Visiting St. Louis, Missouri is an experience like no other. From the iconic Gateway Arch to the vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re searching for a day of shopping, an evening of entertainment, or an educational experience, St. Louis has it all. With a wealth of attractions, activities, and events, you’ll have plenty of reasons to explore St. Louis and make lasting memories.
Gateway Arch
The Gateway Arch is the star attraction in St. Louis and one of the most iconic structures in the entire country. So much so that it was featured on the $5 bill for many years after it opened in 1965. For those who want to see it close up, you can take a self-guided tour that includes both the interior and exterior of the Arch.
St. Louis Zoo
The St. Louis Zoo is a great place to spend an afternoon with the family. The zoo has a large number of animals (more than 1,800 at last count) and is a must-see for animal lovers. The zoo also has a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including the St. Louis Wine and Cheese Festival and the St. Louis Zoo Lights Festival.
City Museum & St. Louis History Center
The St. Louis History Center is a great place to learn more about the history of St. Louis and the Midwest region. There are exhibits on everything from World War II to slavery and civil rights, as well as an impressive collection of American Indian art and artifacts. The museum also has a small yet impressive collection of historic cars, from Model T Fords to Cadillacs.
See a Cardinals Game
Yearly, the Cardinals play 162 games during the baseball season, which lasts from April to October. These games are played at Busch Stadium II, which was built in 2006 and is located just west of downtown St. Louis. The Cardinals are one of the most popular teams in Major League Baseball (MLB), and tickets are always in high demand, so be sure to purchase Cardinal tickets early.
O’Fallon Bluffs Nature Preserve & Visitors Center
If you’re looking for a little nature with your sightseeing, head north of St. Louis on I-64 to O’Fallon Bluffs Nature Preserve and Visitors Center. The preserve is home to more than 100 species of plants and animals, including bald eagles and black bears. There are several hiking trails through the preserve as well as an observation deck with panoramic views of the Mississippi River Valley.
Beautiful Beale Street, Landmark District & The Loop
The beautiful Beale Street area is located in downtown St. Louis and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in town. You’ll find some shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment here, including The Pageant (a live venue for Broadway musicals), Mojo’s (a blues club), and Cardinals’ games at Busch Stadium II. The street is also home to The Loop, the nickname given to an area of downtown that includes most of the city’s major attractions, including the St. Louis Art Museum, City Museum & St. Louis History Center, The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, and The Missouri Botanical Garden.
Forest Park
Forest Park is a must-see when visiting St. Louis, Missouri. Spanning over 1,400 acres, it is the largest urban park in the United States. It features a number of attractions to explore, including the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, the Muny outdoor theater, the Saint Louis Zoo, and the Jewel Box greenhouse. The park also features an outdoor amphitheater, an outdoor concert venue, and a number of walking and biking trails.
For those looking to enjoy nature, Forest Park has plenty to offer. There are a number of gardens, including the Japanese Garden and the Jewel Box Greenhouse. There are also a number of lakes and ponds, making it a great place to go fishing or bird watching. Visitors can also explore the mile-long paved trail that winds through the park, or take a scenic drive along the park’s roads.
For those looking for a bit more adventure, Forest Park also offers plenty of activities. Visitors can go rock climbing, horseback riding, paddle boating, and even practice archery. The park also has a world-class golf course, as well as an outdoor ice rink in the winter. There are also a number of playgrounds and picnic areas for families to enjoy.
No matter what you’re looking for, Forest Park has something for everyone. It is the best place to spend a day exploring the great outdoors.
Saint Louis Science Center & Planetarium
The Saint Louis Science Center is one of the largest science centers in the country with more than 100 hands-on exhibits that are geared toward kids ages 4 to 12 years old. There are also a variety of permanent exhibits that cover subjects such as animals and dinosaurs, space, and more. The center also has a planetarium that shows both films and lives shows, as well as workshops for kids on different subjects like robotics or science experiments. If you’re visiting in the summertime, be sure to check out their annual Science on Stage festival.
Visiting St. Louis, Missouri is a great way to experience the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to learn about the past, enjoy a Cardinals game, or take in the sights of The Loop and Beale Street, St. Louis is sure to have something for everyone.