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World Travel & Tours

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5629 Gravois Ave

Saint Louis, MO 63116

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5 Things to Do in St. Louis This Weekend | June 6 to 9

Big Top performances, fantastic dance parties and Tyrannosaurus rex encounters are heating up St. Louis this weekend.

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• 25 Things to Do in St. Louis

If you want to explore some of the top things to do in and around St. Louis, you’ve come to the right place!

Adventure is endless in the Gateway City. After all, this is the place where you can ride to the top of the country’s tallest monument and cheer on the 11-time World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinals.

With a vibrant arts-and-culture scene, acclaimed restaurants, top-notch bars and free, family-friendly fun to boot, St. Louis is your gateway to a good time.

These are our picks for the top 25 things to do in St. Louis, but the list doesn’t stop here. We have much more to explore, from dining to nightlife and shopping to spas – plus, signature events that promise to keep you entertained while you’re in town.

Get a Bird’s Eye View from the Gateway Arch

Take a tram ride to the top of this gleaming, 630-foot monument . After you squeeze into a futuristic, five-person pod, it takes four minutes to ascend. At the top, small windows reveal spectacular views of the Old Courthouse, downtown St. Louis and beyond to the west and the Mississippi River and Illinois to the east. Tickets often sell out, so reserve your spots ahead of time. Back on the ground, explore the on-site museum, which traces more than 200 years of our region’s history in six themed exhibit areas. Visitors to Gateway Arch National Park can also board a 19th-century riverboat replica for a narrated cruise down the Mighty Mississippi. Want to splurge? Soar above the city with Gateway Helicopter Tours.

Get Your Head in the Game

Sports fans, rejoice! St. Louis gives us something to cheer about all year long. Dress in red and head to Busch Stadium to see our 11-time World Series champions, the St. Louis Cardinals , swing for the fences, or bundle up and snag a seat at Enterprise Center to watch the St. Louis Blues outskate their opponents. For a more intimate baseball experience – and some of the most creative game-day treats – check out the Gateway Grizzlies . Do we have any soccer fans? St. Louis CITY SC – and their devotees – put on epic shows every match. The St. Louis Battlehawks have also brought football back to St. Louis, while the St. Louis Surge light up the court. No matter the month, visitors can get a taste of true team spirit in this bona fide sports city.

Take a Thrill Ride at Six Flags St. Louis

Catapult into the air. Fly like a bat. Soar to new heights. Splash through whitewater rapids. And scream your head off! Located in Eureka, Six Flags St. Louis has attractions that appeal to thrill-seekers of all ages. Need to cool off? Head to Hurricane Harbor, a water park inside the amusement park, where you can experience zero gravity on the Typhoon Twister, compete for first place on the Wahoo Racer and set sail on Gulley Washer Creek. There are plenty of accommodations within minutes of the park, and visitors can take advantage of group discounts for youth groups, family reunions, company outings and more.

Spend a Night on the Town

Looking for a fun night out? St. Louis’ entertainment districts – think Armory STL, Ballpark Village, City Foundry STL and Westport Plaza – are your ticket to fully immersed fun. If you’re looking for neighborhoods with a little bit of everything, head to the Central West End, Soulard, the Delmar Loop and The Grove. No matter where you go, you won’t be far from live music venues and top-notch bars . St. Louis also has a number of casinos that offer great gaming, incredible dining and electric experiences for those wishing to try their luck while they’re in the Gateway City.

Climb Aboard at St. Louis Union Station

In its heyday,  St. Louis Union Station was one of the largest and busiest passenger rail terminals in the world. Today, it’s a source of endless entertainment for residents and visitors alike. The stunning complex houses more than 13,000 animals at the St. Louis Aquarium , the 200-foot St. Louis Wheel , a carousel, an 18-hole miniature golf course, a ropes course and more. The 3D light show in the Grand Hall plays on the hour, and restaurants such as The Soda Fountain and The Train Shed will keep you fueled for infinite fun. When it’s time to rest your head, you don’t have to go far. St. Louis Union Station Hotel boasts timeless décor and modern amenities.

Unleash Your Imagination at The Magic House

An epic adventure for preschoolers and young children, The Magic House offers hands-on interactive exhibits, where they can explore a child-size village, investigate scientific wonders and take on the role of a doctor or veterinarian. An ever-evolving cultural immersion area also shows youngsters what life is like in other countries, from the foods people eat to the homes they create. For older kids, there are 3D printers, electrically charged balls and more. In the Star-Spangled Center, parents might even learn something about a U.S. president or two. On top of that, The Magic House hosts events and special exhibits throughout the year. Did you know that the museum even builds its own exhibits, which subsequently tour similar facilities across the country? Pretty cool! At its satellite makerspace on Delmar Boulevard, MADE for Kids , four- to 14-year-olds can use their imaginations to tinker, create, invent, explore and discover. The 7,000-square-foot wonderland features an immersive makers workshop, artists studio, design lab and entrepreneurs marketplace.

Immerse Yourself in the Culture of Forest Park

Did you know that Forest Park in St. Louis is approximately 500 acres larger than Central Park in New York City? Home to world-class attractions – most of which are also free! – it’s considered one of the best urban parks in the country. You can spend hours, even days, enjoying cultural institutions such as the Missouri History Museum , Saint Louis Art Museum , Saint Louis Science Center , Saint Louis Zoo and The Muny , an outdoor theater that has filled Forest Park with the sounds of Broadway for more than 100 years. The Jewel Box, an elegant greenhouse filled with magnificent flora, hosts its fair share of weddings, and the World’s Fair Pavilion is a perfect site for casual company outings or lively private parties.

Experience Art Al Fresco

St. Louis has approximately 200 days of sunshine a year, giving you ample time to get outside and enjoy art al fresco. Citygarden , an urban oasis in downtown St. Louis , features thought-provoking sculptures, landscape architecture, native plants and rain gardens, while Laumeier Sculpture Park boasts more than 60 outdoor sculptures, a music amphitheater and rotating exhibitions. Both are free, open to the public and worth a visit. Are you a fan of public art? The Walls Off Washington , a mural walk in the Grand Center Arts District , encompasses vibrant, uplifting artworks, and The Awakening, an aluminum sculpture in Chesterfield that depicts a 70-foot-tall giant clawing his way out of the ground, is a sight to behold. Clayton also encompasses an outstanding collection of public art, including works by Fernando Botero, Howard Ben Tré and Ernest Trova.

Raise a Pint to St. Louis’ Brewing History

In St. Louis, great beer is a way of life. Ours is a city built on brewing, and today, people from all walks of life travel from near and far to make memories over a pint.  Anheuser-Busch  serves as a hub for brewing innovation, using the highest-quality ingredients, grown by American farmers, to produce more than 30 brands of beer. St. Louis also boasts almost 65 craft breweries. As you explore the region’s beer scene, we hope that you’ll raise a glass at one of our favorite spots, including  4 Hands Brewing Co. ,  Melvin Brewing Eureka ,  Narrow Gauge Brewing Co. ,  Schlafly Beer  and  Urban Chestnut Brewing Co . Want to enjoy other sips at St. Louis watering holes? Check out our beer, wine and spirits guide .

