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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.

• 25 Things To Do in St. Louis
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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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St. Louis   Travel Guide

23 Best Things To Do in St. Louis

Updated Sep. 7, 2022

With its cache of vibrant museums, gardens and parks, you'll find plenty of reasons to meet in St. Louis. Families will enjoy visiting the  Saint Louis Zoo , The Magic House and the Saint Louis Science Center . Meanwhile, artsy types can't pass

• All Things To Do

Gateway Arch National Park Gateway Arch National Park free

This national park and its famous arch are dedicated to the country's westward expansion. The stainless steel Gateway Arch – an engineering marvel – was designed and submitted by Eero Saarinen during a national competition in the mid-1940s. It rises 630 feet into the air and spans 630 feet from leg to leg. Visitors can learn more about the arch's construction, Colonial St. Louis, the Lewis and Clark Expedition and more at the Museum at the Gateway Arch, which is located beneath the arch and houses six galleries.

For those who want to head to the top of the Gateway Arch (63 stories high), a tram ticket is required. From the indoor observation deck at the top of the arch, you can see as far as 30 miles on a clear day. Keep in mind: The tram is not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers, and there are no restrooms at the top of the Gateway Arch. If you're riding the tram to the top, you'll have to go through an airport-style security line, so budget an additional 30 minutes to successfully get through security before boarding your tram. In addition to the tram, there's also an hourlong riverboat cruise along the Mississippi River from March to November. Cruises are narrated by the boat's captain or a National Park Service ranger and spotlight the importance of the Mississippi River and the riverfront's role in the St. Louis economy.

St. Louis' Forest Park St. Louis' Forest Park free

Forest Park opened in 1876 and played host to the 1904 World's Fair. The park is huge. In fact, it's larger than New York City 's sprawling Central Park . As such, this "forest" holds nearly 1,300 acres of things to do. You'll find everything from the Saint Louis Zoo to the Saint Louis Art Museum , the Saint Louis Science Center (all three free to visit), a golf course and the list goes on. You can also jog its trails, boat its waterways and swing your racket on its tennis courts, among other activities. Just glance at this map ; most visitors see only a fraction of the park's offerings.

Overall, past travelers enjoyed visiting this park, citing its beautiful grounds and ample facilities as highlights. Most were thrilled that many of the museums were free. However, some cautioned that parking fills up fast here, so some advised taking the MetroLink and enjoying a pleasant walk instead of congested parking lots, especially in the summer and over weekends.

Missouri Botanical Garden Missouri Botanical Garden

Spread across 79 acres and home to more than 4,800 trees, the Missouri Botanical Garden delights visitors with displays like the Chinese Garden, the English Woodland Garden and the 14-acre Japanese Garden – one of the largest in North America. It also honors Dr. George Washington Carver with a garden in his name. Carver, an African American and Missouri native, was considered a pioneer in 19th and 20th century science, agriculture and education. Among the garden's viburnums, hydrangeas and holly trees is a life-size bronze sculpture of Carver.

The new visitor center, which opened in August 2022, offers an indoor conservatory featuring Mediterranean plants, along with a dining and shopping area. One of the more unique things about the Missouri Botanical Garden is its ability to appeal to kids. The seasonal Doris I. Schnuck Children's Garden features a limestone cave (to explore), the Spelunker's Slide (to hurtle down), a treehouse (to climb) and a steamboat (to board), among other attractions. The children's garden is open from April to October.

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Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis free

With nearly 42 million glass tesserae pieces covering the interior walls in the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, it enjoys worldwide recognition for its mosaics collection. The collection depicts scenes of the Bible, along with the Catholic heritage of St. Louis. Originally started in 1907, the Roman Catholic cathedral exemplifies a blend of the Byzantine Revival and Romanesque Revival architectural styles.

The cathedral's massive mosaics collection is why most previous travelers recommend visiting, even if you're not religious. Other visitors gushed about the cathedral's architecture and stunning interior, comparing it to many of the grand churches in Europe. Several recent visitors said a stop at the cathedral was a highlight of their trip to St. Louis.

City Museum City Museum

Downtown's City Museum is hard to describe, so maybe we should use its own words: "a mixture of children’s playground, funhouse, surrealistic pavilion, and architectural marvel made out of found and repurposed objects." Spread across 10 stories and 600,000 square feet, the museum is constantly changing, so there is no official map. There are a variety of exhibitions and attractions, including several slides, caves, mazes and chutes.

According to recent visitors, City Museum appeals to older children and young adults. In fact, parents of younger kids cautioned that City Museum is chaotic for children since they could easily get lost among the many mazes. Most thought the concept was cool and interesting, though several reviewers commented that it can get warm inside the building during the summer.

Saint Louis Zoo Saint Louis Zoo free

Lions, tigers and bears, oh my! The Saint Louis Zoo got its start as the 1904 World's Fair Flight Cage, and today, it is the one of the few free zoos in the U.S. Housing more than 14,000 animals across 90 acres within Forest Park , the zoo features six different zones, including the "Rivers Edge" with elephants and hippos, and "The Wild," which houses bears and primates. To get a sense for how far the zoo has come since its debut at the World's Fair, head over to the "Historic Hill" zone to view the original Flight Cage, as well as the Primate House, which dates back to 1925, and the Charles H. Hoessle Herpetarium, which was originally constructed in 1927. Though general admission to the zoo is free, some areas and activities, such as the train, the carousel and the stingray touch tank, require extra fees.

The wide assortment of animals isn't the only reason why past visitors praised this St. Louis attraction. Many recent travelers raved about the free admission, as well as the large, natural enclosures created for the animals. Since it is a free attraction, some reviewers advised arriving early in the day to avoid the midday crowds.

Grant's Farm Grant's Farm free

Grant's Farm was built by Civil War Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, who settled on the land in 1855 to farm and raise cattle. In 1903, August A. Busch Sr. bought the land, and ever since it has belonged to the Busch family. Situated across the street from the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site , Grant's Farm now sprawls across 280 acres and houses more than 900 animals. The property is so large, a tram takes visitors from the parking lot to all the attractions within Grant's Farm. The property also features a carousel and stables that house some of Budweiser's famous Clydesdale horses. Visitors who are 21 years or older can also enjoy complimentary samples of Anheuser-Busch beer. During the summer, special events like live music and evening fireworks are frequent on the weekends. If you're interested in seeing more of the property, consider signing up for the two-hour behind-the-scenes tour, which includes access to the exterior of the Busch family estate, as well as Grant's Cabin.

Recent travelers raved about seeing the Clydesdales (and the free beer). Other visitors recommended arriving early since attractions can close later in the day. Some guests said this attraction is well worth a visit despite its fees for special activities.

Saint Louis Art Museum Saint Louis Art Museum free

Whether you enjoy art or happen upon it while exploring Forest Park , the Saint Louis Art Museum, or the SLAM, offers art from five millennia and six continents. Founded in 1879, it is home to more than 34,000 works of art originating from Europe, Asia, Africa and ancient Egypt. You'll find works from Matisse, Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe and Paul Cézanne, along with sculptures, photographs, textiles and more. One highlight is the museum's spotlight on African and African American art, which includes more than 300 works by artists of African descent.

Former visitors loved perusing the Saint Louis Art Museum's collections. Past travelers also appreciated the museum's complimentary admission and close proximity to the zoo . A few travelers made of a day of their visit, enjoying lunch and shopping in the museum store.

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Busch Stadium Busch Stadium

Major League Baseball's St. Louis Cardinals are much beloved by their hometown. A visit to Busch Stadium will prove that, as you see the 46,000-seat ballpark bathed in swaths of red-shirted fans. Even if you miss a game day, you can still explore the stadium. Busch Stadium offers hourlong tours that include stops at the UMB Bank Champions Club, the Redbird Club and the broadcast booth. After the tour, visit the Cardinals Hall of Fame and the Museum at Cardinals Nation (access is included in the tour ticket). If you're visiting on a game day, the Budweiser Terrace and the Family Pavilion, which features a multilevel play structure, are hubs of activity.

Past visitors were impressed with the kindness of the park employees, from the front gate to the people working at the food outlets. For baseball fans, this is a bucket-list ballpark experience thanks to the memorable atmosphere and variety of amenities. Several recent visitors commented on the amount of food options in the park, or even close by.

Saint Louis Science Center Saint Louis Science Center free

Just south of Forest Park 's Oakland Avenue border lies the Saint Louis Science Center. This free museum features more than 700 hands-on exhibits about animals, space, weather and skyscrapers, among other topics. Favorite exhibits include the James S. McDonnell Planetarium, the OMNIMAX Theater, a flight simulator and the GROW pavilion, dedicated to agriculture. Kids will love (or scream at) the life-size T. rex.

According to past visitors, the Saint Louis Science Center offers ample ways to keep kids of all ages entertained. Families, in particular, loved the free admission. However, some adult museumgoers lamented the crowded atmosphere, particularly on Saturdays and school breaks. Meanwhile, others wished there were more exhibits that interested adults. The lack of free parking also seemed to annoy some recent visitors.

The Magic House, St. Louis Children's Museum The Magic House, St. Louis Children's Museum

If you're traveling with little ones, save time for a visit to The Magic House. This children's museum in Kirkwood, a southwest suburb of St. Louis, offers a variety of interactive exhibits for younger kids to enjoy, including a miniature construction zone, a bubble room and a "Jack and the Beanstalk"-inspired climbing structure. On sunny days, your children can also run around the Outdoor Play Garden, which features a circular stream, hopscotch courts, a garden kaleidoscope and more.

Families rave about The Magic House, citing its exhibits as more educational than those found at other children's museums around the country. Visitors also praise the property's attentive staff, though some caution that the facility can get crowded, especially during holiday breaks and when school groups are on-site. Some parents say the St. Louis Children's Museum is best suited for kids ages 3 to 7.

Missouri History Museum Missouri History Museum free

Located in Forest Park , the building that now houses the Missouri History Museum was originally constructed as the first national monument dedicated to Thomas Jefferson. Now honoring state history, the museum features exhibits on everything from the 1904 World's Fair to the civil rights movement to baseball. There's even a space for kids: History Clubhouse sprawls across nearly 6,000 square feet and features a variety of hands-on exhibits. The Missouri History Museum also hosts several temporary exhibits that cover arts, culture and current issues of Missourians. For a more in-depth history lesson, consider signing up for one of the Missouri Historical Society's guided tours, which cover everything from LGBTQIA+ history in St. Louis to The Ville, a historically Black neighborhood home to a variety of prominent figures in the music, sports and education industries.    

Recent visitors appreciated the museum's free admission and complimented the friendly staff. Some recent visitors thought the museum's exhibits appeared a bit worn, but most agreed it's a great way to spend a few hours. Families enjoyed their time, saying they liked the special areas that cater to kids. 

National Museum of Transportation National Museum of Transportation

According to the Smithsonian, the National Museum of Transportation has "one of the largest and best collections of transportation vehicles in the world." With 190 rail and transportation exhibits, this is the place for train enthusiasts. Highlights of the collection include the Boston Providence Railroad "Daniel Nason," one of the oldest steam locomotives in the U.S., the "Big Boy" #4006 Union Pacific Steam Locomotive – one of the world's largest steam locomotives – and the U.S. Army Air Force Douglas Aircraft C-47A "Gooney Bird," which is believed to have been used in the U.S. invasion of Normandy in 1944. In addition to the displays, there are also gardens, a miniature train, a trolley and an interactive transportation-themed play and educational area designed for children ages 5 and younger.

According to recent visitors, the National Museum of Transportation appeals to both young and old. Some reviewers enjoyed the history lesson that the museum provided, while others (particularly families) gravitated to the hands-on activities and the tram and train rides. 

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St. Louis Union Station St. Louis Union Station free

The first train rolled into Union Station in 1894 and the last one rolled out in 1978. Too beautiful to demolish, the National Historic Landmark was developed into a mixed-use complex and reopened in 1985. Today's visitors can admire the opulent Grand Hall, which features original terrazzo floor, green glazed terracotta bricks, stained-glass windows and wooden carpentry detailing, or enjoy the many restaurants and shops that call the station home. You can even spend the night at the adjoining St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton .

Just outside the station, the St. Louis Wheel, an illuminated 200-foot tall observation wheel, provides some of the best views of St. Louis during its 15-minute rotations. Other attractions include the St. Louis Aquarium, a ropes course, a carousel and mini golf, among others. You also won't want to miss the daily light show in the Grand Hall.

Anheuser-Busch Brewery Anheuser-Busch Brewery free

As the headquarters and flagship brewing facility for Anheuser-Busch, this is a must-visit for beer drinkers. You can stop by the beer garden to enjoy a pint or two with a side of pub fare from the on-site eatery, or you can sign up for a tour to see more of the complex. Experiences range from the Day Fresh Tour, which takes visitors through the brewing process and includes a visit to the Clydesdale stables, to the Beermaster Tour, which invites participants to sample beer right from the finishing tank and include stops at the packaging facility and Old Lyon Schoolhouse Museum.

Most visitors praised the impressive facilities and the beautiful grounds. The Clydesdales were definitely a hit among recent visitors, while others were pleased with the knowledgeable tour guides. Summer travelers advised timing your visit early or late in the day to avoid the mid-day heat since part of the tours take place outside.

Citygarden Sculpture Park Citygarden Sculpture Park free

Explore a nearly 3-arce art oasis in downtown St. Louis at Citygarden Sculpture Park. As visitors peruse the space, they will find 24 sculptures, a children's spray and splash area, six rain gardens and a 180-foot-long pool with a waterfall. If the weather is warm, find everyone from locals on a lunch break to visitors enjoying the free art installation.

Recent visitors loved the space and found their time in the park well spent. Gateway Arch visitors meandered to Citygarden as they admired the architecture of downtown St. Louis. Several reviewers commented on the excellent photo-ops.

Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site free

This nearly 10-acre site is dedicated to the U.S. Civil War general and two-term U.S. president, Ulysses S. Grant, who lived here with his wife, family and enslaved workers in the 1850s. A large portion of the original 850-acre estate was sold off to the Busch family and now operates as Grant's Farm . The National Park Service maintains five historic buildings, including the White Haven home, a horse stable, an ice house, a chicken coop and a summer kitchen, where the property's enslaved workers once cooked and did laundry. While exploring the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site, visitors should walk through the museum, located in the restored horse stables. The visitor center (a separate building) offers an interpretive film. Park rangers also offer free, 30- to 45-minute walking tours of the property, which include the interior of the White Haven home. 

Reviewers said the ranger tours were engaging and informative, and encouraged future visitors to join one, especially since tagging along on a guided tour is the only way to see the interior of the house. Several travelers mentioned that the site was small, but well-kept. Most said their time at the historic site was well-spent, and recommended watching the film in the visitor center, as it does a good job of not sugarcoating some of the more controversial aspects of Grant's life. Meanwhile, families appreciated the free admission. 

Campbell House Museum Campbell House Museum

Architecture and history lovers will want to pay a visit to the opulent Campbell House Museum, which offers a look at what life was like for wealthy tastemakers in 19th-century St. Louis. Owned by fur trader and entrepreneur Robert Campbell, the 19th-century home served as the Campbell family's main residence until 1938, and it was the center of St. Louis society for many years. The house was restored to its 1880s appearance (with the help of photos of the house from that era) and includes much of the original furniture and art, along with personal effects from the Campbell family.

After touring the house, recent visitors were blown away by the historic restoration of the house, including the opulent Victorian interiors. Several travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guide, who enthusiastically shared the house's history. One visitor commented that they planned to return since there was so much to see inside the home.

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Six Flags St. Louis Six Flags St. Louis

If screaming your head off on a roller coaster sounds like your ideal vacation, then Six Flags St. Louis is for you. Home to 10 roller coasters, including three wooden ones, and dozens of rides and attractions, the park is a hit with thrill-seekers and families alike. There are also a handful of tame rides perfect for young children. What's more, Six Flags hosts "Looney Tunes" character meet-and-greets throughout the day and live entertainment (great for when you need a break from the rides). What's more, summer visitors can beat the heat at Hurricane Harbor, which offers a range of water rides, from a lazy river to a wave pool to slides. Across both parks (Six Flags and Hurricane Harbor), there are more than a dozen dining options.

Recent visitors provided mixed reviews for Six Flags St. Louis. Most were pleased with the short lines and variety of rides, noting that the park's manageable size is particularly suitable for little ones. However, a few travelers were disappointed with state of the water park and the unfriendly staff members.

Missouri Civil War Museum Missouri Civil War Museum

Housed in the restored Jefferson Barracks 1905 Post Exchange Building, the Missouri Civil War Museum is the oldest active military installation west of the Mississippi River. Within the 22,000-square-foot facility, visitors will find more than 1,000 artifacts, including weapons, equipment, items and uniforms that serve to tell the story of Missouri's role in the Civil War. There's also a theater on-site.

Recent visitors recommend starting your experience with the film in the theater, which they say sets the tone for the self-guided tour. Reviewers say the museum is small, but well-done. Many also said you'll leave with a greater appreciation for Missouri's role in the Civil War.

National Blues Museum National Blues Museum

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Missouri (MO) » 15 Best Day Trips from St Louis

15 Best Day Trips from St Louis

A port city built along the bustling banks of the Mississippi river, St Louis was founded in 1764. It was named for Louis IX of France, as the first European settlers there were French fur traders.

There’s a substantial depth of history in St Louis, both from the early European settlers and the natives who came before, making it a fascinating spot for a trip.

Once you’ve seen the famous Gateway Arch, browsed the city’s many museums, and explored its brilliant botanical garden, it’s time to widen your gaze to the area beyond.

Here are the best day trips to be taken from St Louis :

1. Springfield, Illinois

The state capital of Illinois is easily reachable within the day from St Louis, and is a great option for a change of scene if you still want the city life.

A mere 90-minute drive and you’ll find yourself in a thriving city, whose attractions are centred on the most famous ex-resident: Abraham Lincoln.

The best of these is the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library, which has lots of interesting exhibitions and provides a chance to interact with the history of the period.

Aside from Lincoln, there’s more history to be had: Springfield also hosts the pretty Old State Capitol building.

2. Hannibal

Hannibal is on many St Louis lists because of its main claim to fame: it was the boyhood home of author Mark Twain.

This riverside town provided the inspiration for such classics as Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer – and therefore makes a great educational day trip.

In Hannibal you’ll have the chance to visit the novelist’s childhood home, as well as browsing the extensive museum dedicated to the author and his works.

And why not take a trip down the Mississippi river and relive the adventures of Huck himself?

3. Meramec Caverns

One of the most intriguing natural wonders around St Louis, the Meramec caverns are more than deserving of a mention on the list of best day trips.

Missouri is, after all, known as the cave state – and these caverns are far and away some of the best on offer.

Not only are they a stunning example of nature’s work, they are also the oldest attraction along Route 66, and have some interesting historical claims to fame.

Jesse James was rumoured to have used the caves as a hideout, and before that they are thought to have been used as shelter by Native Americans.

A highlight of the state’s wine country, Hermann is mainly known for its interesting German heritage – evidenced in the very German-sounding wineries like Hermannhof.

It was established in 1837 by – you guessed it – Germans, who had previously come from Philadelphia.

Located along the Missouri River, it’s a lovely place to spend some time enjoying your surroundings with a delicious glass of local wine, or perhaps taking a tour of one of the wineries.

There’s also often live music hosted on the outdoor terraces of the wineries, and if that’s not enough entertainment, you can always browse around the local shops.

5. The Katy trail

This beautiful cycling and walking track stretches for over 200 miles throughout the state, more or less following the path of the Missouri River.

Cycling the trail is a great option if you feel like getting out into nature and leaving the car behind for a while.

It’s a relatively easy ride due to its fairly flat terrain, and if you get tired there are plenty of options for a quick bite to eat along the way, as well as places to shop for souvenirs of your adventure.

The trail can be started from several different points, but Defiance and Augusta are the most likely options from St Louis.

6. Johnson’s Shut-Ins

An intriguing natural attraction in the surrounds of St Louis is Johnson’s Shut-Ins.

A park created by volcanic activity long ago, the river’s flow has created pools, rapids and waterfalls that make for fun exploration.

There are hiking trails alongside, or in the summer you might simply sit around by one of the crystalline swimming spots and take a dip.

There are plenty of picnic spots to make this a great family day out, and there’s an excellent visitors’ centre to make your trip that bit easier.

