From iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch to quirky hidden gems only locals know, this list is your guide to experiencing the best of St. Louis. Whether you’re here for a weekend or you’ve lived nearby your whole life, these picks will help you red...
Map
Ride up the tram to the top of the 630-foot Arch for sweeping views of the city, then visit the museum below to learn about westward expansion.
Museum at the Gateway Arch
Very wild, very arty, very fun. Repurposed architectural / industrial objects, slides, rooftop structures, secret passageways. Great for kids, adults, anyone who likes weird and immersive environments.
**Bring a head lamp or flashlight for the tunne...
City Museum
Huge green space with free museums (e.g. Art Museum, History Museum), the zoo, walking or biking paths, beautiful ponds. A place to spend a whole day.
Forest Park
An annual event: hot air balloons taking off in Forest Park plus festival atmosphere. If your timing matches, it’s beautiful and memorable.
Great Forest Park Balloon Race: GFPBR St. Louis
One of the country’s top free zoos, home to thousands of animals, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly fun. And it’s FREE!!
Saint Louis Zoo
Sculptural playground with giant concrete turtles and snake, very kid-friendly and a fun photo spot.
Turtle Playground | Forest Park Forever
Catch a Cardinals game or tour the iconic ballpark, a must for baseball fans and anyone who loves St. Louis sports culture.
Busch Stadium
Catch the excitement of NHL hockey at the heart of downtown St. Louis. Home of the St. Louis Blues, the Enterprise Center offers high-energy games, fan experiences, and a chance to cheer on the city’s beloved team in a vibrant arena setting.
Enterprise Center
Experience the excitement of Major League Soccer with the city’s newest team, known for their passionate fanbase and dynamic matches.
St. Louis CITY SC
Hands-on children’s museum that’s fun for families. Even if you don’t have kids, sometimes the exhibits are so creative they’re worth a visit.
The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum
Free admission, animals, history. Good for a casual day out.
Grant's Farm
A family-friendly destination where you can get up close with farm animals, enjoy educational programs, seasonal events, and outdoor activities. Perfect for kids and adults alike, Purina Farms offers hands-on fun and a chance to connect with nature j...
Purina Farms
Wander through lush gardens filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies—an enchanting experience for all ages.
Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House
Explore 79 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, including a Japanese Garden and the Climatron conservatory.
Missouri Botanical Garden
Huge outdoor sculpture park with walking trails, large‐scale art, plus a lovely mix of nature and art.
Laumeier Sculpture Park
Explore the historic brewery, visit the Clydesdale stables, and enjoy complimentary samples of their renowned beers. 🍺
Anheuser-Busch
One of the oldest farmers markets in the U.S. Great place to sample local food, people watch, pick up fresh produce or baked goods.
Soulard Farmers Market
St. Louis has a rich music history. Find a smaller blues club, a jazz bar, or local venue for an evening of good live music. (Broadway Oyster Bar is a known spot.)
A guide to experiencing the blues in St. Louis
For people interested in the spooky side: Lemp Mansion offers ghost hire or haunted history tours.
Enter the Gateway to Ghost on This Spooky St. Louis Ghost Tour
For an old-school diner, huge milkshakes, nostalgic ambiance.
Crown Candy Kitchen
Experience St. Louis’ historic Italian neighborhood, famous for its authentic pasta, hand-tossed pizza, and family-owned eateries. From cozy trattorias to old-school bakeries, The Hill is a must-visit for food lovers and anyone craving a taste of Ita...
The Hill St. Louis
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is a beloved St. Louis institution known for its thick, creamy frozen custard served in a variety of creative ways. The shop has two locations in the city: Chippewa Location (Open Year-Round) & South Grand Location (Seas...