If you’re looking for an unforgettable travel experience, St. Louis should be at the top of your list in 2023. This vibrant metropolitan city is known for its world-renowned attractions, rich cultural scene, and mouth-watering cuisine.
From iconic landmarks to outdoor adventures, St. Louis has something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a solo trip or a family vacation, you won’t be disappointed with the multitude of exciting things to do.
Key Takeaways
- St. Louis offers a variety of exciting attractions and events in 2023
- From iconic landmarks to outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone
- Indulge in St. Louis’ culinary delights and explore the city’s rich arts and culture scene
- Experience family-friendly fun and discover St. Louis’ historic neighborhoods
- Don’t miss out on exciting events and festivals happening in the city
- Explore unique shopping experiences in St. Louis’ vibrant neighborhoods
Explore St. Louis’ Iconic Landmarks and Monuments
St. Louis is home to some of the most iconic landmarks and monuments in the United States. No trip to the city is complete without exploring these historic attractions.
Gateway Arch
The Gateway Arch is undoubtedly the most recognizable landmark in St. Louis. This stunning piece of architecture stands at 630 feet tall and offers visitors breathtaking views of the city from the top. Ride to the top in the historic tram cars and take in the stunning views of the Mississippi River while enjoying a bird’s eye view of St. Louis.
St. Louis Zoo
The St. Louis Zoo is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers of all ages. This world-class zoo is home to over 15,000 animals from over 600 species. Highlights include a primate house, an insectarium, a sea lion show, and a children’s zoo.
Forest Park
Forest Park is a 1,300-acre public park that is home to some of St. Louis’ most popular attractions. The park boasts a zoo, an art museum, a history museum, a science center, and an outdoor theater. Visitors can also enjoy walking and biking trails, fishing lakes, and picnic areas.
Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis
The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis is one of the most beautiful churches in the United States. This stunning piece of architecture is home to the world’s largest collection of mosaic art. Visitors can admire the intricate designs and stunning colors of the mosaics, which cover over 83,000 square feet.
Anheuser-Busch Brewery
The Anheuser-Busch Brewery is a popular attraction for beer enthusiasts. This historic brewery offers guided tours, allowing visitors to learn about the history of the brewery and the beer-making process. Visitors can also sample the company’s famous brews and enjoy some of the brewery’s signature dishes.
These are just a few of the many iconic landmarks and monuments that make St. Louis a must-visit destination. Make sure to add them to your itinerary when planning your trip to St. Louis in 2023.
Immerse Yourself in St. Louis’ Vibrant Arts and Culture Scene
St. Louis boasts an incredibly diverse arts and culture scene that is sure to captivate visitors. From world-renowned museums to local art galleries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Explore St. Louis’ Museums
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the arts and culture of St. Louis is by visiting the city’s many museums. The Missouri History Museum offers a fascinating look into the state’s rich past, while the Pulitzer Arts Foundation showcases modern and contemporary art.
The Saint Louis Art Museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, with a collection that spans over 5,000 years and includes pieces from around the globe. For those interested in science and technology, the Saint Louis Science Center is the perfect destination.
Experience St. Louis’ Art Galleries
St. Louis is home to a vibrant and eclectic mix of art galleries, showcasing everything from contemporary works to classic masterpieces. The Bruno David Gallery and the Atrium Gallery are both worthy of a visit, and the Third Degree Glass Factory offers a unique opportunity to observe glassblowers at work.
The Cherokee Street Gallery District is a hub for art lovers, with over a dozen galleries and studios showcasing local talent. Visitors can also check out the Grand Center Arts District, which features a variety of galleries and performing arts venues.
Attend a Theater Performance
St. Louis has a thriving theater scene, with a host of venues offering everything from Broadway shows to experimental productions. The Fabulous Fox Theatre is a must-visit, with its stunning art deco architecture and lineup of top-quality performances.
The Stifel Theatre and The Muny are also popular options, while the Black Repertory Theatre and the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis offer exciting opportunities to experience innovative and thought-provoking productions.
Whether you’re interested in visual art, theater, or any other aspect of arts and culture, St. Louis has something to offer. So be sure to check out the city’s many cultural attractions during your visit!