7. Road Trip Along the Great River Road

Often mentioned on lists of best road trips in the area, the Great River Road is surely one of the most aesthetically pleasing ways to spend your day away from St Louis.

Hugging the western border with Illinois, the road runs alongside the Mississippi River and provides some beautiful views out across the water.

There are also some excellent spots to stop at along the way, such as the town of Alton for some great, cheap eats, or the Pere Marquette State park for a chance to stretch your legs and perhaps spot some birds.

8. Shaw Nature Reserve

Located just 30 minutes outside of the city, nature abounds in Shaw Nature Reserve.

Over fourteen miles of trails you can experience a variety of different landscapes, from meadows to forests, as well as plenty of different fauna.

If walking isn’t your thing you can always take a ride on the Wilderness Wagon instead – or simply pack a picnic and find a nice spot in which to sit.

There are three different picnic areas in the park, plus a lovely outdoor classroom for the kids, with plenty of toys and equipment to keep them entertained.

9. Columbia

The home of the main campus of the University of Missouri, Columbia makes for a really fun day trip option.

Its downtown area has all the usual suspects of a student city: great restaurants, buzzing bars, and excellent shopping opportunities.

There are also quite a few good museums available in the town, two good examples of which include the George Caleb Bingham art gallery which hosts contemporary exhibitions, and the Museum of Art and Archaeology which covers a broader range of time periods.

10. Six Flags Theme Park, Eureka

It might not be the most cultural destination outside of St Louis, but sometimes all you need on your trip is a guilt-free day riding the roller coasters.

Six Flags is a chain with branches all over the US, so you’re guaranteed to have a very happy family at the end of a day here.

There are plenty of food options at the park, plus entertainment beyond the rides in the form of staff decked out as characters from Looney Tunes.

If you’re feeling the heat, you can also head into the on-site waterpark – the price of which is included in your ticket – for a fun splash around.

11. Diving in Bonne Terre Mine

The largest freshwater dive site in the USA is located just south of St Louis along Highway 67. French for ‘good earth’, the site used to be a functioning mine before being flooded.

It’s a fascinating underwater adventure, and divers can see the mine just as it was left: ore carts, picks, and locomotives all lying just as they were in 1961 when it was abandoned.

If you don’t dive, it’s still possible to experience the site above water, by taking a narrated tour around the underground rooms of the mines.

A boat ride is another option.

12. Ste. Genevieve

A gorgeous French-colonial town, Ste. Genevieve was actually the first permanent location for European settlers in Missouri.

Its French influence is much in evidence in the architecture around town, which makes wandering round the town more than pleasant.

Named after the patron saint of Paris, Ste. Genevieve has lots of entertaining diversions: you can take a tour of some of the historic houses, or visit a very French winery.

All in all, a trip to Ste. Genevieve feels like you’ve travelled back in time, rather than just an hour south of St Louis.

13. St. Charles

The historic charm of St. Charles, located around half an hour from St Louis, is hard to resist.

Make sure to visit its most important monument, the First State Capitol from 1821, of which you can take a tour.

The Capitol has been restored and decked out in the furnishings of the period, so it makes for a great interactive history lesson.

Then, of course, St. Charles is fully equipped with an excellent selection of restaurants, especially around Main Street, for after you’ve finished taking in the cultural sights.

14. Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Though a fair way from St Louis, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways are nonetheless worth a visit if you’ve exhausted the closer options.

This was the first national park area to protect a river system, and it’s easy to see why it was designated a protected area in 1964. There are two particularly famous rivers – the Jacks Fork River and Current River – which were the initial reason for the creation of the national park, but there are also heaps of other swimming spots, hikes, and historic sites in the area.

15. Washington

What better place to head on a day trip from St Louis than the town known for being the gateway to wine country? Washington sits on the Missouri River’s south bank, and aside from having more wineries nearby than you could possibly handle, it’s got great eating options, shopping, and even a historical society museum.

If you’re visiting in August, the options get even better: the annual Washington Town and Country Fair is a spectacular event for the whole family.

15 Best Day Trips from St Louis:

• Springfield, Illinois
• Meramec Caverns
• The Katy trail
• Johnson’s Shut-Ins
• Road Trip Along the Great River Road
• Shaw Nature Reserve
• Six Flags Theme Park, Eureka
• Diving in Bonne Terre Mine
• Ste. Genevieve
• St. Charles
• Ozark National Scenic Riverways

11 fun things to do in St Louis, Missouri

Dec 4, 2021 • 8 min read

The 'concrete' from Ted Drewes is a St Louis bucket list item © Shutterstock / RozenskiP

Settled on the western bank of the mighty Mississippi River, St. Louis has long been a destination for curious travelers. 

The Native American Mississippian culture flourished in this area until the 15th century, constructing dozens of elaborate earthwork mounds and a city that rivaled the population of London. Founded by French fur traders in 1764, St. Louis soon passed into Spanish hands as war spoils before returning to France again and then being signed over to the United States. St. Louis was the starting point of the 1804 Lewis and Clark expedition to figure out exactly what had been bought as part of the Louisiana Purchase.

Even though the city has impressive historic credentials, St. Louis is hardly stuck in the past. Just as the lively river courses past the city, St. Louis is always on the move, while maintaining a classic no-fuss Midwestern personality. 

Here are the must-include things to do on your trip to St. Louis .

Ride to the top of the Gateway Arch

A symbol of St. Louis and white western migration, the 630ft-high Gateway Arch , more than double the height of the Statue of Liberty, promotes the city’s historic role as the “Gateway to the West.” Small trams that feel like 1960s space capsules straight out of The Jetsons take just four minutes to trundle to the top of the arch, releasing passengers into a narrow viewing area with windows that provide unbeatable views over the city. Back at ground level, the free-to-visit Museum at the Gateway Arch has interactive exhibits that detail the history of St. Louis and the architectural and engineering feats required for the arch’s construction.

Fly down a 10-story slide at City Museum

Don’t you dare let the dull name put you off: City Museum might be the most fun you’ll have in St. Louis. Part playground, part architectural salvage, part art installation, this fun house is a wild ride – literally. Seven- and 10-story slides cascade down through the industrial building, a century-old former warehouse for the International Shoe Company, and relics from demolished buildings are portals to other floors (and maybe even other worlds). Don’t miss the school bus and Ferris wheel perched on the rooftop – the extra excitement is worth the additional fee.

Find your space in Forest Park

Clocking in at 1371 acres – almost 45% larger than Central Park in New York City – Forest Park is the green heart of St. Louis. The park has plenty to keep sporty types occupied, from tennis courts and a golf course to a boathouse and wintertime ice rink, but history buffs and culture vultures will love it too. The park was the venue for the 1904 World’s Fair and Summer Olympics, and today it has an impressive host of top-notch and surprisingly free-to-visit museums, including the Missouri History Museum and the St. Louis Art Museum plus the St. Louis Zoo , that are worth an afternoon at an absolute minimum.

Tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery…

Say what you will about Budweiser, but the lager remains one of the best-selling beers in the US. The Anheuser-Busch Brewery , a huge red-brick brewery complex, was opened by German immigrants in the 1850s, and the public has been allowed to gawk at the ornate interiors and production line for more than 130 years. Visits are free, as are the samples at the tour’s end.

...but drink up St. Louis’ excellent craft beer scene

While St. Louis might be better known for its mega beer brands, the city’s craft brewery scene is one of the finest in the Midwest. The juicy Rockmelon Cantaloupe IPA from 4 Hands Brewing Co – an easy e-scooter ride down the street from Anheuser-Busch – won our hearts immediately, as did the laid-back atmosphere at 2nd Shift Brewing and the out-of-this-world flavors at Earthbound Beer (Chicken and Waffles Blonde! Thai Basil IPA!). If you have wheels, head to the western suburb of Maplewood for Side Project Brewing , which in 2019 was named the second best brewer in the entire world by RateBeer . Their experimental barrel-aged beers include spontaneously fermented wild ales and fruity saisons.

Admire the architecture of Union Station

You might not be able to catch a train at Union Station anymore (though you still can from the slightly depressing Gateway Transportation Center about half a mile away), this grand structure, opened in 1894, is worth a visit. The Grand Hall, now a hotel bar, is a perfect vantage point for admiring the train station’s Roman Revival architecture, including original terrazzo flooring, gold-leaf detailing and a Tiffany glass window in which women in brightly colored dresses depict the cities of San Francisco and New York, with St. Louis in the middle linking them together. The expansive 65-foot barrel-vaulted ceiling is best appreciated during an evening 3D light show, where soaring birds, dancing flowers and exploding fireworks are projected every hour from 5pm to 10pm.

Sample St. Louis’s favorite foods

St. Louis’s foodie specialties reflect the diversity of the immigrants and newcomers who have called this city home over the centuries. The Hill is a long-standing Italian-American neighborhood with a delectable selection of delis and restaurants, and it’s the best place to try toasted ravioli, breaded and deep-fried pockets of meat. Sample them at the source at Charlie Gitto's , where they were “invented” in 1947 when a chef accidentally dropped a ravioli in hot oil instead of water.

For even more of a carb overload, try St. Louis–style pizza: the super thin-crust is cut into squares and topped with your standard pick of meats and vegetables and then covered in buttery-textured Provel, a custom combination of cheddar, Swiss and provolone cheeses that you won’t find far outside the city’s boundaries. Local chain Imo’s has been serving Provel pizzas since the 1960s, and with more than 70 outlets across the St. Louis metro area, it clearly has a strong local following.

Sweet tooths should save room for a "concrete" from Ted Drewes , where cups of thick frozen custard are mixed with chocolate, fruit, nuts, hot fudge and caramel sauce. The location on Chippewa Street, opened in 1941, served generations of travelers along this historic branch of Route 66.

Marvel at the mosaics at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis

With two lofty spires, a grand dome and a huge rosette window, the imposing Romanesque-style Cathedral Basilica wouldn’t look out of place in Europe. Though construction was completed on the cathedral in 1914, work on the famous mosaics continued until 1988. Nearly 42 million glass mosaic pieces in 7000 colors cover the walls and ceilings throughout this huge building, and it’s the largest collection of mosaic art in the western hemisphere. The mosaic museum on the cathedral’s lower level goes into detail about their design and installation, and guided tours are offered on weekdays.

Cheer on St. Louis’s sports teams

The love of sports of all sorts runs deep in St. Louis, which has been named one of the best sports cities in the country . Catch a St. Louis Cardinals baseball game at Busch Stadium – the team has won the World Series 11 times, second only to the New York Yankees. The St. Louis Blues hockey team won the Stanley Cup in 2019 and makes frequent appearances in the Stanley Cup playoffs. After years of proposals, the city will soon get its first Major League Soccer team, St. Louis City SC, which is expected to have its first season in 2023 in a brand new purpose-built stadium. St. Louis also has a handful of minor league teams and college teams, so sports fans are never long without a game.

Listen to live jazz at Venice Cafe

Covered in glittering mirrors, colorful mosaics and quirky bric-a-brac – think repurposed ashtrays, boat hulls and taxidermy – Venice Cafe is where art and music meet up for a great night out. Many legendary names in music, including Scott Joplin, Chuck Berry and Miles Davis, got their start in St. Louis, and this bar doesn’t miss a beat, with live blues, rock and jazz almost every night of the week. The cash-only bar serves cocktails, beer and wine, and there’s also a menu of Caribbean dishes.

Get to know the region’s earlier residents at Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

One of the most intriguing archaeological sites in the Midwest, Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site was once a sprawling Native American city from 800 to 1400 AD with its population of tens of thousands on par with London, England, at the time. Today the quiet, grass-covered remains of this sophisticated prehistoric civilization cover 2200 acres, and the Unesco World Heritage-listed site preserves 70 of the original 120 earthen mounds, which were used as building foundations and for burials. 

A reconstructed astronomical observatory made of wooden posts arranged in a circle, nicknamed Woodhenge, aligned with the movements of the sun to indicate the changing seasons throughout the year. Climb the stairs to the top of Monks Mound, the largest indigenous earthwork in the Americas, which is nearly 100 feet tall. From here, on a clear day, you can see the Gateway Arch and St. Louis’s skyline. 

You’ll need a car or ride-hailing app such as Uber or Lyft to get to Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site. The site is about a 20-minute drive east of downtown St. Louis, on the Illinois side of the Mississippi River.

You might also like: Where to find the USA's 12 newest national parks Museums and more in Missouri: art, history and culture in St Louis and beyond Secret St Louis: 9 off-the-beaten-track sights in the Gateway City

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St. Louis Bucket List: 18 Fun Things to Do in Missouri’s STL

From the iconic Gateway Arch to the Miniature Museum to a cafe where your drinks are served with Barbie heads hanging from above, St. Louis certainly has a lot to offer in the things-to-do department. This major Missouri city is nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River and has a blend of big-city life infused with old traditions. Its vibrant nightlife even tempted me to stay up past my bedtime, the food scene is booming, and if you are a museum traveler, there are plenty to choose from (plus, many of them are absolutely free!). What is going to be on your St. Louis bucket list?

1. ✦ Ride the 10-Story Spiral Slide at City Museum

I like any place with a bus hanging off the exterior of the rooftop and a big plane in the background (especially when you can climb all over it!). Located in downtown, City Museum invites you to view and appreciate the relics of the past that have been redesigned and repurposed. 

The century-old warehouse contains a collection of repurposed architectural and industrial objects which are not only educational but extremely fun as well. You will find unexpected and quirky bridges, tunnels and things to climb, but the best part is gliding down the 10-story spiral slide! It’s quite a walk to the top of the spiral staircase, but you’ll get a thrilling ride all the way down!

2. ✦ Get a Famous Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

My mouth is watering just writing the title of this thing to do in St. Louis! Is there anything better than a perfect frozen treat? Well, take one bite of Ted Drewes Frozen Custard and you will find yourself at the crossroads. Ted Drewes is a family-owned company in St. Louis whose specialty is…you guessed it…frozen custard. Their original location on Route 66 serves up creamy deliciousness in a number of flavors. Whatever you order, please, please don’t miss tasting the Lemon Crumb. I literally was only going to take a little bite, but I devoured the entire cup in three minutes.

3. ✦ See Small Things at the Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis

When I told my husband that a stop on the St. Louis things-to-do itinerary was the Miniature Museum, he rolled his eyes, but then he was the one who didn’t want to leave! 

Even if you don’t have a thing for gorgeous dollhouses and tiny artwork, head over to Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis . The double-story complex has permanent exhibits that include an array of dolls, dollhouses and vignettes, like a 50s soda shop and Victorian living room. 

If you are up for a big bucket list challenge ask about their scavenger hunts that will have you running around looking for things like a pinto pony and Siamese cat. Make sure to have plenty of time!

4. ✦ Sip a Drink at Venice Café

What’s so special about Venice Cafe ? Let me just say it’s really not about the drinks themselves as much as the ambiance. Ok, it’s all about the ambiance. It is unexpected, and it is fabulous. The funky watering hole’s decor is difficult to explain—think hanging Barbie doll heads meshed with ashtray mosaic walls and colorful mannequin parts. I know it’s hard to imagine that hodgepodge of bric-a-brac, that’s why you just need to go! 

Beware that this is a cash-only joint, though they do have an ATM at the front door. How convenient.

5. ✦ Immerse Yourself in Nature at the Missouri Botanical Garden

The mission of the Missouri Botanical Garden is “to discover and share knowledge about plants and their environment in order to preserve and enrich life.” It definitely shines through from the Japanese Garden with lotus to the Tower Grove House in the Victorian District to the Bavarian Garden that focuses on sun-loving plants native to Germany and Central Europe. There’s plenty of beauty at the 79-acre garden, but one of the highlights is the Climatron , a geodesic dome filled with more than 2800 exotic flora!

6. ✦ Stroll through Citygarden

Picture a beautiful garden in the middle of the bustling St. Louis downtown embedded with art, and this isn’t your ordinary art. The two urban blocks that makeup Citygarden are loaded with more than a dozen creative pieces, that include ornamental fountains, water playgrounds and unique sculptures created by a variety of artists. My favorite was the large sculpture unzipping the grass, but my husband loved the giant Pinocchio. Oh, and did I mention that it’s free?

7. ✦ Ride the Tram to the Top of the Gateway Arch

The 630-foot Gateway Arch is the centerpiece of downtown St. Louis— backing up to the Mississippi River and overlooking the Old Courthouse. After you’re done ogling the world’s largest man-made monument from afar, be transported by tram to the top for a panoramic view that stretches for up to 30-miles. 

The ride up in the little 5-person pod (that looks like something from the future) takes about 4 minutes (down only takes 3). From the top you can peek out of the thin rectangle windows to get the spectacular view below.

8. ✦ Drink a Fitz’s Root Beer Float

Fitz’s Rootbeer is a local tradition dating back to the late 40s when it first appeared at a St. Louis drive-in restaurant. Root beer was the perfect beverage to serve with a hamburger and side of fries—sounds good to me! Unfortunately, when the original eatery closed down in the 70s, the famous bubbly was discontinued, until the original recipe was revived in 1993. Now you can get the drink at Fitz’s on the Delmar Loop, which has a vintage bottling machine (that you can see in action at the restaurant!). You can’t miss sitting belly up to the bar for a good old-fashioned root beer float. But, it’s more than just root beer now. They’ve added plenty of other flavors too (like grape pop and raspberry cola), so you can venture out and get a Cherry Bomb or Green Monster. Be prepared, they are messy!

9. ✦ Tour Anheuser-Busch Brewery

Do you want to see where and how the King of Beers is made? That’s Budweiser for all you non-beer buffs. Anheuser-Busch Brewery is a historic beer-making complex that is more than just a brewhouse; it introduces you to the heritage and traditions behind the brand. They have plenty of tours to choose from, but their free one takes you on an unforgettable journey where you will find yourself learning about beers, the brewing process, the complex history behind it, and even meeting one of the famous Budweiser Clydesdales. Did I mention their tour includes samples? Cheers to that!

10. ✦ Explore the Moto Museum

A heaven for bikers, Moto Museum features a phenomenal collection of motorbikes spanning a century. The bikes are rare, vintage and obtained from private owners in more than 20 countries. Initially, this was a stop on the “Things to Do in St. Louis” itinerary specifically for my husband who loves motorbikes, but it was fun for me, too! From a 1925 Swedish Husqvarna to a modern Ducati, it’s interesting to see how motorcycles have changed over the past 100 years. And, it’s another free thing to do in the city!

11. ✦ Eat Toasted Ravioli on The Hill

We all know ravioli as tasty cheese or meat stuffed pasta pillows, but have you ever heard of a toasted ravioli? It’s what happens when you take the traditional dish and add it to the deep fryer. The raviolis come out crunchy, then are sprinkled with parmesan and served with a side of marinara. 

Toasted raviolis were created in St. Louis, though it’s arguable exactly where. The most logical place is in The Hill district, a renowned Italian neighborhood filled with restaurants, bakeries and flag colored fire hydrants. Almost all the eateries will serve their versions of the dish, but the ones at Zia’s Restaurant , Guido’s and Mama’s on the Hill are known as three of the best.

12. ✦ Experience the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis

The green-tiled dome and bell towers of Cathedral Basilica are hard to miss (and you won’t want to!). Boasting a stunning Byzantine interior with Italian details and intricate mosaic artwork that covers the whole ceiling spanning about 83,000 square feet of area, the Roman Catholic church is one of the major attractions of the city. 

You are welcome to attend Mass, but if you will not be, check their website to make sure your visit doesn’t coincide with Mass times, or you will not be able to tour the interior.

13. ✦ Spend the Afternoon at Forest Park

Bigger than New York’s Central Park, Forest Park sprawls over 1,300 acres and is a place where you can enjoy an escape from city life. There’s a little bit of everything there—recreational spots, cultural institutions, museums, a zoo and much more. You may first choose to stroll across the connecting bridge to the St Louis Science Center . The three-story complex has dinosaurs, a planetarium, an IMAX theatre and a plethora of exhibits. Next, you could stop by the St. Louis Art Museum housed in a magnificent beaux-arts palace. In the museum, you will come across artwork by famous artists including Picasso and Van Gogh. 

To learn the fantastic tale of how St. Louis came into being, head over to Missouri History Museum . From polar bears to sea lions, the St. Louis Zoo is an awesome place to unwind with kids. The The Jewel Box , a historic art deco greenhouse, truly is the jewel of the forest. Hit it at the right time of day to get the perfect reflection on the pond in front.

