St. Louis Travel Guide

Discover the top places to visit, foods to try, and activities to do in St. Louis with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to St. Louis

Located in the heart of the Midwest, St. Louis is a bustling city that is home to a diverse range of attractions, from iconic landmarks to unique museums, outdoor adventures and a lively food and drink scene. Known as the Gateway to the West, this city has a rich cultural history that can be explored through its many museums and landmarks.

Whether you are interested in exploring the city’s rich history, experiencing the great outdoors, or simply enjoying some delicious food and drink, St. Louis has something to offer for everyone. In this guide, we will explore some of the top things to do in St. Louis, including a comprehensive list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, local food and drinks, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in St. Louis

St. Louis is a vibrant city with a variety of attractions and sights to see. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Gateway Arch

One of the most iconic landmarks in St. Louis, the Gateway Arch is a must-visit attraction. This 630-foot tall arch is the tallest man-made monument in the United States and offers stunning views of the city. You can take a tram to the top of the arch to get an unforgettable view of St. Louis.

Missouri Botanical Garden

The Missouri Botanical Garden is a 79-acre garden that is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers from around the world. The garden has several themed areas, including a Japanese garden, English Woodland Garden, and a Climatron greenhouse. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of St. Louis.

City Museum

The City Museum is a unique attraction that is built entirely from recycled materials. Inside, you’ll find a variety of exhibits and interactive displays, including a giant ball pit, a rooftop Ferris wheel, and even a human-sized hamster wheel. It’s a great place to explore for both adults and kids.

Missouri History Museum

The Missouri History Museum is dedicated to telling the story of the state of Missouri and the city of St. Louis. It has a variety of exhibits that cover everything from the city’s founding to the present day, including an exhibit on the 1904 World’s Fair, which was held in St. Louis.

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

Forest Park

Forest Park is a massive urban park in the heart of St. Louis. It’s home to several attractions, including the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, and the St. Louis Zoo. The park is also a great place to enjoy outdoor activities, including walking, running, and cycling.

Missouri River

The Missouri River is the longest river in North America, and there are several opportunities to explore it in and around St. Louis. You can take a riverboat tour or simply relax on the riverbank and enjoy the stunning views.

Shaw Nature Reserve

The Shaw Nature Reserve is a 2,400-acre nature reserve that is home to a variety of plant and animal species. It has several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area. You can also take a guided tour and learn more about the plants and animals that call the Shaw Nature Reserve home.

Hiking/Biking Routes of St. Louis

If you are interested in exploring the great outdoors, St. Louis has several hiking and biking routes that are worth exploring.

Katy Trail

The Katy Trail is a 240-mile long trail that runs through the heart of Missouri, including St. Louis. It’s a great route for cycling and hiking, and you’ll pass by several historic landmarks and scenic views along the way.

Forest Park Trail

The Forest Park Trail is a 6.3-mile loop that runs through the heart of Forest Park. It’s a great route for hiking, walking, and cycling, and you’ll pass by several attractions and scenic views along the way.

Grant’s Trail

Grant’s Trail is a 8-mile long trail that is perfect for cycling and hiking. It runs through several parks and reserves, including the Clydesdale Reserve, where you can see the famous Budweiser Clydesdale horses.

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

Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, there are plenty of things to do in St. Louis. Here are some of the top activities and tours to add to your itinerary:

The Magic House

The Magic House is a children’s museum that is perfect for families with young kids. There are several interactive exhibits that allow kids to learn and play at the same time.

Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour

The Anheuser-Busch Brewery is located in St. Louis and is famous for brewing Budweiser beer. You can take a tour of the brewery and learn more about the history of the company and the brewing process.

City Beer Tours

If you’re a beer lover, City Beer Tours offers guided tours of some of the top craft breweries in St. Louis. You’ll get to sample a variety of beers and learn more about the brewing process.

Week-Long Itinerary for St. Louis

If you’re planning a longer trip to St. Louis, here is a suggested week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Gateway Arch and take a tram to the top for stunning views of St. Louis
Day 2 Explore the Missouri Botanical Garden and enjoy the beautiful plant and flower displays
Day 3 Visit the City Museum and enjoy the interactive exhibits and attractions
Day 4 Take a tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery and sample some beer
Day 5 Hike or bike through Forest Park and visit some of the attractions, including the Saint Louis Art Museum and the St. Louis Zoo
Day 6 Explore the Missouri History Museum and learn more about the history of St. Louis and Missouri
Day 7 Visit the Shaw Nature Reserve and enjoy the natural beauty of the area

Food and Drink Scene of St. Louis

St. Louis is a top destination for foodies and beer lovers. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Toasted Ravioli

Toasted ravioli is a St. Louis classic. These deep-fried raviolis are filled with meat, cheese, or a combination of both and are a great snack or appetizer.

St. Louis-Style Pizza

St. Louis-style pizza is thin-crust pizza with a crispy crust and is topped with a unique blend of cheeses, including Provel, which is a combination of provolone, Swiss, and white cheddar cheeses.

