Lafayette Square - time lapse photography of cars on road during night time
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Lafayette Square

4.6
·491k reviews·St. Louis, United States

Explore St. Louis's most architecturally enchanting neighborhood, featuring stunning Victorian homes and the serene Lafayette Park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn afternoons

Crisp air and fall colors

CrowdMedium
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Lafayette Square - time lapse photography of cars on road during night time

Lafayette Square

Best Time

Autumn afternoons

Crisp air and fall colors

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore St. Louis's most architecturally enchanting neighborhood, featuring stunning Victorian homes and the serene Lafayette Park.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A Wes Anderson-esque dreamscape of Victorian grandeur and parkside tranquility."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Architectural Photography

Capture the stunning Victorian homes; many are private residences, so be respectful. :camerawithflash:

🍦 Unique Ice Cream Stop

Don't miss Clementine's Creamery for creative and delicious flavors. :ice_cream:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Victorian Architecture

Victorian Architecture

Lafayette Square neighborhood

Marvel at meticulously preserved 19th-century homes, a visual feast of intricate details and vibrant colors.

Lafayette Park

Lafayette Park

Center of Lafayette Square

A picturesque urban oasis with ponds, greenery, and charming bridges, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Clementine's Creamery

Clementine's Creamery

Near Lafayette Park

Indulge in award-winning, unique ice cream flavors like 'Smokey Italian Fig'.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Victorian Charm

Lafayette Square boasts stunning Victorian architecture, making it a photographer's dream. Wander its tree-lined streets and admire the unique homes, but be prepared for some houses to be private residences. Respect property and enjoy the visual feast.

Park Life & Local Gems

Lafayette Park is the heart of the neighborhood, offering a serene escape. Discover local eateries and boutiques nearby. Many visitors recommend trying Clementine's Creamery for unique ice cream flavors.

Best Times

When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Crisp air and fall colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring mornings
Why
Blooming flowers and mild weather
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍 Galeries Lafayette Rooftop. Go to the shopping mall, take the escalator to the top floor, then walk up the final flight of stairs to see this view for FREE 🙌 #paristips #exploreparis #fyp #foryoupage #traveltips2022🗣 #travelinspo2022
@5050travels
26.9K likes • 447.3K views

📸 Architectural Photography

Capture the stunning Victorian homes; many are private residences, so be respectful. :camerawithflash:

🍦 Unique Ice Cream Stop

Don't miss Clementine's Creamery for creative and delicious flavors. :ice_cream:

Insider tips on shopping in Paris’s famous - Link in bio for shopping #galerieslafayette #fyp #paris #paristrip #parissummer #paris2025 #americaninparis
@kianatiese
23.6K likes • 280K views
Lafayette Square [Part 1] is one of St. Louis’s oldest and most architecturally enchanting neighborhoods—where every corner whispers a piece of 19th-century grandeur. Established in the 1830s and centered around what would become the oldest public park west of the Mississippi, the area quickly drew the city’s elite. By the 1870s, Lafayette Square was known for its opulent Second Empire and Italian...
insidethelou
4.4K likes • 56.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Through the Park

Lafayette Park is ideal for a relaxing walk, especially with its ponds and bridges. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 Parking Considerations

Street parking is available but can be limited, especially on busy days. :car:

#stlbucketlist -> Lafayette Square🏘 One of the most beautiful spots in #stl! Lafayette Square is an historic Victorian neighborhood, many of the homes date back to the early 1800’s! Comment your favorite house color down below⬇️
stlbucketlist
4.7K likes • 111.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Architectural Photography

Capture the stunning Victorian homes; many are private residences, so be respectful. :camerawithflash:

🍦 Unique Ice Cream Stop

Don't miss Clementine's Creamery for creative and delicious flavors. :ice_cream:

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Through the Park

Lafayette Park is ideal for a relaxing walk, especially with its ponds and bridges. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 Parking Considerations

Street parking is available but can be limited, especially on busy days. :car:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Lafayette Square for its breathtaking Victorian architecture and the serene beauty of Lafayette Park. The neighborhood offers a charming, picturesque escape with unique local spots like Clementine's Creamery. Some find parking can be a bit challenging during busy periods.