Indulge in St. Louis’ Culinary Delights
St. Louis is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse range of cuisine and local specialties to tantalize your taste buds. From classic St. Louis-style pizza to toasted ravioli, here’s a look at the city’s most mouth-watering culinary delights:
| St. Louis-Style Pizza | If you’re a pizza lover, you don’t want to miss out on St. Louis-style pizza. Thin, crispy crust, Provel cheese, and square slices make this pizza unique and absolutely delicious. |
|---|---|
| Toasted Ravioli | This St. Louis original features breaded ravioli, fried until crispy, and served with a side of marinara sauce. It’s the perfect appetizer to share with friends. |
| Gooey Butter Cake | This decadent dessert is a must-try in St. Louis. Soft, chewy cake with a sweet, creamy topping, it’s a local favorite that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. |
| Pork Steaks and BBQ | St. Louis is known for its delicious pork steaks and BBQ. Whether you prefer dry rub or saucy ribs, there’s no shortage of fantastic BBQ joints to try in the city. |
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, St. Louis has plenty of options:
- The Hill – This historic neighborhood is known for its Italian cuisine and boasts some of the best restaurants in the city.
- The Central West End – This trendy neighborhood has a variety of upscale dining options, from French cuisine to sushi.
- Soulard Farmers Market – This indoor market is the oldest farmers market west of the Mississippi and is a great place to grab lunch or pick up fresh produce.
Whatever your taste buds desire, St. Louis is sure to have something to satisfy them. Make sure to come hungry!
Experience Thrilling Outdoor Activities in St. Louis
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, St. Louis has plenty to offer. From parks and hiking trails to recreational activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Explore St. Louis’ Beautiful Parks
St. Louis is home to many beautiful parks, perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll. Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country and offers many opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, and biking. Other parks worth a visit include Tower Grove Park, Lafayette Park, and Citygarden.
Hike Scenic Trails
For those who prefer more adventurous activities, St. Louis has scenic hiking trails for all skill levels. Castlewood State Park features trails that lead to bluffs overlooking the Missouri River. The Chubb Trail is a challenging hike with picturesque views of nature and wildlife.
Experience Recreational Activities
St. Louis’ recreational opportunities are endless. Try your hand at rock climbing at Upper Limits Climbing Gym, or enjoy a game of disc golf at Jefferson Barracks Disc Golf Course. For the water lovers, the Sandy Creek Covered Bridge State Historic Site offers fishing and canoeing opportunities.
Enjoy Family-Friendly Fun in St. Louis
St. Louis is the perfect destination for families looking to have fun and create unforgettable memories. With numerous attractions and activities catering to kids of all ages, there is no shortage of family-friendly entertainment in the city.
St. Louis Science Center
The St. Louis Science Center is a must-visit attraction for science enthusiasts of all ages. With over 700 exhibits, interactive displays, and live science demonstrations, kids will have a blast learning about everything from space exploration to the human body.
City Museum
The City Museum is a one-of-a-kind attraction that is sure to capture the imagination of kids and adults alike. With an outdoor playground, giant slides, and a vast collection of unique art installations, the museum offers endless hours of entertainment and exploration.
The Magic House
The Magic House is a children’s museum with over 55,000 square feet of interactive exhibits that encourage creativity and learning. From a kid-sized town to a make-your-own-pizza kitchen, The Magic House offers hands-on fun for children of all ages.
In addition to these attractions, St. Louis also has several outdoor spaces that are perfect for families. Forest Park is a 1,300-acre park that offers numerous recreational opportunities, including playgrounds, lakes, and walking trails. The park is also home to several cultural institutions, such as the St. Louis Zoo and the St. Louis Art Museum. Families can also enjoy a trip to the Missouri Botanical Garden, which features over 79 acres of beautiful gardens, conservatories, and interactive exhibits.
Discover St. Louis’ Historic Neighborhoods
St. Louis is a city steeped in history, with many neighborhoods that can transport visitors back in time. From the mansions of Lafayette Square to the blues clubs of Soulard, there’s so much to explore.
One of St. Louis’ most iconic neighborhoods is the Central West End. This vibrant area boasts some of the city’s best examples of turn-of-the-century architecture, and is home to numerous galleries, antique shops, and restaurants. The nearby Shaw neighborhood is known for its stunning homes, including the historic Missouri Botanical Garden.
