Did you know that St. Louis is home to a wealth of attractions that are not only steeped in history but also surprisingly affordable, with many being completely free to visit?
The Gateway to the West, as it’s known, offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and iconic landmarks. You can explore the city’s rich history through its museums and historic sites, enjoy the vibrant arts scene, or take in the natural beauty of its parks and trails.
As you plan your visit, you’ll discover that St. Louis is a city that seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern vibrancy, making every visit a new adventure. With its diverse range of experiences, from world-class museums to family-friendly attractions, you’ll find something that suits your interests.
Discovering Saint Louis County: A Gateway to Adventure
With its rich heritage and diverse attractions, Saint Louis County is a place where every visit is a new adventure waiting to happen. You’re about to explore a city that’s full of iconic landmarks and cultural attractions, offering a wide range of experiences for everyone.
What Makes Saint Louis County Special
Saint Louis County stands out due to its unique blend of Midwestern hospitality and big-city attractions. The county’s historical significance as the “Gateway to the West” is preserved through various landmarks and cultural sites. You can explore the diverse neighborhoods that make up Saint Louis County, each with its own distinct personality and attractions worth exploring.
- Explore the County’s Heritage: Understand the geographical and historical importance of St. Louis and how this heritage is preserved throughout the county.
- Diverse Neighborhoods: Learn about the different neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience.
Planning Your Visit: Tips and Best Times
To make the most of your visit to Saint Louis County, it’s essential to plan ahead. Consider the best times to visit based on seasonal events, weather patterns, and crowd levels throughout the year. You can navigate the city efficiently using transportation options like the MetroLink, rental cars, and scooters.
- Best Times to Visit: Discover the optimal times to visit based on seasonal events and crowd levels.
- Navigation Tips: Get practical tips for navigating the city, including transportation options and money-saving opportunities like the One-Day Adventure Pass.
By planning your visit strategically, you can enjoy a hassle-free adventure in Saint Louis County, making the most of your time and budget.
Gateway Arch: Symbol of the American West
Standing tall at 630 feet, the Gateway Arch is a marvel of engineering and a testament to the country’s westward expansion. This iconic monument is a must-visit attraction in St. Louis, Missouri, offering a unique experience that combines history, architecture, and breathtaking views.
Tram Experience and Viewing Platform
You can take a thrilling tram ride to the top of the Gateway Arch, enjoying stunning views of the St. Louis skyline and the Mississippi River. The tram ride takes about 4 minutes up and 3 minutes down, providing a memorable experience.
The viewing platform at the top offers panoramic views of the city and the river, stretching up to 30 miles on clear days. It’s an experience that combines the thrill of the ride with the beauty of the surroundings.
Museum Exhibits and River Cruises
The Gateway Arch has a detailed museum that covers 200 years of history, exploring topics like Jefferson’s Vision and Manifest Destiny. You can learn about the history and engineering marvel of the Gateway Arch, completed in 1965 and designed by architect Eero Saarinen.
The park also offers riverboat cruises and helicopter tours, providing different perspectives of the city and the Mississippi River. These tours enhance your understanding and appreciation of the monument and its surroundings.
Best Photo Opportunities
The Gateway Arch is perfect for photos, with views from the top and architectural details that make for great shots. You can also capture stunning photographs from the Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park across the river in Illinois.
Timing your visit during the golden hour or at night when the Arch is illuminated can make your photos even more spectacular.
Forest Park: Cultural Heart of St. Louis
Forest Park, spanning over 1,300 acres, is the cultural and recreational heart of St. Louis. This vast urban oasis is home to a diverse range of attractions and activities that cater to all interests.
World-Class Museums Within the Park
Forest Park is home to some of the world’s most renowned museums, including the Saint Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, and Saint Louis Science Center. The Saint Louis Art Museum boasts an extensive collection featuring works by masters like Van Gogh and Picasso. The Missouri History Museum chronicles the city’s rich history, including special exhibits on the 1904 World’s Fair held in the park. The Saint Louis Science Center offers interactive exhibits that make learning fun for visitors of all ages.
