Saint Louis, Missouri: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

St. Louis sits on the western bank of the Mississippi River. It has a rich history, starting with the Native American Mississippian culture. They built earthwork mounds and a city as big as London's.

In 1764, French fur traders founded St. Louis. It later changed hands several times before becoming part of the U.S. Today, St. Louis is a city full of life and history. It has many attractions that visitors love.

So, what makes St. Louis so special? Let's find out the top things to do and discover its hidden treasures.

Key Takeaways

• St. Louis boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with almost 65 breweries.
• The St. Louis Zoo is home to over 12,000 animals and a popular attraction for families.
• Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., drawing over 12 million visitors annually.
• The City Museum offers a unique and imaginative experience in a former shoe factory.
• Explore the city's rich history and cultural attractions, from the Gateway Arch to the Missouri Botanical Garden.

Admire the Iconic Gateway Arch

The Gateway Arch stands tall over St. Louis, symbolizing the city's role as the "Gateway to the West." It's an impressive 630 feet high, towering over the Statue of Liberty. It's a key spot for anyone visiting St. Louis.

Ride the Tram to the Top

Experience the Gateway Arch by taking a tram ride to the top. These capsules, like 1960s space tech, take you up in four minutes. You'll see stunning views of the city and beyond.

At ground level, the Museum at the Gateway Arch tells the story of St. Louis and the arch's construction. It has interactive exhibits and displays. The museum brings the arch's history to life.

"The Gateway Arch is not just a monument, but a symbol of the city's pioneering spirit and the indomitable will of its people."

Unleash Your Imagination at City Museum

Step into a world of wonder and excitement at the City Museum in St. Louis. This architectural playground invites visitors of all ages. It's set in a 600,000-square-foot former shoe company warehouse, where surprises await around every corner.

Climb into the mouth of a bow whale, soar through the air on a suspended plane, and rocket down a thrilling 10-story slide. Explore an underground tunnel system, marvel at mesmerizing pancake art, and test your circus skills at Circus Harmony. There, you can snack on peanuts or popcorn.

• Discover the joy of repurposed materials as you navigate bridges, tunnels, and secret passageways created from old city structures.
• Unleash your inner adventurer and climb, slide, and explore the City Museum's architectural playground.
• Experience the excitement of the Circus Harmony performance space, where you can learn and practice circus skills.

Whether you're visiting with a partner, friends, or family, the City Museum promises an unforgettable and immersive experience. It will ignite your imagination and leave you craving more.

"The City Museum is an architectural playground where you can climb, slide, and explore to your heart's content."

Explore Forest Park's Cultural Attractions

Forest Park in St. Louis covers 1,371 acres, making it a true urban oasis. It offers a wide range of cultural experiences for visitors. This historic park hosted the 1904 World's Fair and Summer Olympics. It's home to some of the city's finest museums and outdoor spaces.

Free Museums and Outdoor Spaces

The Missouri History Museum, St. Louis Art Museum, and St. Louis Zoo are all in Forest Park. The best part? They're free to visit! Spend an afternoon exploring the galleries and exhibits at these world-class institutions. Or, venture outdoors to enjoy the park's natural beauty.

• Admire the stunning architecture and impressive collection at the St. Louis Art Museum.
• Discover the rich history of Missouri at the Missouri History Museum.
• Marvel at the diverse array of animals at the renowned St. Louis Zoo.
• Take in the serene beauty of the Jewel Box, an elegant greenhouse filled with magnificent flora.
• Enjoy a performance at the iconic outdoor amphitheater, The Muny.
• Explore the World's Fair Pavilion, a popular venue for events and celebrations.

Forest Park offers lush greenery, tranquil lakes, and a variety of recreational opportunities. It's a place for everyone, whether you're into history, art, or nature. This urban oasis is a must-visit in St. Louis.

Saint Louis, Missouri: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Saint Louis, Missouri, sits by the Mississippi River. It's full of amazing attractions and experiences. You'll love the Gateway Arch and the City Museum.

Check out the Forest Park, bigger than Central Park. It has top museums like the St. Louis Zoo and St. Louis Science Center. The park is a green paradise with culture.

Learn about Saint Louis' beer history at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. See the Union Station and Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis for history and modern charm.

Visit the Cahokia Mounds for a look at ancient times. It was once the biggest city north of Mexico. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Whether you love history, museums, outdoor fun, or food, Saint Louis has it all. Get ready to fall in love with this Midwestern treasure!

Indulge in St. Louis' Iconic Cuisine

St. Louis is a food lover's dream, with a mix of local and global flavors. You'll find toasted ravioli and Provel pizza everywhere. The Hill, a historic Italian-American area, is home to top delis and restaurants. Here, you can enjoy crispy, breaded ravioli.

Don't miss the city's famous pizza. It has a thin crust, topped with Provel cheese. This cheese blend is a St. Louis specialty.

