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4 Charming Small Towns in Driving Distance of St. Louis, MO

Image via Pixabay St. Louis has a lot to offer, from the iconic Gateway Arch to a vibrant blues music scene. But sometimes you want to get out of the city, slow things down, and experience small-town life. Fortunately, there are many charming small towns within easy driving distance of St. Louis, MO. more 1. Clarksville The river town of Clarksville, which is located about 80 minutes north of St. Louis, has undergone a renaissance in recent decades. This town of fewer than 1,000 people features historic homes, antique shops, specialty stores, and bed-and-breakfasts, and an eight-block-long business district that faces the Mississippi River. During the cold weather months, Clarksville is considered to be one of the best spots in Missouri to see bald eagles. Don't miss the Overlook Farm restaurant, located at 16095 Highway W in Clarksville, which offers gorgeous views of the northern Missouri countryside. It's the perfect place to stop before heading back to the city. 2. Kimmswick This picturesque town is known for its rich history, which dates back to the 1850s. If you're interested in preserved historic buildings, charming shops, and unique architecture, you'll love Kimmswick. This Missouri town hosts several annual festivals, including a June Strawberry Festival and an October Apple Butter Festival. But Kimmswick, which has a National Register Historic District, makes a great day trip any time of the year. Best of all, this town is just 30 minutes south of St. Louis. 3. Rocheport Established as a trading post in the nineteenth century, Rocheport offers many of the same views that Lewis and Clark would have seen more than 200 years ago. The downtown area features shops, galleries, and the Friends of Rocheport Historical Museum, located at the intersection of First and Moniteau streets. Be sure to swing by the Rocheport General Store, at 202 Central St., which sells a variety of goods and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This Missouri town is a roughly two-hour drive from St. Louis, but it will be an easy drive in your Chevrolet Trax, which has standard features including lane keep assist with lane departure warning and forward collision alert. 4. Ste. Genevieve Ste. Genevieve is the oldest permanent European settlement west of the Mississippi. Located just an hour south of St. Louis, this Missouri community offers everything you need for the perfect day trip, including boutiques, dining, and outdoor opportunities to hike and bike. Check out First Settlement Antique Store, located at 132 Merchant St., which specializes in fine glassware, vintage clothing, stained glass items, and handcrafted wood accessories. With so many great communities to explore, you'll need a reliable set of wheels. Head to Bommarito Chevrolet South County and pick out your next vehicle today.

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3 Great Weekend Getaways in Driving Distance of St. Louis, MO

Sitting right by the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, the city of St. Louis, MO is not only a well-known tourist destination with plenty of local attractions but also an excellent gateway to explore the state and take your family on new adventures. Whether you like cities or nature reserves, here are three fantastic weekend getaways you can go on from St. Louis. 3 Great Weekend Getaways in Driving Distance of St. Louis, MO 1. Mark Twain National Forest Featuring the largest spring of any national forest in the United States, as well as a plethora of beautiful nature trails and picnic areas, Mark Twain National Forest is an excellent destination for a weekend getaway from St. Louis. Boasting an area of nearly one and a half million acres and established in the late 1930s, this nature reserve can be reached in less than one hour and a half via route MO-21. Whether you are searching for a place to relax or to enjoy your favorite outdoor sports, visiting Mark Twain National Forest is always an excellent idea. Spanning 29 counties and representing more than 10% of all forested land in the state of Missouri, this place features breathtaking viewpoints, biking and horseback riding trails, wildlife-watching areas, swimming spots, and picnic tables. more 2. Shawnee National Forest Nestled between the Mississippi and Ohio rivers and just 100 miles south of St. Louis, Shawnee National Forest is another excellent destination to visit in your 2023 Chevrolet Equinox and enjoy some quality time with your loved ones. Established in 1933 and boasting a total area of more than 265,000 acres, this national forest can be reached in less than two hours by car via route IL-3. Featuring breathtaking canyons, wetlands, and other unique geological features, Shawnee National Forest is a magnet for nature lovers and a place where you can spend a couple of days recharging your batteries away from the city. Some of the facilities available here include primitive and fully equipped campgrounds, picnic shelters, hiking trails, swimming areas, and public boat ramps. 3. Springfield The state capital of Illinois is located a little under 100 miles northeast of St. Louis and is a great urban destination where visitors can find historical landmarks, great museums, and a thriving cultural scene. Settled in the late 1810s, Springfield features plenty of local attractions worth visiting, including the Illinois State Capitol, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Abraham Lincoln's Tomb, and the Old State Capitol Historic Site. If you are looking for the best car dealership in and around St. Louis, you've come to the right place! Hit the road today and visit us at Bommarito Chevrolet South County! Take a tour around our showroom, and find the perfect model for your next travels.