Encounter Animals in the Heart of America

From the furry to the flying to the fishy, St. Louis has an abundance of animals waiting to meet you. Arguably the best-kept secret in the St. Louis area, the Endangered Wolf Center in Eureka helps save and protect wild canids, which you can glimpse on a daytime tour or hear on a nighttime howl. The Saint Louis Zoo , on the other hand, is one of the most popular attractions in Forest Park , but it offers equally magical animal encounters. A leading zoo in animal management, research, conservation and education, it takes visitors on a journey where bears splash in plunge pools, monkeys swing from trees and penguins squawk for more fish. At the World Bird Sanctuary , you can meet a proud eagle, talk to a colorful parrot, encounter an emu and learn to appreciate vultures, while guests of Grant’s Farm can watch for free-roaming bovines, feed the goats and participate in a short and sweet animal show. Diving deeper, the St. Louis Aquarium holds approximately 250,000 gallons of water and more than 13,000 aquatic animals. Can’t get enough of the animal kingdom? Frolic with butterflies at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House , marvel at the Purina Incredible Dog Team at Purina Farms and look for white-tailed deer, elk, bison, waterfowl and more on a drive through Lone Elk Park .

Connect with Your Inner Child at City Museum

City Museum invites visitors to explore the unexpected. Housed in a 600,000-square-foot former shoe company warehouse, the all-ages architectural playground offers a truly immersive experience, where you can climb into a bow whale’s mouth, rocket down a 10-story slide and pilot a plane suspended in the air. With a partner, friends or family, navigate an underground tunnel system, marvel at pancake art and write with the world’s largest pencil. At Circus Harmony , you can also test your circus skills and snack on peanuts or popcorn. How serious is City Museum about exploring? The gift shop sells knee pads – which aren’t a bad idea! If you need a break, grab a bite or a beer on any floor, from the 19th-century Cabin Bar to the Rooftop Café.

Eat Your Heart Out

Recently named one of America’s next great food cities by Food & Wine , St. Louis boasts a culinary scene that continues to grow, innovate, diversify and delight. A group of innovative and decorated chefs, makers and farmers define our local cuisine, attracting national attention for everything from fast-casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants and foraged ingredients to sustainable products. If you want a taste of St. Louis-only eats, check out our guide to the most iconic dishes in town . Spoiler alert: It’s a feast of St. Louis-style pizza smothered in Provel, crispy toasted ravioli stuffed with ground beef and grilled pork steaks slathered in tangy barbecue sauce. Life is short, so if you want to dig into dessert first, we won’t judge. Grab gooey butter cake at establishments throughout the region and   frozen custard at Ted Drewes , where concretes are served upside down to prove their thickness.

Embrace Spirituality Through Creative Expression

St. Louis offers unique, alluring and artistic ways to embrace spirituality. Nestled in the Central West End neighborhood, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis is not just a Roman Catholic Church; it’s a distinguished work of art. With its lofty vaults and radiant mosaics, the sheer scale of the building’s beauty is awe-inspiring. In its creation, more than a dozen architects’ and artisans’ concepts coalesced into a magnificently well-integrated and harmonious whole. We also recommend visiting Saint Louis University’s Museum of Contemporary Religious Art (MOCRA) , the first museum in the U.S. to bring an interfaith focus to contemporary art. Through exhibitions, collections and educational programs, MOCRA explores and showcases the various ways that contemporary artists engage with religious and spiritual dimensions. Facilitating personal discovery, inspiration and creativity, MOCRA also contributes to a wider culture of interfaith encounters and conversations.

Geek Out Over Science

Science is cool, and St. Louis makes it easy to go on journeys of discovery during your visit. The Saint Louis Science Center , one of the many fantastic – and free – attractions in Forest Park , specializes in “Aha!” moments. As you test the laws of physics, sneak by a life-size, animatronic Tyrannosaurus rex, explore the night sky and build a replica of the Gateway Arch, you’ll ask and answer hundreds of questions. You might also consider paying for a special exhibition or a film at the OMNIMAX Theater if something sparks your interest. For more hands-on experiments, head to Myseum . A combination children’s museum, science museum and indoor playground, Myseum has 30 unique exhibits to explore. Kids can dig for dinosaurs, play with glow shapes, interact with the video wall, “work” at an imaginary zoo clinic and more. Every visit offers something new, educational and, above all, fun for growing minds. Just remember to bring socks!

Indulge Your Inner Gearhead

Start your engines! At Victory Raceway , the electric go-karts reach speeds up to 45 miles per hour on the indoor racetrack. There are no two-seaters here – everyone drives. At Amp Up Action Park , you can zip around a custom-built track in the most technologically advanced indoor kart in the world; then, complete a heart-pounding adventure in the three-level, black light-lit laser tag arena. There’s also an elevated ropes course, axe throwing, arcade games and pickleball. Fans of racing will find even more action at World Wide Technology Raceway , currently the only track in the world to host the NASCAR Cup Series, the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series and Formula DRIFT. To explore the history, mechanics and design of planes, trains and automobiles, head to the National Museum of Transportation , which has one of the largest and best collections of transportation vehicles in the world, encompassing more than 190 major exhibits.

Appreciate Art, from Classic to Contemporary

In St. Louis, you’re sure to find art that will leave an impression. Boasting one of the country’s leading comprehensive collections, the Saint Louis Art Museum , a free fixture in Forest Park , inspires discovery and elevates the human spirit. Artworks by Max Beckmann, Georgia O’Keeffe, Norman Lewis, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso and Kehinde Wiley stand out, but the museum also offers thought-provoking temporary exhibitions ranging from native art to French landscapes and global textiles to ancient armor. In the Grand Center Arts District , the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis and the Pulitzer Arts Foundation are free, as well. Not having a permanent collection allows both museums to adapt and respond to the global art world as well as the local community. To create dynamic experiences with art, the Pulitzer also hosts concerts by the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra , tours with the curators, panel discussions and educational programs. A more permanent collection of contemporary art resides in the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum , one of the oldest teaching museums in the country. If you’re interested, it offers public tours, which cover a variety of topics, on Saturdays. The Saint Louis University Museum of Art encompasses an impressive permanent collection of works by modern masters, as well. Pop art by Andy Warhol, avant-garde glass by Dale Chihuly, paradoxical pieces by Roy Lichtenstein, abstract portraits from Chuck Close and more sit inside the stunning Beaux-Arts building, which dates to the turn of the 20th century. To appreciate art in a more casual setting, check out High Low , the St. Louis Artists’ Guild , Sophie’s Artist Lounge , Soulard Art Gallery and Third Degree Glass Factory .

