Things To Do In St. Louis

Welcome to St. Louis, where Midwestern charm meets rich history and vibrant culture. Nestled along the mighty Mississippi River, St. Louis offers visitors a unique blend of iconic landmarks, world-class museums, delicious culinary experiences, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or just passing through, this guide will help you discover the best attractions, dining spots, and hidden gems that make St. Louis a must-visit destination.

Gateway Arch

Rising 630 feet above the Mississippi riverfront, the Gateway Arch stands as America’s tallest monument and St. Louis’s defining symbol. Completed in 1965, this architectural marvel commemorates the westward expansion of the United States and serves as a tribute to the pioneers who shaped our nation.

When visiting the Arch, take a tram ride to the observation deck for spectacular views of the city and river. The recently renovated Museum at the Gateway Arch offers fascinating exhibits about St. Louis’s role as the “Gateway to the West.” After exploring the museum, stroll through the surrounding 91-acre national park with its walking paths and riverfront access. The Arch is open daily from 9am to 6pm, with extended hours during summer months. Purchasing Tram tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season.

Old Courthouse

Just steps from the Gateway Arch stands the historic Old Courthouse, a masterpiece of Greek Revival architecture that played a pivotal role in American history. This is where the landmark Dred Scott case began in 1846, challenging the institution of slavery.

Visitors can explore restored courtrooms where the Dred Scott trials took place and view rotating exhibits on civil rights, local history, and architecture. The beautiful domed rotunda features intricate Renaissance-style artwork that captivates architecture enthusiasts. Admission to the Old Courthouse is free, and guided tours are available throughout the day, offering deeper insights into this significant historical landmark.

City Museum

Unlike any museum you’ve ever experienced, City Museum is a whimsical playground created from repurposed architectural and industrial objects. Housed in a former shoe factory, this 10-story adventure land invites visitors of all ages to climb, crawl, slide, and explore.

The outdoor MonstroCity features towering structures with suspended walkways, slides, and even an authentic school bus positioned precariously high above the ground. Inside, enchanted caves and multi-story slides wind throughout the building, creating an immersive labyrinth of discovery. The rooftop offers additional attractions including a Ferris wheel and spectacular city views, while Toddler Town provides a safer space for the youngest visitors. Hours vary by season, with evening visits offering a different, sometimes more adult-friendly atmosphere. Admission runs $16-18, with an additional fee for rooftop access. Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are essential for fully enjoying this unique attraction.

Saint Louis Art Museum

Located in beautiful Forest Park, the Saint Louis Art Museum houses more than 34,000 works spanning 5,000 years of history and cultures. The stunning main building, a remnant of the 1904 World’s Fair, is complemented by a contemporary east wing designed to showcase modern collections. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the impressive Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works, one of America’s largest collections of German Expressionist paintings, and extensive ancient and Indigenous art from around the world. General admission is free, though special exhibitions may have fees.

Forest Park

Forest Park encompasses 1,300 acres—larger than New York’s Central Park—and stands as one of America’s greatest urban parks. Home to many of the city’s cultural institutions, the park offers endless recreational opportunities for visitors of all interests. Rent a paddleboat to explore the Grand Basin, a picturesque lake surrounded by classical architecture reminiscent of the 1904 World’s Fair. Miles of walking, running, and biking trails wind through diverse landscapes, from manicured gardens to more natural woodlands. Golf enthusiasts can play a round at the park’s courses, while tennis courts are available for casual matches or organized play. During summer evenings, The Muny, America’s oldest and largest outdoor musical theater, presents Broadway favorites under the stars, with free seats available for each performance. Winter transforms the park into a different playground, with sledding hills and ice skating adding seasonal charm.

Missouri Botanical Garden

Founded in 1859, the Missouri Botanical Garden spans 79 acres and ranks among the oldest botanical institutions in the United States. This National Historic Landmark features diverse gardens that transport visitors around the world. The Japanese Garden, with its serene koi ponds and authentic structures, creates a peaceful retreat for contemplation. The Climatron geodesic dome conservatory houses thousands of tropical plants in a carefully controlled environment, allowing visitors to experience rainforest conditions year-round. History enthusiasts appreciate the Victorian District featuring Henry Shaw’s original 1850s home and formal European-style gardens. Families particularly enjoy the Children’s Garden with its interactive water features and educational displays. The garden hosts seasonal displays and special events throughout the year, including the popular Japanese Festival and holiday light shows.

St. Louis Zoo

Consistently ranked among the nation’s top zoos, the St. Louis Zoo houses over 12,000 animals representing 500+ species in beautifully designed habitats. Big Cat Country immerses visitors in close encounters with lions, tigers, and leopards through thoughtful exhibit design. At Penguin & Puffin Coast, underwater viewing areas allow observation of these charismatic birds’ surprising underwater agility. The River’s Edge recreates habitats from around the world, from African savannas to Asian forests, showcasing rhinos, elephants, and hippos. History buffs appreciate the 1904 Flight Cage, a massive aviary originally constructed for the World’s Fair and now home to native bird species. Remarkably, general admission to this world-class zoo remains free, though some special attractions require nominal fees. The zoo’s commitment to conservation education and animal welfare is evident throughout the carefully designed campus.