), these great shops on Cherokee Antiques Row are worth exploring:

The Purple Cow has unusual items at affordable prices, including primitives and architecturals.
2010 Cherokee, 314/771-9400

Hartmann’s Treasures offers Roseville pottery and glassware. 1960 Cherokee; 314/773-5039;

Riverside Architectural Antiques showcases not-to-be-missed salvaged finds.
1947 Cherokee, 314/722-9177

Donnaland Vintage sells vintage 1940s to 1990s clothing.
2112 Cherokee;, 314/776-3739;
www.donnaland.net

Harvest Moon Antiques ’ specializes in antiques and holiday collectibles.
1959 Cherokee, 314/664-7444.
Find out more at www.cherokeeantiquerow.com

RESTAURANTS AND LODGING

For the best of traditional Italian fare, head to Giovanni’s on the Hill. Be sure to try some toasted ravioli, a dish invented in St. Louis.
5201 Shaw; 314/772-5958

Cure hunger and indecision with a variety of tempting tapas at Modesto.
5257 Shaw; 314/772-8272;
www.modestotapas.com

Eleven Eleven Mississippi boasts entrees that blend Tuscan and Californian cuisine. Sample a local favorite, Gooey Butter Cake, served with a cold glass of milk.
1111 Mississippi; 314/241-9999;
www.1111-m.com

Stay at the Chase Park Plaza, perfectly located within walking distance of Forest Park and the Central West End. In the evening, enjoy drinks out on the patio.
212-232 N. Kingshighway Blvd.; 877/587-2427; www.chaseparkplaza.com

ST. LOUIS-ONLY DESTINATIONS

Forest Park features a zoo, art museum, and The Muny outdoor theater on its grounds.
www.stlouis.missouri.org/citygov/parks/forestpark/

Get a bird’s-eye view of the city from atop the Gateway Arch.
www.gatewayarch.com

Cheer on the Cardinals at Busch Stadium. www.cardinals.mlb.com