St. Louis Metro East Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful St. Louis Metro East with our complete guide. Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to St. Louis Metro East

St. Louis Metro East is located in the state of Illinois, in the Midwest region of the United States of America. It is a culturally rich and naturally beautiful destination that offers a variety of attractions for travelers of all ages. From exploring historical sites to hiking in scenic parks, this region has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in St. Louis Metro East

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site - this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the largest pre-Columbian archaeological sites in North America.
  2. National Great Rivers Museum - this museum tells the story of the Mississippi River and its impact on the region.
  3. Lewis and Clark State Historic Site - this park honors the famous explorers who embarked on their journey of discovery from this very spot.
  4. Edwardsville Arts Center - this center showcases the work of local artists and hosts regular exhibitions.
  5. Madison County Historical Society Museum - this museum showcases the history of Madison County and its people.

Natural Attractions of St. Louis Metro East: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Pere Marquette State Park - located on the banks of the Illinois River, this park is known for its stunning views and hiking trails.
  2. Shawnee National Forest - this forest offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to fishing and hunting.
  3. Horseshoe Lake State Park - this park is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and birdwatching.
  4. Raging Rivers Waterpark - this water park offers fun for the whole family, with water slides, lazy rivers, and more.
  5. Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail - this trail is popular with cyclists and hikers, offering beautiful views of the Mississippi River.

Hiking/Biking Routes of St. Louis Metro East

  1. Pere Marquette State Park - the park boasts numerous hiking trails ranging in difficulty, from easy to challenging.
  2. Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail - this 20-mile trail is a popular spot for both cyclists and hikers. It passes through scenic areas and historic towns along the Mississippi River.
  3. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site - the site has several trails that allow visitors to explore the ancient mounds and learn about the indigenous people who built them.

Best Things to Do in St. Louis Metro East: Activities and Tours

  1. Take a tour of the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery, which has been producing beer since the 1800s.
  2. Visit the Gateway Arch in St. Louis and take a ride to the top for incredible views of the city and the Mississippi River.
  3. Attend a performance at the historic Wildey Theatre in Edwardsville.
  4. Explore the charming town of Alton, with its quaint shops and Mississippi River views.
  5. Take a riverboat tour of the Mississippi River, departing from Grafton or Alton.

Week-Long Itinerary for St. Louis Metro East

Day 1: Visit Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site and learn about the indigenous people who built the mounds.

Day 2: Explore the scenic hiking trails at Pere Marquette State Park and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Day 3: Take a brewery tour at Anheuser-Busch and enjoy some local beers.

Day 4: Visit a local farmer’s market and sample some fresh produce and artisanal products.

Day 5: Tour the National Great Rivers Museum and learn about the history and impact of the Mississippi River on the region.

Day 6: Take a riverboat tour of the Mississippi River and enjoy the scenic views.

Day 7: Spend the day exploring St. Louis, visiting the Gateway Arch and the Missouri Botanical Garden.

Food and Drink Scene of St. Louis Metro East

Must-Try Dishes

  1. St. Louis-style pizza - a unique, thin-crust pizza topped with Provel cheese.
  2. Toasted ravioli - deep-fried ravioli filled with meat or cheese.
  3. Gooey butter cake - a local dessert made with a cake-like base and gooey butter filling.

Local Beverages

  1. Anheuser-Busch beers - the brewery produces a variety of popular beers, including Budweiser, Michelob, and more.
  2. Schlafly Beer - this local brewery offers a variety of craft beers, including seasonal favorites and limited releases.
  3. Illinois wines - the region is home to several wineries that produce quality wines made from locally grown grapes.

Where to Stay in St. Louis Metro East: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Best Western Premier Alton-St. Louis Area Hotel - located in Alton, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.
  2. DoubleTree by Hilton Collinsville - this hotel features modern rooms and an indoor pool, and is located near major highways for easy travel.
  3. Red Roof Inn St. Louis - Troy, IL - this budget-friendly hotel offers clean rooms and convenient access to local restaurants and shops.

What to Buy in St. Louis Metro East: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Provel cheese - a local cheese used on many St. Louis-style pizzas.
  2. Local wines - several wineries in the region produce high-quality wines.
  3. Artwork by local artists - the region is home to many talented artists whose work is showcased at various galleries and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of St. Louis Metro East

The people of St. Louis Metro East are friendly and welcoming to visitors. It is customary to greet people with a smile and a friendly hello.

Best Time to Visit St. Louis Metro East

The best time to visit St. Louis Metro East is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of St. Louis Metro East

Do:

  1. Explore the historic sites and museums in the region.
  2. Try the local cuisine, including St. Louis-style pizza and toasted ravioli.
  3. Enjoy the natural beauty of the region by hiking, biking, or taking a riverboat tour.

Don’t:

  1. Leave valuables in your car when visiting outdoor attractions.
  2. Litter or damage natural areas by leaving trash or disturbing wildlife.
  3. Ignore safety precautions when participating in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in St. Louis Metro East

St. Louis Metro East is a safe destination for visitors, but it is still important to take necessary safety precautions. This includes locking car doors and not leaving valuables in plain sight, especially when visiting outdoor areas.

Health in St. Louis Metro East

St. Louis Metro East has several hospitals and medical facilities that offer quality healthcare services to residents and visitors alike.

Getting to St. Louis Metro East: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near St. Louis Metro East

The nearest airport to St. Louis Metro East is Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, located in St. Louis, Missouri.

Bus Stations Near St. Louis Metro East

Greyhound Bus Lines operates a station in downtown St. Louis, with connections to other major cities in the region.

Other Options

Renting a car is a convenient option for visitors who want to explore the region on their own.

How to Get Around in St. Louis Metro East

Public transportation options in the region include buses and trains, with routes to major attractions and destinations.

Where to Go Next from St. Louis Metro East: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. St. Louis, Missouri - just across the river from St. Louis Metro East, this vibrant city is known for its iconic Gateway Arch and rich history.
  2. Springfield, Illinois - the state capital and home to numerous historical sites and museums.
  3. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri - a popular vacation destination known for its beautiful lakes and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

St. Louis Metro East is a wonderful destination for travelers seeking history, culture, and outdoor adventures. With its numerous attractions and natural beauty, this region is sure to offer a memorable vacation experience.

State of Illinois State of Illinois


    Alton
    Belleville
    Cahokia
    Collinsville
    Edwardsville
    Fairmont City
    Granite City
    O'Fallon