Chesterfield is a thriving community with a population of about 49,591 people, a place where commerce, recreation, and history weave together into something more than just a suburb. It is known for its rich mix of retail corridors in the valley region, its impressive specialty food culture, and its scenic parks and attractions that draw residents and visitors alike.

Here, in this stretch of western St. Louis County, the land once called “Gumbo Flats” by early settlers still influences the landscape, with fertile soils and occasional floodplain character along river edges. The name reminded people of sticky, clay-rich ground vulnerable to flooding. That river valley became the site of the great flood of 1993, an event that submerged large parts of the lower terrain and reshaped development patterns in the years that followed.

Walking through the older neighborhoods and newer shopping districts, one senses that the place is as much about tradition as it is about growth. In the valley area, the presence of Spirit of St. Louis Airport is a constant reminder of the role that transportation and commerce play in regional life.

Food lovers often make pilgrimage to Annie Gunn’s, widely regarded for its outstanding steak offerings, refined atmosphere, and wine list that has earned local fame. Its seasonal menu may offer an expertly cooked filet alongside creative starters, and its desserts—especially the classic apple pie à la mode—have become almost legendary in local dining circles.

Right next door sits Smokehouse Market, one of the region’s most cherished specialty food shops. Open since 1937 (originally as Chesterfield Mercantile), it combines a gourmet meat market, imported and local cheeses, fine condiments, artisan sauces, and a deli of prepared items. Patrons there rave about its maple-glazed smoked shrimp, hand-cut steaks, and sandwiches famed for bold flavors. The market also supplies catering and holiday gift baskets, and has kept a devoted following through decades of change.

Beyond those anchor names, diners will find Mediterranean favorites at Spiro’s Restaurant, where fresh hummus, grilled lamb, and mezze dishes are frequent orders. For brunch lovers, UKRAFT Brunch Café draws locals for inventive egg dishes and weekend crowd favorites.

In the realm of local business, some names stand out not just for what they sell but for how they shape the community. The strip-mall development known as Chesterfield Commons in the valley has long been cited as one of the longest outdoor shopping strips in the country. Meanwhile, in office and corporate sectors, the city is home to the headquarters of several firms whose footprints extend regionally.

Recreation and cultural life are rich here. Faust Park is a favorite refuge: within it lies a historic village, walking trails, a restored carousel, and the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House, where dozens of butterfly species flutter among lush plantings. The nearby Chesterfield Amphitheater hosts concerts, film nights, and seasonal festivals, creating occasions when neighbors come together outdoors.

One particularly lively entertainment venue is Topgolf St. Louis – Chesterfield, located in the valley. With over a hundred all-weather hitting bays, HDTVs, climate control, a chef-driven menu, rooftop terrace, fire pits, and private event spaces, it blends sport and socializing in one place. Even non-golfers appreciate its ambiance and food offerings.

Annual and seasonal community traditions help anchor civic life here. The amphitheater often plays host to summer concert series, movie nights under the stars, and local celebrations. In addition, the valley’s identity is tied to flood recovery remembrance events, and occasional local festivals mark the changing seasons. The community’s sense of continuity is reinforced by local lore: for example, during the 1993 flood, the iconic pig rooftop sign at Smokehouse Market was sometimes the only visible landmark amid floodwaters, and that image is often recalled in local storytelling.

For lovers of nature, conservation areas and creek corridors provide serene walking paths. Bonhomme Creek and portions of the Missouri River floodplain give glimpses of wetland ecology, and inland parks offer trails for hiking and biking. Historical communities that merged under the larger municipal identity still leave traces in place names: Bellefontaine, Gumbo, Lake, Bonhomme—these older names pepper maps and local memories.

Behind the growth and amenities lies careful urban planning. Levee improvements after the flood have allowed commercial development in valley areas while maintaining ecological buffers. The topography, with its bluffs and river edge, encourages views and green corridors. The transitions between residential, business, and recreational zones feel intentional rather than accidental.

If you're considering improvements, renovations, or new construction in this community, we at McIntosh Construction can be your trusted partner. We understand the local terrain, regulatory conditions, soil nuances (especially in valley or slope zones), and the aesthetic sensibilities that residents appreciate here. Whatever your project—residential remodeling, commercial build-outs, or site preparation—we’re ready to bring our experience and care to bear. Contact us today and let’s discuss your plans and see how we can build alongside you in Chesterfield.