The Janis-Ziegler House (Green Tree Tavern) building is currently closed, due to unsafe conditions. Other park buildings and grounds are open according to regular schedules. For program information, please check with park staff at the Ste. Genevieve Welcome Center, 573-880-7189.
Ste. Geneviève National Historical Park
Missouri
Established by 1750, Ste. Geneviève was the first permanent European settlement in Missouri. Early French Canadian settlers were drawn here by the rich agricultural land known as Le Grand Champ (the Big Field). After the flood of 1785, the town relocated to its present location on higher ground approximately three miles to the northwest of its original site.
About Ste. Geneviève National Historical Park
Ste. Geneviève National Historical Park is a national historical park located in Missouri. The weather in Ste. Genevieve is typical of a midwestern climate. High heat and humidity, severe thunderstorms, snow and ice, and extreme cold are all possible depending upon the season. The average high in July is 88 degrees and the average low in January is 22 degrees. The area averages 41 inches of precipitation annually. Please plan your visit accordingly.
From north of Ste. Genevieve (e.g. St. Louis), take I-55 South to exit 150. Follow MO-32 East for about 4 miles. Turn right on Market Street. From south of Ste. Genevieve (e.g. Cape Girardeau), take I-55 North to exit 150. Follow MO-32 East for about 4 miles. Turn right on Market Street. From southern Illinois, you can also take the Ste. Genevieve - Modoc Ferry across the Mississippi. Please visit http://stegenmodocferry.com/ for hours and rates.
💰 Entrance Fees & Passes
Entry to Ste. Geneviève is completely free. There are no general entrance fees or vehicle passes required to access this park unit.
🥾 Things to Do
Ste. Geneviève National Historical Park offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor experiences. You can participate in a wide array of activities, most notably Arts and Culture, Guided Tours, Self-Guided Tours - Walking, Junior Ranger Program, and 3 other recreational activities, depending on the season and weather conditions. Path options exist for both casual strollers and expert backcountry adventurers.
📦 Recommended Gear & Packing Checklist
Custom items selected for activities at Ste. Geneviève
📋 Visitor Planning Tips for Ste. Geneviève
- →Beat the Crowds: Arrive at the main gates or trailheads of Ste. Geneviève before 8:00 AM. Parking spaces at popular locations fill up extremely fast, especially during warm peak season weekends.
- →Monitor Active Alerts: There are currently 1 active alerts for Ste. Geneviève. Keep an eye on the alert notifications at the top of this guide for crucial information regarding closures or safety issues.
- →Leave No Trace: Help protect the delicate ecosystems of Ste. Geneviève. Stay on marked trails, pack out all of your waste, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
Established by 1750, Ste. Geneviève was the first permanent European settlement in Missouri. Early French Canadian settlers were drawn here by the rich agricultural land known as Le Grand Champ (the Big Field). After the flood of 1785, the town relocated to its present location on higher ground approximately three miles to the northwest of its original site.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ste. Geneviève
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.
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