The Cherokee-Lemp Historic District is another must-visit. This area was once home to some of St. Louis’ wealthiest families, and many of the stunning Victorian homes have been beautifully preserved. Visitors can also take a tour of the Lemp Mansion, which is rumored to be haunted.
| Neighborhood | Features |
|---|---|
| Lafayette Square | Victorian mansions, park, restaurants |
| Soulard | Blues clubs, historic market, breweries |
| Central West End | Turn-of-the-century architecture, galleries, antique shops, restaurants |
| Shaw | Missouri Botanical Garden, stunning homes |
| Cherokee-Lemp Historic District | Victorian homes, Lemp Mansion |
If you’re interested in St. Louis’ German heritage, be sure to visit the historic Soulard neighborhood. This area was settled by German immigrants in the 19th century, and the architecture and culture still reflect those roots. Visitors should check out the historic Soulard Farmers Market for local produce and a taste of St. Louis’ rich history.
Other historic neighborhoods worth exploring include the Benton Park and Tower Grove East neighborhoods, both of which are known for their stunning architecture and proximity to beautiful parks.
With so much history to explore, St. Louis’ historic neighborhoods are not to be missed. So put on your walking shoes and take a stroll through time.
Attend Exciting Events and Festivals in St. Louis
St. Louis is known for its lively festivals and events that take place throughout the year. And 2023 promises to be no exception with a lineup of exciting events that will appeal to all interests.
One event to mark on your calendar is the annual St. Louis Mardi Gras, one of the largest Mardi Gras celebrations outside of New Orleans. The event features live music, parades, and plenty of delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine.
Another must-attend event is LouFest, the city’s premier music festival. This two-day event features a diverse lineup of local and national acts across multiple stages. Past headliners have included The Killers, Outkast, and LCD Soundsystem.
If you’re a fan of the arts, the St. Louis Art Fair is an event not to be missed. This three-day festival showcases the work of over 180 artists and features live music, food vendors, and hands-on art activities for all ages.
Food Festivals
Foodies will also want to check out the Taste of St. Louis and the Great Forest Park Balloon Race. The Taste of St. Louis showcases the city’s diverse culinary scene with food from over 40 local restaurants and food trucks. At the Great Forest Park Balloon Race, you can enjoy hot air balloon races, live music, and delicious food from local vendors.
Concerts and Performances
For music lovers, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra offers a wide range of concerts from classical to contemporary. The Fabulous Fox Theatre is the perfect venue to catch Broadway shows and touring musical acts. And, the Muny, an outdoor amphitheater located in Forest Park, puts on annual Broadway-style performances.
No matter what you’re interested in, St. Louis has an event that is sure to appeal to you. So, if you’re planning a trip to the city in 2023, be sure to check out what’s happening during your visit.
Shop ’til You Drop in St. Louis’ Unique Neighborhoods
St. Louis is a shopper’s paradise, offering a diverse range of shopping experiences for all tastes. The city is home to several unique neighborhoods that boast an eclectic mix of shops, boutiques, markets, and antique stores. Whether you’re looking for high-end designer brands or one-of-a-kind vintage finds, St. Louis has something for everyone.
The Loop
The Loop is one of St. Louis’ most vibrant and eclectic neighborhoods, boasting an array of boutiques, specialty shops, and art galleries. Here, you’ll find everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry, artisanal soaps to rare vinyl records. Be sure to check out the independent bookstores and record shops that line the street.
| Shop | Description | Address |
|---|---|---|
| The Silver Lady | A jewelry store featuring handmade pieces from local artisans | 6301 Delmar Boulevard |
| Blueberry Hill | A legendary restaurant and music venue that also sells vintage records | 6504 Delmar Boulevard |
| Left Bank Books | An independent bookstore with a carefully curated selection of titles | 399 N. Euclid Avenue |
The Central West End
The Central West End is a historic neighborhood known for its charming streets lined with trees and elegant old homes. It’s also home to some of St. Louis’ most high-end boutiques and specialty shops. Here, you’ll find designer clothing, luxury beauty products, and unique home goods.
| Shop | Description | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Ivy Hill | A boutique featuring a carefully curated selection of designer clothing and accessories | 304 N. Euclid Avenue |
| East + West | A home goods store specializing in artisanal and handcrafted items | 387 N. Euclid Avenue |
| Q Boutique | A gift shop at the World Chess Hall of Fame featuring chess-themed items and unique gifts | 4652 Maryland Avenue |
Soulard Farmers Market
The Soulard Farmers Market is the oldest continuously operated farmers market in the United States, dating back to 1779. It’s a St. Louis landmark and a must-visit for foodies. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and more, all sold by friendly vendors in a lively atmosphere.