Have an Outdoor Adventure

From nature walks to float trips to treetop tours, St. Louis has outdoorsy fun for everyone . If you want to connect with our historic rivers, sign up to paddle with Big Muddy Adventures or float with Brookdale Farms . Hurricane Harbor inside Six Flag St. Louis and Raging Rivers Waterpark also offer wet and wild fun. At RYZE Adventure Park , thrill-seekers can climb, zip-line, swing, ride, rappel and trek through the state-of-the-art Adventure Tower featuring 110 different obstacles reaching four stories high. Adventure Valley also has 10 zip lines as well as a paintball park. For outdoor adventures ranging from hiking to biking and paddle boarding to horseback riding, check out our lush public parks such as Castlewood State Park, Creve Coeur Park , Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center , Rockwoods Reservation and Tower Grove Park . Journey underground at Meramec Caverns, which boasts astounding formations – think glistening stalactites, towering stalagmites, an ancient “wine table” and a seven-story “mansion” – that were formed from the erosion of large limestone deposits over millions of years. And when winter arrives, embrace the cold by hitting the slopes at Hidden Valley or gliding around the ice at Steinberg Skating Rink .

Shop ’til You Drop

St. Louis has no shortage of unique places to shop . From locally owned boutiques to diverse shopping centers, you can find the perfect gift or souvenir to take home. Apparel, accessories, art, housewares, books, handicrafts, foodstuffs and more abound at our favorite shops, where your money supports area artists, makers and entrepreneurs. For a wide assortment of one-of-a-kind treasures, peruse Cherokee Antique Row , City Foundry STL , Civil Alchemy , Hearth & Soul , Plaza Frontenac , the Saint Louis Galleria , Urban Matter and more.

Take an Interactive History Lesson

Throughout St. Louis, historic sites and museums tell stories of the region’s past, present and future. From Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site to Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum and the Missouri Civil War Museum to The Griot Museum of Black History , local attractions cover a range of significant topics and spotlight a variety of historical figures. At the Museum at the Gateway Arch , you’ll hear untold tales of the city’s founding, examine westward expansion from multiple perspectives and see artifacts and tactiles commemorating America’s pioneering spirit. You can also take a deep dive into the history of the Gateway Arch , learning new tidbits about its design, construction and lasting legacy. The exhibits at the Missouri History Museum occasionally change, but they’re always well done, and if you’re looking for innovative and unexpected ways to interact with St. Louis history, you can join one of the Missouri Historical Society’s See STL tours . For information on more historic sites and museums such as the Campbell House Museum , Chatillon-DeMenil Mansion , Field House Museum , Old Courthouse and Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site , check out our historic St. Louis guide .

Rock Out at a Live Show

St. Louis is your ticket to great music. From small stages to sold-out stadiums and country to hip-hop – if you’re in the mood for live entertainment, you’ll find it here. Intimate venues – with no covers, might we add – include Broadway Oyster Bar , Hammerstone’s , The Garage , The Honky Tonk and Tin Roof . We also recommend snagging seats at shows hosted by City Winery St. Louis , Jazz St. Louis , The Factory and The Pageant . For dazzling spectacles at massive arenas, get tickets to Chaifetz Arena , Enterprise Center , Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre – St. Louis and The Dome at America’s Center . This is only a handful of our beloved concert venues – find more places to rock out in our music guide .

Stroll Through the Missouri Botanical Garden

The Missouri Botanical Garden has long been a place of beauty, serenity and discovery, as well as an institution of scientific research and education. Every visit represents a new opportunity to learn about plants and how they’re connected to our lives. Will you be able to choose your favorite flora among the 27,000 options? Throughout the year, you might catch one of the Garden’s annual events, including the Orchid Show, the Whitaker Music Festival, the Japanese Festival and the Best of Missouri Market, on your walk, too.

Try Your Luck at a Casino

While St. Louis casinos have plenty of places to play blackjack, craps, roulette and slots, each one offers something unique, as well. Hollywood Casino St. Louis boasts more baccarat games than any other casino in the area, while River City Casino hosts epic events featuring live music, stand-up comedy, prize fights and more. Horseshoe St. Louis offers access to the Topgolf Swing Suite at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis , and Ameristar Casino Resort Spa pampers guests with lavish spa services. All of the casinos in the region have excellent hotel amenities and delicious dining options, too.

Let Live Theater Fill You with Wonder

Have you caught the Broadway bug? Luckily, dazzling musical productions make their way to The Fabulous Fox in the Grand Center Arts District and The Muny in Forest Park throughout the year. STAGES St. Louis and the St. Louis Black Repertory Company put on spectacular shows, ranging from A Chorus Line to The African Company Presents Richard III to Million Dollar Quartet . And audiences can experience the magic of innovative storytelling at Opera Theatre of Saint Louis and Union Avenue Opera , where performances travel between fantasy and reality, comedy and tragedy, love and revenge. The spotlight also shines at .ZACK , a 202-seat, proscenium-style theater, which hosts everything from one-woman shows to large-cast musicals; Circus Flora, which performs one-ring circus productions at The Big Top ; Center of Creative Arts , where the thought-provoking programming features talented students from COCA’s Pre-Professional Division dance and theater companies; and The Marcelle , which welcomes musicals, plays, dance productions and other performances from Kranzberg Arts Foundation resident organizations and independent producers to its stage. If you’re interested in movement, check out the lineup from Dance St. Louis , which brings world-class performances to the area, making dance accessible to a diverse audience.

Attend a Festival

Every year, fairs and festivals enliven St. Louis’ event calendar , with signature events such as Soulard Mardi Gras, Pridefest, Music at the Intersection, The Great Forest Park Balloon Glow and Race and Winterfest taking the cake for the most memorable. Art-lovers should plan trips around Art in Bloom, the Saint Louis Art Museum ’s annual celebration of flowers and fine art; the Laumeier Art Fair, a showcase of 150 juried artists at Laumeier Sculpture Park ; Let Them Eat Art, a celebration of the arts and a whimsical tribute to Bastille Day in Maplewood ; and the Saint Louis Art Fair, an explosion of color in the streets of Clayton . There are also plenty of events for the music, food, film and sports enthusiasts among us – think Evolution Festival, Taste of St. Louis, the St. Louis International Film Festival and Arch Madness.

Visit the Neighborhoods of St. Louis

St. Louis is often referred to as a city of neighborhoods. Each one has its own identity, with a unique character, style and vibe that adds to the vibrant patchwork of our region. As you explore our diverse neighborhoods, you’ll experience the convergence of intriguing history, exquisite architecture, eclectic boutiques, signature cuisine and entertaining nightlife. Dine around the world on South Grand Boulevard , drink and dance in The Grove , admire the “Painted Ladies” in Lafayette Square and more. We don’t expect you to see and do everything in one trip, though, which is why we’ve created neighborhood guides to help you decide where to start.

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12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Louis, MO

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

St. Louis, the largest city in Missouri, lies just below the junction of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, which here forms the boundary between Missouri and Illinois. The city has long been known as the "Gateway to the West" because it was from here that the Europeans set out to conquer the Wild West. But today, with so many things to do in St. Louis, you don't need to leave the city limits to have an adventure.