Outdoor Recreation Opportunities
Aside from its cultural attractions, Forest Park offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy miles of walking and biking trails, boat rentals on the park’s waterways, golf courses, tennis courts, and sports fields. The park’s expansive grounds provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Forest Park hosts a variety of seasonal events and festivals throughout the year. The Muny, America’s oldest and largest outdoor musical theater, hosts performances during the summer months. Shakespeare in the Park and various cultural festivals add to the park’s vibrant atmosphere, making it a great destination for families and culture enthusiasts alike.
City Museum: Urban Playground for All Ages
St. Louis’s City Museum is an urban playground like no other. Housed in a former shoe factory, this 600,000-square-foot space is filled with interactive exhibits and artistic playgrounds that defy traditional museum concepts. As you explore the museum, you’ll discover a world of creativity and fun.
Architectural Wonders and Slides
The City Museum is renowned for its architectural wonders created from repurposed industrial objects. You can climb into a giant bow whale, slide down a 10-story slide, and explore underground tunnels. The 10-story slide is a thrill for those over 48 inches tall, providing an exhilarating experience.
Rooftop Attractions
The rooftop offers even more fun, with a Ferris wheel and a school bus dramatically suspended over the edge of the building. These repurposed materials make for great attractions with amazing city views, giving you a unique perspective on St. Louis.
Indoor Adventures
Inside the museum, there’s a world of discovery. You can watch Circus Harmony’s acrobatic shows, see unique art, and explore science exhibits. The museum’s interactive and artistic vibe makes it a great place for kids and adults alike to enjoy together.
The City Museum is a place where creativity knows no bounds, and every visit is a new experience. With its unique blend of art, history, and fun, it’s a must-visit destination in St. Louis. Whether you’re looking for adventure or just a fun day out with kids, the City Museum has something for everyone.
Wildlife and Nature Experiences
Explore the natural side of Saint Louis County, where wildlife and nature experiences await. You can get up close and personal with animals at various attractions, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature.
Saint Louis Zoo: A World-Class Free Attraction
The Saint Louis Zoo in Forest Park is a must-visit attraction, offering free admission to its 90 acres of exhibits housing over 14,000 animals. You can explore the various exhibits, including Polar Bear Point, Sea Lion Sound, and the new Primate Canopy Trails.
Butterfly House and Bird Sanctuary
The Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House in Chesterfield is a tropical conservatory filled with thousands of butterflies in free flight. You can also visit the World Bird Sanctuary, where you can see eagles, owls, and other birds of prey up close.
Parks and Nature Reserves
Saint Louis County is home to numerous parks and nature reserves, offering hiking trails, bird watching opportunities, and peaceful natural settings. You can explore Lone Elk Park, a unique wildlife management area where you can drive through to observe bison, elk, and other animals in their natural habitat.
In addition to these attractions, you can also visit the Endangered Wolf Center, which works to preserve and protect various wolf species and other predators. With so many options, you’re sure to have a memorable wildlife and nature experience in Saint Louis County.
Union Station and Aquarium Complex
If you’re looking for a fun day out in St. Louis, the Union Station complex is an ideal destination, with its aquarium, wheel, and more. This historic landmark has been transformed into a lively family entertainment center, offering a variety of attractions that appeal to all ages and interests.
St. Louis Aquarium Highlights
The St. Louis Aquarium is at the heart of the complex, housing over 13,000 aquatic creatures from different ecosystems. You can explore the underwater world, seeing stingrays, colorful fish, and sharks up close. The aquarium features interactive exhibits, including touch tanks where you can feel marine life, and the Shark Canyon with its 250,000-gallon habitat viewed through a transparent tunnel.