Cherokee Antique Row
Cherokee Antique Row is a historic district in south St. Louis known for its vibrant collection of antique stores, vintage shops, and art galleries. It’s the perfect destination for antique lovers, collectors, and anyone looking for unique and one-of-a-kind items.
| Shop | Description | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Future Ancestor | A boutique featuring vintage clothing and unique handmade goods from local artisans | 2617 Cherokee Street |
| The Upcycle Exchange | A store selling upcycled and recycled materials for artists and crafters | 3206 S. Grand Boulevard |
| Bellefontaine Antiques | An antique store featuring a wide selection of antique furniture and home decor | 2600 Cherokee Street |
Visiting these unique neighborhoods and shopping districts is one of the best ways to explore St. Louis and experience its vibrant culture. So grab your shopping bags and get ready to shop ’til you drop!
Conclusion
St. Louis in 2023 is a destination you won’t want to miss. With a wide variety of attractions, events, and culinary experiences, this city is a must-visit for travelers of all interests. From the iconic Gateway Arch to the vibrant arts and culture scene, there is something for everyone in St. Louis.
If you’re planning a trip to St. Louis, be sure to check out the many family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and historic neighborhoods that offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past. And if you’re a foodie, you won’t be disappointed with the diverse culinary offerings that St. Louis has to offer, from local specialties to international cuisine.
Start Planning Your Trip!
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to St. Louis for a repeat experience, there is always something new to discover in this exciting city. Start planning your trip today by checking out resources like Visit St. Louis, the official travel guide for the city. With so much to see and do, we can’t wait to welcome you to St. Louis in 2023!
FAQ
Q: What are the top attractions in St. Louis in 2023?
A: Some of the top attractions in St. Louis in 2023 include the Gateway Arch, the St. Louis Zoo, Forest Park, and the St. Louis Science Center.
Q: What cultural experiences can I find in St. Louis?
A: St. Louis offers a vibrant arts and culture scene with museums, art galleries, and theaters. Some popular options include the St. Louis Art Museum, the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, and the Fabulous Fox Theatre.
Q: Where can I try local cuisine in St. Louis?
A: St. Louis is known for its unique culinary delights. Don’t miss out on trying toasted ravioli, St. Louis-style pizza, and gooey butter cake. Visit popular restaurants like Pappy’s Smokehouse, Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, and The Hill to experience the local flavors.
Q: What outdoor activities are available in St. Louis?
A: St. Louis offers a range of thrilling outdoor activities. Enjoy the beautiful parks and hiking trails in Forest Park, venture to the Missouri Botanical Garden, or explore the outdoor recreational opportunities along the Mississippi River.
Q: What family-friendly activities are there in St. Louis?
A: St. Louis is a great destination for families. Visit attractions like the St. Louis Science Center, City Museum, and the Magic House for hours of fun and learning.
Q: Which historic neighborhoods should I explore in St. Louis?
A: St. Louis is home to several historic neighborhoods with beautiful architecture and a rich history. Explore the Soulard neighborhood, Lafayette Square, and the Central West End to discover the city’s charm.
Q: What events and festivals should I attend in St. Louis in 2023?
A: St. Louis hosts a variety of exciting events and festivals throughout the year. Don’t miss the St. Louis Mardi Gras, LouFest, and the St. Louis International Film Festival.
Q: Where can I shop in St. Louis?
A: St. Louis has unique shopping experiences in its vibrant neighborhoods. Explore the trendy boutiques on the Delmar Loop, browse the antique shops in Cherokee Street, or visit the bustling Soulard Farmers Market for local produce.
