Welcome to St. Louis, a vibrant city with a rich history and a diverse array of attractions. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore more of what the city has to offer, there are plenty of must-see places that should be at the top of your list. From iconic landmarks to unique cultural experiences, St. Louis has something for everyone.
Key Takeaways:
- St. Louis offers a variety of attractions for visitors to explore.
- There are iconic landmarks, museums, outdoor activities, and more.
- Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, there’s always something new to discover in St. Louis.
Gateway Arch
The Gateway Arch is a must-see attraction and an iconic landmark in St. Louis. Standing at 630 feet tall, it is the tallest arch in the world. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top of the structure and enjoy stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River.
The arch is part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park and was built to commemorate the westward expansion of the United States. Visitors can also explore the Museum of Westward Expansion, located directly below the arch, which provides an in-depth look into the history of the westward expansion and the people who made it happen.
Visiting the Gateway Arch
The Gateway Arch is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Tickets for the tram ride to the top of the arch can be purchased on-site or online in advance. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, as the arch can be a popular attraction with long wait times.
Visitors should also be aware that security measures are in place, and all bags and personal items must go through a security check before entering the arch and museum.
Forest Park
As one of the largest urban parks in the United States, Forest Park is a must-visit destination in St. Louis. Spread across 1,293 acres, this expansive park offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| St. Louis Zoo | Home to over 12,000 animals, including rare and endangered species, the St. Louis Zoo is a top attraction within Forest Park. Visitors can explore various exhibits, watch animal feedings, and even ride the Zooline Railroad. |
| St. Louis Art Museum | With a collection of over 34,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years, the St. Louis Art Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers. Admission to the permanent collection is free. |
| St. Louis Science Center | Featuring interactive exhibits on technology, space, and the environment, the St. Louis Science Center is a hands-on learning experience for visitors of all ages. Admission to the permanent exhibits is free. |
In addition to these top attractions, Forest Park also boasts a golf course, tennis center, and several hiking and biking trails. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing picnic or an action-packed day of exploration, Forest Park has something for everyone.
City Museum
Looking for a unique and interactive attraction in St. Louis? Look no further than the City Museum. This one-of-a-kind museum is famous for its architectural features and hands-on exhibits that allow visitors to climb, crawl, and slide their way through fantastical installations.
The brainchild of artist and sculptor Bob Cassilly, the City Museum is housed in a sprawling, 600,000 square-foot former shoe factory. Today, the museum is a veritable wonderland of tunnels, slides, and climbing structures, as well as a collection of whimsical art installations.
“The City Museum is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. It’s part playground, part art exhibit, and all fun.” – Local Resident
Some of the highlights of the City Museum include the Enchanted Caves, a network of tunnels and passages that wind their way through the museum’s lower levels, and the Giant Ball Pit, which features thousands of colorful balls for visitors to jump, swim, and play in.
If you’re looking for a truly unique and unforgettable experience in St. Louis, be sure to add the City Museum to your itinerary. It’s a must-see attraction for visitors of all ages.
Saint Louis Zoo
The Saint Louis Zoo is a must-see destination for animal lovers visiting St. Louis. With over 16,000 animals from 600+ species, visitors can explore the many exhibits and attractions offered throughout the zoo’s 90 acres.
The zoo is divided into different regions, each representing a different part of the world and the animals that live there. Visitors can explore the African savanna, the Australian outback, and even the Arctic tundra.
Some of the most popular exhibits include Big Cat Country, where visitors can see lions and tigers up close, and River’s Edge, where they can observe animals native to the Amazon rainforest. The zoo also offers daily animal shows and feedings, as well as special events throughout the year.
For families with young children, the Children’s Zoo is a must-visit. Here, kids can pet and feed a variety of animals, including goats and sheep. They can also participate in interactive exhibits and play areas designed just for them.
Admission to the Saint Louis Zoo is free, though some attractions may require an additional fee. Donations are welcome and help to support the zoo’s mission of conservation and education.
