st louis mo tourism

12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Louis, MO

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

St. Louis, the largest city in Missouri, lies just below the junction of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, which here forms the boundary between Missouri and Illinois. The city has long been known as the "Gateway to the West" because it was from here that the Europeans set out to conquer the Wild West. But today, with so many things to do in St. Louis, you don't need to leave the city limits to have an adventure.

Spend a day or two seeing the sights and enjoy some dining and shopping. The Gateway Arch is the city's most famous site, but the city is home to many museums and interesting attractions. St. Louis is also home to St. Louis University, the oldest university west of the Mississippi, which was founded in 1818. The city's connection with Scott Joplin, "the father of Ragtime," ensures its fame as a music city.

Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top things to do in St. Louis.

See also: Where to Stay in St. Louis

1. Gateway Arch

2. old courthouse, 3. missouri botanical garden, 4. forest park attractions, 5. saint louis zoo, 6. magic house, st. louis children's museum, 7. city museum, 8. market street, 9. old cathedral (basilica of st. louis, king), 10. scott joplin house, 11. campbell house museum, 12. laumeier sculpture park, where to stay in st. louis for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in st. louis, mo, more places to explore near st. louis.

In the center of Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park is the Gateway Arch , a symbol of the city's role as the "Gateway to the West." This parabolic arch of stainless steel, 625 feet high, was erected from 1959 to 1965 to the design of Eero Saarinen, based on an unexecuted project by Adalberto Libera for the entrance to the Esposizione Universale di Roma of 1942. It is the tallest monument in the United States .

Eight elevators run up to the observation platform on the highest point of the arch. You can also view the arch from the water on one of the many riverboat cruises, or by air in a helicopter tour. Tickets for the Gateway Arch are sold at the Gateway Arch Ticketing and Visitor Center in the Old Courthouse, which is located eight blocks (a 10- to 15-minute walk) from the arch. Advance purchase of tickets for the observation platform is recommended.

On the right-hand side of Market Street is a massive domed building, the Old Courthouse , which is part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park. It was built in the mid-1800s and has been the scene of several important trials, including the suit by Dred Scott for freedom from slavery and Suffragist Virginia Louisa Minor for the right to vote.

The courthouse now showcases exhibits from the Museum of Westward Expansion. The Gateway Arch Ticketing and Visitor Center is also located in the Old Courthouse.

The Old Courthouse is currently closed and in the midst of a major 380-million-dollar renovation that will include new galleries, an elevator, and critical behind-the-scenes infrastructure updates.

Address: 11 N. 4th Street, St. Louis, Missouri

The beautiful Missouri Botanical Garden is also known as the Shaw Garden, after the businessman and botanist Henry Shaw (1800-89) who laid it out in 1859. In the southeast part of the gardens are the richly appointed Tower Grove House, Henry Shaw's "garden house".

The gardens themselves comprise a lovely rose garden and the rather unusual Climatron, built in 1960, and today houses 2,800 tropical plants, a Japanese Garden, an "aqua-tunnel" under a water-lily pool, and a herbarium.

The Doris I. Schnuck Children's Garden is designed with youngsters in mind, with an aim towards educating and inspiring children in the field of horticulture. Within the garden are several tourist attractions, including a prairie village and treehouse. Special exhibits include the "Cave Experience," which is a man-made cave, and a wetlands area that includes a steamboat.

Admission is free to residents of St. Louis City and County on specific days and times.

Address: 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, Missouri

Forest Park sits on the site of the 1904 World Fair, and some of the structures here still date from that time period. The Jefferson Memorial sits on the north side of the park and houses the Missouri History Museum, which includes historical exhibits about the state, St. Louis, and Charles Lindbergh.

In the center of the park, the City Art Museum has collections of art from prehistoric through contemporary works, and nearby is the Zoo .

To the east, near the Highlands Golf and Tennis Center , the Jewel Box contains a conservatory with hundreds of varieties of flowers. Beyond this, on the outside corner of the park, the St. Louis Science Center has plenty of attractions and things to do, including a planetarium, IMAX theater, and interactive exhibits for all ages.