Spend a day or two seeing the sights and enjoy some dining and shopping. The Gateway Arch is the city's most famous site, but the city is home to many museums and interesting attractions. St. Louis is also home to St. Louis University, the oldest university west of the Mississippi, which was founded in 1818. The city's connection with Scott Joplin, "the father of Ragtime," ensures its fame as a music city.

Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top things to do in St. Louis.

See also: Where to Stay in St. Louis

1. Gateway Arch

2. old courthouse, 3. missouri botanical garden, 4. forest park attractions, 5. saint louis zoo, 6. magic house, st. louis children's museum, 7. city museum, 8. market street, 9. old cathedral (basilica of st. louis, king), 10. scott joplin house, 11. campbell house museum, 12. laumeier sculpture park, where to stay in st. louis for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in st. louis, mo, more places to explore near st. louis.

In the center of Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park is the Gateway Arch , a symbol of the city's role as the "Gateway to the West." This parabolic arch of stainless steel, 625 feet high, was erected from 1959 to 1965 to the design of Eero Saarinen, based on an unexecuted project by Adalberto Libera for the entrance to the Esposizione Universale di Roma of 1942. It is the tallest monument in the United States .

Eight elevators run up to the observation platform on the highest point of the arch. You can also view the arch from the water on one of the many riverboat cruises, or by air in a helicopter tour. Tickets for the Gateway Arch are sold at the Gateway Arch Ticketing and Visitor Center in the Old Courthouse, which is located eight blocks (a 10- to 15-minute walk) from the arch. Advance purchase of tickets for the observation platform is recommended.

On the right-hand side of Market Street is a massive domed building, the Old Courthouse , which is part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park. It was built in the mid-1800s and has been the scene of several important trials, including the suit by Dred Scott for freedom from slavery and Suffragist Virginia Louisa Minor for the right to vote.

The courthouse now showcases exhibits from the Museum of Westward Expansion. The Gateway Arch Ticketing and Visitor Center is also located in the Old Courthouse.

The Old Courthouse is currently closed and in the midst of a major 380-million-dollar renovation that will include new galleries, an elevator, and critical behind-the-scenes infrastructure updates.

Address: 11 N. 4th Street, St. Louis, Missouri

The beautiful Missouri Botanical Garden is also known as the Shaw Garden, after the businessman and botanist Henry Shaw (1800-89) who laid it out in 1859. In the southeast part of the gardens are the richly appointed Tower Grove House, Henry Shaw's "garden house".

The gardens themselves comprise a lovely rose garden and the rather unusual Climatron, built in 1960, and today houses 2,800 tropical plants, a Japanese Garden, an "aqua-tunnel" under a water-lily pool, and a herbarium.

The Doris I. Schnuck Children's Garden is designed with youngsters in mind, with an aim towards educating and inspiring children in the field of horticulture. Within the garden are several tourist attractions, including a prairie village and treehouse. Special exhibits include the "Cave Experience," which is a man-made cave, and a wetlands area that includes a steamboat.

Admission is free to residents of St. Louis City and County on specific days and times.

Address: 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, Missouri

Forest Park sits on the site of the 1904 World Fair, and some of the structures here still date from that time period. The Jefferson Memorial sits on the north side of the park and houses the Missouri History Museum, which includes historical exhibits about the state, St. Louis, and Charles Lindbergh.

In the center of the park, the City Art Museum has collections of art from prehistoric through contemporary works, and nearby is the Zoo .

To the east, near the Highlands Golf and Tennis Center , the Jewel Box contains a conservatory with hundreds of varieties of flowers. Beyond this, on the outside corner of the park, the St. Louis Science Center has plenty of attractions and things to do, including a planetarium, IMAX theater, and interactive exhibits for all ages.

The Saint Louis Zoo is located in Forest Park. You'll find it across the lawn, and an easy stroll from the City Art Museum. The zoo has more than 12,000 animals across 500 species. Residents include Asian elephants, hippos, gorillas, tree kangaroos, jaguars, and sea lions.

The zoo is a free attraction in St. Louis, making it available to everyone. Although you still have to pay a modest fee for parking, this is the only cost you'll have to bear, and it's a small price to pay for what the zoo has to offer.

Innovative pavilions house animals from around the world, and two of the best are the polar bear and hippopotamus pools. Here, you can be mere inches from these huge animals on the other side of thick glass.

The Sea Lion show is a favorite. You'll see high dives, Frisbee tosses, flipper walks, and other entertaining and educational antics. A small fee is charged for the show. Apart from the animals, fun rides for the kids are available, including a carousel, the miniature Zooline Railroad, and a 4D theater.

Located in a three-story Victorian home, the Magic House children's museum provides hands-on exhibits about science, communications, and computers. Exhibits are divided into themed areas and encourage engagement from children. Each area is designed to enhance curiosity and experimentation.

There is a designated play area for babies and toddlers, as well as the Calming Corner, a room filled with activities and toys that are soothing, which is a haven for children who need a break from sensory overload. The museum café specializes in healthy fresh-food options; many of the ingredients are grown on-site.

Address: 516 South Kirkwood Road, St. Louis, Missouri

The City Museum , housed in a former shoe factory, is a bizarre and delightfully entertaining facility that both children and adults will appreciate. Exhibits include a giant aquarium, an architectural museum, art activities, and a participatory circus, among many others.

In addition to all that, the museum has caves, slides, a treehouse, tunnels, and even the world's largest pencil.

The museum's major structures and installations were made entirely of materials found within the St. Louis municipal area. The building itself is an impressive piece of architecture, and its design is the brainchild of sculptor and artist Bob Cassilly.

Address: 701 North 15th Street, Saint Louis, Missouri

Across the I-70, beside the Gateway Arch, is the start of Market Street. The city's main street, it is lined by important buildings and halfway along opens out into St. Louis Memorial Plaza. On the left-hand side is the gigantic rotunda of the Busch Stadium , which has seating for 50,000 spectators.

The stadium is home to the St. Louis Cardinals, the city's baseball team, whose history is documented in the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame. The neighboring National Bowling Hall of Fame does the same for bowling.

Farther along Market Street, on the left, is City Hall, which was modeled on the Hotel de Ville in Paris. There are some interesting buildings in the streets running north from Market Street. On 14th Street is the Soldiers Memorial Building, commemorating all fallen American soldiers. At the corner of 14th Street and Market Street is the Kiel Auditorium.

Southwest of the Gateway Arch is the Old Cathedral , the Catholic Basilica of St. Louis of France. Built from 1831 to 1834 on the site of the first church of St. Louis (1770), it survived the 1849 fire unscathed. On the west side of the cathedral is the Old Cathedral Museum, covering the history of the city.

The interior of the church is decorated with complex mosaics, and ongoing restoration projects have returned the dome and bell towers to their original glory. Free self-guided tours are available — the brochure is on a pedestal in the main entranceway. For a deeper dive into the church, guided tours take place every Sunday after noon mass.

