BHHS Select Properties - David & Laura Hopson - Central West End Homes for Sale

Just down Kingshighway, north of the Washington University Medical School, lies a little cosmopolitan neighborhood tucked away that feels more New York than Midwest. Adorned with iron lighting, cobblestone roads, and complete with large fountain, living in Central West End is like “taking a trip into town”— but every day.

See our complete list of other St. Louis neighborhoods.

Settled on the eastern edge of Forest Park, the charm of Central West End comes from a rich history and iconic buildings like the Chase Park Plaza. Large historic homes, luxury condominiums, and high rises with sweeping views of downtown attract homebuyers and visitors alike.

Although new construction isn’t always available in this private neighborhood, there are plans for expansion for the Maryland East area.

The Central West End, or CWE, is one of St. Louis’ many beautiful, historic neighborhoods. Its development began in the late 1800s, following the dedication of nearby Forest Park — a sprawling urban park that remains the city’s crown jewel to this day. Development continued as St. Louis prepared for its 1904 World Fair, and many of the city’s wealthier citizens gravitated to the area to build stunning single-family homes. Local business owners arrived soon after.

A stone’s throw from the central highway, 64, the Central West End is the halfway point between the city and suburbs. With easy access to the MetroLink and bus systems, there are multiple ways to commute into the city for work or downtown events.

The neighborhood is a preferred location for upwardly mobile professionals who want to be close to the pulse of the city. With that being said, Central West End attracts a diverse crowd with popular restaurants, lounges, and shops.

During the summer months, the neighborhood brings out street performers for its family crowd pleaser, Spectacular Saturdays.

Book stores, boutiques, coffee houses, and some of the region’s best restaurants reside in this district. There is always something new to try in this neighborhood. From salsa dancing to free yoga classes, Central West End has something to pique every resident’s interest.

For nostalgic entertainment, the Chase Park Plaza Cinema shows the best of mainstream and independent films.

The Central West End is a part of the St. Louis City School District. The neighborhood offers several schooling options, preparatory and private, and houses the Central Institute for the Deaf, as well as The Paul Mitchell School.

Trees and green space gives Central West End an idyllic touch, not to mention the ever popular Forest Park in its backyard.

Forest Park

One of the largest urban parks in the United States, encompassing approximately 1,300 acres, it surpasses New York's Central Park in size and offers a rich tapestry of natural landscapes. Established on June 24, 1876, Forest Park has been a central hub for both recreation and culture. It houses five of the region's major cultural institutions—the Missouri History Museum, Saint Louis Art Museum, Saint Louis Science Center, Saint Louis Zoo, and The Muny, an outdoor theater.

The park not only provides a serene environment for nature lovers but also serves as a venue for significant city events such as the Great Forest Park Balloon Race and the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival. Its vast array of amenities and events, combined with its historical significance—having hosted the 1904 World’s Fair and the 1904 Summer Olympics—make Forest Park a beloved and integral part of the St. Louis community.