14. ✦  See the Reptiles at Turtle Playground

If you are a turtle lover, then don’t miss a stop at this whimsical sculpture garden where you can climb all over the reptiles. At Turtle Playground , there are 7 turtles that are native to Missouri and ranging in all sizes. The large snapping turtle sculpture is 40 feet long! Plus, there are even seven turtle eggs and a snake that looks like it is taking a bite out of the overpass.

15. ✦ Play Chess at the World Chess Hall of Fame

Although I am by no means a chess aficionado, the World Chess Hall of Fame still impressed me. The specialty museum aims to educate visitors about the significance of chess through cultural exhibitions, artworks and historical artifacts all connected to the game of kings and queens. It has three levels dedicated to different kinds of chess boards, tournaments, art exhibits and giant touch screens which you can explore for free! But, the real fun is to have an actual chess battle at the Hall of Fame, whether it be at the giant chess board right out front or at one of their outdoor chess tables.

16. ✦ Make a Candle at Candle Fusion

You can be the scientist of your own candle at Candle Fusion . How fun is that? First choose your favorite smells from their wall of scents (they have aromas like old books, cake batter and green apple!). Then pick the vessel for your candle and bring it to the experimentation bar. Do a little mixology testing with your top scents until you find the perfect blend of up to four. And voila, about two hours later you have your masterpiece. 

The experience was a perfect date afternoon with my husband! We worked together to create a candle with a mix of bourbon, cake batter, Georgia peach and brown sugar. It was the best Missouri souvenir!

17. ✦ Hang out on The Loop

If there is one neighborhood that I wouldn’t mind being stuck in for a long while, then it is the Delmar Loop  without a doubt. With more than 140 stores, eateries, cafes, and art galleries raveled in music and high spirits, the street is full of vim and vigor where one can never feel bored. 

Labeled as one of the 10 greatest streets in America, The Loop is a place you can easily spend the whole day. Wander through the quirky art galleries, indulge in barbecues and ravioli, attend the crazy Ice Carnival Festival in January, hum along to the catchy beat and stroll the St. Louis Walk of Fame. When you get tired of walking, hop on the Loop Trolley to take a tour. As the sun goes down, head over to Moonrise Hotel for some rest and to ogle the boutique hotel’s main feature: the world’s largest man-made rotating moon on top.

18. ✦ Take a Day Trip to Historic St. Charles

If you have some time, take a short day trip to the neighboring St. Charles Historic District (about a 30 minute drive from the city center). Lying beside the Missouri River, the city is oozing with historical charm, beautiful buildings, cute boutiques and sites that take you back in time. 

Start at the Lewis & Clark Boat House and continue along South Main Street popping into the more than 100 shops, and even the state’s modest first capitol building. Be sure to make a pitstop for a barbecue lunch at Salt + Smoke !

You can see my top picks for the city in this article: St. Charles Bucket List: 9 Things to Do in Missouri’s Historic Town

As you can see, St. Louis is the perfect combination of fun adventures, historical sites, museums (lots that are free!) and entertaining things to do. It offers a variety of activities and beautiful landmarks that makes it a perfect getaway for kids and adults alike

Essential Tips for Visiting St. Louis Getting There:  The Lambert International Airport is a major hub and most airlines will fly into it. You can easily check for the best fare deals at Skyscanner , which also has the option to choose ‘cheapest month’ as the departure to find the lowest priced dates to fly to your destination. From the airport to the city center, you can use the MetroLink which costs $4 from the airport and will take about 35 minutes to the city center. You can also purchase a return ticket for $2.50 for your trip back to the airport. Or you can take a shuttle, take a taxi or an Uber or Lyft. Where to Stay in St. Louis:   It’s best to stay near the city center, public transportation or the area that you will be spending the most time in. The Last Hotel is a great choice in Downtown St. Louis (this is where I stayed and loved!).

For something on the less expensive side, try The Best Western which is a 20 minute drive from the Gateway Arch. For a hotel with a little more unique and extravagant, book a room at the Angad Arts Hotel who has artfully designed guest rooms in red, blue, yellow or green (you choose!). Or search some great deals on hotels of your choice at Booking.com . If you’re looking for more of a home atmosphere (or are traveling with a group of people), head over to VRBO that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range. 

Getting Around:  Renting a car in St. Louis is the best if you’d like to explore the city and its surrounding areas, and RentalCars.com has some great deals. If you are not renting a car, there are plenty of options. The MetroLink is easy to use and will connect you to the top attractions. Bird Scooters are also available for rental all over the city (and they are fun!). Taxis, Lyft and Uber are also widely available.

City Transportation Passes:  The One-Day Adventure Pass is an all-in-one transit card offering rides on multiple forms of transportation (bus and MetroLink, Downtown Trolley and Forest Park Explorer) for $7.50 per day. You can purchase a One-Day Adventure Pass at a Metro Ticket Vending Machine at any MetroLink station, or you can purchase a pass online on their website . 

Best Tours in St. Louis : You can find some of the top tours at Get Your Guide or Viator .

Insurance: It’s always a good idea to travel fully insured so you are protected in case of trip cancellations or medical emergencies. You can check out pricing at Travelex Insurance .

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

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22 thoughts on “St. Louis Bucket List: 18 Fun Things to Do in Missouri’s STL”

Grant’s Farm in South St. Louis County is my favorite recommendation for visitors although all of the above are also worthy choices.

Thanks for the addition!

You mentioned on some of the items if they were free. What you didn’t mention is almost everything in Forest Park is free. This includes the Zoo, Art Museum, Jewel Box, & Missouri History Museum. You may have to pay to get info special exhibits and the Muny Opera, but there are very few cities that have as many free things to do as St. Louis.

Thanks for adding that information! I was shocked by how many free things there were to do in the city.

You forgot a visit to the Butterfly House in Chesterfield! One of the top insectariums in the country, with over 2,000 butterflies!

I don’t know how I missed visiting there!

The Butterfly House is at Faust Park, which is also home to the St. Louis Carousel. The carousel is over 100 years old and is the only surviving piece of The Highlands amusement park that was in the area of the Science Center until the mid 1960’s. The carousel and Wurlitzer calliope were renovated and are now housed in a climate controlled building and rides are available for a small charge. The park also has a playground that is specifically ADA accessible with wheelchair accessible swings and stainless steel slides. You can also visit Thornhill, the home of Missouri’s second governor, and the Historic Village of nearly 20 structures that have been moved to the park from the St. Louis County area and preserved. So much to see and do in St. Louis-you may need several visits!

The Frank Lloyd Wright House in Ebsworth Park (Kirkwood, MO) is definitely worth the time. The website is ebsworthpark.org for tour information.

I’m visiting St. Louis this weekend and moving there next year when I get married! I can’t wait to check out these spots, thanks for all the recommendations!

Congrats on your engagement! It would be a great place to get married!

Been to St. LOUIS many times. Love the city The Museum under the arch was something to see.A few more things you might add would be seeing a St Louis Cardinals game,Lemp mansion,and can’t forget 6 flags,Moved back to Springfield after being gone 20 years. Can’t wait to show wife and kids all the wonderful things we have here

Thank you so much for the suggestions!

I don’t think most of this stuff is open!

The Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum is another great place to visit in Saint Louis. It’s a relatively new history museum that is 15-minute drive south of downtown St. Louis. It has hundreds of different and unique telephones and other telephone-related items. The museum is a hidden gem that charges a nominal admission fee. It’s an interesting history lesson for children and a great way to reminisce for adults.

Thanks for all this info! I think this was the most helpful guide to St Louis that I’ve seen yet.

Best one I’ve seen thank you for writing this

We made a candle today. Great experience! Zia’s was yummy with great service. Thanks for the info. You helped make our quick getaway fun!!!

I am so happy to here that you enjoyed your time in St. Louis as much as me :)

Are these places open this weekend- Oct. 23-25?

St.louis is boring ash bro

I had no idea some of these places existed at all. thanks!

Thank you so much!

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40 BEST Things To Do in St. Louis (All Ages!)

Explore the top 40 attractions in St. Louis! From the iconic Gateway Arch to family fun at St. Louis Aquarium, there's something for everyone. Perfect trip ideas for all ages.

St. Louis is a popular city in Missouri, best known for its giant arch monument and vibrant culture. It was originally founded as a French fur-trading village in 1764. Travelers can find plenty of things to do in St. Louis, from French markets to sightseeing, food tours, and more.

When visiting St. Louis, travelers can experience landmark attractions, including the St. Louis Wheel and Gateway Arch National Park. The city's historical past offers opportunities to see architecture from the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge to Basilica Cathedral. Some excellent cultural experiences to seek out in St. Louis include the Laumeir Sculpture Park and St. Louis Fun Tours.

Whether you are traveling to St. Louis on your own or with family, there is no shortage of activities to explore. Keep reading to discover some of the best things to do on your trip.

1. St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station

Credit: Crimson-Butterfly / Flickr

📍 Map It : 201 S 18th St, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA  |  Phone : +13149233900 |  Website  |  Hours : Mon-Sun 9:00 AM-5:00 PM |  Entrance : $25 for adults and $18 for kids.

In 1894, the St. Louis Aquarium first opened its doors to the public as a fully operational train station. The Union Station in St. Louis has been consistently ranked as one of the busiest and largest passenger rail stations in the world. It moved people back and forth between the east coast and the west coast, thereby connecting the two coasts.

At the Saint Louis Aquarium, guests of any age are assured to have a memorable experience.  The new attraction that has opened up inside of the historic St. Louis Union Station is quickly becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Midwest.  It features more than 13,000 different animals and offers visitors numerous opportunities to get their hands dirty.

The St. Louis Aquarium has a capacity of 250,000 gallons and is home to 80 different species of sharks and rays. In addition to these, there are the Grand Hall, Station Grille, Landry's Seafood House, 1894 Café, and Six Global Aquatic Galleries.

2. Laumeir Sculpture Park

Credit: John McCormick / Flickr

📍 Map It : 12580 Rott Rd, Sappington, MO 63127, USA  |  Phone : +13146155278 |  Website  |  Hours : Mon-Sat 8:00 AM- 8:00 PM |  Entrance : There is no entrance fee.

Laumeier is both one of the earliest and largest sculpture parks. Additionally, it is regarded as one of the world's ten best sculpture parks. The Laumeier Foundation for the Arts is a non-profit cultural institution that is well-known all over the world and is open every day.

Pay a visit to the Laumeier Sculpture Park and enjoy its extensive art collection, as well as its indoor and outdoor exhibitions, educational programs, and public events. Large outdoor sculptures that are woven into the surrounding woods and trails provide visitors with a unique opportunity to experience both art and nature in an immersive setting.

Related Read:   30 Best St. Louis Hikes

Credit: Josh Govero / Flickr

📍 Map It : 14820 Manchester Rd, Ballwin, MO 63011, USA  |  Phone : +16365911850 |  Website  |  Hours :  Mon-Sun 9:00 AM-9:00 PM |  Entrance : 90 Min jump;  Standard pass weekday general $22.99, all day pass $27.99 , Weekend (General) standard pass)- $21.99, all day- $39.99, Weekday 4 and under standard pass- $16.99, all day- $18.99, Weekend 4 and under standard pass- $16.99, all day-$22.99

Defy St. Louis is the most exciting trampoline park in the state of Missouri. It is a nationwide network of extreme air sports parks that are changing the rules of different sports and giving people a safe place to express themselves and see how far they can push the limit.

One can remember the High-End Airtrack, Wall Tramp, Trapeze, Ninja Course, Stunt Fall, and Aerial Skills after playing Defy. Join the Flight Club for your birthday, event, party, or other events, like a basketball game .

4. The St. Louis Wheel

Credit: gkoertel/ Flickr

📍 Map It :  201 S 18th St, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA  |  Phone : +13149233960 |  Website  |  Hours : Monday - Sunday 10:00 AM-10:00 PM |  Entrance : Tickets for adults are $15 and for children are $10. The VIP Gondola has a glass floor and costs $50 per seat. It can accommodate up to four people. The trip takes fifteen minutes.

The St. Louis Wheel is an observation wheel that is 20 feet in height. It features 42 gondolas that are fully enclosed, climate controlled, and can seat up to eight passengers each.

The St. Louis Wheel dominates the skyline and can be seen from the Statue of Liberty. The enormous building tips the scales at 640 thousand pounds (320 tons).

Guests can take a spin on the St. Louis Wheel to enhance their knowledge of mathematics, engineering, and geography. The St. Louis Wheel will serve as the starting point for scouting excursions, school tours, corporate outings, and birthday parties. At Union Station, the spotlight shines brightest on gender reveals, branding, marriage proposals, and celebrations.

Related Read:   25 Best Brunches in St. Louis

5. Breakout Games St. Louis

Credit: Lena N / Yelp

📍 Map It : 14523 Manchester Rd, Manchester, MO 63011, USA |  Phone :  +1 636-200-5751| Website  |  Hours :Mon-Sun 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM |  Entrance : As low as $22.99 per person

Breakout Games can be found on Manchester Road. When playing a trivia game, this is the point at which the real-time, interactive fun that stimulates all of the senses begins. The objective is to vacate the premises in fewer than sixty minutes.

In order to escape, you will need to unravel riddles, crack codes, unearth concealed items, and complete a number of other tasks. People who prefer to figure things out for themselves than sit back and observe others having fun should play Breakout.

In Breakout Games, you have the opportunity to investigate a mysterious island, track down the perpetrator of the kidnapping, and return priceless artifacts to the rightful owners. In Breakout, each location comes with its own unique set of challenges

6. Play Street Museum

Credit: Alejandro Miranda / Pinterest

📍 Map It:   1650 Beale St. #138, St. Charles, MO 63303   | Phone:  (314) 471-0065 |  Hours : Monday-Thursday, 9:00 am-5 pm; Fridays, 9:00 am-7:00 pm |  Entrance:  Children (1-8) $13

This indoor space has been named the “St. Louis Magazine 2019 A-List Winner” and is an excellent place for young children to explore. By encouraging self-guided fun, this museum stimulates the imagination, promotes problem-solving skills, and allows for the growth of social skills. Different stations are spread about, each with its own unique theme to keep everyone happy, interested, and engaged.

With so much to do and see, children stay active and continuously learn through play. The venue is available for parties and other events, offering over 20 themes. For artsy children, there are also opportunities for crafting, like pottery painting. Whether a child wants to pretend to be a pilot, milk a cow, or be a homemaker, there is something just waiting to be played with.

7. Chesterfield Central Park

Credit: Karen Goodman / Flickr

📍 Map It:   16365 Lydia Hill Dr., Chesterfield, MO 63017  |  Phone:  (636) 537-4000 |  Hours:  Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-10:00 pm; Saturday & Sunday, 8:00 am-10:00 pm |  Entrance:  Free

This 55-acre park is the perfect spot for the whole family to enjoy a day together. With access to walking/biking/running trails, as well as stream walks, there is plenty to do for active, energetic visitors. For children, there is a newly updated playground with easy access for strollers, picnic spots with benches, bathrooms, and a pool to splash around during those hot summer days.

Sixteen stunning, one-of-a-kind sculptures can be observed while walking around the lake and playground areas. Aside from that, there are opportunities to rent out gazebos and pavilions for special events and parties. Passes can also be purchased to experience the Chesterfield Family Aquatic Center, a family-friendly water park with various activities and water-soaked fun.

Related Read:   15 BEST Black-Owned Restaurants In St. Louis, MO

8. Edgar M. Queeny County Park

Credit: St. Louis Parks / Flickr

📍 Map It:   550 Weidman Rd, St. Louis, MO 63131-1675 South Mason Road, Saint Louis, MO 6313 1|  Phone:  (314) 615-4386 |   Hours : Daily 8:00 am to 30 minutes past sunset |  Entrance:  Free

This park, one of many in the surrounding area, offers numerous amenities including access to fishing, a playground, extensive trails, tennis courts, various shelters, and beautiful picnic sites. For a small price, a 5-acre, leash-free dog park can also be visited and enjoyed. With so much to experience, there is something here for the entire family.

The beautiful park offers nine different wedding venue spaces, each with its own unique, signature look and comforts. Horse lovers will feel right at home on the equestrian trials and jumping area, along with access to exclusive trailer parking. Jarville, a historic house located on the property, provides richness, a sense of intrigue, and a glimpse into this property’s historic past.

9. Kokomo Joe’s Family Fun Center

Credit: Kokomo Joe’s / YouTube

📍  Map It:   4105 N Cloverleaf Dr, St Peters, MO 63376  | Phone:  (636) 447-5656 |  Hours:  Sunday-Thursday, 11:00 am-8:00 pm; Friday & Saturday, 11:00 am-10:00 pm|  Entrance:  Free

Kokomo Joe’s is a unique and energetic spot perfect for a family outing. To join in on the fun, simply load a game card with money. The money put on the game card is then used to gain access to the arcade and other amazing activities. Go-karts, laser tag, bumper cars, mini bowling, and a laser maze are among some of the experiences they offer.

There are five different escape rooms with themes ranging from “Scooby-Doo” to “Th3 Cod3.” A casual dining space offers a great spot to stop and grab a bite to eat, and the on-site lounge provides beverages for the 21+ crowd. On Mondays and Wednesdays, there is also a special time for toddlers to come and enjoy the bounce house.

10. St. Louis Fun Tours

Credit: Eugene Kim / Flickr

📍 Map It:   999 N 2nd St, St. Louis, MO 63102  |  Phone:  (314) 241-1400 |  Hours:  Thursday-Monday, 12:00 pm-2:00 pm |  Entrance:  Senior Ticket $23, Adult Ticket $28, Child Ticket (2-12) $17

When arriving in St. Louis, this attraction may be the best first stop. Taking a ride on this fully-narrated, 75-minute trolley tour will showcase popular sites, local hot spots, and various historic parts of the city. With the tour being in a fully-enclosed trolley, extreme hot or cold is never an issue; both AC and heat can be provided to make riders feel comfortable despite the outdoor conditions.

To feel more relaxed, riders are encouraged to bring snacks and drinks along for the ride.  Up to 30 passengers can be gazing out the large windows and enjoying the comfortable, padded seats at one time . St. Louis Union Station, the Mississippi River, and “Millionaire’s Row” are among the sites that will be spotted and discussed.

Related Read:   65 BEST Things to Do in Missouri

11. AMC Esquire 7

Credit: MikeOlpin / Flickr

📍 Map It:   6706 Clayton Rd, St. Louis, MO 63117  |  Phone: ( 314) 781-3300  |  Entrance:  Senior Ticket $10.49, Adult Ticket $11.99, and Child Ticket (2-12) $8.99

Relax and watch a new movie in style and comfort at the AMC Esquire 7. With luxurious recliners, picture-perfect visuals, and wonderful sound quality, any movie experience here is sure to be the best. Seating can be reserved by purchasing tickets online; ticket prices are 30% off any movie featured before 4:00 pm any day of the week.

On top of the great deals, for a limited time, there are promotional Tuesday ticket prices for just $5.00 each. Snacks can be purchased upon arrival or ordered ahead of time using the theater’s mobile app. For audience members who are hard of hearing or prefer to read subtitles, closed caption devices are also available to enhance or aid a movie-goer's experience.

12. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

Credit: mbell1975 / Flickr

📍 Map It:  10820 Riverview Dr, St. Louis, MO 63137  |  Hours:  Daily Sunrise to Sunset|  Entrance:  Free

In the 1980s, a group called Trailnet began cleaning up the bridge for pedestrian use. Whether it is walking along to take in the sites, or biking for the thrill and exercise, this bridge promises to be an experience for the whole family. With few changes having been made to the bridge’s original construction, history lovers of all ages can appreciate this early-20th-century river crossing.

This mile-long bridge, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places back in 2006, sits more than 60 feet above the Mississippi river. A 30-degree turn can be found halfway across the bridge, making it one of America’s most recognizable and unforgettable bridges. Dating back to 1929, this historic landmark was once part of Route 66.

13. Busch Stadium

Credit: Dustin_V / Flickr

📍 Map It:   700 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO 63102  |  Phone:  (314) 345-9600 | Hours:  (Ticket Window) In-season, Monday-Friday, 10:00 am-5:00 pm and Home Game Day, 10:00 am-90 minutes past scheduled game time; (Ticket Window) Off-Season, Monday-Friday, 10:00 am-4:00 pm |  Entrance:  Ticket Prices Vary

This retro-style ballpark, home to the Cardinals, can seat up to 46,000 baseball fans at one time.  Various tour tickets can be purchased for a more in-depth visit, including a trip to the Hall of Fame and museum.  This venue is sure to be a family-fun experience.

