Posted by Dawn Griffin
Exploring Boulevard Heights
In the southern part of St. Louis, Boulevard Heights is a charming neighborhood that can sometimes be underappreciated. However, those who live there know it as a tight-knit community with easy access to some of the best amenities the city has to offer. From its close proximity to the sprawling Carondelet Park to the convenient access to Highway 55, Boulevard Heights is a neighborhood worth exploring.
Location and History of Boulevard Heights
The Boulevard Heights boundaries are the City limits to the South, Gravois to the West, and I-55 to Grand to Loughborough and Leona on the East. Although several subdivisions were in place along Grand Avenue before 1910, a great majority of Boulevard Heights had not been fully developed until after the Second World War. The 180 acre Carondelet Park, a hub of the neighborhood, was purchased for $165,000 plus $35,000 for improvements in 1874.
Carondelet Park: The Heart of the Neighborhood
One of the most significant perks of living in Boulevard Heights is that it borders Carondelet Park, the third largest city park and also one of its oldest. This green oasis offers a wide range of activities including:
Walking and Biking Trails
The park features several trails perfect for walking, jogging, and biking. These paths wind through scenic landscapes, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. In fact, in the summer of 2025, Carondelet Park opened the first mountain biking trail in the city, Federer’s Folly, built by hundreds of volunteers and privately funded. The trail promises to be a great resource for local youth mountain bike racing team, the South City Composite Otters, who the Dawn Griffin Group sponsors.
Horseshoe Lake and Boathouse Lake
Picturesque lakes stocked for fishing. Boathouse rentals for special occasions.
Athletic Facilities
Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the tennis courts, soccer fields, and baseball diamonds scattered throughout the park. The Carondelet Park Rec Complex/Gateway Region YMCA is located in the eastern part of the park and includes a popular aquatic center.
Picnic Areas and Pavilions
Ideal for family gatherings or casual picnics, the park offers numerous shaded areas equipped with picnic tables and BBQ pits. Free summer concerts have been taking place in the park for 35 years.
Boulevard Heights Housing
Value Comparisons
Compared to its South City neighbors, Boulevard Heights stands out as an excellent value. While some nearby neighborhoods like Princeton Heights and Southampton see median home prices in the $250–$280 K range (or higher), Boulevard Heights’ median sale price is in the ~$200K range and average home values in the ~$180–190K zone. With modest annual appreciation (around 3 % in the past year) and homes going under contract quickly, the neighborhood offers strong affordability in a location with major amenities.
For buyers looking to get into South City for less money, Boulevard Heights offers much of the same “big perks” — such as proximity to Carondelet Park, quick highway access, and a tight-knit community — but at a more accessible price point. Meanwhile, if buyers are paying higher prices in Holly Hills, Southampton or Princeton Heights, they’re often buying for larger lots, more square footage, or more refined condition; Boulevard Heights gives a “smart value” trade-off.
Housing Stock
Boulevard Heights is characterized by a variety of housing styles that predominantly date back to the early to mid-20th century. Most homes in this area were built between the 1930s and 1960s, and reflect the post-World War II housing boom. Modest ranch-style homes, classic bungalows, and brick-front houses, which often feature well-maintained lawns and mature trees, dominate the architectural landscape. These homes typically exhibit practical designs with a focus on simplicity and functionality, a hallmark of the era. The neighborhood’s well-preserved residences and its tranquil, suburban atmosphere contribute to its enduring appeal among residents.
Amenities
Shopping and Dining Near Boulevard Heights
Living in Boulevard Heights means having access to a variety of shopping and dining options. Here are some local favorites:
- Loughborough Commons: Located just a short drive away, this shopping center features major retailers like Schnucks grocery store, Lowe’s, and Starbucks. It’s a convenient spot for all your shopping needs.
- Local Eateries: The area has several delightful eateries. Notable mentions include El Catrin, featuring ex-Mex standards and specialty dishes in festive Day of the Dead décor; The Stellar Hog, a family-owned barbeque joint; breakfast lovers rave not only about the food, but also the service at Hatch’d; and StackedSTL, is a burger lovers dream.
More parks & recreation
Beyond Carondelet Park, Boulevard Heights residents have access to several other green spaces and recreational activities:
- Christy Park: Another lovely park just north of Boulevard Heights, Christy Park offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails.
- River Des Peres Greenway: This greenway provides additional biking and walking trails, connecting various neighborhoods and parks throughout the city.
Convenient Access to Highway 55
One of the most significant advantages of living in Boulevard Heights is the easy access to Highway 55. This major highway runs north to south, providing a quick 15 minute drive to downtown St. Louis. Whether you commute to work or plan frequent weekend getaways, the convenience of Highway 55 cannot be overstated.
Conclusion
Boulevard Heights in St. Louis is a neighborhood that offers the best of both worlds: the tranquility of suburban life with the convenience of urban amenities. If you’re a buyer who wants South City charm, access to green-space and affordability, Boulevard Heights should increasingly be on your radar. Its proximity to Carondelet Park provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Furthermore, the easy access to Highway 55 ensures that the rest of the city is within reach.