The Muny
The Muny is an outdoor theater in St. Louis that has been entertaining audiences since 1917. Located in the heart of Forest Park, The Muny is one of the largest outdoor theaters in the country and has a seating capacity of over 10,000 people.
History
The Muny got its name from the Municipal Opera Association of St. Louis, which was the organization that founded the theater. The goal was to create an affordable place for the people of St. Louis to enjoy musical theater productions. The first season featured five shows and was a huge success, with over 150,000 people attending performances.
Over the years, The Muny has become a St. Louis institution and has welcomed many famous performers to its stage, including Julie Andrews, Yul Brynner, and Bernadette Peters.
Shows and Performances
Today, The Muny puts on seven shows each summer, featuring a mix of classic and contemporary musicals. Some of the recent productions include “Jersey Boys,” “The Little Mermaid,” and “The Wizard of Oz.”
Attending a show at The Muny is an experience like no other. The outdoor setting creates a unique atmosphere, and there isn’t a bad seat in the house. The theater also offers a variety of amenities, including food and beverage options, air conditioning in the box office and gift shop, and wheelchair accessible seating.
Getting Tickets
Tickets for The Muny can be purchased online, over the phone, or at the box office. Pricing varies depending on the show and seating section, but there are affordable options available for all performances.
Be sure to check the schedule in advance and plan accordingly, as the theater can get busy during popular shows. Arrive early to enjoy a pre-show picnic in the park, or grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby restaurants.
Anheuser-Busch Brewery
The Anheuser-Busch Brewery is not only one of the oldest and most famous breweries in the country, but also a popular attraction in St. Louis. Visitors can take a guided tour of the brewery to learn about the brewing process and the history of the company. The tour includes a visit to the Budweiser Clydesdale Paddock and Stables, where guests can meet the majestic horses that pull the iconic beer wagon.
At the end of the tour, guests can enjoy a beer tasting experience, sampling some of the brewery’s best products. The Biergarten at the brewery is a great place to grab a bite to eat and enjoy a cold beer with friends and family.
The Magic House
If you’re looking for an interactive and educational attraction for kids in St. Louis, look no further than The Magic House. This children’s museum is filled with hands-on exhibits and activities that encourage learning through play.
With over 55,000 square feet of space, The Magic House offers plenty of room for kids to explore and discover. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from science and technology to art and culture.
Some of the highlights of The Magic House include the Children’s Village, where kids can pretend to be firefighters, doctors, and more, and the Star-Spangled Center, which explores the history of the American flag.
The Magic House also offers special events and programs throughout the year, including summer camps, workshops, and birthday parties. Check their website to see what’s happening during your visit.
Don’t miss out on this fun and educational experience for kids in St. Louis.
The Delmar Loop
If you’re looking for a lively entertainment district in St. Louis, the Delmar Loop has got you covered! Located in the heart of the city, this vibrant neighborhood offers an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and live music venues that will keep you entertained for hours.
One of the most popular attractions in the Delmar Loop is the Tivoli Theatre, a historic movie theater that has been entertaining audiences since 1924. In addition to showing the latest blockbusters, the Tivoli also hosts a variety of film festivals and special events throughout the year.
Foodies will rejoice at the diverse culinary options available in the Delmar Loop. From Korean barbecue to gourmet burgers, there’s something to suit every palate. Don’t miss out on the famous Blueberry Hill, a local institution known for its classic American fare and live music.
After dinner, take a stroll along the Loop’s famous Walk of Fame, which honors St. Louis natives who have made a significant impact on the entertainment industry. You can also catch a concert or show at one of the Loop’s many music venues, including the Pageant and the Delmar Hall.
- Don’t miss: The Tivoli Theatre
- Must-try restaurant: Blueberry Hill
- Fun fact: Chuck Berry, one of the pioneers of rock and roll, used to play regular gigs at Blueberry Hill.
Missouri Botanical Garden
Founded in 1859, the Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States and a must-visit destination when in St. Louis. Spanning over 79 acres, this beautiful garden is home to more than 22,000 plant species, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the various gardens, including the Japanese Garden, English Woodland Garden, and Victorian District. The Climatron, a geodesic dome greenhouse, is home to a lush rainforest environment with beautiful waterfalls, making it a popular attraction.
