What to See in St Louis? – The Complete Guide for 2021

It’s no wonder that St. Louis is one of the most popular cities in the Midwest. With its iconic architecture, rich cultural heritage, and sites of historical significance, St. Louis is a worthwhile destination. From fascinating museums to parks and entertainment venues, there are plenty of things to do here.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect day-trip or something more lengthy to fill your itinerary, this guide will give you an idea of the best things to see in St. Louis.

The Gateway Arch

Starting your journey through St. Louis is best done at the Gateway Arch. This remarkable structure, 630 feet tall and designed by renowned architect Eero Saarinen, serves as a symbol of the hospitality of the city and celebrates its role as the gateway to the West. The observations decks offer visitors views of the city, the Mississippi River and beyond, while the Gateway Arch Riverboats can take visitors on a narrated tour of the attraction and its surroundings.

St. Louis Zoo & Forest Park

The St. Louis Zoo occupies about 90 acres of lush land in Forest Park, in the heart of St. Louis. It houses over 700 species of animals from across the world, as well as a Sea Lion Sound show and a state-of-the-art 4D cinema experience, where visitors can enjoy movies alongside special effect thrills such as wind and scents. There is also an educational Insectarium, a children’s petting zoo and the Climatron geodesic dome biosphere – an 8-story dome that features tropical rainforest plants and animals.

City Museum

If you’re looking for something a little more unusual, you can’t miss out on visiting the City Museum. Found in Downtown St. Louis, this former shoe factory has been turned into a gigantic playground featuring everything from tunnels and caves, to slides and a renovated school bus on its roof. This 10-story educational and experimental museum is sure to appeal to all ages and kids will love it!

Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis is an impressive work of architecture, with Byzantine-style stained glass windows and an interior mural display created by renowned artist Carl Milles from Sweden. Visitors can explore the structure that began its construction in 1907, take part in one of its services or just admire the beautiful artwork that it contains.

Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour

If you fancy something a bit more lighthearted during your stay here, why not take a brewery tour? Anheuser-Busch Brewery is offering visitors a chance to learn more about the process behind their beer production, as well as an opportunity to taste some of the finest beers in the world. Brewing heritage can be explored throughout the tour with memorabilia from the company’s history and a tour of their bottling facility.

Explore Historic Soulard

Soulard is one of St. Louis’ oldest neighborhoods, with some buildings dating back to the 1700s. This unique area offers plenty for visitors to do, including attractions such as the Soulard Market – which is famous for its fresh produce and artisan vendors – and multiple delicious eateries and bars. There are also tours available at one of America’s most haunted houses and guests can admire homesteads and buildings that date back hundreds of years.

Visit Tower Grove Park

Tower Grove Park is another historic St. Louis destination that offers plenty for visitors to do; here you can enjoy guided walking tours of tree-lined paths, wandering through many architectural styles while admiring beautiful gardens along the way that feature both native and exotic plants. Those feeling brave can try out hand gliding or skydiving at this spot, or simply enjoy watching pigeons taking flight above them.

St Louis is filled with incredible attractions just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a history buff or someone looking for a unique day out; there is truly something for everyone here! Remember to ensure that you follow safety precautions before you plan your excursion to St Louis and make sure to check out all that this vibrant city has to offer in 2021.

For more information about your next visit ExplorerStLouis has all kinds of resources ready for you!

Insider’s Guide to St. Louis

Welcome to St. Louis, Missouri! As a local, I am excited to share my insider’s guide on what to do, see, and taste in this vibrant city. From hidden gems to cultural experiences, historical tales to off-the-beaten-path suggestions, this guide has it all!

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

St. Louis may be known for its iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch and Forest Park, but there are plenty of lesser-known attractions worth exploring. The City Museum, for example, is a playground that adults and kids alike will love. It’s a unique place filled with interactive exhibits, caves, and a rooftop Ferris wheel.

Another hidden gem is Laumeier Sculpture Park, a 105-acre open-air museum featuring modern and contemporary art. Stroll through the park and take in the sculptures, which add another layer of beauty to the park’s natural landscape.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine and Food Culture

St. Louis is known for its delicious food, and there’s no shortage of options. For breakfast, head to Southwest Diner for some hearty biscuits and gravy. For lunch, try a St. Louis original, the “Gooey Butter Cake,” at Park Avenue Coffee. For dinner, go to Pappy’s Smokehouse for mouth-watering barbecue ribs or to Olive + Oak for a classy and contemporary dining experience.

Did you know St. Louis is the birthplace of toasted ravioli? It’s true! You can try this local delicacy at Charlie Gitto’s or Mama Toscano’s.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions, Festivals, Art, Music, and More

St. Louis is a city full of culture. Catch a free concert at the Gateway Arch, be blown away by the unique art exhibits at City Garden, or attend the annual International Festival at Tower Grove Park.

For a more traditional experience, attend a game of the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium, or catch a show at the historic Fox Theatre.

Local History: Tales Beyond the Dry Facts

St. Louis has a rich and complex history, from the Lewis and Clark expedition to the Gateway Arch’s construction. Take a guided tour of the Old Courthouse, which was made famous by the Dred Scott slavery case. Visit the Missouri History Museum, which chronicles St. Louis’s story, or stop by the Anheuser-Busch brewery to learn about the city’s famous beer-making past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: For Unforgettable and Unique Experiences

For a unique and memorable experience, try a ghost tour of the city or take a sunset paddleboat ride on the Mississippi River. The Soulard Farmers Market, one of the oldest in the country, is a great place to shop for fresh produce and souvenirs while mingling with locals.

In conclusion, St. Louis is a city that deserves to be explored and appreciated beyond its famous landmarks. With hidden gems, delicious food, rich culture, fascinating history, and unique experiences, this city has something for everyone. So pack your bags and come fall in love with St. Louis!