Totaling over 30,000 square feet, this three-level stadium offers fantastic food, a souvenir shop, and a roof-top deck that can be rented for private parties. For an all-inclusive MLB experience, roof-top tickets can be purchased, which include excellent service, stunning game views, all-you-can-eat food, and a full bar.

To ensure that everyone has fun and is safe while visiting Busch Stadium, there are ground rules and expectations in place. A list of these procedures and policies, along with a list of prohibited items, can be found on the stadium’s website.

14. The Axe House

Credit: The Axe House  STL  / Facebook

📍Map It :  20 Meramec Valley Plaza, Valley Park, MO 63088 |  Phone : +13143386171 |  Website  |  Hours : Open daily 4 pm - 9 pm

The Axe House in St. Louis is an unforgettable experience while visiting the city. This veteran-owned attraction allows guests to throw axes at targets on the wall in private stalls.  Reservations are required, and can be made on the website or by giving the staff a call.

15. The Mural Mile

Credit: Jay Rivers / Flickr

📍 Map It:   Chouteau Ave & S Leonor K Sullivan Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63102|   Phone : 314-863-5811 |  Hours:  Open 24 hours, 7 days a week |  Entrance : Free

“The Mural Mile” spans nearly two miles and features art from over 250 graffiti artists. These murals are showcased on the floodwall of the Mississippi River. This place is perfect for taking a scenic walk or having an impromptu photo shoot!

The artwork is updated during the annual Paint Louis event, which brings artists from across the nation together. The wall is fifteen feet high and displays artwork telling various tales of the culture of the city.

The art is breathtaking and much of it has a story to tell.The graffiti wall is a favorite among both locals and tourists. Make sure you don’t miss out on this scenic landmark!

16. St Louis Carriage Co.

Credit: kurtsj00 / Flickr

📍Map It :  1000 Cerre St, St. Louis, MO 63102  |  Phone : 314-621-3334 |  Website  |  Hours : 9:00am-12:00am|  Entrance : Varies, see website.

See all of the sights of beautiful St. Louis in royal fashion! The St. Louis Carriage Company offers educational tours of the city in several options of carriages and trolleys, including a horse-drawn Cinderella carriage. As long as the weather permits they offer tours every night.

You need to make a reservation for their tours on their website. You can make your selection on which carriage or trolley you and your party would like to take a tour in, and you can even meet the team of Percherons which pull the carriages. You might be getting able to see St. Louis from a car, but you will really be able to  see  St. Louis in style from a trolley or a carriage!

17. City Museum

Credit: H Michael Miley / Flickr

📍Map It :  750 N 16th St, St. Louis, MO 63103 |  Phone : 314-231-2489 |  Website  |  Hours : The hours vary throughout the year, check the website |  Entrance : $18-$32, kids 2 & under are free

The city museum is built in a one hundred year old warehouse. The inside is crafted into different cities, castles, slides, bridges, and more! There are also ball pits, a train, a school bus, and a Ferris wheel.

Their website gives you the option to tour the City Museum via a drone video!  There are no maps because the layout is constantly changing. There are also secret passageways and tunnels that wouldn’t be secrets for very long if they were identified on a map.

Artists used to come hang out on the rooftop as an escape, but these days it is accessible to the public. They offer memberships as well as group discounts if you buy 15 or more tickets. Don’t miss out on your chance to come explore this unique attraction!

18. Omnimax Theater

Credit: Artform Canada / Flickr

📍Map It :  5050 Oakland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110  |  Phone : 314-289-4400 |  Website  |  Hours : Thursday-Monday 9:30am-5:30pm. Closed Tuesday & Wednesday. |  Entrance : $10.95 for adults ages 13-59; $8.95 for children 2 & under, seniors 60+, and college students with an ID; $7.95 for military.

Also known as the IMAX Dome, the Omnimax Theater is just one of seven theaters of its kind in the whole world! State-of-the-art laser technology offers the best visual experience possible. The dome is five stories tall and 80 feet wide.

The color range is 40% greater than it is at a standard movie theater. The dome delivers premium sound quality for an immersive movie watching experience. This theater will allow you to experience watching a movie in a more vivid manner than ever before!

19. My Psychic Solutions

Credit: Alina V / Pexels

📍Map It :  2628 Margarette Ave, Maplewood, MO 63143  |  Phone : 314-814-0154 |  Website  |  Hours : 10:00am-10:30pm M-F; 10:30am-10:30pm Saturday & Sunday |  Entrance : Prices vary depending on the service.

Juliana offers psychic readings, tarot card readings, emphatic messages, and clairvoyance. You can attend an individual session with her or book her for a psychic luncheon or private event. She also specializes in crystals.

She can pass messages along from deceased loved ones as well as teaching you how to connect with your own energy field and aura. Juliana offers emergency readings, even if it is outside of her normal operating hours.

Her website features a blog and displays all of her different sessions that she offers. She is accessible via text. Juliana is ready to help you gain the confidence and the knowledge that you need by answering any questions you may have!

20. Gateway Arch National Park

Credit: Matthew Dillon / Flickr

📍 Map It :  11 N 4th St #1810, St. Louis, MO 63102  |  Phone:  (877) 982-1410 |   Hours:  Summer Hours 9:00 am-8:00 pm daily; Winter Hours 9:00 am- 6:00 pm daily; Park Grounds open year-round 5:00 am-11:00 pm |  Entrance : Adult prices range from $7-$41 and child prices range from $3-$26

In the mid-western region of the U.S, Gateway Arch National Park in Missouri is a family-friendly attraction.  There is a museum and an old courthouse just waiting to be explored. Various cruise opportunities offer dinner, relaxation, and the chance to see the finishing touches of Merchants Bridge being assembled.

There are also opportunities to enjoy stargazing, yoga sessions, and concerts under the Gateway Arch. For those looking for even more excitement, a tram ride is available to take passengers 630 feet up to the top of the arch itself. Being the tallest monument in the United States, this 45-60 minute ride promises to be an exciting experience for those of all ages.

21. Cowboy Critters Mobile Petting Farm

Credit: Cowboy Critters / Facebook

📍 Map It:   St.  Louis  | Phone: (636) 306-2500 |  Hours:  Office hours (Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-12:00 pm)  | Entrance : Animal appearances start at $200

Cowboy Critters Petting Farm and Pony Rides offer a wide variety of experiences and services for people of all ages. The animals can entertain at indoor and outdoor parties, school functions, church events, and festivals. Along with offering pony rides, ducks, goats, pigs, rabbits, sheep, Zebu cows, and a donkey can also join the fun.

Serving the Greater St. Louis region, almost any event can be made extra special with the arrival of these loving and specially cared-for creatures. Ponies can even be transformed into unicorns using costumes and hair color. Whether an event needs a petting zoo, pony rides, or a mixture of both, this family-run, Christ-focused petting farm promises to deliver a wonderful experience.

22. Big Muddy Adventures

Credit: Vicki Pearce / Pinterest

📍 Map It:   4662 Washington Ave, St. Louis, MO 6310 8 |  Phone:  (314) 896-4262 |  Hours:  Public trips offered March-November; custom trips can be booked year-round |  Entrance:  Day trips range from $35-$95; overnight trips start at $150

Big Muddy Adventures offers a variety of paddling trips along the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. Whether it be a short day trip or a multi-day exploration, there is variety and something for everyone. Families with children ages 6 and older can take advantage of the “micro-adventures” offered in the St. Louis region.

Custom trips, along with snacks, lunches, and dinners, can also be enjoyed on select trips. Rain or shine, excursions are geared toward having fun while safety is a top priority. With 15 years of experience, BMA states paddling with them will be “one of the greatest experiences of a lifetime.”

23. Butterfly Conservatory

Credit: greatandlittle / Flickr

📍 Map It:   15050 Faust Pk., Chesterfield, MO 63017  |  Phone:  (314) 577-0888  |  Hours:  Tuesday-Sunday 9:00 am-4:00 pm |  Entrance : General admissions $8, Seniors $5, Children Ages 3-12 $5

This glass conservatory is home to over 1,000 tropical butterflies. Butterflies emerging from chrysalises and insect collections can be observed while walking through this space. A variety of classes, guided tours, photography lessons, and “paint and sips” are made available on both weekdays and weekends for youth and adults.

Coupled with the 60 different butterfly species, over 150 tropical plants can be seen while visiting this attraction. The 8,000-square-foot Conservatory is open year-round for family exploration, school field trips, and everyday fun. An onsite gift shop is also available to purchase souvenirs and small gifts for family and friends.

24. Cathedral Basilica

Credit: Mark S Abelin / Flickr

📍Map It :  4431 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108, United States  |  Phone : +1 (314) 373-8200  |  Website  |  Hours : Monday-Sunday 7 AM-5 PM |  Entrance : Free

The Cathedral Basilica is one of the oldest cathedrals in the United States. It was originally built in 1727. The cathedral has four chapels, which each have a special purpose. Blessed Sacrament Chapel is strictly for private prayers and no pictures are allowed inside.

Blessed virgin’s Chapel has mosaics that depict the life of mary and her role in the church. The All Saints Chapel has mosaics on the walls that depict the saints, and a striking statue of St. Joseph. The All Souls Chapel has a risen Christ statue and also buried beneath the crypt are several cardinals and archbishops.

The mosaic work and general interior design create an ambient environment for Christian worshipers all over the world to confess, worship and pray. A tour of the entire cathedral is made available to tourists of all faiths and nationalities. During the tour, you learn about its history, symbolism, and many elements of the building.

25. Old Courthouse

Credit: Kathy Weaver / Flickr

📍Map It :  11 N 4th St, St. Louis, MO 63102, United States  |  Phone : +1 (314) 655-1700 |  Website  |  Hours : Monday-Sunday 8 AM-4:30 PM |  Entrance : Free

Among various historic landmarks in the United States, the St Louis Old Courthouse, completed in 1864, is one to visit indeed. Walking the halls where enslaved Dred Scott and his wife Harriet sued for freedom, which lead to the rising of a few African Americans for their rights as US citizens.

Also in this courthouse, Virginia Minor and her husband started the fight for women's voting rights in the US.Maintaining the original design, tourists can look around the building and also get a proper view of the interior design, to have a feel of how ancient courthouses looked and felt like back then.

26. Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site

Credit: milanite / Flickr

📍Map It :  7400 Grant Rd, St. Louis, MO 63123, United States  |  Phone : +1 (314) 842-1867 |  Website  |  Hours : Monday-Sunday 9 AM-5 PM |  Entrance : Free

This historic site was home to the great General Ulysses S. Grant and his wife. Now it is a historic site, available to both locals and tourists.

You get to go on a tour of the house, which is still so neat.  During the tour, you will be shown the summer kitchen, winter kitchen, laundry room, chicken coop, ice house, and the entire first floor of the home.

There is a welcome center that features a gift shop, large restrooms, and an optional educational film. Also, there is a museum on the property, where you will see several artifacts like Grant's actual uniform from his civil war days.

27. Frank Lloyd Wright House

Credit: Sherman Clarke / Flickr

📍Map It :  120 N Ballas Rd, Kirkwood, MO 63122, United States |  Phone : +1 314-822-8359|  Website  |  Hours : Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday (only on reservation)|  Entrance : $20 (adult), $10 (child)

The Frank Lloyd Wright house is a very old house designed by Frank Lloyd in 1951 who is rated as the greatest architect of the 20th century. The design and construction offered beautiful architecture at an affordable cost.

This house as old as it is still holds all its original furniture and design and is the first Frank Lloyd building in St. Louis.During the tour of the house, the guides will show you furniture designed to their specific locations and large cantilevered overhangs for passive solar heating and natural cooling.If you want to visit this historical house in St Louis, you must book a reservation on the available days.

28. Campbell House Museum

Credit: Phil Marion / Flickr

📍Map It :  1508 Locust St, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States |  Phone : +1 314-421-0325 |  Website  |  Hours : Wednesday-Saturday 10 AM-4 PM, Sunday 12 PM-4 PM, closed Monday and Tuesday |  Entrance : $25

The Campbell house built in 1822, is the only building left in the town of york. It was then refurbished a little in 1943 and turned into a museum made open to the public.

During the tour, a brief history of the building will be talked about. The original properties of the Campbell family like paintings, furniture, ancient artifacts, and antiques are all still in the building.

You get to take walk around the building where in the kitchen you will see the original ice box and stove, The bells hanging on the walls used to communicate in the house for when food was ready. There is also a gift shop where you can replica items of the Campbell's possessions.

29. Creve Coeur Lake

Credit: Eric Bueneman / Flickr

📍Map It :  13725 Marine Ave, St. Louis, MO 63146, United States |  Phone : (314) 615-5000 |  Website  |  Hours : Open daily 9 AM-7 PM |  Entrance : Rental prices from $45 to $225, depending on kayak size and rental length

The Creve Coeur lake is one of the largest natural lakes in Missouri, with so many fun activities to engage in. You can rent a Kayak, Canoe, or paddleboard, as a means to move around the scenic lake path. Swimming and use of fuel engine-powered boats are not allowed. Fishing is allowed during open hours.

There are four playgrounds for the kids to explore and have fun, alongside a spray fountain play area and amazing trail.The Lakehouse bar and grill is an excellent Open-air spot to eat and drink with family and friends. Also, the Quarry at Crystal Spring offers a conventional and affordable Golf Course for golfers and non-golfers to enjoy a great and fun game of Golf.

Credit: US 71 / Flickr

📍Map It :  981 S Skinker Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63117, United States  |  Phone : +1 314-647-5005 |  Website  |  Hours : Monday-Friday 7 AM-6 PM, closed on Saturday and Sunday |  Entrance : Free

When on vacation at a new place, a place to touch up the RV or Family minivan or personal car, then Amoco’s got you covered. This great service shop was formerly known as Standard Red Crown in 1960, and then was renamed and redesigned in 1980 to Amoco.

They offer repair services, an excellent car wash, and also a gas station to fill up or top up your tank. There's also a public restroom made available.

They also offer specials, like $20 off any auto service above $150, and $5 off on an Ultimate cash wash. With amazing and responsive staff, they will always be ready to make a frustrating car day bright again.

31. EAT St Louis Food Tours

Credit: Eat Saint Louis / Pinterest

📍Map It :  5348 Devonshire Ave; St. Louis, MO 63109  |  Website

Taking a moving tour in St Louis can be very fun, but a food tour? Now, that's something to experience.

As a tourist, looking for the best places to eat and the best meals to try out can be tasking. Sometimes during those hunts, you end up going to a disappointing restaurant or eating a meal that will not satisfy your food fantasies.

With EAT St. Louis Food Tours you get to visit six different restaurants. Over seven tastings, bites, and sips accompanied with architectural and historical stops. Between these activities, you get to experience the life of an Italian immigrant. To book reservations and get more information, browse their website.

32. Savor Saint Louis Food Tours

Credit: Eat St. Louis / Yelp

📍Map It :  St. Louis, Missouri, USA  |  Phone : +13146691326 |  Website   |  Hours : Call to book a tour

Food tours are exciting and fun to go on. With the bothersome thought of what and where to eat eliminated, all that's left is to enjoy various mouth-watering dishes and historical site seeing.

Get to experience some historic neighborhoods and learn about their history and culture. Also, you get to relate with some locals and learn a thing or two about their language. Accompanied by these activities is the tasting, eating, and drinking of mouth-watering local dishes and drinks.

You will be led by a tour guide, to help make this experience more fun and smooth. Their availability sometimes varies with the season, so calling for more information and making reservations is how you get to secure a spot on this food tour.

33. City Cycling Tours

Credit:  Viator  / Pinterest

📍Map It :  5595 Grand Dr, St. Louis, MO 63112, United States  |  Phone : 314-616-5724 |  Hours : Open daily 6 AM-10 PM |  Entrance : bike rental of $15/ hour

Going on bike tours is great a way of exercising and also taking a personal tour of the beautiful city of St Louis. Cycling around St Louis, you get to several historical structures Like the Gateway Arch which is a 630foot tall monument, the Laumeier sculpture park, and lots more.

Cycling through the forest park is awesome and is a great location for the kids to ride their bikes and enjoy bonding time with their parents.  While cycling you will also get accustomed to the roads and terrain of the city, as well as meet other local riders . Renting a bike at $15/hour is also an option if you don't have a bike of your own.

34. Soulard

Credit: STL Restaurants / Pinterest

📍Map It :  Soulard, St Louis, MO, USA  |  Phone : 314-622-3400  |  Website

Ever buzzing Soulardis a fun-packed part of St Louis. Its know for its farmers' market which is among the oldest farmers' markets in Missouri and Various seafood restaurants that offer excellent dishes that will leave you amazed.

This historic town is also known for its Mardi Gras festival which is the largest festival in the world. The festival holds 12 days after Christmas, attracting tourists from all over the world.

Speaking of festivals the  Mardi Gras festival is not the only one Soulard has to offer. There is the annual Soulard concert, where some of the city's finest Blues bands are showcased. This festival is held from May through August.

In July, Soulard celebrates its french history with Bastille day events and also hosts watch parties during the World Naked Bike Ride-St.Louis. To avoid missing out on all these great activities, call the town's information line to back and inquire about them.

35. Jefferson Barracks Historical Park

Credit: Chris Yunker / Flickr

📍Map It :  325 North Rd W, St. Louis, MO 63125, United State s |  Phone : (314)615-5000   |  Website   |  Hours : Wednesdays-Sundays 8 AM-4 PM, Closed Monday-Tuesday|  Entrance : Free

Historic parks are fun to visit, as they usually have fun activities available to tourists and locals as well. The park has a pool and play area, and it is quite cheap. There is also a rock climbing wall, with safety equipment and staff to guide you. The trail of the park is long, with amazing scenery to give you a relaxing and amazing experience.

The park offers a variety of outdoor wedding venues, that will make your wedding day one to never forget. With beautiful greenery and Flowers at one of their garden locations, your wedding is sure to be talked about among family and friends.

36. The Old Cathedral

Credit: WG Dayton / Flickr

📍Map It :  209 Walnut St, St. Louis, MO 63102, United States  |  Phone : +13142313250  |  Website   |  Hours : Monday-Friday 7 AM-12 AM, Saturday 6:45 AM-6:30 AM, Sunday 7:30 AM-6 PM |  Entrance : Free

The Old Cathedral in St. Louis was the first and only cathedral west of the Mississippi River up untill 1845. It was called the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France.

This magnificent church is just a two-minute walk from the Gateway Arch, which is another monumental structure in the city of St. Louis. A group tour of ten or more persons can be requested on other dates by sending an email to the cathedral.

The historical design of the cathedral remains elegant and beautiful to date, leaving both tourists and Christian worshipers amazed. Also, there are confession times between 11:30 AM and 12 PM on Mondays and 4:30 PM to 5:15 PM on Saturdays. This is open to all persons regardless of their faith or nationality.

37. The Enterprise Center

Credit: Scott / Flickr

📍Map It :  1401 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States  |  Phone : +13146225400  |  Website   |  Hours : Opens 1 hour before each event|  Entrance : Varies with ticket price for each event

With a sitting capacity of 19,260, the Enterprise Center is a 12-story glass and concrete structure that hosts several events. It is the home to St. Louis Blues Hockey Club, which is the St. Louis home team.

Other sports, Concerts and lots more take place in this magnificent building. Tickets tend to sell out at the center, so booking or buying tickets ahead of events is advised.

Events like Twenty One Pilots concert, Post Malone Twelve Carat Tour, and Kevin Harts Reality Check show are already lined up for this coming September 2022. The amazing experience and feeling during a concert in the Enterprise Center is one you will have for life.

38. Central West End

Credit: John Langholz / Flickr

📍Map It :  Central West End, St Louis, MO, USA  |  Phone : (314)305-4012 |  Website   |  Hours : Open 24/7

The Central West End of St. Louis is an area packed with art shows, concerts, nightlife, and other amazing events. This is a town that offers electric vibes to tourists, with historic homes, sidewalk cafes, and Italian and Asian fusion restaurants.

Central West End offers many historical sites like the great Cathedral Bascilla, St Louis zoo, and St. Louis Art Museum. The expansive Forest Park has lakes and woods that can be explored with family and friends. Also, it is a safe town that offers an amazing nightlife experience with bars that have live music sessions and concerts to make your stay more memorable.