The St. Louis Wheel and Other Attractions
The St. Louis Wheel, a 200-foot observation wheel, offers spectacular views of the city skyline and the Mississippi River. You can also enjoy other attractions at Union Station, including the St. Louis Carousel, a mirror maze, ropes course, mini golf, and seasonal activities that provide entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Dining and Entertainment Options
The Union Station complex boasts great food options, from casual eateries like The Soda Fountain with its over-the-top milkshakes to more upscale restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. You can also experience the spectacular 3D light show in the Grand Hall, where the ornate ceiling of the former train station comes alive with music and projected imagery every hour in the evening.
In summary, the Union Station complex in St. Louis is a must-visit destination for families and individuals alike, offering a mix of entertainment, food, and fun. With its rich history, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse attractions, it’s an ideal place to spend a day out in St. Louis.
Local Food Scene and Brewery Heritage
When it comes to food and drink, Saint Louis County has a lot to offer, from classic dishes to craft beers. The city’s culinary identity is a blend of its rich history and cultural influences, making it a fascinating place to explore for food enthusiasts.
Iconic St. Louis Dishes
Saint Louis is renowned for its unique culinary delights. You can savor St. Louis-style pizza, known for its ultra-thin crust and Provel cheese, toasted ravioli, a breaded and deep-fried treat that originated in The Hill neighborhood, and frozen custard “concretes” from Ted Drewes, a St. Louis institution since 1930. These dishes are a testament to the city’s diverse culinary heritage.
- Experience the distinct flavor of St. Louis-style pizza.
- Try toasted ravioli, a local favorite.
- Enjoy frozen custard “concretes” for a sweet treat.
Craft Beer Experience
The city is also a haven for beer lovers, with a rich brewing history. You can explore the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery, which offers tours of its facilities and the famous Clydesdale stables. Additionally, numerous craft breweries like 4 Hands Brewing Co., Urban Chestnut, and Side Project Brewing have revitalized St. Louis’s beer culture, offering a wide range of unique beers.
Food Districts and Markets
Visiting the city’s food districts and markets is a must. The Hill neighborhood is celebrated for its authentic Italian-American cuisine, while the Soulard Farmers’ Market, the oldest farmers market west of the Mississippi, offers a variety of fresh produce and street food. Food halls like the Delmar Loop and City Foundry STL also showcase the city’s local talent, providing a diverse culinary experience.
As you explore Saint Louis County, you’ll discover that the local food scene is not just about the dishes, but also about the history and culture behind them. Take your time to enjoy the city’s culinary delights, and you’ll leave with a memorable experience of this vibrant city.
Sports and Entertainment Scene
Saint Louis County offers an exciting blend of sports, music, and entertainment that caters to different interests. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or a music lover, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Cheering on Local Teams
Experience the passionate sports culture of Saint Louis by attending a Cardinals baseball game at Busch Stadium. You can
or catch the excitement of a St. Louis Blues hockey game at the Enterprise Center.
Live Music Venues
Discover Saint Louis’s rich musical heritage by visiting live music venues like BB’s Jazz, Blues and Soups and Broadway Oyster Bar. These places host nightly shows that celebrate the city’s significant contributions to blues, jazz, and ragtime music.
Entertainment Districts
Looking for a fun night out? Try entertainment districts like Armory STL, Ballpark Village, City Foundry STL, and Westport Plaza. They offer great food, drinks, and entertainment options, including trendy bars, comedy shows, and concerts for an unforgettable evening.
With its diverse entertainment options, Saint Louis County is a great place to have a fun time with family and friends. You can enjoy a variety of activities, from sports to live music, and experience the city’s vibrant culture.
Historical Attractions in Saint Louis County
Saint Louis County is home to a plethora of historical attractions that showcase its rich history. As you explore the county, you’ll discover a blend of historic sites, museums, and landmarks that highlight its significant role in American history.
