What are the Best Things to Do Near St Louis?

St. Louis has so much to offer its visitors – from dramatic skyline views to outdoor activities, historical sites, and an iconic arch tribute to America’s famed westward expansion. Whether you’re a traveler who happens to be passing through St. Louis for business or pleasure, or local looking for new and exciting things to do, we have a list of the best things to do near St. Louis that will make your trip more enjoyable. From landmarks to parks and more, here’s our guide to the best spots to visit near St. Louis.

1. See the Gateway Arch

When in St. Louis, you won’t want to pass up an opportunity to visit one of its most iconic monuments, the Gateway Arch – an iconic memorial made of stainless steel that stands at 630 feet tall! This towering landmark is the world’s tallest arch and is a symbol of the city of St. Louis and the United States’ westward expansion as well as an integral part of the national park by the same name. Opened in 1967, the Arch is now a celebrated spot for tourists, locals, and history enthusiasts alike. You can take an exhilarating tram ride under the arch that takes you up to the observation deck for breathtaking city views, dine at its on-site restaurant for lunch or dinner, or even take a ride on the glass-enclosed observation deck for great views and photo ops of town and Memorial Island below.

2. Take in the Views From Saint Louis City Hall

For one of the best views in St. Louis, head to the top of its tallest building – Saint Louis City Hall. This 35-story marble architectural wonder is the city’s defining landmark and is located in the heart of downtown St. Louis with a 360-degree view from 500 feet above the ground. Visitors of this majestic building can take advantage of its free public viewing galleries located on the top two floors for one of the most beautiful scenes of St. Louis. The view includes the Arch, Old Courthouse, Busch Stadium, Mississippi Riverfront, restored landmark homes and churches, Albert Pujols Statue, and the unique horizon view of this majestic Midwestern city in all directions.

3. Visit Laumeier Sculpture Park

Laumeier Sculpture Park is a stunning outdoor art space in suburban St. Louis that also serves as a nature preserve with nearly 100 acres of rolling hills and stunning trails that lead visitors through forests and meadows while they view its impressive collection of modern and contemporary sculptures. The park itself is home to more than 60 permanent sculptures and 50 visiting sculptures created by acclaimed artists such as Howard Finster, Alexander Calder, Stephen DeStaebler among others. Visitors can roam around this outdoor art museum with its lakes, ponds, gardens and winding trails; there’s also grassy lawns and outdoor exhibitions that make this one of the best things to do near St Louis.

4. Explore The City Museum

Opened in 1997 in old factory buildings, The City Museum is an exploration of art and discovery where visitors rediscover themselves all over again in unexpected, creative ways. From metal tunnels and winding slides to fish tanks shaped like submarines full with real aquatic sea life, this mixed-media spectacle is full with imaginative art installations made from recycled materials and artifacts from all over the world that make this museum one of a kind that stands out from the traditional art museum scene.

5. Enjoy Grant’s Farm

This animal- themed park is located on the estate of former U.S president Ulysses S Grant on South Grant Road in St. Louis county, making it one of the oldest continuing family attractions in America today! Here visitors can catch a glimpse of exotic animals including Clydesdales and miniature horses while they take part in many fun activities such as camel rides, g wagon driving tours and donkey cart racing. There are also daily animal shows featuring lions, birds of prey, sea lions, reptiles & insects and tons more for a unique wildlife experience for all ages!

6.Visit Forest Park

Part of Forest Park is located right in St. Louis city and it’s easily one of the best things to do near St Louis! This scenic park opened in 1876 and spans over 1,300 acre area that’s home to several cultural institutions including the Saint Louis Art Museum, Saint Louis Science Center, The Muny Theatre (open air theatre) as well as over eight miles of scenic running trails perfect for jogging and biking. You can also enjoy a boat ride on Clarence M. Kelley lake or a picnic session at Chess Box Park on your visit to this lovely natural oasis befitting St Louis city dwellers and city visitors alike.

7. Visit Anheuser-Busch Brewery

The Anheuser Busch Brewery is one of the most popular tourist attractions in St. Louis since it opened in 1852. This brewery turned museum allows visitors to tour around its facilities for history enthusiasts to learn about the iconic brewing company plus you may even spot some famous Budweiser Clydesdales! Visitors can even get a taste test from some classic Anheuser Busch brands from Shock Top to Budweiser and more! After tour hours, you’ll definitely want to head over its Biergarten located right next door that has live music performances and entertainment events perfect for friends and family alike while they sample some tasty brews!

Conclusion:

Whether you’re looking for historical sites or natural wonders, St. Louis has something for everyone. From taking a tram ride under the Gateway Arch to exploring Forest Park or catching up on some drinks at Anheuser-Busch Brewery, it’s easy to see why this American city offers so much beauty and adventure. With exciting sites like Laumeier Sculpture Park or The City Museum located close by; you won’t run out of things to do near St Louis anytime soon! So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore this fascinating Midwest city! The above information was sourced from stlouis-mo.gov/things-to-do/.