Embedded Files
Best Things to Do in
St. Louis: Travel Guide
St. Louis is a dynamic city with something for everyone—from vibrant museums, beautiful gardens, and expansive parks to historic sites, delicious food, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, there are endless reasons to visit this Midwest gem. From iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch to secret local spots, this guide will reveal the best things to do in St. Louis.
St. Louis is a dynamic city with something for everyone—from vibrant museums, beautiful gardens, and expansive parks to historic sites, delicious food, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, there are endless reasons to visit this Midwest gem. From iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch to secret local spots, this guide will reveal the best things to do in St. Louis.
1. Explore Forest Park: A Green Haven with Endless Attractions
1. Explore Forest Park: A Green Haven with Endless Attractions
Opened in 1876 and home to the 1904 World’s Fair, Forest Park is larger than New York’s Central Park and one of the most beautiful urban parks in America. This 1,300-acre oasis is packed with free attractions:
Saint Louis Zoo: Rated one of the best zoos in the world and completely free, it’s a must-visit for families. Don’t miss the River’s Edge exhibit or the chance to see penguins up close.
Saint Louis Art Museum: Home to over 34,000 artworks spanning centuries. Admission is free, and you’ll find masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and more.
Saint Louis Science Center: With interactive exhibits on space, the environment, and dinosaurs, this is perfect for curious minds of all ages.www.clamido.com
Forest Park also offers lush gardens, boating on serene waterways, golf courses, and over 30 miles of jogging and biking trails. If you’re visiting during peak season, consider taking the MetroLink to avoid parking congestion.
2. Marvel at the Gateway Arch: America’s Tallest Monument
2. Marvel at the Gateway Arch: America’s Tallest Monument
No visit to St. Louis is complete without seeing the Gateway Arch. Standing 630 feet tall, this architectural wonder offers breathtaking views of the city and Mississippi River from its observation deck. But there’s more to discover:
Museum at the Gateway Arch: Learn about westward expansion, the Lewis and Clark expedition, and the construction of the Arch itself in this engaging museum.
Riverboat Cruises: Hop on a narrated cruise along the Mississippi River to learn about St. Louis’ role in history.
While many visitors simply enjoy the park grounds (which are free), riding the tram to the top of the Arch is a bucket-list experience. Insider tip: Buy your tram tickets online in advance, especially during summer.
Missouri Botanical Gardens in St. Louis CLAMIDO
3. Missouri Botanical Garden: A Tranquil Escape
3. Missouri Botanical Garden: A Tranquil Escape
Spread across 79 acres, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a peaceful paradise known for its diverse plant life and beautiful landscapes. Highlights include:www.clamido.com
Japanese Garden: One of the largest in North America, it features koi-filled ponds, waterfalls, and serene paths.
Children’s Garden: A hit with families, kids can explore a limestone cave, climb a treehouse, and splash in the seasonal splash pad.
Secret Tip: Look out for Chihuly glass sculptures nestled among the plants. If you’re lucky, you may also spot one of the many weddings held in the gardens on weekends!
4. City Museum: An Unconventional Wonder
4. City Museum: An Unconventional Wonder
For those seeking something quirky and unexpected, the City Museum is unlike any museum you’ve ever experienced. Housed in a former shoe factory, it’s an eclectic mix of playground, funhouse, and art installation.
Climb through tunnels and slides: Explore multi-story slides, outdoor jungle gyms, and secret passageways.www.clamido.com
Art everywhere: The museum is filled with repurposed objects, from old airplanes to architectural relics, making it an interactive work of art.
Locals consider this museum one of the city’s best-kept secrets, as it’s equally fun for adults as it is for children.
Apotheosis of St Louis in USA
5. Discover Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
5. Discover Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
St. Louis is full of hidden treasures that even seasoned travelers may overlook:www.clamido.com
Cahokia Mounds: Just outside St. Louis in Illinois lies the largest pre-Columbian archaeological site north of Mexico. The Cahokia Mounds were once home to a thriving ancient civilization, and the site offers fascinating insight into Native American history.
Cherokee Antique Row: A charming stretch of Cherokee Street lined with antique shops, art galleries, and quirky boutiques. It’s a perfect spot for unique souvenirs and vintage finds.
Crown Candy Kitchen: This old-fashioned soda fountain and candy shop is a favorite among locals. Try their famous BLT or indulge in one of their massive ice cream sundaes.
6. Take a Neighborhood Tour
6. Take a Neighborhood Tour
St. Louis is made up of 79 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own flair:
The Hill: A historic Italian neighborhood known for its authentic Italian cuisine. Try toasted ravioli, a local delicacy, at restaurants like Charlie Gitto’s.www.clamido.com
Soulard: The oldest neighborhood in St. Louis, famous for its music scene and bustling farmer’s market.
Central West End: A trendy, upscale district with chic cafes, boutiques, and restaurants. Make sure to visit Left Bank Books, an independent bookstore.
Old Courthouse in Saint Louis
7. St. Louis Food Scene: Beyond Barbecue
7. St. Louis Food Scene: Beyond Barbecue
Food lovers will find plenty to indulge in here:
St. Louis-Style Barbecue: Known for its sweet, tangy sauces, head to Pappy’s Smokehouse or Bogart’s Smokehouse for some of the best ribs in the country.
Bosnian Cuisine: Did you know St. Louis has the largest Bosnian population outside of Bosnia? Head to Grbic Restaurant for delicious European fare like goulash and cevapi.
Frozen Custard at Ted Drewes: An iconic dessert stop, this place has been serving creamy frozen custard for over 80 years.
8. Busch Stadium & Cardinals Baseball
8. Busch Stadium & Cardinals Baseball
Baseball fans can’t miss a visit to Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals. Catch a game if you’re in town during the season, or take a tour of the stadium for behind-the-scenes access. Even non-baseball fans will appreciate the stadium’s views of the Gateway Arch.
Best Time to Visit St. Louis
Best Time to Visit St. Louis
The best times to visit are in spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), when the weather is mild, and the city’s parks and gardens are in full bloom. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cold, but there’s something to do year-round.
Safety Tips
Safety Tips
St. Louis is generally safe for tourists, but it’s best to exercise caution in certain areas, particularly north of Delmar Boulevard and across the river in East St. Louis, Illinois. Stick to well-populated areas, especially at night, and take care of your belongings.www.clamido.com
St. Louis is a vibrant city full of history, art, culture, and surprises. Whether you're gazing at the Gateway Arch, wandering through its many gardens, or discovering local secrets, there's always something new to experience. So, start planning your St. Louis adventure today!
St. Louis is a vibrant city full of history, art, culture, and surprises. Whether you're gazing at the Gateway Arch, wandering through its many gardens, or discovering local secrets, there's always something new to experience. So, start planning your St. Louis adventure today!
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse