St Louis Street Map
If you’re looking for a city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure, then St. Louis is the place to be. From iconic landmarks to outdoor adventures, from local markets to vibrant nightlife, St. Louis has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and more. So pack your bags, and let’s explore the best of St. Louis!
Top Attractions
St. Louis is home to some of the most iconic attractions in the world. The Gateway Arch, also known as the Gateway to the West, is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Take a tram ride to the top of the arch for stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River. Another popular attraction is the St. Louis Zoo, which is home to over 17,000 animals and offers free admission. The Missouri Botanical Garden is another must-visit attraction, with its beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
Hidden Gems
St. Louis has several hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. The City Museum is a unique attraction that’s part playground, part art exhibit. The museum features caves, slides, and a rooftop Ferris wheel. The Missouri History Museum is another hidden gem that offers a fascinating insight into the city’s past. The museum’s exhibits include artifacts from the 1904 World’s Fair, which was held in St. Louis.
Food Scene
St. Louis is known for its delicious food, and there are plenty of options to choose from. The city is famous for its toasted ravioli, which is a must-try dish. Other popular local dishes include St. Louis-style pizza, gooey butter cake, and pork steak. The Soulard Farmers Market is a great place to sample local produce and artisanal products.
Budget-Friendly Tips
St. Louis can be an affordable destination if you know where to look. Many of the city’s top attractions offer free admission, including the St. Louis Zoo, the Missouri History Museum, and the Saint Louis Art Museum. The Gateway Arch offers discounted tickets for visitors who purchase tickets online in advance. The city also has plenty of affordable accommodation options, including hostels and budget hotels.
Outdoor Adventures
St. Louis is surrounded by natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had. Forest Park is a 1,300-acre park that’s home to several attractions, including the Saint Louis Zoo and the Missouri History Museum. The park also has several walking and biking trails. The Katy Trail is another popular outdoor attraction, with over 240 miles of biking and hiking trails.
Historical Landmarks
St. Louis has a rich history, and there are several historical landmarks to explore. The Old Courthouse is a beautiful building that played a significant role in the Dred Scott case. The Missouri Botanical Garden is another historic landmark, with its Victorian-era buildings and beautiful gardens. The Scott Joplin House State Historic Site is a must-visit for music lovers, as it’s the former home of the legendary ragtime composer.
Family-Friendly Activities
St. Louis is a great destination for families, with plenty of fun activities for kids of all ages. The St. Louis Science Center is a fascinating attraction that’s sure to captivate kids and adults alike. The Magic House is another popular attraction, with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. The City Museum is also a great place for families, with its slides, caves, and play areas.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, St. Louis has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. The Lemp Mansion is a haunted house that’s said to be one of the most haunted places in America. The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is another unique attraction, with its ancient Native American ruins. The St. Louis Cemetery is also worth a visit, with its beautiful mausoleums and historic graves.
Natural Wonders
St. Louis is surrounded by natural beauty, and there are several natural wonders to explore. The Meramec Caverns is a fascinating underground cave system that offers guided tours. The Shaw Nature Reserve is another beautiful natural attraction, with its gardens, hiking trails, and wildlife. The Missouri River is also a great place to explore, with its scenic views and recreational opportunities.
Vibrant Nightlife
St. Louis has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. The Delmar Loop is a popular destination for nightlife, with its restaurants, bars, and music venues. The Soulard neighborhood is another great place to explore, with its historic architecture and lively atmosphere. The Central West End is also worth a visit, with its trendy bars and restaurants.
Local Markets
St. Louis has several local markets that are worth a visit. The Soulard Farmers Market is one of the oldest farmers markets in the country and offers a wide selection of local produce, meat, and artisanal products. The Tower Grove Farmers Market is another popular destination, with its fresh produce and live music. The Cherokee Street Antique Row is a great place to find unique vintage items and antiques.
Beaches and Mountains
Although St. Louis is not located near the coast, there are several beaches and mountains within driving distance. The Lake of the Ozarks is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is another beautiful natural attraction, with its clear water and scenic views. The Gateway Arch National Park is also a great place to explore, with its stunning views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline.
Cultural Immersion
St. Louis is a melting pot of cultures, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the city’s diverse communities. The International Institute of St. Louis is a great place to learn about different cultures and languages. The Missouri History Museum offers exhibits on the city’s diverse history, including its African American and immigrant communities. The St. Louis Art Museum is another great place to explore different cultures, with its collection of art from around the world.
Art and Music Scene
St. Louis has a vibrant art and music scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and music venues to explore. The Contemporary Art Museum is a must-visit for art lovers, with its collection of contemporary art and cutting-edge exhibits. The Sheldon Concert Hall is a popular music venue that hosts a wide range of musical performances, from classical to jazz. The Fox Theatre is another iconic venue that’s worth a visit, with its beautiful architecture and historic performances.
Walking Tours
St. Louis is a great city to explore on foot, and there are several walking tours available. The Gateway Arch National Park offers guided tours of the arch and the surrounding area. The Missouri Botanical Garden offers guided tours of its historic buildings and gardens. The Lafayette Square neighborhood is another great place to explore on foot, with its beautiful architecture and historic homes.
Architectural Marvels
St. Louis is home to several architectural marvels, including the Gateway Arch and the Old Courthouse. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis is another beautiful building that’s worth a visit, with its stunning mosaics and stained glass windows. The Wainwright Building is a historic skyscraper that’s considered to be one of the first skyscrapers in the world.
Historical Sites
St. Louis has a rich history, and there are several historical sites to explore. The Jefferson Barracks Historic Park is a former military post that now serves as a museum and park. The Lewis and Clark Trail is another historic attraction, with its monuments and markers that trace the path of the famous expedition. The Missouri History Museum is another great place to learn about the city’s history.
Biking Routes
St. Louis is a great city for biking, with several biking routes to choose from. The Katy Trail is one of the longest biking trails in the country, with over 240 miles of trails. The Riverfront Trail is another popular biking route, with scenic views of the Mississippi River. The Chouteau Greenway is a new biking and walking trail that will connect several neighborhoods and parks in the city.
Wellness Retreats
St. Louis has several wellness retreats that offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. The Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis offers a luxurious spa experience, with massages, facials, and body treatments. The Ritz-Carlton Spa is another great option, with its hydrotherapy pool and sauna. The Missouri Botanical Garden also offers yoga classes and wellness workshops.
Adventure Sports
St. Louis is a great destination for adventure sports, with plenty of opportunities for rock climbing, kayaking, and zip-lining. The Upper Limits Climbing Gym is a popular destination for indoor rock climbing. The Meramec River is a great place to go kayaking or canoeing. The Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course is a fun and challenging zip-lining