St. Louis: A Guide To The Gateway City
Located in the heart of the Midwest, St. Louis is a vibrant city that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re exploring the iconic Gateway Arch or sampling some of the city’s famous BBQ, there’s something for everyone in St. Louis. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that make this city a must-visit destination.
Top Attractions
No trip to St. Louis would be complete without a visit to the Gateway Arch, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States. This iconic monument towers 630 feet above the city and offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and downtown St. Louis. Other top attractions include the Missouri Botanical Garden, the Saint Louis Zoo, and the City Museum, an interactive museum that features a giant aquarium, a rooftop Ferris wheel, and a massive indoor playground.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting the Lemp Mansion, a historic home that’s rumored to be haunted. Or, head to the Soulard Farmer’s Market, one of the oldest and largest farmers markets in the United States. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts and live music.
Food Scene
St. Louis is famous for its BBQ, and no trip to the city would be complete without sampling some of its mouth-watering ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. Some of the most popular BBQ joints in the city include Pappy’s Smokehouse, Bogart’s Smokehouse, and Sugarfire Smokehouse. In addition to BBQ, St. Louis is also known for its toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake, and Ted Drewes frozen custard.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save money in St. Louis. Consider visiting some of the city’s free attractions, such as the Saint Louis Art Museum or the Missouri History Museum. Or, take a stroll through Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, which offers miles of walking and biking trails, as well as free concerts and events throughout the year.
Outdoor Adventures
With its location on the Mississippi River and proximity to the Ozark Mountains, St. Louis is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Go for a bike ride on the Katy Trail, a 240-mile trail that runs along the Missouri River. Or, take a hike through the Shaw Nature Reserve, a 2,400-acre nature preserve that’s home to more than 14 miles of hiking trails and dozens of unique plant and animal species.
Historical Landmarks
St. Louis has a rich history, and there are plenty of historical landmarks to explore throughout the city. Visit the Old Courthouse, where the famous Dred Scott case was tried, or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, which has been producing beer in St. Louis since the 1800s. You can also visit the Missouri Civil War Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the state’s role in the conflict.
Family-Friendly Activities
St. Louis is a great destination for families, with plenty of kid-friendly attractions and activities to keep everyone entertained. Visit the Saint Louis Science Center, which features hands-on exhibits and an IMAX theater, or take a trip to the Magic House, a children’s museum that offers interactive exhibits and educational programs.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, consider taking a ghost tour of the city or exploring some of its hidden underground tunnels. Or, head to the Citygarden, a unique urban park that features sculptures, fountains, and plenty of green space.
Natural Wonders
St. Louis is home to plenty of natural wonders, including the Missouri River and the Ozark Mountains. Take a scenic drive along the Great River Road, which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and its surrounding bluffs. Or, hike through the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, a 134-mile stretch of river that’s perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun goes down, St. Louis comes alive with plenty of nightlife options for visitors. Check out some of the city’s live music venues, such as the Blueberry Hill or the Pageant, or head to one of its many breweries or distilleries for a nightcap. You can also visit the Lemp Brewery, a historic brewery that’s been converted into a haunted house and bar.
Local Markets
St. Louis is home to plenty of local markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts and jewelry. Visit the Tower Grove Farmers’ Market, which features more than 70 vendors selling everything from organic produce to artisanal bread. Or, check out the Cherokee Antique Row, a historic district that’s home to dozens of antique shops, art galleries, and vintage clothing stores.
Beaches and Mountains
While St. Louis may not be known for its beaches or mountains, there are still plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure nearby. Head to the Lake of the Ozarks, a massive reservoir that offers plenty of water-based activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. Or, take a day trip to the Shawnee National Forest, which features miles of hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Cultural Immersion
St. Louis is a diverse city with plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion. Visit the Saint Louis Art Museum, which features an extensive collection of art from around the world, or head to the Missouri Botanical Garden, which features a Japanese garden and a Chinese garden. You can also attend a performance at the Fox Theatre, a historic theatre that’s been entertaining audiences since the 1920s.
Art and Music Scene
St. Louis has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries and music venues to explore. Visit the Contemporary Art Museum, which features cutting-edge contemporary art and design, or head to the Sheldon Concert Hall, a historic venue that hosts classical and jazz concerts throughout the year.
Walking Tours
St. Louis is a great city to explore on foot, with plenty of walking tours to choose from. Take a tour of the historic Lafayette Square neighborhood, which features beautiful Victorian homes and architectural landmarks. Or, explore the Delmar Loop, a vibrant entertainment district that’s home to plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Architectural Marvels
St. Louis is home to plenty of architectural marvels, including the Gateway Arch and the Old Courthouse. Visit the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, a stunning cathedral that features one of the largest mosaic collections in the world. Or, explore the Eads Bridge, a historic bridge that spans the Mississippi River and offers stunning views of the city skyline.
Historical Sites
St. Louis has a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore throughout the city. Visit the Missouri History Museum, which features exhibits on the state’s history and culture, or tour the Lewis and Clark Boathouse and Museum, which tells the story of the famous explorers’ journey westward. You can also visit the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site, which honors the life and legacy of the famous ragtime composer.
Biking Routes
St. Louis is a great city for biking, with plenty of dedicated bike lanes and trails to explore. Take a ride on the Riverfront Trail, which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and downtown St. Louis. Or, explore the Katy Trail, a 240-mile trail that runs along the Missouri River and offers plenty of opportunities for scenic biking.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a little rest and relaxation, St. Louis has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. Visit the Four Seasons Spa, which offers a range of luxurious treatments and services, or head to the Missouri Athletic Club, which features a state-of-the-art fitness center and spa. You can also take a yoga class at one of the city’s many yoga studios, or visit the Missouri Botanical Garden for a peaceful walk through its many gardens and green spaces.
Adventure Sports
St. Louis is a great destination for adventure sports enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for rock climbing, kayaking, and more. Visit Upper Limits, a rock climbing gym that features more than 100 routes for climbers of all skill levels. Or, head to the Gateway Arch National Park, where you can take a thrilling ride to the top of the arch and enjoy stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River.