St. Louis Area Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide to St. Louis Area, including the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and transportation options. Read more on our travel guide website!


Introduction to St. Louis Area

St. Louis Area is a vibrant and culturally rich region located in the Midwest of the United States of America. Boasting a variety of attractions ranging from historic landmarks and museums to parks and outdoor activities, St. Louis Area is a popular tourist destination all year round.

List of Places to Visit in St. Louis Area

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Gateway Arch: Standing at a height of 630 feet, the Gateway Arch is an iconic symbol of St. Louis Area and offers visitors a stunning view of the city.
  • Missouri Botanical Garden: Founded in 1859, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a beautiful oasis in the heart of St. Louis and features gardens, greenhouses, and a variety of exhibits.
  • The Missouri History Museum: This museum provides visitors with an in-depth look into the rich history of the state of Missouri and offers a variety of exhibits and interactive displays.

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

  • Forest Park: Spanning over 1,300 acres, Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country and offers a range of recreational activities, including biking, hiking, and golfing.
  • Grant’s Farm: Home to a variety of species of animals, including bison, elk, and horses, Grant’s Farm is a popular destination for families with young children.
  • Missouri Ozarks: The Ozarks are a beautiful and rugged mountain range that offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of St. Louis Area

  • Katy Trail State Park: This 240-mile trail offers some of the best scenic views in the region and is ideal for hiking and biking.
  • Castlewood State Park: Located along the Meramec River, Castlewood State Park is a popular destination for hiking and offers several routes with varying degrees of difficulty.

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

  • Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour: Visitors can learn about the history of beer and the brewing process at this historic brewery and even sample some of their famous brands.
  • St. Louis Zoo: This free zoo is home to over 500 species of animals and is a great destination for families with children.
  • The Magic House: Designed for children, this interactive museum offers a wide range of exhibits and activities that encourage learning and creativity.

Week-Long Itinerary for St. Louis Area

Day Itinerary
1 Gateway Arch, Missouri Botanical Garden
2 Missouri History Museum, Forest Park
3 Grant’s Farm, Missouri Ozarks
4 Katy Trail State Park, Castlewood State Park
5 Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour, St. Louis Zoo
6 The Magic House, City Museum
7 St. Louis Art Museum, Cathedral Basilica

Food and Drink Scene of St. Louis Area

Must-Try Dishes

  • Toasted Ravioli: A St. Louis classic, this dish consists of breaded and fried ravioli and is often served with marinara sauce.
  • St. Louis-style Pizza: Known for its thin and crispy crust and unique toppings, including provel cheese and Italian sausage, St. Louis-style pizza is a must-try for any pizza lover.

Local Beverages

  • Gooey Butter Cake-flavored Beer: This unique beer is brewed by Urban Chestnut and is a delicious combination of two St. Louis classics, Gooey Butter Cake and beer.
  • Ted Drewes Frozen Custard: A St. Louis staple, Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is a creamy custard that is available in a variety of flavors and is perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

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

  • The Cheshire: Located in the heart of the city, The Cheshire is a historic hotel that combines old-world charm with modern amenities.
  • City Place St. Louis Downtown: This hotel offers modern accommodations and is located within walking distance of several attractions, including the Gateway Arch.

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

  • St. Louis Cardinals merchandise: As the home of the St. Louis Cardinals, there is no shortage of merchandise available for fans of the team.
  • Fitz’s Root Beer: Brewed locally, Fitz’s Root Beer is a popular drink in St. Louis and can be found in many local stores and restaurants.

Local Culture and Customs of St. Louis Area

St. Louisans are known for being friendly and hospitable. Visitors to the area should be prepared to strike up conversations with locals and should not be surprised if they are greeted with genuine kindness and warmth.

Best Time to Visit St. Louis Area

The best time to visit St. Louis Area is in the spring (April-June) and fall (September-November). The weather is mild, and there are several outdoor activities that visitors can participate in during these seasons.

Do’s and Don’ts of St. Louis Area

Do:

  • Visit the Gateway Arch for stunning views of the city
  • Try St. Louis-style Pizza and toasted ravioli
  • Take a tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery

Don’t:

  • Miss out on the outdoor activities available in the area, such as hiking and biking
  • Leave without visiting Forest Park or the St. Louis Zoo
  • Forget to try Fitz’s Root Beer

Safety and Health

Safety in St. Louis Area

While St. Louis Area is generally safe, visitors should be cautious when traveling alone at night or in areas that they are unfamiliar with. It is also a good idea to keep valuables out of sight and locked in a safe when not in use.

Health in St. Louis Area

St. Louis Area is home to several high-quality medical facilities, including Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Visitors with specific medical needs should be able to find suitable care in the area.

Getting to St. Louis Area: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near St. Louis Area

  • Lambert-St. Louis International Airport: Located just 15 minutes from downtown St. Louis, this airport serves several major airlines and offers a variety of domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near St. Louis Area

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in downtown St. Louis, the Greyhound Bus Station offers service to several destinations throughout the region and country.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: The Amtrak station in St. Louis offers service to several destinations throughout the country, including Chicago, New Orleans, and Los Angeles.

How to Get Around in St. Louis Area

The easiest way to get around in St. Louis Area is by car, as public transit can be limited in certain areas. Visitors can also use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get around the city.

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

  • Kansas City, Missouri: Located just over three hours away by car, Kansas City is a vibrant city that is home to several world-class attractions, including the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Kansas City Zoo.
  • Memphis, Tennessee: Home to Graceland and some of the best BBQ in the country, Memphis is a fun and exciting destination that is just under four hours away by car.

Conclusion

St. Louis Area is a culturally rich and exciting destination that offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to museums and historical landmarks. With so much to see and do, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience in St. Louis Area.



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