Tag: Activities

Ste. Genevieve Levee Wildlife Refuge – Where Mississippi River Bottomlands Meet Audubon’s Legacy Between downtown Ste. Genevieve and the Mississippi River, the Ste. Genevieve Levee Wildlife Refuge transforms flood protection infrastructure into wildlife habitat—more than 200 acres of river bottomlands, floodplain forest, wetlands, and open fields where deer browse at dawn, great blue herons hunt the shallows, meadowlarks sing from fence posts, and bald eagles perch in towering cottonwoods overlooking the great river. Dedicated in 2021 after seven years of collaborative planning between the City of Ste. Genevieve, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, both Ste. Genevieve Levee Districts, Missouri Department of Conservation, and Army Corps of Engineers, this refuge honors the historical connection between America’s oldest town west of the Mississippi and the river that shaped its destiny—while offering modern visitors the chance to walk the levee-top pathway, hike primitive trails to the riverfront, birdwatch along the Mississippi Flyway, fish the river’s edge, and experience rare undisturbed stretches of Mississippi River ecosystem recently transferred to federal wildlife management. The Urban Design Levee: Born from Catastrophic Floods Understanding the refuge requires understanding the levee itself—massive earthen barrier completed in 2001 after the devastating 1993 and 1995 floods that inundated Ste. Genevieve Read more…

Ste. Genevieve Trolley – Your Ride to Wine Country Adventure Since 2016, the Ste. Genevieve Trolley has been providing safe, friendly transportation that connects the charm of historic downtown with the scenic beauty of the county’s wineries. What began as a community transportation service has become an essential part of the Ste. Genevieve experience—especially for visitors wanting to enjoy local wines without worrying about driving. The Perfect Wine Country Solution Missouri wine country is one of the region’s hidden treasures, and Ste. Genevieve County is home to several excellent wineries producing everything from traditional varietals to distinctive local specialties. The challenge? These wineries are spread across the beautiful countryside, and responsibly enjoying wine tastings means having a designated driver. That’s where the trolley transforms your day from logistically complicated to blissfully simple. How It Works For just $20, you receive an all-day ride wristband that gives you unlimited access to the trolley service. This isn’t a rushed, schedule-locked tour—it’s flexible transportation that lets you create your own wine country adventure at your own pace. Board the trolley at one of the convenient downtown stops, settle into your seat, and enjoy the scenic ride through the countryside to the wineries. Once Read more…

Sainte Genevieve Museum Learning Center – A Collection Born of Passion The Sainte Genevieve Museum Learning Center offers visitors an extraordinary journey through natural history, ancient cultures, and local heritage—but what makes this museum truly special is a story that often goes untold. Behind the impressive displays, detailed dioramas, and remarkable collections lies the lifetime dedication of individuals whose passion for discovery and craftsmanship created something far greater than any institutional budget could have purchased. One Man’s Lifelong Quest: The Guy Darrough Collection At the heart of this museum beats the collecting passion of Guy Darrough, whose journey began as a boy combing the banks of the Mississippi River for fossils, artifacts, and treasures. What he found along those muddy shores became the foundation for something remarkable—not just a collection, but a lifetime of learning, trading, and building relationships with collectors and institutions around the world. Guy didn’t just collect; he created. The impressive dinosaur models that dominate the museum’s Hall of Giants? Guy constructed those himself, bringing prehistoric creatures to life with his own hands and expertise. His brother Fred contributed his own craftsmanship, building the museum cases and display fixtures that house the collections—a true family endeavor where Read more…

6470 Hwy F Farmington, MO 63640 Call us at 573-756-6500 Hours Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday 11:00 a.m. to Close This family owned winery sits amid the vineyards providing a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a bottle of their red, white or blended wine, or a glass of cold, premium beer. In the tasting room, with its antique, turn-of-the-century bar, sample wines while you browse through a variety of unique gifts and apparel. An assortment of fresh meats, cheeses, crackers, fruit and chocolates is also available for purchase. A tranquil pond adjacent to the patio is the perfect gathering place for you and friends to enjoy live entertainment from April through October – or get cozy in front of the tasting room’s fireplace during the cool months. The winery’s facilities are available for private parties, corporate events, and weddings. Check their website for listings of upcoming events. Please click on the website link below for hours. Read more…

Weingarten Vineyard Winery & Wedding Venue – A New Chapter Begins in Ste. Genevieve Wine Country At 12323 Rottler Lane in the rolling countryside west of downtown Ste. Genevieve, Weingarten Vineyard Winery & Wedding Venue enters an exciting new era under new ownership—bringing fresh culinary vision, expanded wine offerings, and renewed energy to one of Missouri wine country’s most spectacular properties. Since its establishment in 2009, Weingarten has earned beloved status among visitors seeking sophisticated wine experiences combined with exceptional dining and event hosting. Now, with the recent reopening under new stewardship, this 20,000+ square-foot facility featuring dramatic three-story stone fireplaces, granite tasting bars, stunning countryside views, and luxurious bridal and groom suites welcomes guests to discover “the latest attraction in Sainte. Genevieve, Missouri”—where architectural beauty, viticultural passion, and hospitality excellence converge. Open Thursday through Sunday (Thursday 11 AM-8 PM, Friday-Saturday 11 AM-9 PM, Sunday 11 AM-6 PM), Weingarten offers wine tastings, full restaurant service, private events, and wedding experiences against the backdrop of some of Ste. Genevieve County’s most picturesque terrain. The New Ownership Vision: Bringing Fresh Experiences to an Established Destination “Under New Ownership!” isn’t just marketing copy—it’s genuine enthusiasm from owners committed to honoring Weingarten’s 15-year legacy Read more…