Lafayette Square adds a touch of elegance to the city. The neighborhood embodying the No. 1 Rule of real estate: Location, Location, Location.
See our complete list of other St. Louis neighborhoods.
THE FEEL
Located just a mile south of downtown, Lafayette Square is a dynamic and thriving area where the city’s grand Victorian era has been revived. The architecture remnant of the French Second Empire and Romanesque Revival give off an ambiance of higher living.
Lafayette Square surrounds Lafayette Park, which is the city's oldest public park.
HISTORY
Named after Revolutionary War General Marie-Joseph-Paul-Roch-Yves-Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de La Fayette (try fitting that on a business card!), Lafayette Square had for decades been an enclave for St. Louis’s up-and-coming families. The tornado of 1896, plus the Great Depression a few decades later, ended this Golden Era for neighborhood.
However, the last decade has seen a Rennaisance for the area, which is quickly becoming a destination for food and music—as well as a great place to buy a charming first home.
In 1973, Lafayette Square was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nearly all of the 375 historic home have been restored to its original beauty.
ACCESSIBILITY
A short drive from Downtown, residents have easy access to major interstates 64/40 and 55, and are never too far from the pulse of the city.
CULTURE
The Arts Council of Lafayette Square sponsors a variety of events, encouraging collaboration with civic partners and outreach to those who do not routinely have access to the arts. The Lafayette Square Restoration Committee and the Lafayette Park Conservancy are also active in keeping the character and charm of the area.
Winner of the Prettiest Painted Places in America in 1998 for its lavish Victorian homes, painted every shade of the rainbow, Lafayette Square take pride in its homes. Residents graciously put their home on display twice a year for visitors delight.
ENTERTAINMENT
All things are at residents’ disposal at The Square. Dozens of restaurants and small businesses are within walking distance. The centrally located Lafayette Park hosts a very popular summer concert series, as well as a movie series and a holiday tree lighting. And every spring, architecture buffs can enjoy house tours of some of the prettiest and most historical houses.
SCHOOLS
Lafayette Square is part of the St. Louis City School District. Conveniently located in the neighborhood, Lafayette Preparatory Academy teaches students from Kindergarten to third grade
PARKS & REC
Lafayette Park | The 29.5-acre park is the heart of Lafayette Square. It serves as a gathering spot for neighborhood meetings, summer concerts and weddings. Features include a one-acre lake, park house, boathouse, gazebo, playground, volleyball court, and multiple sport fields.
QUICK STATS
Population: 1,761
Zip Code: 63104
Hospital: Barnes-Jewish, St Louis Children’s
Libraries: Barr Branch
Connect: Lafayette Square
LAFAYETTE SQUARE LISTINGS