For families with children, the Children’s Garden offers a variety of nature-based activities and exhibits. The Missouri Botanical Garden also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including the Lantern Festival, Garden Glow, and the annual orchid show.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this stunning garden oasis in the heart of St. Louis.
The St. Louis Science Center
The St. Louis Science Center is one of the most popular attractions in St. Louis, offering a wide range of interactive exhibits and educational programs for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in space exploration, the human body, or the natural world, you’ll find something to fascinate and inspire you at this world-class science museum.
One of the highlights of the St. Louis Science Center is the James S. McDonnell Planetarium, which features a state-of-the-art projection system that allows visitors to explore the cosmos in stunning detail. The planetarium offers a variety of shows and experiences, including “Sky Tonight” and “Our Place in Space,” that take you on a journey through the stars and beyond.
The Science Center also features a range of exhibits that focus on health and the human body, such as “GROW,” a hands-on exhibit that explores the science of human growth and development. Another popular exhibit is “The Discovery Room,” where young children can engage in interactive play and learn about science through exploration and experimentation.
The St. Louis Science Center is also home to a variety of special events and temporary exhibits throughout the year. From interactive exhibits on dinosaurs and ancient civilizations to educational programs on robotics and space travel, there’s always something new and exciting to discover at this dynamic science museum.
Conclusion
St. Louis is a city brimming with history, culture, and exciting things to do, making it a must-visit destination. From the iconic Gateway Arch to the beautiful Missouri Botanical Garden, there is truly something for everyone in this vibrant city.
We hope that this guide has given you some helpful insight into the top places to visit while in St. Louis. Whether you are looking to explore the great outdoors, indulge in some delicious local cuisine, or learn something new at a museum, St. Louis has it all.
So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip today and discover all that this amazing city has to offer.
FAQ
Q: What are the top places to visit in St. Louis?
A: The top places to visit in St. Louis include the Gateway Arch, Forest Park, City Museum, Saint Louis Zoo, The Muny, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, The Magic House, The Delmar Loop, Missouri Botanical Garden, and the St. Louis Science Center.
Q: What is the Gateway Arch?
A: The Gateway Arch is an iconic landmark in St. Louis. It is a stainless steel arch that stands at 630 feet tall and symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States.
Q: What can I do at Forest Park?
A: Forest Park offers a variety of outdoor activities and attractions. You can visit the St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Art Museum, and St. Louis Science Center, all located within the park.
Q: What is the City Museum?
A: The City Museum is a unique attraction in St. Louis that features interactive exhibits and architectural features made from reclaimed materials. It is a must-visit for both kids and adults.
Q: What can I see at the Saint Louis Zoo?
A: The Saint Louis Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in St. Louis. It is home to a wide variety of animals and offers exhibits, shows, and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
Q: What is The Muny?
A: The Muny is an outdoor theater in St. Louis that hosts live performances, including Broadway musicals, during the summer season. It is a historic venue and a great place to enjoy a show under the stars.
Q: What can I do at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery?
A: The Anheuser-Busch Brewery offers brewery tours and beer tasting experiences. You can learn about the brewing process, explore the historic facilities, and sample a variety of beers.
Q: What is The Magic House?
A: The Magic House is a children’s museum in St. Louis that offers interactive exhibits and educational activities for kids. It is a fun and educational destination for families visiting the city.
Q: What is The Delmar Loop?
A: The Delmar Loop is a vibrant entertainment district in St. Louis known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and live music venues. It is a great place to explore and experience the local culture.
Q: What can I see at the Missouri Botanical Garden?
A: The Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States. It offers a variety of gardens, including a Japanese Garden, a Chinese Garden, and a Climatron greenhouse.
Q: What can I do at the St. Louis Science Center?
A: The St. Louis Science Center is a science museum that features interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and educational programs. It offers engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.