39. Eads Bridge

Credit: Mike Smith / Flickr

📍Map It :  St. Louis, MO 63102, United States  |  Website   |  Hours : Open 24/7 |  Entrance : Free

Named after its designer James Buchanan Eads, the Eads Bridge is the world's first steel-truss bridge built in 1874 and is a historic landmark of the city. It connects St. Louis, Missouri, and St. Louis, Illinois.

On the bridge, the view of the Mississippi river and railroads is quite relaxing. There are also helicopter rides nearby. Like seeing the first car ever made or the first gun, having to walk on the first steel-truss bridge is counted as a memorable experience to share with family and friends.

40. Tower Grove Farmers Market

Credit: Neal1960 / Flickr

📍Map It :  Center Cross Dr, St. Louis, MO 63116, United States  |  Phone :  |  Website   |  Hours : Tuesday 4 PM-7 PM, Saturday 8 AM-12:30 PM closed Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday,  and Sunday |  Entrance : Free

The best Farmers and Artisans in St. Louis are found in the Tower Grove Farmers Market. With its stunning setting, gorgeous space, and great serene, this market is one to visit. There is a kids playground and fast food outlet to get refreshments as you browse through sections of the market.

The market also provides a live music session for shoppers and tourists to enjoy while browsing through food items or just window shopping and enjoying the scene.  The vendors are categorically organized to make it easier for people to shop for specific items. Parking in markets can be annoying and sometimes stressful, but this market offers a good amount of space for parking.

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Is Mesa Airlines Safe? Discover What Passengers Aren't Telling You

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Mesa Airlines, safety is likely at the top of your mind. It's a big world out there, and knowing you're in good hands while jetting off to your next adventure can make all the difference.

Is Compass Airlines Safe? Uncovering What Every Traveler Must Know

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Compass Airlines, it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, ensuring a safe journey is at the top of everyone's list. But diving into the world of airline safety can feel like navigating through a maze. Don't worry; we've got you covered.

Is Republic Airways Safe? Insights That Every Nervous Flyer Must Read

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Republic Airways, it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, ensuring you're in good hands while thousands of feet up in the air is pretty crucial. You're not alone in your concerns; it's a question on the minds of many travelers.

Is SkyWest Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth That Every Traveler Must Know

When planning your next trip, you might be wondering about the best airline options out there. Safety, no doubt, tops your list of concerns. You've probably heard of SkyWest Airlines, a major player in the regional airline sector. But the burning question remains: Is SkyWest Airlines safe?

Is Icelandair Safe? Discover Why Flyers Trust Their Journey With Us

When you're planning a trip that involves flying, safety naturally tops your list of concerns. And if Iceland's stunning landscapes are calling your name, you're probably considering Icelandair for your journey. But how safe is this airline, really?

Is Luxair Safe? Unveiling What Really Matters to Nervous Flyers

When planning your next trip, you're likely scrolling through countless options, wondering which airline will get you there safely and comfortably. Luxair, Luxembourg's flag carrier, often pops up as a top choice for European destinations. But in the sea of airlines, you might ask yourself, "Is Luxair safe?"

Is SpiceJet Safe? Uncovering the Truth Behind Passenger Reviews

When you're planning your next trip, safety is always at the top of your mind. And if you're considering flying with SpiceJet, you might be wondering just how safe it is. After all, flying can be daunting, and choosing the right airline is crucial for a worry-free journey.

Is El Al Safe? Debunking Myths & Unveiling the Truth for Nervous Flyers

When you're planning a trip, especially an international one, safety is likely at the top of your list. And if your travels are taking you to or from Israel, you've probably heard of El Al. It's Israel's national airline and has a reputation that precedes it. But what's behind the buzz? Is El Al really as safe as they say?

Is China Eastern Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When you're planning a trip, especially one that spans continents, safety is likely at the top of your list. You've probably come across China Eastern Airlines in your search for flights, and it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, you're entrusting them with your most precious cargo - yourself and your loved ones.

Is China Southern Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Concerns

When it comes to air travel, safety is always at the forefront of everyone's mind. You might be planning your next trip and wondering, "Is China Southern safe?" It's a valid question, especially when venturing far from home.

Is Malaysia Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Travelers

When you're planning your next adventure or business trip, the airline you choose is a big deal. You want comfort, good service, and most importantly, safety. Malaysia Airlines often pops up as a tempting option with its attractive routes and competitive prices. But there's that nagging question in the back of your mind: Is Malaysia Airlines safe?

Is Japan Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Flyers

When planning your next trip, safety is likely at the top of your list, especially when it comes to choosing an airline. You might be wondering, "Is Japan Airlines safe?" Well, you're in the right place to find out. Japan Airlines, known for its impeccable service, also prides itself on its safety record.

Is ANA Safe? Discover How They Ensure Your Peace of Mind in the Skies

When you're planning a trip, especially one that involves flying, safety is likely at the top of your mind. You might be wondering about All Nippon Airways, commonly known as ANA, and its safety record. Is it a reliable choice for your next journey?

Is Singapore Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Secrets Behind Their Flawless Safety Record

When you're jetting off to exotic locales or crucial business meetings, the last thing you want to worry about is your safety in the sky. That's where Singapore Airlines comes into play. Known for its impeccable service, it's natural to wonder about its safety record too.

Is Emirates Safe? Unveiling What Happy Travelers Really Think

When you're planning your next journey, safety is likely at the top of your list. You've probably heard a lot about Emirates, known for its luxurious experience, but how does it stack up in terms of safety? Let's dive into what makes an airline safe and see where Emirates lands.

Is LOT Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight's Safety

When you're planning a trip, the safety of the airline you choose is a top priority. You might've heard about LOT Polish Airlines and wondered, "Is LOT safe?" Well, you're not alone in asking. Safety concerns are valid, especially when it's about flying thousands of feet above the ground.

Is Aeromexico Safe? Unveiling What Every Traveler Needs to Know

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Aeromexico, safety might be at the top of your mind. It's natural to wonder about the safety records of airlines these days, especially with the amount of travel we all do. Aeromexico, as one of the leading carriers in Latin America, often comes under scrutiny.

Is Norwegian Safe? Discover Why Travelers Trust Its Skies

When you're planning your next adventure, safety is always at the top of your list. And if Norway's on your radar, you're probably wondering, "Is Norwegian safe?" Let's dive into what makes this Nordic country a destination worth considering from a safety perspective.

Is Allegiant Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth About Your Flight's Safety

When you're planning a trip, the safety of the airline you choose is a top priority. You've probably heard mixed reviews about budget airlines, and Allegiant Air often comes up in those conversations. It's natural to wonder, "Is Allegiant Air safe?"

Is Hawaiian Airlines Safe? Discover Why Flyers Trust This Paradise Airline

When you're planning a tropical getaway, the last thing you want to stress over is whether your flight will be a smooth sail or a turbulent ride. Enter Hawaiian Airlines, a name that's almost synonymous with the aloha spirit and island hopping. But beyond the lei greetings and in-flight POG juice, you're probably wondering, "Is Hawaiian Airlines safe?"

Is Frontier Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When you're planning your next adventure or business trip, the airline you choose can make all the difference. You've probably heard about Frontier Airlines, known for its budget-friendly fares, but you might be wondering, "Is Frontier Airlines safe?" It's a valid question that deserves a closer look, especially in today's travel climate.

Is Spirit Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When you're planning a trip and looking for budget-friendly options, Spirit Airlines often pops up as a tempting choice. But amidst the excitement of snagging a great deal, you might pause and wonder, "Is Spirit Airlines safe?" It's a valid question, especially when you're about to trust them with your most precious cargo—yourself!

Is JetBlue Safe? Uncovering the Truth Behind Their Safety Measures

When you're planning your next trip, the airline you choose is as crucial as your destination. You've probably heard a lot about JetBlue, known for its comfy seats and ample legroom, but how does it stack up in terms of safety? It's a question worth asking, especially in today's travel climate.

Is Alaska Airlines Safe? Discover Why Flyers Trust Their Journey With Them

When you're planning your next trip, safety is likely at the top of your list. You're not just looking for a smooth flight; you want peace of mind from takeoff to touchdown. That's where Alaska Airlines comes into play. It's a name you've probably heard tossed around when talking about reliable air travel, but how safe is it really?

Is Southwest Airlines Safe? Uncovering What Every Traveler Needs to Know

When you're planning your next trip, safety is always at the top of your mind. And if you're considering flying with Southwest Airlines, you might be wondering just how safe your journey will be. It's a valid concern, especially in today's world where travel safety has become more important than ever.

Is United Airlines Safe? Real Passengers Share Their Experiences

When you're planning your next trip, safety is probably at the top of your list, especially when it comes to choosing an airline. You've likely come across United Airlines, a major player in the aviation industry, and wondered, "Is United Airlines safe?" It's a valid question that deserves a closer look.

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Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Wyoming for Everyone

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Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Washington State for Everyone

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• Saint Louis, Missouri

64 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in St. Louis, Missouri

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Known as the gateway to the west, St. Louis sits on the Mississippi River and is the largest city in Missouri. Once the jumping-off point for explorers heading out to conquer the Wild West, today St. Louis draws adventurers from near and far with its bright lights and impressive assortment of attractions.

There are plenty of fun things to do in St. Louis , with sightseeing, dining, and shopping all on the cards. Music runs through the veins of this visionary city, and you’ll often hear blues and ragtime beats spilling out onto the streets.

A cultural trove of activities for both young and old, there are one-of-a-kind experiences to take advantage of in The Lou…

Go behind the scenes at a whiskey distillery, join a creative cocktail-making class, see your favorite performers or bands on stage or join a spooky ghost tour to a haunted mansion (or if you don’t have the chutzpah, attempt an eerily-themed escape room instead)!

We’ve rounded up the best landmarks and experiences in St. Louis to save you from having to do the research yourself. Here are the top picks:

1 – See history differently at the Gateway Arch

The 630-foot Gateway Arch is the icon of St. Louis. It was erected in the 1960s to honor the 19 th -century explorers, Lewis and Clark, as well as President Thomas Jefferson, who led the charge for America’s extension into the west.

Today, Gateway Arch National Park marks the starting point of the original expedition, and a visit will reveal how St. Louis played a key role in the famous Westwards Expansion.

Once you’ve snapped some photos of the arch, head to the Museum at the Gateway Arch and uncover more about this turning point in the country’s history. You’ll hear the stories of pioneers, rebels, and Native Americans who helped shape the homeland we know and love today.

Don’t leave with taking a scenic stroll along the St. Louis Riverfront and visiting the Old Courthouse where civil rights history was made.

2 – Explore the famous Forest Park

Forest Park lies in the heart of St. Louis and is treasured by residents for its vast open green spaces. It’s one of the largest urban parks in all of the United States and makes a scenic backdrop to the city. Over 12 million visitors come here every year, to enjoy a walk and take in the historic buildings, monuments, and landscapes.

You’ll find some of the city’s most important cultural institutions here, including the Missouri History Museum and the Science Center. There’s also the Steinberg Skating Rink and the Turtle Playground for those who want to get active.

For picnics and summer concerts wander over to Art Hill – the views from here are the best in the park. Meanwhile, over at the Jewel Box greenhouse, you can admire Art Deco design and dazzling floral displays.

Directions in Google Maps

3 – See Saint Louis City Hall on a hop-on hop-off bus tour

Discover some of the best sights in St. Louis on a vintage hop-on hop-off bus tour. It’s a great way for independent travelers to explore without the restrictions of a guided excursion, and you’ll be riding on an authentic trolley bus to get you in the mood for a bit of history.

You can just get on and off the bus as you please, stopping at the attractions and landmarks that most pique your interest. Popular sights include City Hall, the Gateway Arch, and the Busch Stadium.

The onboard tour guide will spill the beans on some of the city’s most iconic places, as well as explain how St. Louis first came to be. It’s probably the most relaxing sightseeing trip in town!

• bus tours in Saint Louis

4 – Meet leopards and lemurs at the Saint Louis Zoo

Home to over 12,000 animals, the much-loved St. Louis Zoo is the favorite haunt of younger visitors. Spend the day making new friends as you stroll around the grounds.

There’s everything from elephants and armadillos to polar bears and pumas waiting to welcome you into their realm. Of course, the king of the jungle is the star of the show so don’t miss swinging by his enclosure!

Want to get up close and personal? Then take one of the immersive behind-the-scenes tours and find out what it’s like to be a zookeeper for the day. You’ll get to meet the penguins, feed the giant tortoises, and take selfies with sea lions.

Even better, it’s free to visit the zoo, so you can come as many times as you like during your stay!

5 – Explore the National Museum of Transportation

Celebrating some of the most innovative planes, trains, and automobiles in modern history, the National Museum of Transportation is a real eye-opener. Featuring over 190 transport-related exhibits, the collections here are the largest of their type in the world.

Over in the rail section, the Union Pacific “Big Boy” stands pride of place as the biggest steam locomotive ever built. Poke your nose into passenger coaches and diesel engines that were ahead of their time.

The shiny collection of vintage cars is impressive too, but the real stars are the aircraft, some of which played major parts in key historical events. Don’t miss the twin-engine 1943 Douglas plane, which was used during the D-Day invasion of Normandy. This is real-life history, right before your eyes!

6 – Visit the Missouri History Museum

Another gem in the ever-popular Forest Park – there’s a bit of a theme going on here – is the splendidly curated Missouri History Museum . It’s one of the top things to do in St. Louis for anyone interested in charting the heritage of the city from its founding in 1764 to the present day.

The building itself is worthy of a visit and was opened in 1913 as the first national monument to Thomas Jefferson. As you enter the Grand Hall, look up and admire the monoplane suspended from the ceiling. This is the sister of the Spirit of St. Louis which was flown by Charles Lindbergh on the first solo transatlantic flight.

There are baseball exhibits, displays about the 1904 World Fair, and presentations about life on the Mississippi River too.

7 – Smell the roses at Missouri Botanical Garden

This one is for green-fingered explorers who fancy themselves as exotic plant hunters in another life! The oldest botanical garden in the country is a designated National Historic Landmark, with a whopping 79 acres of grounds to investigate.

Imagine yourself in the tropics as you amble through the Climatron rainforest exhibit and feel in harmony with nature in the exquisite Japanese garden. Can you spot any koi carp in the lake?

Missouri Botanical Garden isn’t all about green spaces, it’s about historical buildings too. Designed by Henry Shaw, the Cleveland Avenue Gatehouse is a must-see, with its Gothic Revival architecture and shingling detail.

Pop into the Butterfly House before you leave and surround yourself with colorful fluttering beauties. This hot enclosure is great on a cold day!

8 – Watch a game of baseball at the Busch Stadium

Sporting fans should make a beeline to the Busch Stadium , home to the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team . This retro-style downtown ballpark can seat up to 46,000 guests, so you know the atmosphere will be buzzing during a game! Check out the schedule to see what’s on during your stay.

Even if a game isn’t on the cards, you can still enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, and see where the magic happens. You’ll explore areas of the ballpark that are usually off-limits to visitors, and pose beside the scoreboard for those all-important photos.

Before leaving, pop into the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame Museum which charts the story of the team while featuring key championship moments and artifacts.

• Busch Stadium tickets

9 – Enjoy sweet melodies during candlelight concerts

Couples; are you looking for utterly romantic things to do in St. Louis? Treat your darling to an evening of music and magic with these extra special candlelight concerts.

Entering the show’s venue (chosen for its uniqueness), hundreds of flickering candles dot the room in warm glowing lights creating a dreamy atmosphere from the get-go.

Rock out to the sounds of one of the greatest bands, Queen, and sing along to your favorites like Bohemian Rhapsody, Somebody to Love and We Are The Champions performed by a special string quintet, or relive your high school sweetheart dreams with a tribute to Taylor Swift.

Revel in the music of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons performed by the Opus 76 Quartet, or the best of Beethoven and the genius’ classics like Symphony No. 5 in C Minor, Op. 67: I. Allegro con brio and Bagatelle No. 25 in A Minor (‘Für Elise’).

All candlelight concerts in St. Louis take place at The Ethical Society of St. Louis building.

• candlelight concerts in Saint Louis

10 – Browse the Saint Louis Art Museum

Located in Forest Park in the center of town, the world-renowned St. Louis Art Museum is a major city player when it comes to visitor attractions. It boasts some of the most outstanding collections of fine art in America, with paintings, sculptures, and artifacts all on display.

Art aficionados will love browsing the galleries where ancient Egyptian tomb adornments rub shoulders with contemporary glass carvings. Some pieces date back an incredible 5000 years!

There’s plenty of Greek pottery and classic oil paintings to admire too, so whatever you’re into, there will be something here to get you excited. As you wander through the exhibitions, see if you can spot a Monet, take a moment to appreciate a Rodin, and see if you can get your head around a Jim Dime.

11 – Visit the historic gardens of Tower Grove Park

The majestic Tower Grove Park  is where you’ll find one of the most spectacular ornamental green spaces in the city. Designed by philanthropist Henry Shaw, this urban beauty is the best-preserved 19 th -century garden park in the country.

Landscapes here are formal, with winding paths and long avenues of trees setting the scene for a journey back in time. Much of the planting is symmetrical, showing you how gardens were designed centuries ago. Follow the seven miles of trails and discover Victorian pavilions, ornate gates, and historic houses hidden in every corner.

The park is located next to the Missouri Botanical Garden, so it makes sense to combine the two on your visit.

12 – Discover the unexpected at the City Museum

Atmospherically situated in a century-old downtown warehouse, the City Museum isn’t quite what you’d expect for a venue with such a name. Instead of housing stuffy exhibitions, it’s more like a playground!

Artists from St. Louis have repurposed some of the old city infrastructures to create tunnels, slides, and even castles. You can explore secret passages and climb on giant frames as you delve deeper into this mysterious Missouri world. This is art with a difference and can be appreciated by adventurers of any age.

Kids will love messing around in the ball pits and playgrounds, while a circus and train just add to the excitement. Take a spin on the giant Ferris wheel for some rather unusual views out over the city skyline.

13 – Take a break in the Citygarden Sculpture Park

St. Louis has a lot of parks and gardens, but this one stands out among the crowd thanks to its art-inspired theme. The Citygarden is a quirky urban park dedicated to sculpture, with interactive art, fountains, and gardens taking you away from the downtown city bustle. It’s a great place for a picnic or a leg stretch if you want a break from sightseeing.

Check out the 24 sculptures on the manicured lawns and discover the poignant messages behind the pieces. Showstoppers include playful rabbits, a giant head, and a scarecrow modeled on Christ the Redeemer in Rio.

If you’re there in summer, cool off in the rain gardens and the spray plaza, where children can run about, trying to dodge the water jets.

14 – See the Saint Louis Blues in action at the Enterprise Center

When it’s not hosting your favorite sports teams, the Enterprise Center transforms from sporting arena to a concert stadium, and it’s one of St. Louis’ top sports and major events venues.

Home of the St. Louis Blues, the previous Scottrade Center was renamed to the Enterprise Center in 2018, and the professional ice hockey team plays their home matches here on the rink.

Equipped with a seating capacity of 18,096, when it’s the National Hockey League game-time (or a mega concert), you have the option of booking seats inside one of the Theater Boxes or premium VIP Suites for the best (and most comfortable) views in the house.

When ice hockey isn’t the main event, the arena is also utilized for basketball matches and even pro wrestling! See the stars from WWE Raw, or sing along to your favorite artist or band on tour, like John Mayer, for example.

• Enterprise Center tickets

15 – Be wowed by mosaics in the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis

This one’s for the history buffs and anyone who appreciates a fine bit of architecture. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis stands grandly in the West End of the city. It’s relatively new, with construction beginning in 1907, and was designated a cathedral by Pope John Paul II during his visit in 1999.

Inside you’ll be astonished to discover that the walls are almost completely covered with delicate mosaics, making them the largest such collection in the western world. The Mosaic Museum shows how these tiny tiles were designed and stuck in place – it wasn’t a five-minute job!

You can also see the throne used by the Pope, as well as an exhibition of ancient vestments and religious artifacts.

16 – Visit the World Chess Hall of Fame

Explore the hidden connections between chess, art, and culture at this internationally renowned museum. At the World Chess Hall of Fame , you’ll discover that this universally loved game is so much more than just a strategy test for aspiring masterminds! It’s linked to the wider world in ways you could only have imagined.

Engaging exhibitions here chart the history of the game and its incredible impact on society beyond the board. Don’t miss the display of chess sets from around the globe to see how pawns and kings are presented in different countries. You’ll also see the world’s largest chess piece which is an eye-popping 20 feet tall!