Address: 209 Walnut Street, St. Louis, Missouri

Music lovers and history buffs will appreciate this attraction. Scott Joplin, the composer and pianist known as the "father of Ragtime," lived in this house from 1901 to 1903. He was most famous for pieces like the Maple Leaf Rag, and was awarded a Pulitzer Prize after his death.

Maintained by Missouri State Parks, Scott Joplin House is furnished in the period to the early 1900s and includes memorabilia and a player piano featuring the artist's music. Interpretive programs and tours are available to visitors.

Address: 2658 Delmar Street, Saint Louis, Missouri

Built in 1851, this three-story townhouse has been accurately restored and offers a showcase of Victorian furnishings and decorative arts. Campbell House Museum features an extensive collection of original items from the family who lived here from 1854 through 1938.

The museum collection includes classic Rococo-Revival Victorian furniture, portraits, textiles, silver, gold-leaf frames and cornices, faux-grained woodwork, and other examples of decorative arts.

Not to be missed is the gorgeous rose garden with its ornate gazebo, an ideal place to visit and wonder what life would have been like back in the mid-19th century.

Address: 1508 Locust Street, St. Louis, Missouri

The Laumeier Sculpture Park features an outdoor collection of sculptures designed to showcase contemporary art in a natural environment. Pick up a map and follow the trails past 70 pieces of art that range from giant eyeballs and ceramic cats, right through to concrete faces in the earth, along with many other interesting and thought-provoking installations.

Trees and natural woodland with hiking trails surround the sculptures. The park is home to both permanent and temporary displays. Also on-site is an indoor gallery with changing exhibits.

Address: 12580 Rott Road, St. Louis, Missouri

There are several interesting neighborhoods in St. Louis, but first-time visitors who plan to sightsee would be best off finding accommodation right downtown. This is where the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park and the Gateway Arch are located, along with many other important attractions. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels :

• Located downtown in the entertainment district, near the Gateway Arch, is the posh Four Seasons Hotel , with a beautiful outdoor pool and patio area overlooking the Mississippi River and the Arch.
• One of the most unique hotels in St. Louis is the St. Louis Union Station, Curio Collection by Hilton , set in the grand old Union Station building dating from 1894. The Grand Hall lobby of this hotel is exquisite.
• Also downtown is the boutique Magnolia Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio , with a contemporary feel. It offers regular rooms, suites, and an extended-stay program.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Housed in three beautifully renovated historic buildings and within easy walking distance of the Gateway Arch is the Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch .
• Attached to the Convention Center and near many of the downtown attractions is the Courtyard St. Louis Downtown/Convention Center .
• Nearby, but closer to the river and the Gateway Arch, is the Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Louis . This LEED-certified all-suite hotel is perfect for families, with two-room suites and a pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Since the city center lacks budget hotels, the best option is to find a hotel outside the city center, although this requires a little driving. The Red Roof Inn Plus St Louis-Forest Park/Hampton Avenue is a good value option about a 10-minute drive from downtown.
• Even closer is the Hotel Avyan , with basic but comfortable rooms.

St. Louis sits at the eastern edge of Missouri, while at the far western border is Kansas City , known for its barbecue and jazz music. Outside its two big cities, Missouri has several attractions worth visiting, including Silver Dollar City in Branson , Wilson's Creek National Battlefield in Republic, and the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal.

North of St. Louis is Springfield , the capital of Illinois , and beyond it is Chicago . About the same distance from St. Louis as Kansas City are Indianapolis in Indiana and Louisville in Kentucky , both to the east, and the Tennessee cities of Nashville and Memphis are to the south.

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St. Louis   Travel Guide

Why Go To St. Louis

With a slice of Midwestern Americana and a hint of cosmopolitan flair, St. Louis' charms are best viewed in the reddened stands of Busch Stadium , in the nostalgia of the iconic Judy Garland film "Meet Me in St. Louis," or at the bottom of a pint of Budweiser. And yes, there's the  Gateway Arch  – that gleaming curve of stainless steel looking westward. But beyond its star attractions, you'll find a vibrant city that has plenty to offer for beer, food, sports and music enthusiasts. 

To start, it's the birthplace of iced tea and ice cream cones, both mainstays for a summer visit. What's more, it’s home to the National Blues Museum. And with 79 distinct neighborhoods to tour, including tranquil  Forest Park  and historic Soulard, there's plenty to see, eat and do in this Midwestern metropolis. Plus, sightseeing here won't put a major dent in your wallet: St. Louis boasts tons free attractions, from the zoo to the art museum to the grounds of the Gateway Arch. So, take a cue from Lewis and Clark, who "discovered" the area in the early 19th century, and start your exploration of the West – and St. Louis – here.

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• # 13 in Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest

Best of St. Louis

Best hotels in st. louis.

• # 1 in Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis
• # 2 in The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis
• # 3 in The Westin St. Louis

Best Things to Do in St. Louis

• # 1 in Gateway Arch National Park
• # 2 in St. Louis' Forest Park
• # 3 in Missouri Botanical Garden

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St. Louis Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit St. Louis are in April and May and September through October. St. Louis experiences hot and sticky summers and long, cold winters. The spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and set the stage for a full event calendar.

Weather in St. Louis

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

It's multicultural  Although the Gateway to the West offers its fair share of classic Americana (think: Cardinals baseball and barbecue), St. Louis also boasts a sizable immigrant population. In fact, this Midwestern city is home to the world's largest Bosnian population outside of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

It's hopping For a night out, head to The Loop in the West End. This area features a vibrant set of watering holes, plus dance lounges and several live music venues.

It's a barbecue town St. Louis' version of barbecue is tangy and sweet. To sample some of the city's finest barbecue, visit traveler-approved barbecue joints like Bogart's Smokehouse in Soulard and  Pappy's Smokehouse in Midtown.

How to Save Money in St. Louis

Be mindful of the Cardinals' home schedule Although hotel rates stay fairly consistent throughout the year, prices can rise when the Cardinals play at home. To avoid these higher prices, plan your visit in the offseason or when the Cardinals are away.

Take advantage of the city's free attractions  One of the draws of this Missouri city is its abundance of free activities. Save some money by sticking to St. Louis' free attractions , such as the Saint Louis Zoo  and the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis .

Use public transportation  If you're hoping to avoid the added expense of renting a car or paying for parking, consider using Metro, the city's light rail and bus system. One-day Adventure passes, which cover unlimited rides on all buses and light rail, cost $5.

Culture & Customs

Like Chicago and New York City , St. Louis is home to a plethora of immigrant communities. In addition to the world's largest Bosnian population outside of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the city boasts large German, Indian, Libyan and Mexican enclaves. Neighborhoods like The Hill are prime spots to try authentic cuisines from all around the world. Other neighborhoods, such as The Ville, are essential for understanding St Louis history. The Ville was the home of many prominent Black figures during the 1920s, including Annie Malone, one of the country’s first Black millionaires. It's also where Sumner High School still stands. The high school was the first school west of the Mississippi to provide secondary education for Black students. If you'd like to learn more about Black history in St. Louis, pay a visit to the Missouri History Museum , which features exhibits on the civil rights movement, as well as seasonal guided walks through The Ville.