The Old Courthouse and Historic Sites
The Old Courthouse is a magnificent domed building where the famous Dred Scott case was tried, marking a pivotal moment in American history leading up to the Civil War. This historic site is not only significant for its role in the country’s past but also for its architectural grandeur, dating back to 1839. You can also explore other historic sites like the Soulard neighborhood, one of the oldest in the city, featuring beautiful 19th-century architecture and home to the famous Soulard Farmers Market established in 1779.
Museums Celebrating Local History
Saint Louis County is home to numerous museums that celebrate different aspects of its history. The Missouri History Museum in Forest Park houses extensive collections documenting the city’s role in American history, from Lewis and Clark’s expedition to Charles Lindbergh’s historic flight. You can also visit the Soldiers Memorial Military Museum to honor those who served and the Griot Museum of Black History to learn about African American heritage. Additionally, the Campbell House Museum offers a glimpse into upper-class life in mid-19th century St. Louis, while the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis showcases the city’s cultural richness with its remarkable mosaics.
These historical attractions and museums provide a comprehensive look at the history of Saint Louis County, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts. By exploring these sites, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city’s significance and its contributions to the country’s history.
Saint Louis County, Missouri: Best Things to Do – Top Picks for Families
Saint Louis County, Missouri, stands out as one of the most family-friendly destinations in the Midwest. With a wide array of attractions and activities designed for kids of all ages, it’s an ideal location for a family vacation. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in Saint Louis County.
Kid-Friendly Museums and Attractions
The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum, is a must-visit, featuring over 100 interactive exhibits across 55,000 square feet that encourage hands-on learning and creative play. The St. Louis Science Center is another highlight, where children can engage with hundreds of interactive exhibits about dinosaurs, space, technology, and natural science. The City Museum offers a unique play experience with its maze of tunnels, slides, and climbing structures, transforming industrial objects into an urban playground. At the St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station, kids can touch stingrays, watch playful otters, and explore underwater tunnels surrounded by colorful fish and sharks.
Outdoor Fun for the Whole Family
For outdoor enthusiasts, Forest Park offers expansive playgrounds and plenty of recreational activities. Citygarden’s interactive water features provide a fun way to enjoy the outdoors, while the Powder Valley Nature Center offers accessible trails for a family hike. Six Flags St. Louis is perfect for thrill-seekers, with roller coasters, water rides, and more. Additionally, the county hosts various seasonal family events, including The Muny’s summer productions, special exhibits at The Magic House, and holiday light displays at the Missouri Botanical Garden and Tilles Park.
Union Station also offers free shows that are perfect for families, including the Fire and Light Show and a 3D projection show on the ceiling of the Grand Hall. These attractions and events make Saint Louis County a vibrant and engaging destination for families.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Saint Louis County Adventure
With its unique blend of old and new, Saint Louis County offers something for every kind of traveler. As you explore this vibrant city, you’ll discover a rich tapestry of history, culture, and adventure waiting to be uncovered.
The county is home to iconic attractions like the Gateway Arch, as well as world-class museums and a thriving food scene. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply experiencing the best of St. Louis, there’s no shortage of exciting things to see and do.
To make the most of your visit, consider the time of year and plan accordingly. Summers are perfect for enjoying water activities, while the holiday season brings special events throughout the county. With plenty of transportation options, including the MetroLink light rail system, rental cars, and rideshare services, getting around is easy.
As you plan your trip, think about extending your stay to explore nearby attractions like historic St. Charles or the wineries of Missouri wine country. With so much to see and do, Saint Louis County is a destination that will leave a lasting impression. You’ll find that this city is a place where memories are made, and you’re sure to have a top-notch adventure.
In conclusion, Saint Louis County is a place that offers a variety of experiences, from its iconic landmarks to its cultural heritage. With its welcoming atmosphere and plenty of attractions, it’s a great destination for people from all over the country and the world. Come and discover why Saint Louis is a city that will capture your heart and leave you wanting to return.
