Times Beach Missouri Map
If you’re looking for a hidden gem to explore on your next vacation, look no further than Times Beach, Missouri. This small town may not be on everyone’s radar, but it’s full of history, culture, and natural beauty that will leave you captivated.
While Times Beach was once known for its dark past of toxic waste contamination, the town has since undergone a major cleanup effort and is now a safe and thriving community. However, the memory of this painful chapter in the town’s history still lingers, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental responsibility.
There are plenty of attractions to explore in Times Beach, from the Route 66 State Park to the historic St. Louis Car Museum. If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, you can hike or bike along the Katy Trail or explore the nearby Meramec River. And of course, no visit to Times Beach is complete without a visit to the famous Ted Drewes Frozen Custard stand.
In conclusion, while it may not be the most well-known destination, Times Beach, Missouri is a hidden gem that is well worth a visit. With its rich history and culture, beautiful natural scenery, and top-notch attractions, this town has something to offer everyone. So why not plan your next trip to Times Beach and discover all that this charming community has to offer?
The History of Times Beach, Missouri
Before it was a thriving community, Times Beach was a small town that was hit hard by the Great Depression. In an effort to bring in some much-needed revenue, the town hired a waste hauler to spray oil on their dirt roads to keep down the dust. However, the oil that was used was contaminated with dioxin, a highly toxic chemical that can cause serious health problems.
Over the years, the toxic waste contaminated the town’s soil, air, and water, leading to widespread illness and death. Eventually, the town was evacuated and declared a Superfund site by the Environmental Protection Agency. Today, Times Beach has been cleaned up and is a safe and thriving community, but the memory of this dark chapter in its history still lingers.
The Cleanup Effort
The cleanup effort in Times Beach was a massive undertaking that took years to complete. The EPA removed over 265,000 tons of contaminated soil and debris from the town, and the entire site was covered with a thick layer of clean soil to prevent any remaining dioxin from spreading. Today, the town is a model for successful environmental cleanup efforts and serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible waste management.
Exploring the Outdoors in Times Beach
One of the biggest draws of Times Beach is its beautiful natural scenery. The nearby Meramec River is a popular spot for kayaking, fishing, and hiking, and the Katy Trail State Park offers miles of scenic trails for biking and hiking. If you’re looking for a more relaxed outdoor experience, you can take a stroll through one of the town’s many parks or enjoy a picnic in the sunshine.
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
No visit to Times Beach is complete without a visit to Ted Drewes Frozen Custard. This iconic stand has been serving up delicious frozen treats since 1929, and it’s a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic vanilla cone or a more adventurous concrete with toppings like hot fudge, strawberries, and brownies, Ted Drewes is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Times Beach
Is Times Beach still contaminated?
No, Times Beach has been thoroughly cleaned up and is now a safe and thriving community.
What are the best things to do in Times Beach?
Some of the top attractions in Times Beach include the Route 66 State Park, the St. Louis Car Museum, and the Katy Trail State Park.
When is the best time to visit Times Beach?
The best time to visit Times Beach is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
What is the history of Times Beach?
Times Beach was once a small town that was hit hard by the Great Depression. In an effort to bring in some revenue, the town hired a waste hauler to spray oil on their dirt roads, but the oil was contaminated with dioxin, a highly toxic chemical that led to widespread illness and death. The town was eventually evacuated and declared a Superfund site by the EPA, but it has since been cleaned up and is now a safe and thriving community.
Conclusion of Times Beach, Missouri
Times Beach, Missouri may not be the most well-known destination, but it’s a hidden gem that is well worth a visit. From its rich history and culture to its beautiful natural scenery, this town has something to offer everyone. So why not plan your next trip to Times Beach and discover all that this charming community has to offer?