Travel Guide To St. Louis, Missouri

Map

Travel Guide To St. Louis, Missouri

Introduction

St. Louis is a vibrant city located in the heart of Missouri. Known for its famous Gateway Arch, this city has a rich history and diverse culture. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or adventure seeker, St. Louis has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and much more. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore St. Louis!

Top Attractions

Gateway Arch

The Gateway Arch is the most iconic landmark in St. Louis. This 630-foot monument was built in the 1960s to honor the westward expansion of the United States. You can take a tram to the top of the arch for stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River.

Forest Park

Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. It’s home to several attractions, including the St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, and Science Center. You can also enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking in this beautiful park.

Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture. The interior is filled with intricate mosaics that cover over 83,000 square feet. It’s a must-see for architecture and art enthusiasts.

Hidden Gems

The City Museum

The City Museum is a unique attraction that’s unlike any other museum you’ve visited. It’s an interactive playground made from recycled materials, including old airplanes and buses. It’s perfect for families and anyone who loves a good adventure.

The Fabulous Fox Theater

The Fabulous Fox Theater is a beautiful example of Art Deco architecture. It’s been restored to its original grandeur and hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other events. It’s a great place to catch a show while you’re in town.

The Missouri Botanical Garden

The Missouri Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. It’s home to over 79 acres of gardens, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a tropical conservatory. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

Food Scene

St. Louis is known for its unique cuisine, including toasted ravioli and gooey butter cake. Here are a few places to try while you’re in town:

Pappy’s Smokehouse

Pappy’s Smokehouse is a must-visit for anyone who loves barbecue. They smoke their meats for up to 14 hours and serve them with homemade sauces and sides.

Blueberry Hill

Blueberry Hill is a classic diner that’s been around since 1972. It’s known for its burgers, fries, and live music. It’s also home to a collection of Chuck Berry memorabilia.

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is a St. Louis institution. They’ve been serving up their famous frozen custard since 1929. It’s the perfect treat on a hot summer day.

Budget-Friendly Tips

St. Louis can be an affordable destination if you know where to look. Here are a few budget-friendly tips:

Free Attractions

There are several free attractions in St. Louis, including the Zoo, Art Museum, and Science Center. You can also visit the Gateway Arch grounds for free.

Happy Hour Specials

Many restaurants and bars in St. Louis offer happy hour specials. You can find discounted drinks and appetizers at places like Bailey’s Range and Broadway Oyster Bar.

Public Transportation

The MetroLink light rail system is an affordable and convenient way to get around the city. You can also rent a bike from one of the many bike-sharing stations.

Outdoor Adventures

Katy Trail State Park

The Katy Trail State Park is a 237-mile trail that runs from St. Charles to Clinton, Missouri. It’s perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. You can also camp along the trail.

Mississippi River

The Mississippi River is a great place to enjoy water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. You can also take a riverboat cruise to learn about the history of the river.

Shaw Nature Reserve

The Shaw Nature Reserve is a 2,400-acre nature reserve that’s home to several hiking trails and picnic areas. You can also explore the native plant gardens and the butterfly house.

Family-Friendly Activities

St. Louis Science Center

The St. Louis Science Center is a great place for kids to learn about science and technology. There are several interactive exhibits, including a planetarium and an IMAX theater.

Grant’s Farm

Grant’s Farm is a 281-acre wildlife preserve that’s home to over 900 animals, including buffalo, elephants, and kangaroos. You can also enjoy a tram ride and see a live animal show.

The Magic House

The Magic House is a hands-on children’s museum that’s perfect for kids under 12. There are several interactive exhibits, including a kid-sized town and a bubble room.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Laumeier Sculpture Park

Laumeier Sculpture Park is a 105-acre park that’s home to over 60 outdoor sculptures. It’s a great place to enjoy nature and art at the same time.

The Lemp Mansion

The Lemp Mansion is a historic mansion that’s rumored to be haunted. You can take a ghost tour and learn about the history of the house and the family who lived there.

The Museum of Transportation

The Museum of Transportation is a hidden gem that’s perfect for anyone who loves trains and planes. It’s home to over 70 locomotives and several historic airplanes.

Natural Wonders

The Ozark Mountains

The Ozark Mountains are located just a few hours from St. Louis. They’re home to several state parks, including the popular Elephant Rocks State Park and Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park.

Meramec Caverns

Meramec Caverns is a fascinating natural wonder that’s located about an hour from St. Louis. You can take a guided tour and see the stunning rock formations and underground lakes.

Missouri River

The Missouri River is the longest river in North America. It’s a great place for fishing, boating, and enjoying the scenery.

Vibrant Nightlife

St. Louis has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues. Here are a few places to check out:

The Grove

The Grove is a popular neighborhood that’s known for its nightlife. It’s home to several bars and clubs, including The Ready Room and Attitudes Nightclub.

Soulard

Soulard is a historic neighborhood that’s home to several bars and music venues. It’s also home to the famous Soulard Farmers Market.

The Pageant

The Pageant is a music venue that hosts concerts by national and local artists. It’s a great place to catch a show while you’re in town.

Local Markets

Soulard Farmers Market

The Soulard Farmers Market is the oldest farmers market west of the Mississippi River. It’s open year-round and sells fresh produce, meats, and baked goods.

The Tower Grove Farmers Market

The Tower Grove Farmers Market is a popular market that’s open on Saturdays from May through November. It’s known for its fresh produce, artisanal foods, and live music.

The St. Louis Artisans Market

The St. Louis Artisans Market is a monthly market that’s held in Lafayette Square. It features local artisans selling handmade goods, including jewelry, pottery, and textiles.

Beaches and Mountains

Elephant Rocks State Park

Elephant Rocks State Park is located in the Ozark Mountains and is known for its giant granite boulders. It’s a great place for hiking and rock climbing.