Music is also an integral part of St. Louis. The birthplace of ragtime – a precursor to jazz music that was popular in the late 19th century – St. Louis offers multiple kinds of music (think: rock, jazz, reggae and swing) at its performance venues. Traveler's favorites include Broadway Oyster Bar , The Ready Room and Off Broadway . For a complete list of clubs, check out Explore St. Louis' website . And to learn more about blues music specifically, pay a visit to the National Blues Museum.

Another vital aspect of this Midwestern city is its baseball culture. The hometown team, the St. Louis Cardinals, regularly play at downtown's Busch Stadium . Some seats even feature views of the Gateway Arch .

What to Eat

From St. Louis-style barbecue to classic pub grub to authentic Bosnian and Italian fare, odds are you'll find plenty to sink your teeth into in this vibrant multicultural city. Many of the city's neighborhoods are home to a particular ethnic background and style of cuisine, so if you know what kind of food you're after, consult Explore St. Louis' Neighborhoods page  before venturing out for grub. Or if you'd rather heed the advice of past diners, try eating at one of the following traveler-approved eateries.

Should you crave a classic deli sandwich, previous visitors suggest checking out  Blues City Deli  in Benton Park or Adriana's on the Hill in – you guessed it – The Hill district. For American comfort food like burgers, wings and nachos, dine at Hendel's Restaurant & Market , Gourmet Soul or Stacked STL . And if you're looking for a quintessential rack of St. Louis-style ribs (which are slathered in sweet barbecue sauce before cooking on a grill), head to local barbecue hot spots, such as  Bogart's Smokehouse , Pappy's Smokehouse or Sugarfire Smoke House .

For fine dining, consider making reservations at Bait (for seafood), Olive + Oak (for elevated American fare), Brasserie by Niche (for a French menu), Vicia (perfect for vegetarians) or Juniper (for Southern eats).

No visit to St. Louis would be complete without sampling the city's twist on authentic Italian and Bosnian cuisines. The Hill's  Charlie Gitto's and Zia's on the Hill are two places known for traditional Italian fare and toasted ravioli, a local Italian-inspired dish that features filled pasta covered in breadcrumbs and pan-fried. If you'd rather try Bosnian cuisine, head 5 miles outside the city center to Grbic Restaurant & Events , a family-owned and operated restaurant that serves classic European dishes like goulash and Serbian stuffed cabbage, among other items. For authentic Mexican fare, locals suggest El Toluco Taqueria & Grocery (order a torta), and Mai Lee for Vietnamese and Chinese classics like pho, rice porridge, noodle bowls and more.

St. Louis is relatively safe to visit, but like other metropolitan areas, it's best to exercise caution while visiting, especially in areas north of Delmar Boulevard and across the Mississippi River in Illinois’ East St. Louis. Explore St. Louis recommends several tips for staying safe during your trip, including hiding your valuables in parked cars hidden and walking with others at night. For more safety suggestions, consult Explore St. Louis' website .

Getting Around St. Louis

The best way to get around St. Louis is by car or MetroLink. Metro's efficient light rail system offers stops throughout the city, though locales removed from the main tourist areas, such as Grant's Farm , are generally harder to reach (if at all). Having your own set of wheels – which you can rent from St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) – will ensure you can get to all of St. Louis' must-visit sights, but this convenience comes at a cost: You'll have to pay between $3 and $25 to park in the downtown area on top of daily car rental fees. Metro's network also includes MetroBus routes, but its longer travel times make them less convenient. Hailing a taxi or renting a bike are other options, but cabs are pricey and biking is not recommended during the cooler months.

Head to the Illinois side of the Mississippi River for breathtaking skyline and Gateway Arch vistas.

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LGBTQ Monuments Around the World

Posted: June 3, 2024 | Last updated: June 3, 2024

George Segal’s Gay Liberation monument can be found in Christopher Park, just across the street from The Stonewall Inn.

Photo by poludziber/Shutterstock

This June marks the 55th anniversary of the Stonewall uprising, which kickstarted the gay rights movement in 1969. The bar where it all began has been commemorated as a national monument , with a new visitor center debuting this summer. It’s part of a small but mighty contingent of LGBTQ heritage markers in the city, including the New York City AIDS Memorial , the Alice Austen House , and Brooklyn’s Marsha P. Johnson State Park , which in 2020 became New York’s first state park named for an LGBTQ person.

This Pride month, we’re taking a look at some of the other LGBTQ memorials and monuments around the globe, from celebrations of groundbreaking historical figures to more somber reminders of the persecution people in the community have faced and continue to face today.

Christopher Park

New york city.

Directly across the street from The Stonewall Inn sits triangular Christopher Park , which has become something of a pilgrimage site for those visiting the Greenwich Village neighborhood to take in its gay heritage sites. The centerpiece is a work called Gay Liberation , which was created by American sculptor George Segal in 1980; it depicts a pair of men and a pair of women cast in bronze and painted white. It’s considered the first piece of public art dedicated to the gay-rights movement, and when it was commissioned in 1979 to mark the 10th anniversary of the Stonewall uprising, it came with a few rules from the patrons: The artwork needed to have equal representation of men and women and “had to be loving and caring and show the affection that is the hallmark of gay people.”

Homomonument

Amsterdam, netherlands.

On the bank of Amsterdam’s Keizersgracht Canal, three pink granite triangles (each with sides measuring 10 feet) are positioned on a small plaza near the waterfront, connected by lines that form one greater triangle: the Homomonument . Unveiled in 1987, the installation was the world’s first public monument dedicated to the LGBTQ community, honoring victims of persecution and violence, both past and future. The three triangles point to the city’s National War Memorial, the Anne Frank House , and the offices of COC Netherlands , the world’s oldest operating LGBTQ advocacy organization, which has been going strong since 1946. One of the triangles protrudes onto the water (built as steps ascending from the canal), one is installed at street level, and another rises from the plaza like a groundswell of hope and courage.

The Legacy Walk

Chicago, illinois.

Alan Turing Memorial

Manchester, england.

In the middle of Manchester’s Sackville Park, a bronze representation of Alan Turing sits patiently on a bench, apple in hand—a reference perhaps to the tree of knowledge and his method of suicide, a cyanide-laced apple. The plaque at his feet reads: “Father of computer science, mathematician, logician, wartime codebreaker, victim of prejudice.” The 20th-century Englishman—whom many learned about when Benedict Cumberbatch portrayed him in 2014’s The Imitation Game —was prosecuted and chemically castrated for homosexual acts during the 1950s. Located near the city’s Gay Village district and the Beacon of Hope HIV/AIDS memorial, the statue was erected in 2001, though it gained greater fame after Queen Elizabeth II posthumously pardoned Turing in 2013. The commemorative statue in Turing’s honor is part of Manchester’s LGBTQ Heritage Trail, also called the Out in the Past Trail , for which small rainbow mosaics are set into the pavement to mark key historic sites.