There are artist talks and workshops to get involved in too, as well as frequent concerts by the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.

17 – Take a spin on the Saint Louis Wheel

Want to see the city from a different perspective? Then make like a bird and take to the skies with a ride on this 200-foot-high observation wheel. From your comfortable perch in one of the 42 enclosed gondolas, you’ll soar above the city skyline and see the sights from a rather unique vantage point.

Each ride on the St. Louis Wheel lasts for 15 minutes, with up to four rotations treating you to all the best camera angles.

If you don’t want the fairground magic to end, then head over to the St. Louis Union Station Carousel and re-create those childhood memories. As you trot up and down on the vintage horses and exotic animals, revel in the delight of leisure from a bygone era.

18 – Fly planes and play with fire at Saint Louis Science Center

Looking for inspiring things to do in St. Louis with the kids? The science museum and planetarium in Forest Park will have them enthralled for hours. This is a chance to immerse yourself in the exhibits and learn more about our fascinating planet.

Open your eyes and minds with a spin around the 700 exhibits here at the St. Louis Science Center. There are live science shows too, where fire and electricity will ignite your curiosity.

Watch open-mouthed as you learn about the dinosaurs of Antarctica in the Omnimax theater and discover new constellations in the twinkling star show. Meanwhile, budding pilots can take to the skies in the flight simulator, and pull off aerial stunts like a pro.

19 – See a show at The Fabulous Fox Theatre

Never mind the performance, the interior alone of this stunning traditional theater is enough to have your jaw dropping to the floor. Rich reds and gleaming golds combine to make you feel like royalty, while the ornate ceiling will have you grabbing for the camera. Here, it’s just as much about the venue as the show.

The Fabulous Fox Theatre opened in 1929 and has been putting on world-renowned performances ever since. Come here to see Broadway classics, Vegas extravaganzas, and old movies, while surrounded by a delightfully regal setting. Concerts are regularly held here too, with everything from classical works to punk rock on the event schedule.

Check the listings to see what is showing during your trip, and book ahead because tickets are often snapped up weeks in advance.

• Fabulous Fox Theatre tickets

20 – Journey back in time at the Campbell House Museum

Imperious Campbell House was the first residence to be built in the upscale Lucas Place neighborhood back in 1851. It belonged to the famous fur trader and entrepreneur Robert Campbell and his descendants until 1938.

Inside, the Campbell House Museum is an eclectic compilation of the family possessions, with original paintings, period furniture, and even carriages on display.

The collection of correspondence gives a fascinating insight into 19 th -century life in St. Louis, while 1000 sepia photos put faces to the names you’ll have read about around the house.

This is one of the country’s most significant historic property museums, and well worth slotting into your busy schedule.

21 – Visit the special World Bird Sanctuary

Calling all avid bird-watchers; the World Bird Sanctuary is a haven with a cause and is all about rehabilitating birds of prey, and other species, back to health and into their natural habitats once more.

Abiding by their mission to ‘protect and preserve birds and their habitats through conservation, rehabilitation, education, and advocacy,’ the sanctum started out small way back in 1977 as a passion project, developing into so much more over the decades.

Always with our winged creatures’ best interests at heart, the 123-hectare property (set within a Missouri hardwood forest) is home to more than 200 animals and 60 varying bird species.

Spot eagles, falcons, hawks, owls, parrots, vultures and other birds, as well as some reptiles. Get involved in experiences like a 30-minute animal encounter or guided park tour.

Heartwarming to know; every year its dedicated World Bird Sanctuary Wildlife Hospital nurses over 600 birds of prey back to health.

22 – Visit the Pulitzer Arts Foundation

The Pulitzer Arts Foundation uses a series of special exhibitions to give visitors direct and personal experiences with culture. You’ll discover both historic and contemporary pieces here in the galleries, taking you on a journey that will make you think outside the box.

It’s the contrasting artwork that blows the mind here. One moment you could be taking in Buddhist art from Afghanistan, and the next you’ll be examining the color relationships in modern Zen paintings. It’s a unique place with visual appeal for artists and enthusiasts interested in exploring new concepts and ideas.

The building is noteworthy too, having been designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Tadao Ando as a blank canvas to showcase the exhibits.

23 – Pose with your heroes at Laclede’s Landing Wax Museum

Take selfies with your favorite A-listers at Laclede’s Landing Wax Museum . Okay, so they’re not real, but looking at the photos back home, no one will ever know.

At this unusual museum, you’ll be introduced to a surprising array of waxwork figures, many of whom would never cross paths in the outside world. Here you can rub shoulders with everyone from movie stars and presidents to superheroes and even monsters. Don’t forget your camera.

Strike a pose beside Jackie Chan, make friends with a Power Ranger, and be transported to 18 th -century France by a lifelike Marie Antoinette. Some of the wax figures are available to rent, so if you want to spice up a party or surprise a friend, this is a fun way of doing it!

24 – Capture the perfect pose in The Selfie Room

If you’re hunting for things to do in St. Louis that will boost your Instagram credibility, then look no further than The Selfie Room .

Using an inventive collection of interactive art exhibits, designed especially for taking selfies, this whimsical experience will get your creative juices flowing. It takes photo crafting to the next level, with different themed rooms and backdrops to make you stand out from the crowd.

Frolic with foam in the Minty Fresh Room, cozy up in the Feather Room, and have a party in the Present Room. There’s something here for all occasions, and more besides. Whether you want to release your inner holiday Barbie or get your glam on at the night disco, you’ll come away with pictures to die for!

25 – Discover the Laumeier Sculpture Park

For a dose of fresh air and some outdoor art that will make you think, leave room in your schedule for a visit to the quirky Laumeier Sculpture Park .

This 105-acre open-air museum is nestled in Sunset Hills, just a 20-minute drive from St. Louis. It makes a fun half-day trip out of the city. Laumeier is one of the biggest sculpture parks in America, with around 60 large-scale artworks to contemplate.

Favorite installations include the giant bronze tulips, the tiled cat cuddle seat, and a kinetic steel schooner. There are regularly changing exhibitions throughout the year, with several hiking routes around the grounds that take in the most popular sculptures.

26 – Uncover the city’s secrets on a scavenger hunt

Put your thinking caps on and prepare for some city sightseeing with a difference on an interactive app-led scavenger hunt. At each stop on the route, you’ll be given challenges to unravel which will release the next clue in your mission. So, brush up on your trivia and problem-solving techniques and hit the trail.

You’ll be stopping at some of the best landmarks in St. Louis as well as swinging by a few hidden gems along the way. Take photos, test your navigation skills, and have a blast as you race against the clock. Will you emerge triumphantly?

You can work as a team or go it alone and see who can get to the end first.

• scavenger games in Saint Louis

27 – Time travel at the Cahokia Mounds Museum Society

There’s a lot of modern history in this Midwestern region of America, but if you want to go even further back in time, head to the Cahokia Mounds Museum just outside St. Louis. This ancient archaeological site gives a glimpse into the lives of early Native Americans.

The settlement here was home to the Cahokian people for centuries until the 1600s. Theirs was a sophisticated society, with advanced agricultural and scientific practices contributing to the longevity of the civilization.

While most of the city has now disappeared, you can walk along the trails and get a sense of what it once looked like. Climb up the 100-foot-tall mounds for a better view – you can even see the modern city of St. Louis from here!

28 – Explore the Miniature Museum of Greater Saint Louis

This delightful little museum will be a vacation highlight for younger visitors and hobbyists wanting to take a trip down memory lane. The Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis is all about city life – on a tiny scale!

The dollhouses are the jewels in the crown, with everything from rustic cabins to magnificent mansions on display. Peer closely and you’ll see meticulously crafted rooms, depicting scenes from everyday living.

Check out the cluttered attics and the historic kitchens, before moving onto the model shops and pocket-sized streets. There might even be a haunted house or two thrown into the mix!

Want to start a miniature kingdom of your own? Then swing by the gift shop on your way out and pick up some essential supplies.

29 – Enjoy imaginative play at Myseum

This children’s museum offers an interactive arena for kids of all ages to have fun, and maybe even learn a thing or two. The 30 exhibits at  Myseum  are totally hands-on and include everything from a dinosaur dig to a magnetic ball wall.

Young explorers can learn some new skills at the zoo vet clinic, and let their minds run wild in the imagination playground. Older children will enjoy playing with the thermal imaging camera and the musical Tesla coil, and how can they resist a go in the giant UFO maze? There’s an interactive video wall too, and dancing plasma tubes that will set scientific hearts ablaze.

This is a great place for the whole family to come and spend a few hours discovering new things while having a blast.

30 – Tour the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France

Fondly known as the Old Cathedral , the Basilica of St. Louis, King of France is one of the most historic buildings in the city. With roots going back to 1764, the current church is the fourth to be built on this site and dates to 1831. It’s the “Mother Church” of St. Louis and was once the beating heart of the settlement.

You can take a tour of this national monument or wander around at your own pace to soak up the peaceful atmosphere. Highlights include the tomb of the first bishop of St. Louis, sitting pride of place in the small museum.

There are lots of religious artifacts to discover too, but the real attraction is the sense of calm and restfulness that you’ll feel as you explore inside.

31 – Watch a live concert at Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre

Wondering where it is that all the biggest American artists and music stars play in Missouri? Head just outside the city to Maryland Heights (a 20-minute drive) to the outdoor Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre where live music is the grounds’ top feature.

Opening in 1991, the space has always been a concert venue and with a capacity of 20,000 spectators, the crowds flood in when bands, artists and performers hit the stage. There are 7,000 designated covered seats and the rest of the seating is set up on the lawn.

Arrive early for the best seats in the house, and camper chairs are available to rent for the crowds in the grassy area.

Pro tip: Traffic can become intense getting to and from Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre. If driving here yourselves, or even catching a taxi, make sure you add at least an hour extra onto travel time for the swarms of cars entering and exiting.

From Shania Twain to Fall Out Boy, the live music to see here crosses all genres and doesn’t get better than this in St. Louis!

• Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre tickets

32 – Be inspired at the Contemporary Art Museum Saint Louis

If St. Louis does one thing well, it’s art! Known locally as CAM, the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis  is another of the city’s acclaimed creative venues. As the name suggests, the exhibits are modern, so there’s nothing old and strait-laced here!

Every year the museum hosts six major exhibitions showcasing new works by both national and international artists across a variety of mediums. Much of the art is experimental, leading the observer to make up their own mind about what they’re seeing.

The themes are progressive, and the works are thought-provoking, making this one of the most immersive collections featuring the art of our time.

33 – Go on safari at Grant’s Farm

This historic farm makes for a fun-filled family day out in nearby Grantwood Village. Built by the Civil War general, Ulysses S. Grant, this mini zoo is home to over 900 animals from across six continents.

Take an open-air tram ride through the 281-acre wildlife preserve and pretend you’re riding over the great American plains. You’ll come across bison, elk, and Sika deer as you adventure further into Grant’s Farm . For close encounters, head to the petting zoo or meet the Clydesdale horses during a stroll through their pasture.

While you’re there, visit the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site and tour White Haven, the home once owned by the man himself. Discover more about the people who lived here, including the slaves who worked on the property.

34 – Scream the roof down at The Darkness Haunted House

You’ll need nerves of steel to take on the scariest haunted house experience in America. So, muster your courage, gather some trusty companions, and step over the threshold into a world of mystery and chills. It’s been voted one of the spookiest things to do in St. Louis!

Will you be brave enough to set foot in the Killer Pumpkin Barn or take a walk through the Haunted Conservatory? Test your fearlessness in the Horror Arcade with vintage games like pinball that have a creepy twist, then ramp up the eeriness with a hair-raising experience in the Coffin Escape Room.

The Darkness Haunted House takes terror to the next level, with more frights per square foot than anywhere else in the city. Have you got what it takes to survive?

35 – Taste whiskey on a distillery tour

Forget about moonshine whilst you’re in the Missouri state and instead, go on an expedition where you’ll sample and taste some of the finest premium alcohol in St. Louis during an authentic distillery tour.

Specializing in artisanal vodkas as well as whiskey, St. Louis Distillery produces its own label (Cardinal Sin Spirits) and has won the award for ‘best craft vodka distillery in the USA.’

Available on weekends is a Tour & Tasting combo where you’ll go behind the scenes and witness the manufacturing process with your knowledgeable guide providing all the insider details. Once you’re done touring, sample a few of their spirits including vodka, starka and whiskey.

StilL 630 Distillery is all about spirits aged in wooden barrels with a special focus on whiskey, rum and bourbon, however, it also distills gin and tequila as part of its “Experimental Releases.”

The in-house Library of Indomitable Spirits is separated into three sections that visitors can enjoy. Check out the Botanical Library to scope the ingredients, sample brown spirits at different aging processes at The Evolutionary Library and try zany cocktails at The Experimental Spirits Program. Grain to Glass tours are available for the seriously curious.

36 – Play at The Magic House in Saint Louis Children’s Museum

Spending a day playing and learning in the eccentric atmosphere of The Magic House is every child’s dream. It’s one of the most talked-about things to do in St. Louis when it comes to family activities in the city.

The house itself is striking, with Victorian architecture and mystical gardens to draw you in. Once you’ve stepped through the front door, however, you’ll find yourself in a world of make-believe and fun.

Exhibits here are educational and entertaining, with child development at the heart of it all. Travel to the Taj Mahal and Bollywood for a cultural experience with a visit to Namaste India, or design aqueducts at the Waterfall Patio. Creative souls can get inventive in the art studio too. There’s honestly something for everyone here!

37 – Spend the evening at Stifel Theatre

Ready to be entertained? Then settle into your seat as the lights dim and enjoy a performance at the renowned Stifel Theatre . From operas and concerts to ballets and comedies, there is a wide range of events throughout the year.

This historic performing arts venue has hosted stars like Frank Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, and The Rolling Stones in the past, so you know you’re in for a good time.

Whether you want to watch Dancing with the Stars or fancy tapping into a bit of nostalgia with original Jersey Boy Frankie Valli, there’s always something on to get you in the mood. During the annual Gateway Blues Festival, the stage is always packed with talent so if you’re here in March, keep an evening free for the Stifel.

• Stifel Theatre tickets

38 – Learn about business at the Economy Museum

How much do you really know about the economy? If you’re curious about the mechanics of this somewhat secretive industry, then step inside the Economy Museum and be enlightened. It’s housed inside the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis so they should know what they’re talking about!

This immersive museum experience will whisk you off on an engaging journey that dishes the dirt on real-life economics, with nearly 100 exhibits to illustrate the facts. Discover how you play a part in the national economy, and why some seemingly small decisions have a ripple effect on the wider world.

Aspiring traders can pick up tips on how the international stock exchanges work, and maybe come away considering a career change! You can get your hands on a real gold bar too – will you be able to lift it?

39 – Jump for joy at a trampoline park

Bounce around with your friends as you take on the giant trampolines in some of the best sports parks in St. Louis. This is a great way to get the whole family active while having heaps of laughs.

Each park has several different attractions to tackle, with wall-to-wall aerial action yours for the taking. Dodge and dive, then flip and weave as you launch yourselves into the fun.

Practice your somersaults on the open areas at Rockin’ Jump , have a go at trampoline dodgeball at DEFY, or plunge into the soft foam pools at Sky Zone and play hide and seek. Brave souls can take on the warrior obstacle course at Urban Air if they dare.

This is extreme sports but with a soft landing, so what’s not to love?

40 – Listen to iconic music at the National Blues Museum

As you’d expect with a name like that, the National Blues Museum explores this evocative genre of music from its roots to the present day.

Entertaining exhibits tell the story behind the players who have stirred souls with their tunes through the years, and how Blues is the foundation of all modern-day music. The museum also puts St. Louis firmly on the map as an integral player in shaping the music of the nation.

There’s a state-of-the-art theater where you can hear, and feel the full force of the Blues in what has been described as pure musical immersion. The live shows here truly make your spine tingle as you sway along to rhythms of the Deep South. Check the event listings to see what’s on during your vacation.

41 – Test your detective skills in an escape room

Have you always felt like you were in the wrong profession? Has detective work secretly been your calling? Pretend to be Nancy Drew or Sherlock Holmes while trying out an escape room!

Locked inside a themed room, your gang is presented with a set of riddles, each one unlocking a key until you make your final exit. There are a bunch of escape rooms in St. Louis!

Designed within one big “haunted house,” there are a whopping seven rooms to take your pick from at St Louis Escape . These include Blackbeard’s Revenge, Jurassic Island, Dracula, Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Frankenstein, Haunted Hotel and the Cellar.

If none of those tickle your fancy, Mastermind Room Escape boasts 10 rooms! Cursed Castle, Davinci’s Workshop and the Diamond Heists are some of the most popular, and all range in difficulty.

Beat the 60-minute clock when attempting the Western Bank Heist, The Clock Tower, The Theater or The Submarine mission from Escape The Room St. Louis .

Breakout Games offers the classics and is super family-friendly, with seven escape rooms to play.

Finally, Escape from St. Louis offers three thrilling and immersive escape room options: Wizard Quest, Carnival of the Cosmos & The Murder at Denbrough Mansion.

42 – Embark on ghost tours … If you dare!

Do you believe in the paranormal? If you’ve got the guts for it, enter a haunted mansion and hear of the spooky and grueling tales behind it during ghost tours!

Considered one of “America’s most haunted neighborhoods,” head to the Lemp area with a paranormal investigator and let the ghoul hunting begin!

Here you’ll come across the infamous Lemp Mansion and Brewery and as rumor has it, the grounds are believed to be damned by the Lemp Family. The family home experienced three suicides by various members living on the property …

Whilst you aren’t allowed inside the mansion, investigate three of its eerie basements inside the brewery and hear about its ghostly tragedies.

Tours last 1.5 hours and take place in the evening times – because any ghostbuster knows this is the best time for spotting specters and feeling the presence of the spirit world!

• ghost tours in Saint Louis

43 – Experience thrills at RYZE Adventure Park

Just a short drive from Downtown St. Louis, RYZE Adventure Park attracts families and thrill-seekers with a wealth of exciting activities. From the 4-story Adventure Tower, boasting serene skywalks and adventurous challenges, to a 200-foot zipline that lets you soar through the park’s landscape, a full adrenaline rush awaits.

For young adventurers, the Little Ninja course offers an age-appropriate challenge that ensures they don’t miss out on the fun. And when it’s break time, the Yard Games area and the 18-hole mini golf course provide more relaxing activities.

To recharge, head to Adventure Café and enjoy a variety of delicious snacks, all under a cozy covered booth. Embark on a day of unparalleled fun at RYZE Adventure Park!

44 – Feast on seafood at the Broadway Oyster Bar

Known as the king of seafood restaurants in St. Louis, Broadway Oyster Bar will become your new favorite downtown hang-out. Cajun classics and live music combine to make for a truly electric evening out.

Serving a delectable feast of New Orleans-style cuisine, this famous eatery is the haunt of both locals and visitors. It’s housed in one of the most historic buildings in the city which just adds to its old town vibe. Ghosts included!

Tuck into fresh gulf oysters, Louisiana crawfish, and Prince Edward Island scallops. Licking the butter off your fingers afterward is optional. For something a little different, try the voodoo shrimp or the naked gator tacos.

Then toast the day with a bayou berry margarita as you settle in for an evening of smooth jazz.

45 – Catch a show at the Municipal Theatre Association

After a busy day of sightseeing, it’s time to put your feet up and let someone else do the entertaining. So, get yourself down to the Municipal Theatre Association for a hearty dose of jazz hands and belting tunes.

For over 100 years, the amphitheater here in Forest Park has been resonating with the music of popular Broadway shows. It’s the place to come if you want to let your hair down and jig along to some of the classic hits.

Do you want the villainous Victorian barber Sweeney Todd to send shivers down your spine? Or is a sugarcoated singalong with Mary Poppins more your style? Whatever you’re into, there’s always something on to get those feet tapping.

46 – Browse the Soulard Farmers’ Market

The historic Soulard Farmers’ Market in the heart of St. Louis is one of the oldest markets in the Midwest, dating back to 1779. Tucked away in a grand hall built in the Italian Renaissance style, the market makes for an atmospheric afternoon excursion.

There are nearly 150 stalls with vendors from the local area selling everything from organic farm produce to artisan jewelry. Savor the scents as you wander around the food section, where seafood, cheese, and spices lure you in. Stop at the bakery for warm bread and cinnamon buns or visit the Cajun Corner for an authentic Creole lunch.

