What to See and Do in St Louis

St. Louis is a vibrant, eclectic city that combines both modern culture and historical sites. From art galleries and museums to restaurants and parks, St. Louis offers great experiences for all age groups and interests. The following guide will provide all of the information you need to enjoy your time in St. Louis.

Things to Do

One of the great things about being in St. Louis is that there are so many interesting things to do. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

Explore the Gateway Arch

The most iconic attraction in St. Louis is the majestic Gateway Arch. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top of the arch and take in stunning views of the city below. There is also a free museum and observation deck nearby, providing more information about the history of St. Louis.

See an Outdoor Show at the Muny

The Muny is an outdoor theatre that hosts dozens of Broadway-style shows each summer. Visitors can expect to see everything from classic musicals and plays to new, modern performances.

Experience the Missouri Botanical Garden

The Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the oldest in the United States and features a wide variety of plants, flowers and trees. The gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic, and visitors can also check out the historic villa and conservatory on the grounds.

Visit City Museum

City Museum is a popular interactive art museum and playground hybrid, where visitors can explore winding tunnels, caves and sculptures. It’s great for all ages and perfect for a day trip with family or friends.

Catch a Cardinals Game

St. Louis is home to the beloved Cardinals baseball team. It’s fun to spend an evening at Busch Stadium cheering on the home team and enjoying a ballpark hot dog or two!

Best Restaurants in St. Louis

St. Louis has a great selection of restaurants for all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the city’s most popular spots:

Sidney Street Café

Sidney Street Café is widely considered one of the best restaurants in St. Louis. It’s a great choice for romantic dinners or special occasions, thanks to its elegant atmosphere and imaginative menu featuring American classics and globally-inspired dishes. www.sidneystreetcafe.com

Pappy’s Smokehouse

If you’re craving barbecue, head to Pappy’s Smokehouse for some of the best smoked meats in town. The restaurant also features live blues music, giving it an upbeat atmosphere that sets it apart from other barbecue joints in St. Louis. www.pappyssmokehouse.com

Russell’s on Macklind Avenue

Russell’s on Macklind Avenue is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up classic Italian-American comfort food since 1982. From pizza and pasta to steaks and seafood, there’s something for everyone here! www.russellsonmaclindave.com

Nightlife in St. Louis

When the sun goes down, St. Louis comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene! Here are some of the best places to check out:

The Blue Pepper Lounge

This hip jazz lounge features live music nearly every night of the week and has become a favorite spot for locals looking for a night on the town. Head here for delicious drinks, great music and atmosphere second to none! www.bluepepperlounge.com

Rooftop Terrace & Bar at the Cheshire Hotel

For stunning views of the city, head to the Rooftop Terrace & Bar at the Cheshire Hotel! This chic lounge features gourmet appetizers and tasty drinks, as well as live music on select nights. A perfect place to end your evening in St. Louis! www.meetingstlouis.org/hotel/cheshire-hotel

Absolutli Goosed

Absolutli Goosed is a great choice for a night out with friends or colleagues. The fun and lively atmosphere makes it perfect for cocktails and snacks before hitting up one of St. Louis’ bars or clubs afterward! www.absolutligoosedbarandgrillstlouisomfldboulevardheights/

Conclusion

St Louis is a vibrant city with something for everyone – from amazing sites like the Gateway Arch to some of the best restaurants, bars and clubs in the Midwest! Whether you’re visiting for days or weeks, this guide should have provided some tips on what to do, eat and experience when you’re in town – have fun exploring all that St Louis has to offer!

An Insider’s Guide to St Louis: Discovering Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

St Louis is a vibrant city that has plenty to offer beyond the famous Gateway Arch and Busch Stadium. As an insider, I can attest to the city’s diverse cultural offerings, unique dining scene, fascinating history, and off-the-beaten-path attractions that are sure to leave visitors wanting more. Here’s an insider’s guide to discovering hidden gems and local favorites in St Louis.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

While the Gateway Arch and Busch Stadium are iconic, there are plenty of other attractions to explore in St Louis. One lesser-known spot is the City Museum, a massive playground and art museum that is unlike anything you’ve seen before. For a taste of St Louis history, check out the Old Courthouse, where Dred Scott’s landmark case was heard. Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, offers miles of walking trails, a stunning boathouse, and museums on art, history, and science.

Dining Spots: Savoring St Louis’s Cuisine

St Louis has a rich food culture that combines influences from the Midwest, the South, and beyond. One must-try dish is toasted ravioli, a St Louis specialty that features breaded and deep-fried ravioli served with marinara sauce. Imo’s Pizza is another local favorite, featuring a thin, crispy crust and a unique blend of cheese. For a high-end dining experience, visit Vicia, which sources its ingredients from local farmers and serves creative dishes such as house-made buckwheat noodles with lamb ragu. Don’t forget to wash it all down with some local beer from Schlafly Brewery or Urban Chestnut.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing St Louis’s Traditions

St Louis is rich in cultural experiences, from the annual Mardi Gras celebration to the Missouri Botanical Garden’s Lantern Festival. The Soulard Farmers Market is another staple, selling fresh produce and artisanal goods since 1779. For music lovers, the Blueberry Hill concert club has hosted legendary artists from Chuck Berry to Patti Smith. And for art enthusiasts, the Saint Louis Art Museum features an extensive collection of works from around the world, including ancient Chinese tomb art and contemporary American paintings.

Local History: Telling St Louis’s Stories

St Louis has a fascinating history, much of which is embodied in the historic neighborhoods of Soulard, Lafayette Square, and the Central West End. The Anheuser-Busch brewery offers tours that showcase St Louis’s brewing history and the family that built a beer empire. For a more sobering experience, visit the Missouri History Museum’s exhibit on the 1917 race riots, which illustrates the city’s complex racial tensions. And don’t miss the Eads Bridge, a technological marvel when it opened in 1874 and still one of the most beautiful structures in the city.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

For those who want to venture off the tourist track, St Louis has plenty to offer. The Lemp Mansion is a haunted house that also offers a history of the city’s beer-making families. For nature lovers, Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site features the remnants of a pre-Columbian city and a great view of the city skyline. And for a unique dining experience, visit The Hill, a historically Italian neighborhood that has some of the best pasta dishes in town.

In conclusion, St Louis has something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies to culture enthusiasts. Whether you stick to the iconic attractions or venture off the tourist track, you’re sure to discover something special in this vibrant city.