Hi-Pointe - Saint Louis, MO

Formerly considered a part of Cheltenhan, Hi-Pointe has been expanding since the late 1800s. The neighborhood has roots that evolved from a farming and clay mining community, and it rumored to have been established with leftover building materials from the 1904 World's Fair. Earlier residents have witnessed a transformation from a community that was once home to an airport landing field and tile and brick manufacturers to an area of the city known for its eateries and pubs.

In 2011 the area’s historical Cheshire Inn and Lodge caught the attention of George Clooney and his producers while scouting for ideal locations for the movie “Up in the Air.” Hi-Pointe weds traditional conveniences like the fire-house and banks with hip lounges, balancing an old-fashioned and modern appeal at the same time.

Hi-Pointe houses several of the city’s treasures including the oldest theatre in the St. Louis area, the Hi-Pointe, which takes its name after the community. Since its opening in 1922, residents have enjoyed regular showings of both mainstream and independent films. The single-screen theatre takes the cake for River Front Times Neighborhood Business of the Year, Best Movie Theatre and also for Best Urinals.

Hi-Pointe residents looking to satisfy their cravings and grab a pint have many local eateries to choose from such as The Cheshire, a St. Louis tradition. Originally established as a burger restaurant, this spot has progressed into a luxury boutique-style lodge, offering significant dining space within the inn. Stained glass windows and exposed beams paired with modern décor and lighting create a neo-rustic atmosphere at The Cheshire’s Fox and Hounds Tavern. Foodies who frequent this gem indulge in BLAT sandwiches, kale artichoke and smoked bacon dip, yards of ale and local tomato salad.

Felix’s Pizza Pub, located right outside of Hi-Pointe, offers a more casual dining experience. The bar atmosphere makes this the perfect place to watch sporting events and mingle with the community, while enjoying house specialties and original pies, such as Felix’s Grab Bag and Felix’s Baby Back Pie.

Get in on the night life at the Par Lounge, located next-door to the Hi-Pointe theatre. Enjoy daily food and drink specials, pool and entertainment from the comfort of plush couches or a cozy table. Just steps away from many of the residential areas, locals don't have to go far to enjoy the sights and sounds of this entertainment hub.

Enjoy wine and live music at Sasha's Wine Bar, nuzzled in this neighborhood on Demun Avenue. The European vibe and patio makes this spot perfect for summer nights. You cannot go to Sasha's without trying one of their Euro-inspired cheese plates like the French Tickler or the Alpine Peaks. Surrounded by other eateries, coffee shops and parks, Sasha's is perfect for an afternoon with the family or a night out with friends.

Located right off of interstate 64, Hi-Pointe can be accessed by car, the St. Louis Metro Transit or bi-state public transportation. Buses regularly run along the busiest streets, connecting residents to other buses and trains in the area.

Hi-Pointe’s amenities and attractions are easily accessible by foot or bike. The area conveniently provides some bike lanes for riders and sidewalks for pedestrians. Its close proximity to the city's largest park also provides an alternate route for bike riders and walkers.

Many Hi-Pointe residents and visitors drive, so there is parking available near all the businesses and homes. Businesses like The Cheshire offer free valet to visitors.

After long nights of partying, hail a cab or call an Uber for a reliable ride home. Several cab companies or driving services cater to this area, so whether you are trying to avoid bad weather or want to treat yourself to a ride in style, you wont be left stranded.

The historical Forest Park, home of the St. Louis Art Museum, Boathouse, Jewel Box and the Missouri History Museum borders Hi-Pointe, serving as the perfect destination for all kinds of recreational use. Take your family and friends to the St. Louis Science Center, Turtle Park, the Muny or the St. Louis Zoo, which are all located within the park and free of charge.

Those looking to exercise can enjoy the Dwight Davis Tennis Center, Forest Park Golf Course and many trails throughout Forest Park. The park also features many wide-open spaces and play-places ideal for dogs and children.

In warmer months, enjoy the park's water features and fountains, food truck nights, concert series and festivals throughout the park. Forest Park is also home to LouFest, the Forest Park Balloon Race and Glow, the Shakespeare Festival of St. Louis and the St. Louis Earth Day Festival.

Over the years, Forest Park facilities have undergone millions of dollars in renovations and updates, making its amenities a great asset to Hi-Pointe residents.

The Hi-Pointe community offers a collection of both affordable and high-end homes. Residents enjoy an assortment of lodgings, from renovated historical digs to modern homes and apartments. These living options range from average to above average costs, particularly when compared to the more expensive surrounding neighborhoods.

Renters can expect to spend an average of $750 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Rates are higher than the average cost of living in the city’s area, but its close proximity to public transportation, an interstate and the surrounding amenities makes its dwellings a great value to its residents.

Hi-Pointe residents can keep their pantries stocked with finds from large chain grocers and small markets like the In and Out Market on Bellevue Avenue. Specializing in liquor, this store offers free tastings and regular specials.

For more extensive culinary needs, residents frequent the closest major grocer, the Shnucks Market on Clayton Road, located in the Richmond Center. Here you can also visit various chain eateries, like Boston Market or Panera Bread Company, and retails shops in addition to the chain grocer.

If antiquing is your thing, you are in luck. Several antique shops surround the Hi-Pointe community including Tin Roof Antiques on McCausland Avenue or Finches By Robinson Limited and Jon Paul Designs & Collectibles both located on Clayton Road. Besides antique shops, other small businesses line the streets of this neighborhood, offering unique finds. For more serious shopping, head over to the St. Louis Galleria, just a few miles up Clayton Road.