Welcome to St. Louis, Missouri! Known for its iconic Gateway Arch and rich history, St. Louis is a city with a unique blend of Midwestern charm and urban flair. Here’s a quick guide to help you discover the best attractions, dining, and activities in the city.
- Attractions:
- Gateway Arch: The iconic 630-foot-tall monument is a symbol of westward expansion. Take a tram ride to the top for breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River.
- Forest Park: A massive urban park that’s larger than New York’s Central Park, it houses the St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, and more.
- City Museum: A unique, interactive museum housed in a former shoe factory, featuring a mix of playgrounds, surreal art installations, and architectural marvels.
- Missouri Botanical Garden: A beautiful 79-acre garden, home to the Climatron conservatory, Japanese Garden, and other themed gardens and plant collections.
- Food and Dining:
- St. Louis-style Pizza: Thin-crust pizza topped with Provel cheese, a local favorite. Try it at Imo’s Pizza or Cecil Whittaker’s.
- Toasted Ravioli: Breaded and fried ravioli, a St. Louis specialty. Enjoy it at Mama’s on The Hill or Charlie Gitto’s.
- Gooey Butter Cake: A rich, buttery dessert that’s a must-try. Sample it at Park Avenue Coffee or Gooey Louie.
- Nightlife:
- The Loop: A vibrant neighborhood featuring Blueberry Hill, a popular restaurant and music venue, as well as various bars, clubs, and shops.
- Soulard: A historic district known for its lively bars and the annual Mardi Gras celebration.
- Central West End: An upscale area with trendy bars, wine bars, and cocktail lounges.
- Outdoor Activities:
- The Great Rivers Greenway: Explore over 128 miles of interconnected trails for walking, biking, and hiking throughout the St. Louis region.
- Grant’s Trail: An eight-mile-long, paved trail that’s perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.
- Citygarden: An urban park and sculpture garden located in downtown St. Louis, featuring beautiful landscaping and interactive water features.
- Sports and Entertainment:
- St. Louis Cardinals: Catch a Major League Baseball game at Busch Stadium, the home of the Cardinals.
- St. Louis Blues: Cheer on the city’s NHL hockey team at the Enterprise Center.
- The Fabulous Fox Theatre: A historic venue hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and other performances.
- Events and Festivals:
- St. Louis Mardi Gras (February/March): One of the largest Mardi Gras celebrations outside New Orleans, with parades, parties, and a festive atmosphere in Soulard.
- Fair St. Louis (July): A multi-day Independence Day celebration featuring live music, air shows, and fireworks at the Gateway Arch grounds.
- The Great Forest Park Balloon Race (September): The oldest and most well-attended free hot air balloon event in the United States, held in Forest Park.
Enjoy your visit to St. Louis, Missouri, and make sure to check the local event calendars for additional activities and festivals during your stay!