Gooey Butter Cake

Gooey Butter Cake is a St. Louis dessert that is made with a cake-like crust and a gooey, creamy filling. It’s a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Local Beverages

Budweiser Beer

Budweiser is one of the most popular beers in the United States and is brewed in St. Louis. You can take a tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery and sample some of their famous beer.

Schlafly Beer

If you’re a fan of craft beer, be sure to check out Schlafly Beer. They offer a variety of beers, including seasonal brews and unique flavors like their coffee stout and pumpkin ale.

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

There are several accommodation options in St. Louis to fit any budget and preference. Here are some top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to choose from:

Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis

The Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis is a luxurious hotel with stunning views of the Gateway Arch and Mississippi River. It has several amenities, including a spa, a rooftop pool, and several dining options.

HI St. Louis Hostel

If you’re traveling on a budget, the HI St. Louis Hostel is a great option. It’s located in the heart of downtown St. Louis and offers affordable dormitory-style rooms and private rooms.

Fleur-de-Lys Mansion

If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider staying at the Fleur-de-Lys Mansion. This bed and breakfast is housed in a historic mansion and offers luxurious rooms and amenities.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring back home, St. Louis has plenty of options. Here are some ideas:

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is a St. Louis institution and has been serving up their famous frozen custard since 1929. You can buy a pint or quart to take back home and enjoy.

Fitz’s Root Beer

Fitz’s Root Beer is a St. Louis classic and has been brewed in the city since 1947. You can buy a bottle or a pack to take back home and enjoy.

Local Culture and Customs of St. Louis

St. Louis has a unique culture and customs that are worth learning about. Here are some customs and traditions to keep in mind:

  • St. Louis is known for its barbecue, and it’s a must-try when visiting the city.
  • The city is also known for its love of beer, and there are several breweries and brewpubs worth visiting.
  • St. Louis has a strong sports culture, with several professional and college teams in the area, including the St. Louis Cardinals and the St. Louis Blues.

Best Time to Visit St. Louis

The best time to visit St. Louis is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild and the city is alive with outdoor events and festivals. The months of March and April can be a bit unpredictable in terms of weather but offer a great opportunity to catch the cherry blossoms in the Missouri Botanical Garden and surrounding areas.

Do’s and Don’ts of St. Louis

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting St. Louis:

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine, including barbecue and toasted ravioli.
  • Do explore the city’s outdoor attractions, including Forest Park and the Missouri River.
  • Do attend a Cardinals baseball game or a Blues hockey game to experience the city’s sports culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave the city without trying a local beer.
  • Don’t underestimate the size of the Gateway Arch. It’s much bigger than it looks.
  • Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city’s many attractions.

Safety and Health

St. Louis is a relatively safe city, but like any large city, there are some areas that should be avoided, particularly at night. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy in St. Louis:

Safety in St. Louis

  • Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in the North Side.
  • Watch your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.
  • Always lock your car and keep valuables out of sight.

Health in St. Louis

  • Be aware of the heat in the summer months and stay hydrated.
  • Use sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Carry a first-aid kit and any necessary medications with you

Getting to St. Louis: Transportation Options and Logistics

St. Louis is easily accessible by several transportation options, including air, bus, and car. Here’s what you need to know:

Airports Near St. Louis

The main airport serving St. Louis is the Lambert-St. Louis International Airport. It’s located about 14 miles northwest of downtown St. Louis and is serviced by several domestic and international airlines.

Bus Stations Near St. Louis

St. Louis has a Greyhound Bus station that is located in the heart of downtown. There are also several other bus companies that serve the area.

Other Options

St. Louis is also accessible by car, and several major highways run through the city. If you’re traveling from nearby cities like Chicago (300 miles) or Indianapolis (247 miles), you can also take a train or rent a car to get to St. Louis.

How to Get Around in St. Louis

St. Louis has several transportation options for getting around the city:

  • MetroLink: MetroLink is the light rail system in St. Louis and has several stops throughout the city and surrounding areas.
  • MetroBus: MetroBus is the city’s public bus system and covers a wide range of routes throughout the city.
  • Bike Share: The city also has a bike share program, which is a great way to explore the city on two wheels.
  • Car Rental: You can also rent a car if you prefer to explore the city on your own schedule.

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

If you’re looking for nearby destinations to explore after St. Louis, here are some top choices:

Kansas City

Kansas City is located about 4 hours west of St. Louis and is famous for its barbecue, jazz music, and art scene.

Memphis

Memphis is located about 4 hours south of St. Louis and is known for its music scene, including the birthplace of rock and roll and the home of Elvis Presley.

Conclusion

St. Louis is a vibrant and exciting city that has something to offer for everyone. From iconic landmarks to unique museums, outdoor adventures, and a lively food and drink scene, St. Louis should be on your list of must-visit destinations. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip and explore all that St. Louis has to offer!

MetroLink system map MetroLink system map Downtown St. Louis at night Downtown St. Louis at night The Old Courthouse The Old Courthouse St. Louis Union Station St. Louis Union Station