St Louis Suburbs Map
St. Louis, a major city in Missouri, has always been a popular tourist destination. When it comes to St. Louis suburbs, there is no shortage of attractions and things to do. From outdoor adventures to historical landmarks, family-friendly activities to vibrant nightlife, the suburbs have it all. In this guide, we will take you on a journey to explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions in the suburbs is the Missouri Botanical Garden. It is spread across 79 acres and is home to thousands of plant species. Another must-visit attraction is the Gateway Arch, a 630-foot monument that offers stunning views of the city. For history buffs, the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a must-visit. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the remnants of a pre-Columbian Native American city.
Hidden Gems
Hidden gems in the suburbs include the Laumeier Sculpture Park, an outdoor museum that features more than 60 sculptures and the World Bird Sanctuary that offers visitors a chance to get up close with birds of prey. Another hidden gem is the City Museum, an interactive art museum that is made entirely from recycled materials.
Food Scene
The suburbs of St. Louis offer a diverse food scene with something for everyone. One of the must-try dishes is toasted ravioli, a St. Louis specialty that is deep-fried and served with marinara sauce. Other popular dishes include St. Louis-style pizza, gooey butter cake, and pork steaks. Some of the top restaurants to try in the suburbs are Sugarfire Smoke House, Pappy’s Smokehouse, and The Shaved Duck.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re on a budget, there are still plenty of things to do in the suburbs that won’t break the bank. Many of the outdoor attractions such as the Missouri Botanical Garden and Laumeier Sculpture Park offer free admission. The Grant’s Farm, a historic farm and animal park, also offers free admission. You can also explore the historic neighborhoods on foot for free and take in the beautiful architecture.
Outdoor Adventures
The suburbs offer a variety of outdoor adventures for nature lovers. One of the top attractions is the Castlewood State Park, which offers hiking trails, fishing, and camping facilities. The Katy Trail State Park is another popular destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The Shaw Nature Reserve, located in Gray Summit, is a 2,400-acre nature reserve that offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and educational programs.
Family-Friendly Activities
The suburbs offer plenty of activities for families with kids. The Magic House, a children’s museum, offers interactive exhibits and educational programs. The Citygarden is a beautiful urban park that features interactive sculptures, fountains, and a playground. The Six Flags St. Louis is a popular amusement park that offers rides, shows, and attractions for all ages.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, the suburbs offer plenty of unique experiences. The Butterfly House, located in Chesterfield, is a beautiful butterfly conservatory that offers visitors a chance to see hundreds of butterfly species. The Endangered Wolf Center, located in Eureka, is a conservation center that offers visitors a chance to see endangered wolves up close. The Lone Elk Park, located in Valley Park, is a wildlife park that features bison, elk, and deer.
Natural Wonders
The suburbs are home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in Missouri. The Meramec Caverns, located in Stanton, is a network of caves that offers guided tours to visitors. The Elephant Rocks State Park, located in Belleview, is a unique geological formation that features giant granite boulders. The Missouri River, which flows through the suburbs, offers visitors a chance to go kayaking, fishing, and boating.
Vibrant Nightlife
The suburbs offer a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants. The Delmar Loop, located in University City, is a popular destination for nightlife with its many bars and restaurants. The Soulard neighborhood, located in St. Louis, is another popular destination for nightlife with its many bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Local Markets
The suburbs offer plenty of local markets where you can buy fresh produce, crafts, and other goods. The Kirkwood Farmers’ Market, located in Kirkwood, is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The Tower Grove Farmers’ Market, located in Tower Grove Park, offers visitors a chance to buy fresh produce, meat, and dairy products.
Beaches and Mountains
The suburbs are located near some of the most beautiful beaches and mountains in Missouri. The Lake of the Ozarks, located about 2 hours from St. Louis, is a popular destination for boating, swimming, and fishing. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways, located about 3 hours from St. Louis, is a beautiful park that offers visitors a chance to go hiking, canoeing, and camping.
Cultural Immersion
The suburbs offer plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture. The Missouri History Museum, located in Forest Park, offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of Missouri. The Museum of Westward Expansion, located under the Gateway Arch, is another must-visit attraction for history buffs.
Art and Music Scene
The suburbs offer a thriving art and music scene with plenty of galleries, museums, and live music venues. The St. Louis Art Museum, located in Forest Park, is a world-class museum that features art from around the world. The Fox Theatre, located in St. Louis, is a historic theatre that hosts concerts, Broadway shows, and other performances.
Walking Tours
The suburbs offer plenty of walking tours that allow visitors to explore the historic neighborhoods and architecture. The Lafayette Square Walking Tour, located in St. Louis, is a popular tour that explores the beautiful architecture of the Lafayette Square neighborhood. The Soulard Walking Tour, located in St. Louis, is another popular tour that explores the history and architecture of the Soulard neighborhood.
Architectural Marvels
The suburbs are home to some of the most beautiful architectural marvels in Missouri. The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, located in St. Louis, is a stunning cathedral that features mosaics and stained glass windows. The Frank Lloyd Wright House in Ebsworth Park, located in Kirkwood, is a beautiful example of Wright’s architectural style.
Historical Sites
The suburbs offer plenty of historical sites that preserve the history of Missouri. The Scott Joplin House State Historic Site, located in St. Louis, is a museum that preserves the home of the famous ragtime composer. The Lewis and Clark Boat House and Museum, located in St. Charles, is a museum that explores the history of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
Biking Routes
The suburbs offer plenty of biking routes for cycling enthusiasts. The Katy Trail State Park, located in St. Charles, is a popular destination for biking with its scenic views and flat terrain. The Grant’s Trail, located in St. Louis, is another popular biking route that offers views of the Meramec River.
Wellness Retreats
The suburbs offer plenty of wellness retreats for those looking to relax and rejuvenate. The Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis, located in St. Louis, offers spa treatments, yoga classes, and fitness facilities. The Lodge at Grant’s Trail, located in St. Louis, is a bed and breakfast that offers wellness retreats and outdoor activities.
In conclusion, the St. Louis suburbs offer something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie. With its beautiful architecture, thriving art scene, and vibrant nightlife, the suburbs are a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Missouri.