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Make the Drive: 5 Great Tourist Attractions Near St. Louis, MO

Whether you are just visiting St. Louis or you are a local, sometimes you just want to see the sights. The Gateway City has plenty to offer in terms of attractions, so pile your family into your new 2023 Chevy Tahoe and go explore the city. First, however, keep reading to learn about our favorite tourist attractions in St. Louis, MO. 5 Great Tourist Attractions in St. Louis, MO 1. The Gateway Arch Located at Gateway Arch National Park on Memorial Drive, this historic monument commemorates the westward expansion of the United States. If you are in St. Louis, you can't miss the Arch, at 630 feet, it is the tallest arch in the world. There is an observation area at the top of the Arch, allowing you to see up to 30 miles to the east and west. 2. Missouri Botanical Garden You can find the garden at 4344 Shaw Blvd. Highlights of the botanic garden include the orchid blooms in late winter and the Japanese Garden. They also host events and art exhibitions from internationally-renowned artists. If you are a St. Louis local, you are treated to discounted admission, but be aware that during the colder months, the gardens are closed on Mondays. 3. Saint Louis Zoo Located at 1 Government Drive, this 90-acre zoo offers free admission, making this a great place to stop with the whole family. The zoo offers behind-the-scenes tours, as well as membership options that provide benefits like free parking. The STL Zoo is sure to entertain everyone for the entire day, as they house over 16,000 animals representing over 500 species. more 4. Saint Louis Art Museum The Saint Louis Art Museum, founded in 1879, is also free to enter. The permanent collection includes over 34,000 objects representing 5,000 years of art. Highlights include Italian Renaissance sculptures, paintings by European Impressionists, and works celebrating the tradition of African-American art. It is located at 1 Fine Arts Drive. 5. Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum You will find this cemetery and arboretum at 4947 West Florissant Ave. This massive 314-acre cemetery opened in 1850 and has provided a peaceful resting place ever since. Bellefontaine houses members of several prominent American families, as well as architecturally significant mausoleums like the Wainwright Tomb. The grounds are a certified arboretum, and visitors can enjoy over 180 species of plants. St. Louis is a wonderful city at the crossroads of east and west. This tradition is reflected in the history and art of the city, and by exploring these attractions, you will acquire a portrait of a city full of unique charm. Gazing across the Mississippi River to Illinois from the top of the Gateway Arch, you are sure to appreciate the expansive beauty of the country, but after that, come visit us at Bommarito Chevrolet South County to see our latest inventory.

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4 Places to Discover the Local Art Scene in Driving Distance of St. Louis, MO

