Nature often holds magical surprises but if you head outside this summer in one St. Louis neighborhood, you may stumble upon a unique magical secret!

The Shaw neighborhood in St. Louis, Missouri is covered in enchanting portals to the fairy realm. These tiny “fairy doors” are hidden among trees and in gardens throughout the neighborhood. You might discover one simply walking down the street, or by visiting the local parks.

The Shaw neighborhood has always had a special connection to nature. Home to the Missouri Botanical Garden and named after the Garden’s founder, Henry Shaw, residents now have another reason to get outside and explore the neighborhood.

Paul Sableman/Flickr

If you look closely you will see this tree has a teeny door at its base. At the end of May, residents began spotting their new magical neighbors.

Shaw Neighborhood Youth Committee/Facebook

The fairies have really taken a liking to the neighborhood. Residents have reported that there are at least 66 fairy homes in the neighborhood.

Shaw Neighborhood Youth Committee/Facebook

Each little home is different from the next. You can get a glimpse into the magical lives led by these marvelous fairies.

Shaw Neighborhood Youth Committee/Facebook

The fairies love for visitors to stop by their houses. Feel free to leave them a note or a little welcome gift. If you are lucky you might find a response on your next visit.

Shaw Neighborhood Youth Committee/Facebook

One fairy resident has even gotten into the holiday spirit and decorated for Independence Day!

Shaw Neighborhood Youth Committee/Facebook

As always, be respectful of residential properties when visiting the fairy homes. The fairies may not want you to come back if you disturb their homes or worse, they may move away! So what are you waiting for? Get out and discover the amazing fairy world right here in Missouri.

Shaw Neighborhood Youth Committee/Facebook

The Shaw Neighborhood Youth Committee has been compiling pictures and addresses of the fairy homes throughout the neighborhood. Take your kids to find a little bit of magic this summer and let us know what you think of these magical residences in St. Louis.

Paul Sableman/Flickr

Shaw Neighborhood Youth Committee/Facebook

Be sure to also check out Missouri’s natural oasis when visiting the Shaw neighborhood. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

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