The Saint Louis Zoo is located in Forest Park. You'll find it across the lawn, and an easy stroll from the City Art Museum. The zoo has more than 12,000 animals across 500 species. Residents include Asian elephants, hippos, gorillas, tree kangaroos, jaguars, and sea lions.

The zoo is a free attraction in St. Louis, making it available to everyone. Although you still have to pay a modest fee for parking, this is the only cost you'll have to bear, and it's a small price to pay for what the zoo has to offer.

Innovative pavilions house animals from around the world, and two of the best are the polar bear and hippopotamus pools. Here, you can be mere inches from these huge animals on the other side of thick glass.

The Sea Lion show is a favorite. You'll see high dives, Frisbee tosses, flipper walks, and other entertaining and educational antics. A small fee is charged for the show. Apart from the animals, fun rides for the kids are available, including a carousel, the miniature Zooline Railroad, and a 4D theater.

Located in a three-story Victorian home, the Magic House children's museum provides hands-on exhibits about science, communications, and computers. Exhibits are divided into themed areas and encourage engagement from children. Each area is designed to enhance curiosity and experimentation.

There is a designated play area for babies and toddlers, as well as the Calming Corner, a room filled with activities and toys that are soothing, which is a haven for children who need a break from sensory overload. The museum café specializes in healthy fresh-food options; many of the ingredients are grown on-site.

Address: 516 South Kirkwood Road, St. Louis, Missouri

The City Museum , housed in a former shoe factory, is a bizarre and delightfully entertaining facility that both children and adults will appreciate. Exhibits include a giant aquarium, an architectural museum, art activities, and a participatory circus, among many others.

In addition to all that, the museum has caves, slides, a treehouse, tunnels, and even the world's largest pencil.

The museum's major structures and installations were made entirely of materials found within the St. Louis municipal area. The building itself is an impressive piece of architecture, and its design is the brainchild of sculptor and artist Bob Cassilly.

Address: 701 North 15th Street, Saint Louis, Missouri

Across the I-70, beside the Gateway Arch, is the start of Market Street. The city's main street, it is lined by important buildings and halfway along opens out into St. Louis Memorial Plaza. On the left-hand side is the gigantic rotunda of the Busch Stadium , which has seating for 50,000 spectators.

The stadium is home to the St. Louis Cardinals, the city's baseball team, whose history is documented in the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame. The neighboring National Bowling Hall of Fame does the same for bowling.

Farther along Market Street, on the left, is City Hall, which was modeled on the Hotel de Ville in Paris. There are some interesting buildings in the streets running north from Market Street. On 14th Street is the Soldiers Memorial Building, commemorating all fallen American soldiers. At the corner of 14th Street and Market Street is the Kiel Auditorium.

Southwest of the Gateway Arch is the Old Cathedral , the Catholic Basilica of St. Louis of France. Built from 1831 to 1834 on the site of the first church of St. Louis (1770), it survived the 1849 fire unscathed. On the west side of the cathedral is the Old Cathedral Museum, covering the history of the city.

The interior of the church is decorated with complex mosaics, and ongoing restoration projects have returned the dome and bell towers to their original glory. Free self-guided tours are available — the brochure is on a pedestal in the main entranceway. For a deeper dive into the church, guided tours take place every Sunday after noon mass.

Address: 209 Walnut Street, St. Louis, Missouri

Music lovers and history buffs will appreciate this attraction. Scott Joplin, the composer and pianist known as the "father of Ragtime," lived in this house from 1901 to 1903. He was most famous for pieces like the Maple Leaf Rag, and was awarded a Pulitzer Prize after his death.

Maintained by Missouri State Parks, Scott Joplin House is furnished in the period to the early 1900s and includes memorabilia and a player piano featuring the artist's music. Interpretive programs and tours are available to visitors.