From the famous arch to the adult-size playground at the City Museum, there is no shortage of entertainment in St. Louis, MO. When you're packing your itinerary with the sights and sounds of this great city, consider this list of our top favorite spots to browse local art that will make you feel like part of something bigger. 4 Places to Discover the Local Art Scene in Driving Distance of St. Louis, MO 1. 31art One visit to this gallery at 3520 Hampton Ave will leave you with a newfound place in your heart for the St. Louis art community. Browse exhibits from local talent while you sip a cold beverage and have easy, laid-back conversations with the artists. This gallery is not afraid nor apologetic about bringing social issues to the forefront with bold statement pieces that shed light on vital topics. Watch for their quirky exhibits, like the Ugly Art Gift Exchange that was held this holiday season, along with the Punk Rock Art Show Exhibit. If you partake in the tasty drinks provided on Saturday night, please drink responsibly and in moderation. 2. Soulard Art Gallery This charming co-op gallery located at 2028 S 12th Street houses artwork from 13 different artists with diverse backgrounds, including a group exhibit that rotates monthly. Hop in your 2023 Chevrolet Suburban Premier, and you won't miss the eccentric storefront featuring four larger-than-life tiered cakes painted with a heaping serving of personality. more Be sure to check their upcoming exhibits for art shows that accentuate their signature unorthodox beauty, like the current show The Art of Whimsy: Being a Genre of the Unusual, featuring fantastic images, vintage and retro designs, and fanciful ideas. 3. Compônere Gallery of Art & Fashion For nearly four decades, the Compônere gallery at 6509 Delmar Blvd has been a cornerstone for regional and local fashion and art in various mediums. This gorgeous gallery packed with generations of St. Louis charm is free to the public, other than the exhibitions, for which tickets can be found online. 4. Contemporary Art Museum Located in the Grand Center Arts District at 3750 Washington Ave, this contemporary art museum offers a vibrant space with free entry and ample parking. The rotating spotlight features local and international artists, including an exhibit full of art created by middle schoolers in the neighborhood. We love this small but mighty museum for its incredible engagement and outreach within the community - and the scrumptious hot coffee and pastries at the indoor cafe! When you've had your mind blown by blown glass and your heart filled with handmade punk fashion, come by and see us at Bommarito Chevrolet South County to find your red tag deal!

4 Fascinating Historical Attractions in Driving Distance of St. Louis, MO

Strategically located on the mighty Mississippi River and known as the "Gateway to the West," St Louis MO has played an integral part in American history. The city and the surrounding area are filled with well-preserved landmarks that serve as reminders of that fact. Here are just a few of the thought-provoking historical attractions that you can visit! 4 Fascinating Historical Attractions in Driving Distance of St Louis MO 1. The Old St. Louis County Courthouse This Renaissance-inspired courthouse was where slave auctions were held, where Dred Scott's case for freedom was first heard, and where Virginia Minor was arrested after attempting to vote. The courthouse is now a part of Gateway Arch National Park and serves as a museum that houses exhibits that educate visitors about these pivotal events. You can also visit restored courtrooms and inspect their beautiful 19th-century architecture. 2. Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum After Lewis & Clark set off to explore the Louisiana Purchase in the early 1800s, they made an early stop at St. Charles where this beautiful museum is based. The museum has not only dedicated itself to telling the story of this incredible journey, but it has also faithfully recreated several boats used by the Corps of Discovery Expedition. The boats are based on several drawings by William Clark and are used by reenactors in shows that bring history to life. more Other exhibits showcase Native American artifacts and the tools that members of the expedition used in order to survive harsh conditions. The museum even hosts events where guests can try their hand at ax-throwing and firing 19th-century muskets. 3. Grant's Farm Once belonging to President Ulysses S. Grant, this 281-acre farm is currently a wildlife preserve owned by the Busch family and is home to over 900 animals. Visitors can get up close with buffalo, elephants, kangaroos, and even the famous Clydesdale horses. On the grounds are several historic sites, including Grant's log cabin, the old German stables, and the Bauernhof compound, an excellent example of 16th-century German architecture. While you're at the property, you can also visit the beer gardens where the staff serves delicious food and a free sample from the brewery. Always remember to drink responsibly and avoid driving after drinking. 4. Scott Joplin House State Historic Site St. Louis has long been associated with American music and was once home to Scott Joplin, one of the country's most beloved ragtime composers. From his home on Delmar Boulevard, Joplin wrote some of his best-known pieces, including "The Entertainer." Now, you can take a tour through his former residence, which includes many of its original furnishings and a museum that focuses on the history of ragtime music and African-American heritage. The museum also offers recordings of Joplin's music, which is sure to sound amazing through the Bose premium audio system of your Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The River City is rich with history and its story continues to be told with the help of these establishments. Before heading out on your next trip, make a stop at Bommarito Chevrolet South County today and check out our extensive inventory of cars and trucks!

