The Most Famous Sightseeing Attractions of Saint Louis

When it comes to exploring the United States, Saint Louis is often overlooked, but this beautiful city offers a unique mix of history, culture, and modernity that keeps visitors coming back for more. Home to the famous Gateway Arch and Forest Park, Saint Louis offers an array of sights and attractions that are sure to please visitors of all ages. In this post, we will take a closer look at the top sightseeing attractions in Saint Louis, and why you should add them to your itinerary.

The Gateway Arch

No visit to Saint Louis would be complete without a trip to the Gateway Arch. This iconic monument is the tallest arch in the world and stands at 630 feet tall. The Arch is part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, which also includes the Old Courthouse, a historic building that played a pivotal role in the Dred Scott case. Visitors can take a tram to the top of the Arch to enjoy stunning views of the city.

Forest Park

At 1,371 acres, Forest Park is one of the largest city parks in the United States. The park is home to the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, the Saint Louis Science Center, and the Saint Louis Zoo. Visitors can take a stroll through the park’s beautiful gardens and enjoy a picnic on the grounds. If you’re interested in history, the park is also home to the World’s Fair Pavilion, which was built for the 1904 World’s Fair.

The Saint Louis Zoo

The Saint Louis Zoo is one of the premier zoos in the country and is home to more than 18,000 animals from 700 different species. The zoo is divided into multiple zones, including the River’s Edge, the Historic Hill, and the Discovery Corner. The zoo is also home to the Sea Lion Sound exhibit, where visitors can watch sea lions swim and play. Best of all, admission to the zoo is completely free.

City Museum

If you’re looking for a unique experience in Saint Louis, make sure you visit the City Museum. This eclectic attraction is part playground, part museum, and part art installation. Visitors can climb through the tunnels and slides of the Enchanted Caves, explore the MonstroCity exhibit, and climb to the top of the giant dome. Children and adults alike will have a blast at this one-of-a-kind attraction.

Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture and is one of the largest mosaic installations in the world. The cathedral features beautifully detailed mosaics telling the story of the Bible and the history of Saint Louis. Visitors can attend a mass or simply tour the cathedral to admire the breathtaking artwork.

Conclusion

Saint Louis is a city that offers something for everyone, from the beauty of the Gateway Arch to the fun-filled City Museum. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or outdoor activities, you’re sure to find plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. So why not plan a trip to Saint Louis today and discover all that this city has to offer?

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring the Best of Saint Louis Beyond the Obvious

As the gateway to the west, Saint Louis is a city where the past and present seamlessly intersect, creating a unique vibe that’s hard to find anywhere else. With a perfect mix of history, culture, and local attractions, there’s never a dull moment in Saint Louis. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Saint Louis native, this insider’s guide will help you explore the city’s less-visited yet must-see destinations.

Discover Hidden Gems and Local Attractions

When it comes to hidden gems, Saint Louis has plenty to offer. One must-visit spot is the Lafayette Square district, full of beautiful historic architecture and charming brick-lined streets. You will find several cozy coffee shops, bars, and quaint restaurants in the area, perfect for an afternoon stroll. Another local favorite is the Missouri Botanical Garden, located between neighborhoods of Tower Grove and Shaw. Spread over 79 acres, it’s known for its serene Japanese garden, seasonal flower displays, and biodiversity research.

Dine Like a Local

Saint Louis is known for its unique local cuisine, and no visit is complete without devouring a classic St. Paul sandwich. This local legend is a unique combination of an egg foo young patty, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, mayo, and white bread. For something a little more special, head to Pappy’s Smokehouse for some of the best barbecue in town. It’s known for its tender brisket, juicy pork ribs, and famous BBQ sauces. And, for a quick pick-me-up, don’t forget to stop by Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, a Saint Louis institution since 1929.

Explore the City’s Culture and Traditions

Saint Louis is also known for its unique cultural experiences. One of the must-visit spots in the city is the City Museum, an interactive playground for adults and children alike. It’s known for its surreal architecture and is filled with unique exhibits that challenge regular museum conventions. For a slice of Saint Louis’ jazz roots, head to one of the city’s oldest jazz clubs, BB’s Jazz, Blues and Soups, located in the historic Laclede’s Landing district. It offers live music seven nights a week and features some of the city’s best soul food.

Discover the City’s Fascinating History

Saint Louis is a city of great historical significance, and there are many ways to dive into its past. One of the best ways to start is with a visit to the Gateway Arch Museum, where you can learn about the city’s role as a gateway to the westward expansion. Another must-visit spot is the Missouri History Museum, located in the beautiful Forest Park. You can explore 250 years of Missouri history and see artifacts and exhibits from the city’s founding in 1764.

Experience Saint Louis’ Unique Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

For a unique experience, visit the City Garden, a downtown park known for its contemporary art installations and sculptures. It’s an excellent spot for a peaceful stroll or picnic while enjoying the city’s beautiful skyline. Also, head to Benton Park, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, and explore the historic architecture and quaint shops. For a quirky and fun experience, visit the World’s Largest Chess Piece in the Central West End, a 14-foot-tall artifact with a fascinating backstory.

Saint Louis has so much to offer from hidden gem attractions to off-beat experiences, and this insider’s guide provides you with unique and insider insight into this fantastic city. With this guide, you’ll explore the city like a local, falling in love with Saint Louis and everything it has to offer.