Address: 2658 Delmar Street, Saint Louis, Missouri

Built in 1851, this three-story townhouse has been accurately restored and offers a showcase of Victorian furnishings and decorative arts. Campbell House Museum features an extensive collection of original items from the family who lived here from 1854 through 1938.

The museum collection includes classic Rococo-Revival Victorian furniture, portraits, textiles, silver, gold-leaf frames and cornices, faux-grained woodwork, and other examples of decorative arts.

Not to be missed is the gorgeous rose garden with its ornate gazebo, an ideal place to visit and wonder what life would have been like back in the mid-19th century.

Address: 1508 Locust Street, St. Louis, Missouri

The Laumeier Sculpture Park features an outdoor collection of sculptures designed to showcase contemporary art in a natural environment. Pick up a map and follow the trails past 70 pieces of art that range from giant eyeballs and ceramic cats, right through to concrete faces in the earth, along with many other interesting and thought-provoking installations.

Trees and natural woodland with hiking trails surround the sculptures. The park is home to both permanent and temporary displays. Also on-site is an indoor gallery with changing exhibits.

Address: 12580 Rott Road, St. Louis, Missouri

There are several interesting neighborhoods in St. Louis, but first-time visitors who plan to sightsee would be best off finding accommodation right downtown. This is where the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park and the Gateway Arch are located, along with many other important attractions. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels :

• Located downtown in the entertainment district, near the Gateway Arch, is the posh Four Seasons Hotel , with a beautiful outdoor pool and patio area overlooking the Mississippi River and the Arch.
• One of the most unique hotels in St. Louis is the St. Louis Union Station, Curio Collection by Hilton , set in the grand old Union Station building dating from 1894. The Grand Hall lobby of this hotel is exquisite.
• Also downtown is the boutique Magnolia Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio , with a contemporary feel. It offers regular rooms, suites, and an extended-stay program.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Housed in three beautifully renovated historic buildings and within easy walking distance of the Gateway Arch is the Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch .
• Attached to the Convention Center and near many of the downtown attractions is the Courtyard St. Louis Downtown/Convention Center .
• Nearby, but closer to the river and the Gateway Arch, is the Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Louis . This LEED-certified all-suite hotel is perfect for families, with two-room suites and a pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Since the city center lacks budget hotels, the best option is to find a hotel outside the city center, although this requires a little driving. The Red Roof Inn Plus St Louis-Forest Park/Hampton Avenue is a good value option about a 10-minute drive from downtown.
• Even closer is the Hotel Avyan , with basic but comfortable rooms.

St. Louis sits at the eastern edge of Missouri, while at the far western border is Kansas City , known for its barbecue and jazz music. Outside its two big cities, Missouri has several attractions worth visiting, including Silver Dollar City in Branson , Wilson's Creek National Battlefield in Republic, and the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal.

North of St. Louis is Springfield , the capital of Illinois , and beyond it is Chicago . About the same distance from St. Louis as Kansas City are Indianapolis in Indiana and Louisville in Kentucky , both to the east, and the Tennessee cities of Nashville and Memphis are to the south.

More on Missouri

St. Louis Bucket List: 18 Fun Things to Do in Missouri’s STL

From the iconic Gateway Arch to the Miniature Museum to a cafe where your drinks are served with Barbie heads hanging from above, St. Louis certainly has a lot to offer in the things-to-do department. This major Missouri city is nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River and has a blend of big-city life infused with old traditions. Its vibrant nightlife even tempted me to stay up past my bedtime, the food scene is booming, and if you are a museum traveler, there are plenty to choose from (plus, many of them are absolutely free!). What is going to be on your St. Louis bucket list?

1. ✦ Ride the 10-Story Spiral Slide at City Museum

I like any place with a bus hanging off the exterior of the rooftop and a big plane in the background (especially when you can climb all over it!). Located in downtown, City Museum invites you to view and appreciate the relics of the past that have been redesigned and repurposed. 

The century-old warehouse contains a collection of repurposed architectural and industrial objects which are not only educational but extremely fun as well. You will find unexpected and quirky bridges, tunnels and things to climb, but the best part is gliding down the 10-story spiral slide! It’s quite a walk to the top of the spiral staircase, but you’ll get a thrilling ride all the way down!

