Settled in 1826 as a trading post on the Missouri River by Joseph Robidoux, St. Joseph enjoys a rich and vivid history dotted with such notable characters as Jesse James and daring enterprises as the Pony Express.

The city was incorporated in 1843 by Robidoux and named St. Joseph after his patron saint.

The city thrived with the discovery of gold in California in 1848. Hotels and businesses were opened to accommodate travelers as St. Joseph served as a starting point for wagon trains filled with pioneers.

April 3, 1860, marks the beginning of St. Joseph’s most romantic adventure. On that day, the city became embedded in history books as the Pony Express sent its first daring horseback rider to Sacramento, Calif., carrying mail to the western frontier. Although the Pony Express operated for only 18 months, preservation of the stables and headquarters has kept the legend alive.

St. Joseph also is the town where outlaw Jesse James met his demise. The small frame home where he was shot by a gang member in 1882 still stands (in a new location next to the famed Patee House hotel) to mark the end of the notorious bank and train robber.

Museums

St. Joseph’s 13 museums and nature center feature a variety of collections ranging from world-class art exhibits and historic medical practices to transportation and native animals. Contact the St. Joseph Convention & Visitors Bureau at (800) 785-0360, (816) 233-6688 or stjomo.com.

The Parkway System

Billed as the finest boulevard system in the United States, St. Joseph’s Parkway ribbons through the city for 26 miles. Popular for hiking and biking activities, the completed system connects principal parks and recreation facilities, providing a green belt throughout the city.

Recreation

Cool Crest Garden Golf

1400 N. Belt Highway

The city’s miniature golf venue, a beloved gathering place for generations, includes flower gardens, cool waterfalls and nostalgic music in a relaxing family atmosphere.

Fairview Golf Course

3202 Pacific St.

This public 18-hole golf course has a newly renovated clubhouse with snack bar, driving range and pro shop. Cart rental and lessons are available.

Duncan Hills Golf Course

400 E. Duncan Drive, Savannah

This 18-hole course in a community just north of St. Joseph includes a pro shop. It provides a challenging mix of trees, water hazards and traps.

Shopping

East Hills Shopping Center

Belt Highway and Frederick Boulevard

The city’s enclosed shopping mall, featuring anchor retailers Dillards, Sears, J.C. Penney and Home Style Furniture & Flooring.

The Shoppes at North Village

North Belt Highway and Blackwell Road

Situated on more than 86 acres, this regional outdoor shopping center includes a modern mix of big-box retailers, smaller shops, services and eateries.

Downtown St. Joseph

Felix and Francis streets, from Fifth to Eighth streets

A unique concentration of boutiques, specialty shops, restaurants, antique stores and nightclubs. Some of St. Joseph’s most interesting browsing can be enjoyed in its most historic and renovated areas.