For dessert, try a "concrete" from Ted Drewes Frozen Custard. These creamy cups are filled with chocolate, caramel, fruit, and nuts. It's a must-try St. Louis treat.

Explore the rich flavors of St. Louis cuisine. Let your taste buds discover the city's iconic dishes.

Experience the Brewing History

While Saint Louis is famous for the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, it also has a thriving craft brewery scene. The Anheuser-Busch Brewery complex, built by German immigrants in the 1850s, welcomes visitors for over 130 years. You can see the beautiful interiors and learn how beer is made on the $15 Day Fresh Tour. The tour includes tasting the brewery's popular beers.

The craft brewing movement has also grown in Saint Louis. The city now has nearly 65 craft breweries. Names like 4 Hands Brewing Co, Schlafly Beer, and Urban Chestnut Brewing Co are well-known. They offer a wide variety of beers, from hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers, for every taste.

If you love beer or just want to try Saint Louis' brewing history, you're in for a treat. The city's breweries offer a great experience. So, let's raise a glass and celebrate Saint Louis' rich brewing legacy!

Discover Outdoor Art and Sculpture

Citygarden and Laumeier Sculpture Park

Saint Louis, Missouri, loves the arts. It's filled with public art and sculptures. With about 200 sunny days a year, it's great for outdoor art adventures.

Citygarden is a must-see in downtown Saint Louis. It's an urban oasis with sculptures, green spaces, and water. You can see The Awakening, a huge aluminum sculpture, for free.

Laumeier Sculpture Park is another top spot. It covers 105 acres with over 60 sculptures. You'll find everything from fun to deep pieces, like Bob Gibson and Soldiers Memorial Equestrian Figures.

But there's more than Citygarden and Laumeier. The Walls Off Washington mural walk is in the Grand Center Arts District. It's full of colorful, inspiring art. Saint Louis offers a lot of art and sculpture to see and enjoy.

Cheer on St. Louis' Sports Teams

Sports fans in St. Louis have a lot to cheer about. The city is known for its rich sports culture. It's home to several famous professional teams that have won many championships.

The St. Louis Cardinals baseball team is a big deal here. They've won the World Series 11 times, second only to the New York Yankees. Watching a game at Busch Stadium is a top thing to do in St. Louis.

The St. Louis Blues hockey team has also seen great success. They won the Stanley Cup in 2019. Their fans fill the Enterprise Center, making games very exciting.

In 2023, St. Louis will get its first Major League Soccer (MLS) team, St. Louis City SC. This new team will play in a state-of-the-art stadium. It will make St. Louis even more famous for sports.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just want to feel the excitement of a live game, St. Louis has it all. It's a place where every sports lover can find something to enjoy.

Explore Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is just 15 minutes east of St. Louis, Missouri. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site that shows us a glimpse of the past. Once, it was a bustling Native American city with up to 20,000 people, bigger than London, England, back then.

The site spans over 2,200 acres and keeps 72 of the original 120 earthen mounds. Monks Mound, the tallest, stands over 100 feet high. It's the largest man-made mound in the U.S. You can climb it and see the Woodhenge, an ancient observatory.

The Interpretive Center and Gift Shop are closed for now. But the grounds and trails are open every day from dawn to dusk. You can take a free tour of Monks Mound and the Grand Plaza. There's also a 5.4-mile hike booklet for sale. Admission is free, and a wheelchair is available for those with disabilities.

As you wander the Cahokia Mounds, think about the lively city that once thrived here. Marvel at the ancient Native American civilization's wisdom and skill.

The Cahokia Mounds are a chance to travel back in time. You can hike, climb Monks Mound, or learn about its history. It's an experience you won't forget.

Soak in the City's Architecture

Union Station and Cathedral Basilica

Union Station, built in 1894, is a key spot in St. Louis, even though it's not a train hub anymore. Inside the Grand Hall, now a hotel bar, you'll see amazing Roman Revival architecture. Look for the terrazzo floors, gold-leaf details, and a Tiffany glass window.

Don't miss the evening 3D light show on the 65-foot ceiling. It's a sight to see.

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis is nearby. It looks like a European landmark with its Romanesque style and tall spires. The dome and huge rosette window are impressive.

But the real wonder is inside. The walls and ceilings are covered in nearly 42 million glass mosaic pieces. They're in 7,000 colors, making it the largest mosaic art collection in the western hemisphere.

Union Station and the Cathedral Basilica will amaze you with their beauty. St. Louis' architecture is unforgettable.

Conclusion

St. Louis, on the western bank of the Mississippi River, has always drawn curious travelers. It boasts attractions like the Gateway Arch and City Museum. Forest Park and the city's brewing history also add to its charm.

Whether you love history, culture, outdoor fun, or the city's vibe, St. Louis has something for everyone. It's a city that delights all who visit.

As you leave St. Louis, you'll appreciate its history, creativity, and spirit. From famous landmarks to hidden spots, it's a city that offers much. It's a must-see for anyone looking to explore.