The market is open from Wednesday to Saturday, all year round. Go armed with some cash as most suppliers aren’t set up to take cards.

47 – Visit car heaven at the Saint Louis Auto Show

Get revved up for the annual St. Louis Auto Show , which is held in January each year right here in the city. A celebration of all things automotive, this highly anticipated event attracts dozens of big-name brands like Chrysler and Harley Davidson to show off their latest inventions on wheels.

Discover some of the latest hot models on the market and be one of the first to lay eyes on whacky concept cars that wouldn’t be out of place in the Back to the Future films. Then get behind the wheel of your favorite jeeps and bikes for the ultimate test drive.

You don’t need to be a motor enthusiast to enjoy a day out here, as there are lots of fun attractions that all the family can get stuck into.

48 – Plummet down slides at Six Flags Saint Louis

Six Flags St. Louis takes thrills to the next level with terrifying rollercoasters and plunging flumes keeping your heart pumping. Many of the rides are based on characters from Warner Bros. films and TV shows like Scooby-Doo and Looney Tunes.

Missouri’s biggest family attraction is packed full of excitement, with something for adventurers of all ages. For the ultimate adrenaline kick, loop the loop on the Fireball, or take a leap of faith as you fly through the air on Dragon’s Wing.

Younger visitors will have a ball on the Thunder River rafts, while a ride on the Tommy Robertson Railway is one for traditionalists. On hot days, head to the 12-acre water park at Hurricane Harbor and cool off with the pools and slides. Don’t forget to hold your breath!

49 – Feed sharks at Saint Louis Aquarium

Go on a journey through different watery habitats at the St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station. Your adventure begins with a freshwater river before delving into a salt marsh and finally ending in the deep blue ocean. Along the way, you’ll meet the inhabitants of these remarkable ecosystems and learn how they’re all connected by their environments.

Come face to face with river monsters, be tickled by a doctor fish, and see shoals of sharp-toothed piranhas – watch those fingers! You can get hands-on with horseshoe crabs and give stingrays and sharks their lunch. Feeling brave? Then you can give them a stroke too!

Finish your explorations with a visit to The Deep, where moon jellyfish light the way. Home to sea dragons and a giant octopus, this is where things get really weird!

50 – See the Soldiers Memorial Military Museum

This cutting-edge facility in downtown St. Louis is dedicated to the military and its veterans who have served their country with honor.

The Soldiers Memorial Military Museum shines a spotlight on American combat history, with a focus on the part played by St. Louis and its heroes. The region has been a huge contributor to US war efforts over the centuries, and you’ll hear stories from service members to bring some of the events to life.

There are galleries dedicated to the two World Wars, as well as exhibitions covering conflicts during the years before and after. Photographs, newspaper clippings, and diary extracts all take pride of place. Take time to see the 300 artifacts, some of which date back to the War of 1812.

51 – Dive into the Saint Louis barbecue scene

When it comes to eating out, barbecue dominates the culinary scene here in St. Louis. Having perfected the art of dishing up tender steaks with finger-licking sauces dripping off the sides, the chefs here are onto a good thing.

Pop into Pappy’s Smokehouse for succulent Memphis-style ribs served with lashings of barbecue marinade. The meats here are smoked for 24 hours over sweet apple wood, giving them a delicious taste.

For juicy pulled pork and the best beef brisket in town, book a table at Sugarfire Smoke House . They’ve reinvented the concept of barbecue here so expect the unexpected when it comes to flavor!

Meanwhile, at Salt + Smoke , you can tuck into thick slices of smoked chicken or try a cherry smoked salmon sandwich. Yum!

52 – Get creative at the Busy Einstein Cognitive Play Center

Looking for something to keep the kids entertained? The Busy Einstein Cognitive Play Center  will take your little ones on a journey of learning and fun, with several interactive puzzles and games to solve.

At the Sensory Station, it’s all about glitter syrup tubes, magnets, and geometric shapes. Oh, and maybe a bit more glitter to put a sparkle in the eyes of the players. Moving onto the Paleontology and Entomology Station, it’s dinosaurs and bugs galore with magnifying glasses to inspect the bones and specimens.

Aspiring engineers can engage their minds at the STEM Station, where creating 3D structures and learning about gravity will stand them in good stead.

53 – See a typical 19 th -century home at The Field House Museum

Constructed in 1845, this historic house was once the home of attorney Roswell Field, who shot to fame during the Dred Scott versus Sandford civil rights lawsuit. His son Eugene was brought up here, and later became a renowned author of children’s books.

Today, the Field House Museum is a designated National Historic Landmark and is home to multiple collections relating to the family.

During a guided tour you’ll explore some of the reconstructed rooms and discover what life was like in 19 th -century St. Louis. Don’t miss the extensive toy collection that has been amassed in honor of Eugene, or the library which is also dedicated to the author. There are rotating exhibit spaces too, where regularly changing displays showcase a range of unique traveling artifacts.

54 – Listen to live music at The Sheldon Concert Hall and explore its Art Galleries

Intimate as ever and over 100 years old (built in 1912), the historic Sheldon Concert Hall and its Art Galleries are all about “live music, arts, events and culture.”

Once home to the Ethical Society of St. Louis (a humanist congregation), the building was named after this establishment’s founder, Walter Sheldon.

Over the decades, the space has been used as a community center, music hall and concert venue, and circa 1988, its Arts Foundation was established. In 1998 an adjoining annex was purchased and extra facilities were added, including The Sheldon Art Galleries and the sculpture garden.

Today, it houses the 712-seater Concert Hall where icons like B.B. King have performed, the Ballroom, The Konneker Room and the Steward Family Plaza with its vertical garden.

The Sheldon Art Galleries comprise seven individual spaces that include the Bellwether Gallery of St. Louis Artists, Gallery of Music, Gallery of Photography, Bernoudy Gallery of Architecture, AT&T Gallery of Children’s Art, Nancy Spirtas Kranzberg Gallery and the Ann Lee and Wilfred Konneker Gallery.

• Sheldon Concert Hall tickets

55 – Take a tour of the historic Budweiser Brewery

The Anheuser-Busch Budweiser Brewery in St. Louis is a great place to spend the afternoon if you’re into beer! There are several tours to choose from, as well as a museum, a biergarten, and even classes for those who want to learn how to make their own home brew.

Take an in-depth look into the heritage of brewing here in the city and discover the secrets behind this age-old process. Standard tours take you behind the scenes, exploring the journey from seed to sip in 75 minutes. You’ll get to visit the historic brewhouse, and the aging cellars, as well as meet the giant Clydesdale horses in the paddock.

For something a bit different, opt for a beer and food pairing dinner in the biergarten where a four-course meal and accompanying brews are led by the head chef.

56 – Go hiking in Lone Elk Park

Lone Elk is a 546-acre country park that will transport you to the great American plains of old. Bison, wild turkey, and elk roam free, while waterfowl swim around on the lake. Deer are often spotted too if you’re quiet enough!

Your best chance of seeing the animals in action is at feeding time, which is usually before 8 AM. If that all sounds a bit too early, then don’t worry, you’ll still be able to see them from the hiking paths that loop through the wildlife management area.

The White Bison Trail is the most popular, and at 4-miles long makes a perfect half-day adventure out of the city. Picnic shelters are available in the woods for when you want a break.

57 – Tour the Missouri Civil War Museum

If you want to do a deep dive into America’s most historically defining episode, then pay a visit to the Missouri Civil War Museum . Built in honor of the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice, the museum is part memorial, part storybook.

Exhibitions of artifacts from the conflict give a glimpse into life during the war and the people who fought on both sides of the line. You’ll see original weapons, uniforms, and military equipment retrived from battlefields across the country. It’s a stark reminder of the reality of war.

Discover the part played by Missouri in the bigger picture and hear tales from those who were there. If you’re searching for moving things to do in St. Louis, this one definitely hits the spot.

58 – Play a round of golf

Enjoy the outdoors with a round of golf on one of the best courses in the St. Louis area. Beginners can enjoy lessons from a pro, while the experts can go for holes in one at a wide range of international-level clubs.

Head to Bear Creek Golf Club for a championship-style game that winds around lakes and creeks. Or for something a little less daunting, check out the 9-hole public golf course in St. Ann. Another short course can be found at Incline Village , where tree-lined fairways make for atmospheric play. Don’t miss the “island green” to show off your skills.

Meanwhile, St. Peter’s Golf Club offers a well-rounded experience with bunkers and ponds adding an element of excitement. Finally, when it comes to refreshments after the game, the St. Genevieve Golf Club comes out on top.

59 – Play detective at a Murder Mystery interactive dinner

Die laughing at a Jest Murder Mystery Company interactive dinner theater experience. A St. Louis tradition, Jest shows include professional actors who will take your group through a part scripted, part improvised murder mystery experience.

Everyone will play a part and can participate as much or as little as they want. But all will gather clues and loads of laughs as they come together to solve the deadly crime. And here’s the kicker, someone in your party might be the guilty one!

Book a private event or visit The Lemp Mansion to catch a show every Friday and Saturday night. Either way, we promise a humorously murderous experience.

60 – Watch live shows in the Dome at America’s Center

Hosting everything from rock concerts to monster truck rallies, the Dome at America’s Center is the city’s premier convention venue. The past show line-up has been pretty special. Motocross races frequently draw the crowds from miles around, and Pope John Paul II once held a Mass here that turned into the largest-ever indoor US gathering!

It’s a renowned sporting venue too, with large-scale events for both amateur and professional players taking center stage. Volleyball games and gymnastics tournaments are regular features, and there’s often a bit of basketball action to draw all eyes to the court.

For something less energetic, there are art exhibitions, concerts, and even theater productions staged here in this epic arena. See what’s on during your visit and book tickets for a memorable afternoon out.

• The Dome at America’s Center tickets

61 – Enjoy a night out at Laclede’s Landing

This buzzing riverfront district is your one-stop shop for dining and entertainment in the heart of the city. The historic warehouses at Laclede’s Landing have been transformed into trendy restaurants and hip bars, attracting both locals and visitors through their doors.

Whether you want to sink your teeth into toasted ravioli or specialty St. Louis pizza, this is the place to come. Just make sure you leave room for some gooey butter cake, all washed down with a cocktail or two.

There’s an old brewery here too, and you can tour behind the scenes if you want to know more about what you’re drinking.

This regenerated area hosts several musical events throughout the year, including the largest free blues festival in Missouri which always brings a great vibe.

62 – Discover the Saint Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum

Built in honor of survivors and in memory of victims, the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum is a must-see when you’re in town.

The underlying theme of the place is to inspire change and reject hatred while learning lessons from the past. Paying your respects here is one of the most poignant things to do in St. Louis.

Hear harrowing stories from those who lived through the Holocaust, and discover the essence of Jewish life before, and after, the Second World War. Several survivors immigrated to St. Louis to begin a new life, and it’s their tales that make up much of this exhibition.

Using photographs, videos, and artifacts from ghettos and camps, the museum artfully reconstructs what is arguably the most harrowing episode in human history. The visit is somber, but the message is hopeful.

63 – Ski or snowboard at Hidden Valley Ski Resort

Did you know that it’s possible to go skiing in St. Louis??? Probably not the first thing you imagined when planning your vacation, if you’re traveling with kids and looking for family-friendly activities, Hidden Valley Ski Resort is a fabulous option.

Opening seasonally in the wintertime, click your feet into your skis, strap up your boots and hit the slopes! Plus, if it’s not the coldest winter, the on-site snow machine is there to help create extra snowy fields.

Established in 1982, there are more than 16 trails to navigate your way through spread out across two mountain peaks.

Situated on the main peak is Badlands Park — ideal for beginners. The Outlaw Terrain Park is on the West Mountain and is designed with special ramps and rails if you want to catch some serious air!

If it’s your first time skiing, visit the Snowsports Academy and learn how to ski or snowboard with a private one-on-one or group lesson. Other epic activities include Polar Plunge Tubing and Night Skiing.

64 – Go on a pub crawl

Join forces with a local and enjoy a bar crawl in downtown St. Louis with lots of friendly banter along the way. You’ll stop at some of the most popular watering holes in the city, as well as a few lesser-known establishments well off the trodden tourist trail.

Swing by John D. McGurk’s Irish Pub and Garden for authentic music from the Emerald Isle to accompany your beer. There are several charming outdoor patios and bars so you can indulge in some al fresco drinking in the sun.

Three Sixty is another hit, with stunning views and a wine list that will impress even the finest of connoisseurs. The bar food is inventive, with clever twists on classics like fish tacos and sliders.

Finally, pop over to Ballpark Village where a dazzling array of sports bars will keep you busy. The food’s good here too, so why not make a night of it?

How to get to Saint Louis?

If St. Louis is your first stop on your USA travel itinerary, you’ll fly into St. Louis Lambert International Airport.

Why not opt to have everything taken care of for the moment you arrive with pre-organized airport transfers ? This way, after you’ve landed and are ready to leave the airport, exit the gates and your private driver will be waiting for you, holding up a sign with your name on it — fancy, right?

Head to your vehicle and be transported in comfort and style directly to your stay in St. Louis stress-free.

Transfers are available back to the airport if required.

Where to stay in Saint Louis?

Nothing beats returning to an incredible stay after long days of sightseeing and exploring a new city. Here are some of the best hotels and resorts around town!

Just outside the city center hustle and close to iconic landmarks, The Last Hotel is a luxe mix of mid-century class and art deco trends, and all rooms are spacious, comfy and well-appointed.

The Four Seasons St. Louis certainly lives up to its namesake, whether talking its rooftop pool, outdoor terraces or five-star spa — which the hotel is.

Literally staring at the city’s most famous monument, check into the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch directly overseeing the iconic Gateway Arch — ask for a room on the ninth floor for the best vistas!

Stylish and luxurious are the perfect words to describe Hotel Saint Louis, Autograph Collection . Enjoy all its niceties from black-out curtains to plush beds.

Just as its name suggests, for rooms and interiors that pop with color and hallways decorated in cool art too, the boutique four-star Angad Arts Hotel is one for the creatives!

• best hotels in Saint Louis

Where to go next?

After your holiday in St. Louis is up, where are you planning on heading next? There are many other things to do in nearby cities, starting with Kansas City — 3.5 hours away.

Unravel its world-class museums, honky-tonk bars and serious serving of Midwestern culture. Alternatively, travel roughly the same amount of time but in the opposite direction to the ‘Live Music Capital of the World’ i.e. Branson .

Icon to say the least (if you love the blues), there are plenty of things to do in Memphis , Tennessee, home to rock n’ roll and blues legends including Elvis himself! It’s a four-hour drive from St. Louis. Also in Tennessee is Nashville and another city for every music-loving soul!

Visit caverns and interesting museums, and photograph Louisville ’s interesting architecture; shop the markets, experience proper motor-cross action or hit up an old-school roller skating rink in Indianapolis .

Situated 4.5 hours from the city, you’re going to need (and want) to spend at least three days in the Windy City if you want to explore all the things to do in Chicago .

Final thoughts

From art museums to the historical kind, city icons, antiquated landmarks, galleries, endless parks and a melting pot of culture whether talking music or its earliest settlers, there are plenty of things to do in St. Louis!

Have you visited the Gateway to the West before? What are your best travel memories or favorite places in the city? Share with us in the comments below.

As always, happy and safe travels!

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.

More on Missouri

• Last Updated On
• October 5, 2023

9 Fun Things to Do Near St. Louis, MO: Best Places to Visit Nearby!

St. Louis is a big place with a big personality that has plenty of activities to choose from, particularly in the warmer months of the year.

Moreover, there are  many fun things to do near St. Louis, MO,that present a palette of opportunities to explore nature, immerse in old towns and admire culture in unique ways..

1. Chouteau Island

Chouteau Island Madison County Illinois 62040

It’s actually made up of three islands and is very easy to find due to its proximity to both the Gateway Arch and the Missouri River.

Many outdoor enthusiasts take their families to enjoy a number of fun activities.

Why We Recommend Going Here

This is a prime destination to witness wildlife.

There are a number of cheap activities to do such as biking and hiking events that take place on these islands throughout the year, but you can do so much more, including fishing, hunting and even ride around on horseback.

Distance from St. Louis

This museum is 15.1 miles away and 25 minutes drive from St. Louis. 

Recommended Hotel Near Chouteau Island: Angad Arts Hotel

Related: Best Hotels in St. Louis for Families

2. Red Herring Escape Rooms

6358 Delmar Blvd Suite 222 University City  MO 63130-4718 (318) 861-0001

Red Herring is located right in the Delmar Loop.

Which means that you can enjoy something nearby that includes a delicious dinner, a movie and even a concert.

This an opportunity to experience a sense of adventure, but by using your problem solving skills and teamwork above everything else.

Escape rooms like the ones here involve a number of immersive elements that include mazes, puzzles and other fun themes.

This escape room is 10.6 miles away from St. Louis and it takes 19 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near Red Herring Escape Rooms: The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta St. Louis

Related: Top St. Louis Attractions

3. Queeny Park

550 Weidman Rd,  Ballwin, MO 63011-4426 (314) 615-4386

The park was once part of the Mr. and Mrs. Edgar M. Queeny´s estate, which is listed on the National Register of Historic places due particularly because the house is a wonderful examples of the Greek Revivalist style that charms so much of Missouri.

One of the things to do and see near St. Louis is to take a nice stroll through a beautifully landscaped estate and treat the kids to a fun family recreation complex that includes a great, spacious and free playground, you can’t do much better!

This park is 22-2 miles away from St. Louis and it takes 29 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near Queeny Park: Courtyard by Marriott St. Louis West County

Related: Fun Things to Do in St. Louis with Kids

4. Adventure Valley Zipline Tours and Paintball Park

5320 State Rd MM House Springs, MO 63051 (314) 366-1145

Those who like thrills and enjoy a bit of action in the great outdoors this is one of the cool places to go with friends and family.

The park consists of 6 fields to choose from, as well as a woods-ball field.

Paintballs enthusiasts are sure to appreciate the different scenario play experiences featured.

There are various zilpines to choose from.

If it interests you, there’s even a proper canopy tour that will provide you with wonderful views of the area.

This tour and park are 30.0 miles away from St. Louis and it takes 38 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near Adventure Valley Zipline Tours and Paintball Park: Marriott St. Louis Grand

5. The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows

442 S Demazenod Dr Belleville, IL 62223 (618) 397-6700

This is one of the largest outdoor shrines you’ll ever visit and it a great place to connect with a worshipping community.

This is one of the places to see near St. Louis to take the family as there are 200 acres of pleasantly landscaped grounds to tour around and take in different religiously themed installations and picnicking areas.

This shrine is 17.5 miles away from St. Louis and it takes 29 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows: Magnolia Hotel St. Louis, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Related: Best Things to Do in St. Louis

6. Purina Farms

500 William Danforth Way Gray Summit, MO  63039 (314) 982-3232

Animal lovers of all ages are sure to appreciate meeting the various barnyard animals at this place that celebrates the relationship that we have with them.

There are a number of family-friendly activities and unforgettable canine performances where trained dogs do things that most people don’t get to see.

There are also wagon rides, cow milking and petting stations.

This farm is 39.5 miles away from St. Louis and it takes 40  minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near Purina Farms: Holiday Inn At Six Flags Saint Louis

Related: Best Beaches Near St Louis, MO

7. Historic Main Street St. Charles

230 S. Main St. St. Charles, MO 63301 (636) 946-7776

This is a unique chance to travel back in time to the 1800’s as it is not only the first but also the largest registered historical district in the state.

You can browse all kinds of quaint shops that offer everything from teas and tobacco to fashion and artwork.

Dining is a real treat as you can choose from a variety of restaurants, as well as coffee houses and ice cream parlors, which are excellent romantic places to visit over a weekend.

This preserve is 23.7 miles away from St- Louis and it takes 30 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near Historic Main Street St. Charles: Hollywood Casino St. Louis

8. Leila’s Hair Museum

1333 S. Noland Road Independence, MO 64055 (816) 833-2955

This hidden gem is very special as it exhibits hundreds of jewelry and wealths made from pieces of actual human hair.

You’ll learn about the history of this practice whose roots date back to the Victorian period.

It’s an experience like no other and it even has pieces made from the hair of celebrities and even presidents.