6 Favorite Sports Teams in Driving Distance of St. Louis, MO

Here in St. Louis, MO, we're passionate about all kinds of sports. Your Chevy Silverado 1500 makes the ultimate tailgating machine with its spacious and durable truck bed, so drive it on down to catch any of these local sports teams that made our list below in action. 6 Favorite Sports Teams You Can Drive to See in St. Louis, MO 1. St. Louis Cardinals Baseball fans in our city know that the St. Louis Cardinals are more than just a team; they're a local institution. With 11 World Series titles to their name, it's not hard to see why this home team is so popular among sports fans in our area. Famed past players like Ted Simmons and Ozzie Smith have become local legends for their careers with this team. 2. St. Louis Blues Love hockey? Then you're sure to love the experience you get when you catch a St. Louis Blues game down at the Enterprise Center. Every hockey fan in our city remembers where they were when this team won the Stanley Cup back in 2019. Home games against our rivals the Chicago Blackhawks are especially exciting occasions. more 3. St. Louis City FC There are plenty of passionate soccer fans in our area, and now they have a local team to shout for in the big leagues of Major League Soccer. St. Louis City FC were established back in 2019, making them one of our area's newest franchises, but they've already got plenty of backing here in our local community. You can head down to St. Louis City Stadium to see this team taking on their opponents. 4. Fire & Ice SC Of course, fans of women's soccer have already had a local team to support since 1998. Fire & Ice SC play in the Women's Premier Soccer League, managing to take home that division's title in 2017 to earn our city some glory. Take a short drive down to nearby Belleville to see this team play their home games. 5. St. Louis BattleHawks Football fans in our city are passionate about this local XFL team, who toss the pigskin down at The Dome at America's Center right here in our city. The atmosphere at the stadium when this team hosts their competitors is second to none, with the team's signature blue, white, and silver everywhere you look in the crowd. 6. Gateway Grizzlies Another great local baseball team, catching a Gateway Grizzlies team is always a great event that our community turns out for. They play in a league that partners with the MLB, so you have a chance to catch big stars that are still on the rise playing for this team, giving you the inside track on the next big player coming through to the league. A great day out is just a short drive away with these teams playing their home games here in our area. Want to arrive at the big game in style? Come to Bommarito Chevrolet South County and show up in a quality new vehicle from our lot!

3 Amazing State Parks to Visit Near St. Louis, MO

Located near the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, St. Louis, MO, is one of the largest and most important urban areas in the Midwestern United States. While the city itself is home to plenty of local landmarks and tourist spots, it is also an excellent base to go on road trips and explore the numerous state parks and nature reserves of the region. These are some destinations you should not miss while in town. 3 Amazing State Parks to Visit Near St. Louis, MO 1. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park A popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, boating, hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and other outdoor sports and activities, Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park was established in 1955 and is managed by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. Covering an area of almost 9,000 acres, this place is one of the most popular weekend destinations among visitors from St. Louis and other towns and cities in the region. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park is located about 100 miles southwest of downtown St. Louis, making it possible to reach it in about an hour and 40 minutes by car along routes I-55 and US-67. With your brand-new 2022 Chevrolet Silverado and its all-wheel-drive capabilities, you will be able to easily drive on the unpaved roads and challenging terrain of this nature reserve, letting you access even its most remote parts safely and comfortably. 2. Pere Marquette State Park Spanning a little over 8,000 acres, Pere Marquette State Park is another top-rated destination that offers plenty of recreational facilities for visitors from all over the country. Located near the small city of Grafton, IL, this place can be reached in about one hour from downtown St. Louis, driving 45 miles northwest along route IL-100 and Great River Road. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985, this state park is home to old cabins dating back to the 1930s. Once you make your way to Pere Marquette State Park, some of the areas you should check out include the visitor center's museum, which features exhibits on local ecology and the history of the region. This nature reserve is also home to an extensive network of hiking and mountain biking trails, a designated hunting area, a horseback riding stable, as well as launching ramps along the banks of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers. 3. Castlewood State Park Castlewood State Park is the most popular weekend destination among St. Louis residents looking for an outdoor escape, thanks to its privileged location just 25 miles west of the city center. This nature reserve covers an area of over 1,800 acres and was established in 1974 by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. Getting here takes about half an hour by car, driving along route I-64. Are you ready to hit the road and explore these and other fantastic nature reserves around St. Louis? Before you leave, visit us at Bommarito Chevrolet South County! Check out our different models, learn about the flexible financing plans we have available for our customers, and take home a brand-new vehicle for you and your family.

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