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Holocaust Memorial

Sydney, australia.

The pink triangle is recognized globally as a powerful emblem of LGBTQ pride that’s been reclaimed from its former usage as a Nazi marker to identify homosexual men; a black triangle meanwhile marked lesbians. Today in Sydney’s Darlinghurst neighborhood, the pointed LGBTQ symbol serves as a larger-than-life tribute to queer victims of the Holocaust. Located in Green Park (near the Sydney Jewish Museum ), the memorial—a pink enameled-steel prism—is embedded in the earth and overlaps with triangulated black columns, which together form a fractured Star of David. The triangle’s glossy surface is reflective by day and emits a soft glow by night, as if lighting the way to hope and life.

Transgender Memorial Garden

St. louis, missouri.

A fertile, urban greenspace is a vibrant way to grow community, something the Transgender Memorial Garden in St. Louis has been doing since 2015. The Grove neighborhood site, located at South Vandeventer and Hunt Avenues, is the world’s first garden to memorialize victims of anti-trans violence and to celebrate transgender lives. It’s planted with native Missouri trees and wildflowers, cultivated by volunteers, and supported by the Metro Trans Umbrella Group—a local nonprofit organization that marched collectively as grand marshal of the 2019 St. Louis Pride Parade.

Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism

Berlin, germany.

Berlin is home to a stark monument that commemorates the thousands of LGBTQ lives lost to Nazism before and during World War II. Since 2008, the memorial has stood among other somber tributes in Tiergarten (the city’s central park), inviting visitors to peer through a window within a giant concrete cube to glimpse a video that showcases a same-sex kiss. In addition to this memorial—and Berlin’s impressive Shwules (Gay) Museum —travelers can visit other monuments that commemorate victims of LGBTQ persecution across Germany. In Cologne, Frankfurt, and Nuremberg—all cities that celebrate Pride annually—similar memorials honor tragedies of the past and remind us that the fight for human equality continues.

This story was originally published in 2019; it was most recently updated with new information on June 3, 2024.

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America & the World: The Legacy of the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair

The World’s Fair of 1904 took place in St. Louis, Missouri. It was both a testament to and a catalyst for the national attention the city commanded during this decade. To celebrate the country’s progress, St. Louis became a showroom for recent innovations in technology, science, art and agriculture, but also featured exhibits that are controversial today. Cover graphic by Ruth Chang for Midstory.

From April to December 1904, visitors toured the St. Louis World’s Fair where sights of whimsy and wonder awaited them. They could stop by a fairy floss machine, gawk at exotic animals or ride a gondola along the lagoon. People far and wide flocked to the fair, where world records, new ideas and recent inventions debuted. 1200 acres of eye candy boasted the nation’s achievements to not only the American public, but foreign dignitaries. Among the visitors were also iconic figures like Helen Keller, Thomas Edison and Theodore Roosevelt.

The fair punctuated the Gilded Age and was the last exposition of its sort before World War I. Held to celebrate the anniversary of the Louisiana Purchase (which included parts of Missouri), it was the largest and most expensive world fair the nation had ever seen. Erected especially for the exposition, 1500 elaborate structures adorned Missouri’s Forest Park, turning it into a carnival, food court, amusement park, mall and museum all at once. In a couple of months, everything would be dismantled, leaving nothing but a fantasy in the minds of its 20 million visitors.

International expositions like this had previously been held in glamorous cities like New York, San Francisco, and Paris, leaving behind relics like the Space Needle and Eiffel Tower. The Columbian Exposition of 1893, however, was held in a fellow Midwestern city, Chicago. Long derided as a dirty industrial center devoid of aesthetic charm , hosting the exposition was an opportunity for Chicago to dress itself up and did wonders for its reputation. 

The St. Louis World’s Fair drew inspiration from the Chicago fair in designing its own extravaganza. At the time, St. Louis was in the top five largest cities in the United States, and hosted not only the Fair but also the Olympic Games in 1904 (an honor Chicago had been vying for). 

Much like the Columbian Exposition, the St. Louis World’s Fair demonstrated the potential of Midwestern cities to reinvent themselves at the turn of the century into places of sophistication, culture and possibility. While the fair represented the country as a whole, it was also a testament to the glory and national relevance of its host city. 

Here are some of the fair’s most memorable showcases:

1. The Ferris Wheel

The first Ferris wheel debuted at the World’s Fair of 1893 in Chicago and was built to rival the Eiffel Tower. It was this same Ferris wheel that was transported to St. Louis to be used for the World’s Fair of 1903. It had 36 cars which could carry 60 passengers each, compared to the more intimate compartments of today’s Ferris wheels. Some passengers held dinner parties in their car while one couple even got married during their ride. In 1906, the original Ferris wheel was demolished, but today its remakes are widely enjoyed at festivals and amusement parks.

2. Electricity

Ushering in a new scientific era, electricity made the fair come alive. It powered fountains, signs and the Ferris Wheel, while electric lighting illuminated and beautified the fairground buildings, reflecting in the lagoon at night. This was one of the first uses of outdoor electric lighting; people at the time were accustomed to gas and oil lamps . Electricity also ran a number of inventions that debuted there, such as the electric typewriter, the plug with wall outlet and the electric dumbwaiter. As one of several “palaces” dedicated to technological advancements, the Palace of Electricity featured exhibits where fair-goers could tinker with these inventions and foreshadowed the role electricity would play in powering the modern world.

3. The Ice Cream Cone

The story goes that Ernest A. Hamwi , a Syrian immigrant, was running a concession stand for a waffle-like pastry at the fair. When the ice cream vendor beside him ran out of cups, Hamwi rolled his waffles to hold scoops of ice cream for customers. Ice cream cone businesses soon cropped up across Missouri. To this day, the ice cream cone is the state’s official dessert. While the invention of the ice cream cone predates 1904, the fair certainly popularized them, alongside American classics like the hot dog, peanut butter, cotton candy, iced tea, Jell-O and Dr. Pepper. 

4. Puffed rice

Unlike the ice cream cone, puffed rice did indeed debut at the fair. Working with Quaker Oats, Dr. Alexander Anderson set up a demonstration in the “Palace of Agriculture” of a technique he had devised to puff grains. He used his cannon-like puffing gun to shoot puffed rice. It showered the audience while assistants bagged it for sale. Today puffed grains are found in Rice Krispies, Cheetos and breakfast cereals like Cheerios. Not too far away were exhibits on food safety (the Pure Food and Drug Act would be passed in 1906). The Palace of Agriculture also featured obscure fruits and pyramids of produce that attested to America’s prosperity.