What People Like

Stunning Victorian architecture
Beautiful Lafayette Park
Charming neighborhood atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited parking at times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lafayette Square is easily accessible by car, with street parking generally available. Public transportation options might require transfers, so driving or ride-sharing services are often more convenient for exploring the neighborhood and its surrounding attractions like the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis. Instagram

Yes, Lafayette Square is highly walkable, especially within the neighborhood and Lafayette Park. Many visitors enjoy strolling to admire the architecture and visit local spots. Instagram

Street parking is the primary option in Lafayette Square. While generally available, it can become more challenging during peak times or special events. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Lafayette Square itself and Lafayette Park are public spaces and do not require tickets for entry. You can freely explore the streets and the park. Instagram

Lafayette Park is a public park and does not have any entrance fees. Enjoy the green spaces and amenities at no cost. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire neighborhood is a photographer's delight, with the Victorian homes and Lafayette Park being prime subjects. Look for unique angles and colorful facades. Instagram+1

You can photograph the exteriors of the houses, but remember that most are private residences. Be mindful and respectful of the homeowners' privacy. Instagram

Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed in Lafayette Park. Professional photography or commercial shoots might require permits, so it's best to check with local authorities if you plan extensive filming. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The area around Lafayette Square offers several dining options, including Clementine's Creamery for ice cream and various local cafes and restaurants. Instagram

Clementine's Creamery is famous for its unique and award-winning ice cream flavors, such as 'Smokey Italian Fig'. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lafayette Square offers a delightful experience for families. Lafayette Park is a fantastic place for children to run around, explore the ponds, and enjoy the open green spaces. The visually striking Victorian homes can also spark imagination and curiosity in younger visitors. Consider a stop at Clementine's Creamery for a special treat that kids will love. Instagram+1

While the focus is on admiring architecture, the park provides ample room for play. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park, making it a budget-friendly outing. The neighborhood's generally calm atmosphere makes it a pleasant environment for families to explore at their own pace. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Lafayette Square is a dream destination. The Victorian architecture provides endless opportunities for capturing unique shots, from grand facades to intricate details. The neighborhood's colorful homes and well-preserved historical character offer a distinct visual narrative. Instagram+2

Lafayette Park adds another layer of photographic potential with its ponds, bridges, and lush greenery. The interplay of natural elements and man-made structures creates dynamic compositions. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the textures and colors of the homes and park. Remember to be respectful of private property while seeking out the best angles. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Victorian Grandeur

Lafayette Square is renowned for its stunning collection of Victorian architecture, making it one of St. Louis's most architecturally significant neighborhoods. Established in the 1830s, the area flourished in the late 19th century, attracting the city's elite who built opulent homes. These residences showcase a variety of styles, including Second Empire, Queen Anne, and Italianate, characterized by their intricate details, ornate trim, and vibrant color palettes. Instagram+1

Walking through Lafayette Square feels like stepping back in time. The tree-lined streets and meticulously maintained facades create a picturesque atmosphere. While many of these homes are private residences, their exteriors offer a captivating visual experience. Visitors often remark on the neighborhood's charm, with some comparing it to a Wes Anderson film set due to its unique aesthetic. Instagram It's a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and photography, allowing you to appreciate the craftsmanship of a bygone era. Instagram

Lafayette Park: The Neighborhood's Green Heart

At the center of the Lafayette Square neighborhood lies Lafayette Park, one of the oldest public parks west of the Mississippi. Designed in the 1870s, the park is a beautifully landscaped space featuring romantic ponds, walking paths, and charming bridges. It serves as a central gathering place for residents and a tranquil retreat for visitors. Instagram

The park offers a variety of amenities and scenic spots, making it ideal for a relaxing afternoon. You can enjoy a leisurely walk, admire the swans on the water, or simply find a bench to soak in the surroundings. Its blend of natural beauty and architectural elements, including views of the surrounding historic homes, makes it a highly photogenic location. Instagram The park is also a popular spot for events and community gatherings, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. Instagram

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