This museum is 62.1 miles away from St. Louis and it takes 1 hour and 01 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near Leila’s Hair Museum: Higher Ground Hotel

9. The Space Museum

116 E. School St. Bonne Terre, MO 63628 (573) 358-1200

This place is a must-visit spot for anyone who even has a passing interest in space and the role that it has played in people’s exploration of the final frontier.

There are more than 500 world-class artifacts that illustrate the richness with which space exploration has affected human culture, as well as a real sense of the science that is behind all of it.

Kids are sure to have a blast at the numerous interactive displays and you can sign up for a tour to get a complete picture of what the museum has to offer.

This museum is 59.6 miles away from St. Louis and it takes 59 minutes to get there by car. 

Recommended Hotel Near The Space Museum: Crown Pointe Lodge; BW Signature Collection

9 Fun Things to Do that Are Near St. Louis for 2024

• Chouteau Island
• Red Herring Escape Rooms
• Queeny Park
• Adventure Valley Zipline Tours and Paintball Park
• The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows
• Purina Farms
• Historic Main Street St. Charles
• Leila’s Hair Museum
• The Space Museum

• Roadside Attractions
• Small Towns
• Hall Of Fames
• National Parks
• Theme Parks
• BILL’S BOOKS
• Meet Bill On The Road

Brew City USA is one of the most underrated destinations in the entire midwest.  Milwaukee may be known worldwide for cheese and beer but there’s so much more!  You can keep busy for several days exploring places like the Harley-Davidson Museum , the Milwaukee Public Market , and watching the famous wings open on the Milwaukee Art Museum .  If you love a good festival – Milwaukee has lots and lots of them including the world’s largest music festival each summer.  The city has an endless amount of great food for all tastes, and don’t forget the beautiful views of Lake Michigan.  Take the time to explore some of the historic downtown neighborhoods and don’t leave without buying a bag of fresh cheese curds for your road trip home.

Bill’s Advice:  Milwaukee is perfect for one of the long weekend road trips from Saint Louis. If you’re a sports fan, consider taking a tour of the Brewer’s home stadium or catching a basketball game at the incredible new Fiserv Forum – home of the local NBA team, Milwaukee Bucks. 

Travel Time:  5h 30m / 375 miles

2. Madison County, Iowa

I’ve been visiting Winterset and Madison County for years and always enjoy each opportunity to pass through this mostly quiet, unassuming community located a short drive from Des Moines.  If you love the feel of small town U.S.A. where people are still patriotic and treat their neighbors like family – this is the place for you.  It’s a perfect trip for a romantic getaway or an extended weekend for small town shopping, and outdoor recreation.  It’s best known as the hometown of movie legend John Wayne and famous for its beautiful covered bridges that were featured in the film The Bridges Of Madison County.  Also, be sure to check out the Iowa Quilt Museum and the newly restored movie theater on the square – The Iowa.  If you’re looking for the best local hangout – Winterset Cidery is the place, with homegrown cider and regular events including live music.

Bill’s Advice: Madison County is awesome for a long weekend, romantic getaway, or ladies looking for a road trip with friends.  Put this on your list of road trips from Saint Louis and make it an extended visit by adding in a visit to nearby Des Moines or other small Iowa towns along the way.  

Travel Time: 5h 54m / 358 miles

3. Little Rock, Arkansas

If you’ve not been to Little Rock in the last five years, you owe it to yourself to make a return trip.  Arkansas’ Capital city is one of the half day road trips from Saint Louis on our list. The River Market District (shown above) has become a great spot for local nightlife with outdoor concerts, a weekend farmers market, shops, a sculpture walk, and pedestrian bridges that light up each night with cool LED multi-colored lights.  If you’re a history buff, the Clinton Presidential Museum is a must, as well as Central High School where the Little Rock 9 made world headlines at the start of the civil rights movement.  If you need something cool for the kids, be sure to visit the Museum of Discovery and take a tour of the USS Razorback submarine docked on the north bank of the Arkansas River.

Bill’s Advice:  Any time I’ve ever suggested Little Rock as a road trip stop, people will always tell me how surprised they were at what a great city it is.  The people are friendly, it’s a foodies paradise, and guys – you’ll earn extra brownie points for taking your lady to the only purse museum in the United States.  You’re welcome. 

Travel Time: 5h 24m / 347 miles 

4. Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City is really solidifying its spot as the cool place to be in the midwest.  It’s an easy drive (mostly up I-70) and with the surrounding area growing on the Kansas side, too – you’re always sure to find something new to see or experience.  Some of the KC faves include: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, National Museum of Toys & Miniatures, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Hallmark’s Visitor Center, and of course – the Power & Light District.  Count as many fountains as you can (Kansas City is known to have more fountains than any other city in America.) The city is bustling with cool theaters, hip restaurants (not just BBQ) and a new way to experience downtown – the free KC streetcar! Add Kansas City to your list of road trips from Saint Louis!

Bill’s Advice:   Kansas City is a great weekend getaway for any time of the year.  If you’re familiar with the drive, try stopping in Fulton along the way.  They have some great shops and restaurants in their historic Bricktown district – just a few miles off the interstate.   Don’t forget about Independence, too – Harry Truman’s home town! 

Travel Time: 3h 30m / 249 miles

5. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

This is one of the longer road trips from Saint Louis, but also one of the most underrated. Oklahoma City has been busy over the last few years and has become a legit travel destination.  Bricktown is the hot spot for nightlife and dining, while the city’s other neighborhoods (called “districts”) all offer something interesting for visitors.  The Oklahoma City bombing memorial is a must-visit and the National Cowboy Museum and Hall of Fame is pretty interesting.  If you don’t know anything about banjos – don’t let that deter you from checking out the American Banjo Museum either!  It’s very cool.  But the best part of OKC’s re-birth is all of the food!  It’s insane how many new restaurants have popped up in the city limits over the last few years.  If you love good food – you will love Oklahoma City!

Bill’s Advice: While exploring, make some time to chill out at the Myriad Botanical Garden – a 15 acre urban garden downtown.  Oklahoma City also has a new streetcar,  although they charge a $3.00 fee to use it for the day.  It’s probably worth it as the routes take you all over town and you won’t have to worry about driving. 

Travel Time: 7h 9m / 487 miles

6. Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis was one of the first road trips from Saint Louis I explored when I started this website back in 2013.  Obviously, it’s famous for hosting the Indy 500 and a tour of the famous speedway is a must when you visit.  But Indy is great for more than just race cars.  Start with a look at the famous Monument Circle downtown and work your way to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis – hands down the greatest museum for families in the country. It’s amazing!  Check out the beautiful canal walk that runs through White River State Park, or go for some Duck Pin bowling in Fountain Square.  History buffs can check out Benjamin Harrison’s house, and if you’re a foodie – Indy is loaded with great restaurants!

Bill’s Advice:  In route to Indy, check out Casey, Illinois for some fun photo-ops with some of the world’s tallest things!  Once in Indy – take a ride in a street legal Indy Race Car or visit their local art museum to see the original LOVE sculpture.  There are plenty of places to rent a bike as well – go for a ride and explore!    There’s nothing like it – anywhere!  Indianapolis makes a great weekend or extended getaway! 

Travel Time:  3h 50m / 255 miles

7. Madison, Wisconsin

The state capitol of Wisconsin is constantly ranked as one of the best places to live in the U.S.  Madison is also a fun college town with lots of things to do – though its best to visit in the spring and summer months if you hate cold weather.  My favorite thing to do in Madison is the Dane County Farmer’s Market that wraps around the entire Capitol building downtown and patrons all walk in one direction to shop for fresh produce and local goods.  Of course, State Street is full of action – all seven blocks between downtown and the University of Wisconsin campus. You can find food (140 restaurants!) unique stores, and plenty of entertainment day or night.

Bill’s Advice: Tour the beautiful Wisconsin State Capitol, and enjoy some time relaxing near the water.  (You can ice skate in the winter months)  For a quirky stop – a short drive to Middleton will get you to the National Mustard Museum !  When you cross state lines, pop into the welcome center and pick up a “cheese map” to find every cheese store in the entire state!

Travel Time: 5h 22m / 372 miles 

8. Springfield, Illinois

Less than two hours away, Springfield is one of the perfect one day road trips from Saint Louis. Rich in history, it’s best known for its ties to Abraham Lincoln.  You can visit the only home he ever owned and see his final resting place.  Tour the Illinois state Capitol building and take a tour of the Governor’s mansion.  (Don’t make any jokes about how many of them wind up in prison – they don’t think it’s as funny as we do.)  There is a wonderful Frank Lloyd Wright property – the Dana Thomas House in Springfield that is worth touring if you love seeing his work.

Bill’s Advice : The Lincoln Presidential Museum is very cool and you could spend half a day exploring and checking out all of the artifacts.  Springfield is a great place to get up early and spend a Saturday or a place to tack on to another road trip instead of just driving through.

Travel Time: 1h 50m / 109 miles

9. Louisville, Kentucky

Of course most people know Louisville as the place where the famous Louisville Slugger baseball bats are made, but that’s just the start!   Downtown Louisville offers a wide variety of attractions from the Muhammad Ali Center to Churchill Downs where the Kentucky Derby takes place.  For an adventure – try out the world’s only underground zip line at Louisville Mega Cavern or a cruise on the historic Belle of Louisville.  Lots of great restaurants for all tastes and cool places to stay including 21c and The Galt House Hotel.

Bill’s Advice: Louisville is a great weekend trip!  If you love Kentucky Fried Chicken, pay your respects to Col. Sanders himself.  His grave site is a short drive from downtown.  Just follow the yellow line at Cave Hill Cemetery and you’ll find it.  Don’t be surprised if you see a bucket of chicken sitting on the tombstone.  No, seriously. 

Travel Time: 3h 59m / 273 miles

10. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is one of the easier road trips from Saint Louis. It’s basically a straight shot down highway 55.   If you can’t keep busy for several days, something is wrong with you.  Elvis Presley’s Graceland estate and museum are still popular tourist spots.  Be sure to visit the historic Sun Studio where music legends like Elvis and Johnny Cash were discovered. The Stax Museum of American Soul is one of my favorite Memphis museums and of course the National Civil Rights Museum and Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr was killed is worth a visit.   Beale Street is always a favorite tourist stop.

Bill’s Advice: Be sure to check out the giant Bass Pro Shop located in the giant pyramid that you’ll see off the interstate as you come into town.  There’s an elevator you can take to the top for cool views of the city! 

Travel Time: 3h 58m / 277 miles

11. Highway 36 – Way of American Genius

You may be surprised to learn that Missouri’s Highway 36 is named in honor of the many American geniuses that once called “the show me state” home.   Driving up to Hannibal (2 hours) you can learn all about Mark Twain and the origins of his most popular books by visiting his childhood home and neighborhood.  But, head west on Highway 36 to visit the birthplace of “sliced-bread”, the hometowns of Walt Disney and J.C. Penny, and finally wind up at the headquarters of The Pony Express in St. Joseph.  If you love quilts – Hamilton, Missouri is along the way and one of the most popular quilting destinations in the country.

Bill’s Advice:  Hannibal is a one of the easiest weekend road trips from Saint Louis.  To explore the entire “genius highway”, spend a night in Hannibal, then head west to see Disney’s hometown and stop for the night in Hamilton.  Continue on the next day to St. Joseph.  St. Joe is a short drive from Kansas City where you could spend another day or two and then head back east on I-70.  

Travel Time: 1h 45m / 116 miles (St. Louis to Hannibal)  3h 02m / 195 miles (Hannibal to St. Joseph)

12. Nashville, Tennessee

Music City USA has seen a major boom in recent years. Along with the treasures that have always made Nashville great, there are brand new attractions and businesses making it one of the hottest cities in the south.  For country music fans – the Hall of Fame is a great bet, along with a tour of the Ryman Auditorium and Grand Ole Opry.   These days, Broadway is a happening street akin to Times Square in New York City.  Bars, live music, and plenty of good people watching.  Check out an exact replica of the Parthenon in Centennial Park, and be sure to try some authentic Nashville Hot Chicken while you’re in town! No wonder it’s one of the most popular road trips from Saint Louis!

Bill’s Advice:  Nashville is great for a weekend but definitely plenty to do for an extended visit or vacation.  It’s also one of the most popular cities on the list – which means it’s going to be busy.  Brace yourself for crazy traffic, higher than average prices to park your car downtown, and lots of people.  To save a bit of money, consider staying in one of the many communities that surround Nashville or out near the airport.  

Travel Time: 4h 35m / 310 miles

13. Omaha, Nebraska

I recently had a brief visit to Omaha, which is one of the half day road trips from Saint Louis. The city is definitely worth a stop and ideal for a weekend away from home.  Plan your visit to coincide with a concert or local festival to get the most bang for your travel buck!  After eating at one of Omaha’s many steakhouses – a walk is in order around the water at Heartland of America Park – a terrific public green space, with roaring fountains.  The Henry Doorly Zoo is ranked one of the best in the country, and the Durham Museum is a fun family stop.  For a sports fan – consider visiting during the College World Series.

Bill’s Advice:  Omaha is only 2.5 hours from Kansas City if you want to extend a road trip from KC.  When you visit, check out a really great Italian cafe that has been around forever – Orsi’s.  It’s more of a bakery but they have pizza that is very good!  Be sure to mention you’re visiting and they’re likely to toss in some free garlic cheese bread! 

Travel Time: 6h 26m / 431 miles

14. Fort Wayne, Indiana

Fort Wayne is probably not a spot that’s been on your list but Indiana’s second largest city has a lot going on. It makes for one of the under-the-radar road trips from Saint Louis on our list. Its minor league baseball stadium is award winning and its local library is known as the best genealogy research center in the country.  The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is one of the best designed kid-friendly zoos around and a brand new, beautiful riverfront project has injected new energy into the town.  You’ll also find lots of opportunity for outdoor recreation.

Bill’s Advice:  For something unique, visit the headquarters for Sweetwater – one of the largest music and instrument stores in the world.  Vera Bradley is also headquartered in Fort Wayne and has events during the year.  

Travel Time: 5h 44m / 368 miles

15. Holland, Michigan

If you thought Holland was in Europe – you are correct! But, America’s Holland is located in Michigan and it’s a cool town worth exploring. Pick up a pair of wooden shoes (pictured above) and walk along the streets of downtown for great shopping and lots of dining options. (Fun fact:  the streets of downtown Holland are heated so they don’t have to plow snow in the winter. Genius!) Holland is also home to the only authentic Dutch wind mill that is still operational in the U.S.  If tulips are your thing – visit during the annual festival each spring. The Holland Bowl Mill is also very cool – ask them for a quick tour of the production and find a one of a kind wooden bowl to take home!

Bill’s Advice:  I eat a lot of pizza when I’m on the road and Holland has one of the best pizza places I’ve ever been to.  It’s called Fricano’s Pizza and sometimes, I have dreams about it.  Holland is one of my favorite road trips from Saint Louis!

Travel Time: 6h 20m / 430 miles

16.  New Harmony, Indiana

New Harmony is another one of the easy road trips from Saint Louis and perfect for a one-day getaway or an added stop to an eastern road trip.  It’s loaded with fascinating history , and small enough that you can literally walk around the entire town.  Stop by the visitor center to watch the introductory film for an overview of the town.  There are good restaurants, small shops, and bed and breakfasts if you choose to stay overnight.

Bill’s Advice:  Definitely make the visitor center your first stop and watch the film that explains the history of New Harmony.  It will make your visit so much better when you understand all of the buildings you’ll see and why the town is so unique! 

Travel Time: 2h 20m /  144 miles

17.  Wichita, Kansas

It’s one of the longer road trips from Saint Louis on the list but I think you’ll find Wichita to be a pleasant surprise. Start by learning about the early days of Kansas at the Old Cowtown Museum which has actors and buildings you can explore to truly step back in time.  Check out the Delano neighborhood for some cool shops and good food.  Get a hat at Hatman Jack’s – known for providing custom hats to lots of celebrities.  Tell him I sent you!  And if you’ve ever eaten Pizza Hut, I bet you didn’t know that it started in Wichita. Yep, the original Pizza Hut location is a tiny brick building and now a museum on the campus of Wichita State University.   There is so much to do and the people are so welcoming!

Bill’s Advice: If you do anything while you’re in Wichita – be sure to check out the famous Keeper Of The Plains monument at night.  Check ahead for times, but each evening there’s a fire show along the water across the pedestrian bridge.  The local science museum – Exploration Place is great for kids, too! 

Travel Time: 6h 42m / 445 miles

18.  Quad Cities Region

Talk about getting your bang for the buck! How often do you get four destinations packed into a single stop? The Quad Cities is one of our great road trips from Saint Louis, made up of five towns that share the Illinois-Iowa border.  (Yes, “quad” makes no sense as there are five and not four – but believe me, they know.) It’s best known as the world headquarters for John Deere, and visitors can tour multiple historical spots that tell the story of the famous company. Take a quick side trip up to LeClaire on the Iowa side to see where the show American Pickers began.

Bill’s Advice:  Try some Whitey’s Ice Cream while you’re in the region because it’s amazing!  It is seriously so good that it’s the first thing I want to do when I pass through the region. I’ve interviewed the family that owns it – and they’re very nice! 

Travel Time: 4h 9m / 271 miles

19. Cincinnati, Ohio

Cincinnati is one of the perfect road trips from Saint Louis if you want to catch the Cardinals on the road while playing the Reds. (Mainly because their stadium is mostly empty and it’s easy to get tickets!)  But truly, Cincy has some fun things to check out.  The beautiful Cincinnati Museum Center, once a train terminal, now houses museums and special exhibits.  One of my favorite museums in the entire country is located in Cincinnati – The American Sign Museum.  Consider taking one of the many guided tours that will showcase the local beer scene, or historical spots around town.  The downtown riverfront park has recently undergone renovations and is a great place to ride a bike or take a walk.

Travel Time: 5h 24m / 350 miles

20. Tunica, Mississippi

Tunica may be best known for all of their casinos but there’s more to this small Mississippi town that happens to be one of the easy road trips from Saint Louis.  Even if you don’t gamble, there are always great shows and concerts in the casino theaters and your visit may be best to plan a trip around one that fits your taste!  The Gateway To The Blues visitor center is SO cool and is a great first impression when you drive into town.  Take your time to explore their state of the art museum and learn all about the history of blues music which started in the cotton fields of Mississippi.  Check out some stops along the Mississippi Blues Trail and do a little shopping in their quaint downtown area.  The Tunica River Park is a great attraction to learn more about the history of the Mississippi River.

Bill’s Advice: If you’re headed to Tunica – you must grab breakfast or lunch at the world famous Blue & White Restaurant ! It’s the hot spot for locals and tourists alike.  It’s been open since 1924!  Tunica is less than an hour from Memphis, TN.

Travel Time: 4h 49m / 298 miles

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Here Are The 9 Most Incredible Natural Wonders Hiding Around St. Louis

Sherrie Runge

More by this Author

The great thing about St. Louis is the fact that it is a big city surrounded by miles and miles of peace and tranquility. From ten minutes to just a couple of hours, you can drive to many different amazing natural wonders.

The city life is great however, escaping the hustle and bustle and being one with nature is necessary to recharge internal batteries. Following are nine of the most incredible natural wonders hiding around St. Louis:

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Any of the nine natural wonders surrounding St. Louis are a good choice when you need a break from your hectic life. Click here to read about another hiking trail hiding in Missouri that will transport you into another world.

What are other natural wonders surrounding the city? Feel free to add them to the list in the comments!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Why Visit the National Archives?

Not sure if you need to plan a trip? Discover who uses the Archives and what you can expect to find.

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Learn everything you need to know in order to get the most out of your in-person research at the Archives.

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You can get in-person help at your local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.

Call for an appointment after you find a Taxpayer Assistance Center near you.

Find a Taxpayer Assistance Center office

IRS offices are closed on federal holidays .

Prepare for your appointment

• Call to schedule your appointment ahead of time.
• A current government-issued photo ID.
• A taxpayer identification number, such as a Social Security number.
• Any tax documents you’ll need.
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• To apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or renew an ITIN , have your documents ready.
• Protect yourself and others: Look up your community on the  CDC COVID Data Tracker .
• If you feel ill, please reschedule your appointment.
• Please silence your cell phone during your appointment.

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You can get help with most tax issues online or by phone . On IRS.gov you can:

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Making an Appointment for IRS Tax Help

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SSA-1099 Tax Form

Get an instant replacement when you open a free my Social Security account .

Taxpayer Bill of Rights

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