5. Wireless Telegraphy

At the beginning of the 20th century, wireless telegraphy was quickly gaining traction, allowing messages to be sent across miles without wires. The fair presented a chance for visitors to witness the new technology in action. The DeForest Wireless Telegraphy Company set up seven telegraph stations and one observation tower over the fairgrounds. Visitors could ride to the top of the tower, watch the operator send messages, and even try it out for themselves. Local newspapers received daily updates about the fair’s going-ons from this tower. As popular as the wireless telegraphy exhibit was, crowds also marveled at the radiophone, or wireless telephone, invented by Alexander Graham Bell. Along with the telautograph (an early analog fax machine), these technologies were precursors to devices like the radio and cellphone, which would revolutionize communication.

The fair also put people on display — not only in freak shows but in extensive “ living anthropology ” exhibits. Controversial today, these exhibits were used to promote racist theories and justify American imperialism, particularly in the Philippines. 1200 Filipinos were brought in from abroad for the fair’s largest exhibit, which had been suggested by the U.S. Secretary of War . Newspapers emphasized their savagery and facilitated rumors that the villagers hunted dogs. Native Americans were also on display, including the famous Apache chief, Geronimo. Meanwhile, attractions like “ Mysterious Asia ” catered to American orientalist fantasies.

By no means is this a comprehensive list. The fair also presented medical advancements like the X-ray machine and baby incubator and appliances like the tabletop stove and coffeemaker. New modes of transportation were on display, such as airships and the private automobile.

When the fair was over, leftover buildings prompted city projects: locals protested to keep the aviary, which became the cornerstone of the St. Louis Zoo , while the Palace of Fine Arts became the city’s art museum.

But its legacy left behind more than just physical infrastructure. For the eight months that the fair ran, the city of St. Louis became a site on which America’s pride and grandiose visions were projected — for better and for worse.

At the fair, displays of modernity went hand in hand with monuments to colonialism and imperialism. This played out at home in the city: “St. Louis was a deeply segregated city…This was a fair where those attending were principally white,” Peter Kastor, a professor from Washington University, explained in a podcast for Kansas City NPR .

And true to its name, the World’s Fair had implications on a global scale, as well; it was “a microcosm whose miniaturization not only affirmed the new unity of the globe but also made possible its consumption,” Tom Gunning writes in his article “ The world as object lesson .” It epitomized an increasingly globalized world; a ticket to the fair came with trips to foreign lands and tours of innovations that were closing distances between people. In the following decade, World War I and America’s imperial ventures would make the world beyond the nation’s borders increasingly relevant.

In 1904, St. Louis was a temporary host for the future of America — but what future, and for whom? In showing off the nation, international expositions filtered and shaped the idea of America, using curation to make judgments on what was worth flaunting. Exhibitions elevated the image of the nation but also evoked a sense of hierarchy: in promoting the “progressive,” they sometimes made spectacles out of the “backwards.” As much as our lives are better for the inventions showcased that year in St. Louis, those 20 million visitors saw a future not as it was destined to be, but as curators desired it to be.

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How to Get the Best Car Insurance

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For a lot of people, buying car insurance is like buying sliced bread. It’s not the most exciting purchase, and the options all seem similar. So thrifty shoppers might simply reach for the cheapest thing on the shelf. But like cheap bread, cheap car insurance may leave you wishing you spent a little more on quality.

“The cheapest is not always the best,” warns Jessica McNally, an agency owner with Goosehead Insurance in Dallas. That’s because there are lots of factors that make up a car insurance company. And while price is one of them, it’s best to look at the bigger picture.

Here’s what to look for when picking the best car insurance company.

1. Choose a financially stable company

The best car insurance companies have plenty of money on hand to pay for customers’ claims. It’s important to check an insurer’s financial stability before buying a policy, especially if it’s a smaller insurer you’ve never heard of.

There are several independent agencies that evaluate the financial strength of insurance companies. One example is A.M. Best. You can use its online search tool to find an insurer’s financial strength rating. Companies with a rating of A or higher are considered to have an excellent ability to pay out customer claims.

2. Check customer satisfaction ratings and reviews

Not every insurer is customer-first. That’s why it’s important to research the customer satisfaction of insurers you’re considering.

You can turn to surveys from companies like J.D. Power to find insurers with the best customer satisfaction scores [0] J.D. Power . Auto Insurance Customer Satisfaction Plummets as Rates Continue to Surge, J.D. Power Finds . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources . Or, if you don’t mind doing a little detective work, you can compare customer complaints against insurers by using the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ website . But take other people’s emotionally charged comments about companies or agents you might read online with a grain of salt, McNally advises.

3. Look for convenience

A great auto insurer should offer multiple ways to manage a policy. For example, some insurers allow customers to use a mobile app to file and track claims. But it’s hard to tell how simple it’ll be to file a claim or perform other essential tasks, like paying your premium, before becoming a customer.

Some telltale signs that an insurer will be easy to work with are high mobile app ratings, flexible customer service hours and an easy-to-use website with helpful content. Consider asking a company representative to walk you through the claims process to learn what you’ll need to do if you have to file a claim. And pay attention to how the company communicates with you. "If they don't properly communicate, well, that's a warning sign," says Michael DeLong, a research and advocacy associate for the nonprofit Consumer Federation of America.

4. Pick an affordable company

Car insurance premiums are stretching to record-breaking heights [0] U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS . Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources , and almost half of U.S. consumers shopped for a new car insurance policy in the past year, according to an April 2024 report by J.D. Power [0] J.D. Power . Half of Auto Insurance Customers Currently Shopping for New Policies, J.D. Power Finds . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources . The best car insurance companies offer competitive rates and a variety of potential discounts.

It’s not hard to get car insurance quotes online from many companies. Make sure you compare the same coverage options throughout the quote-gathering process. And don’t forget to look for car insurance discounts, like breaks for being a good driver, paying your premium in full or driving a new car.

More tips to find the best car insurance

When shopping for the best car insurance, keep the following tips in mind.

Assess your needs. Before buying car insurance, take a moment to reflect on what’s important to you and your family. For example, maybe you prioritize affordability and a well-polished mobile app, but don’t need accident forgiveness .  

Consider small insurers. There are lots of small insurance companies you’ve probably never heard of. These regional insurers may provide lower rates and better customer service than the big companies you see advertised on TV.

Work with an independent agent. While it may be easy to get quotes yourself, independent car insurance agents and brokers can streamline the process. These experts vet companies and compile quotes from small and large insurers on your behalf. Independent agents and brokers can especially come in handy if you have a less-than-perfect driving record and can’t find insurance on your own.

Do your research. Search online for recent mentions of a company in the news before buying a policy, recommends DeLong. If you find a company has lots of recent lawsuits against it, you may want to think twice about signing on the dotted line. “And if they've had to pay out settlements, that's an even bigger red flag,” DeLong says.

Shop around once a year. Make a practice of shopping for car insurance every year — especially if price is important to you. Insurers adjust car insurance rates regularly, so what might have been the most affordable option last year may no longer be a bargain.

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