2. ✦ Get a Famous Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

My mouth is watering just writing the title of this thing to do in St. Louis! Is there anything better than a perfect frozen treat? Well, take one bite of Ted Drewes Frozen Custard and you will find yourself at the crossroads. Ted Drewes is a family-owned company in St. Louis whose specialty is…you guessed it…frozen custard. Their original location on Route 66 serves up creamy deliciousness in a number of flavors. Whatever you order, please, please don’t miss tasting the Lemon Crumb. I literally was only going to take a little bite, but I devoured the entire cup in three minutes.

3. ✦ See Small Things at the Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis

When I told my husband that a stop on the St. Louis things-to-do itinerary was the Miniature Museum, he rolled his eyes, but then he was the one who didn’t want to leave! 

Even if you don’t have a thing for gorgeous dollhouses and tiny artwork, head over to Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis . The double-story complex has permanent exhibits that include an array of dolls, dollhouses and vignettes, like a 50s soda shop and Victorian living room. 

If you are up for a big bucket list challenge ask about their scavenger hunts that will have you running around looking for things like a pinto pony and Siamese cat. Make sure to have plenty of time!

4. ✦ Sip a Drink at Venice Café

What’s so special about Venice Cafe ? Let me just say it’s really not about the drinks themselves as much as the ambiance. Ok, it’s all about the ambiance. It is unexpected, and it is fabulous. The funky watering hole’s decor is difficult to explain—think hanging Barbie doll heads meshed with ashtray mosaic walls and colorful mannequin parts. I know it’s hard to imagine that hodgepodge of bric-a-brac, that’s why you just need to go! 

Beware that this is a cash-only joint, though they do have an ATM at the front door. How convenient.

5. ✦ Immerse Yourself in Nature at the Missouri Botanical Garden

The mission of the Missouri Botanical Garden is “to discover and share knowledge about plants and their environment in order to preserve and enrich life.” It definitely shines through from the Japanese Garden with lotus to the Tower Grove House in the Victorian District to the Bavarian Garden that focuses on sun-loving plants native to Germany and Central Europe. There’s plenty of beauty at the 79-acre garden, but one of the highlights is the Climatron , a geodesic dome filled with more than 2800 exotic flora!

6. ✦ Stroll through Citygarden

Picture a beautiful garden in the middle of the bustling St. Louis downtown embedded with art, and this isn’t your ordinary art. The two urban blocks that makeup Citygarden are loaded with more than a dozen creative pieces, that include ornamental fountains, water playgrounds and unique sculptures created by a variety of artists. My favorite was the large sculpture unzipping the grass, but my husband loved the giant Pinocchio. Oh, and did I mention that it’s free?

7. ✦ Ride the Tram to the Top of the Gateway Arch

The 630-foot Gateway Arch is the centerpiece of downtown St. Louis— backing up to the Mississippi River and overlooking the Old Courthouse. After you’re done ogling the world’s largest man-made monument from afar, be transported by tram to the top for a panoramic view that stretches for up to 30-miles. 

The ride up in the little 5-person pod (that looks like something from the future) takes about 4 minutes (down only takes 3). From the top you can peek out of the thin rectangle windows to get the spectacular view below.

8. ✦ Drink a Fitz’s Root Beer Float

Fitz’s Rootbeer is a local tradition dating back to the late 40s when it first appeared at a St. Louis drive-in restaurant. Root beer was the perfect beverage to serve with a hamburger and side of fries—sounds good to me! Unfortunately, when the original eatery closed down in the 70s, the famous bubbly was discontinued, until the original recipe was revived in 1993. Now you can get the drink at Fitz’s on the Delmar Loop, which has a vintage bottling machine (that you can see in action at the restaurant!). You can’t miss sitting belly up to the bar for a good old-fashioned root beer float. But, it’s more than just root beer now. They’ve added plenty of other flavors too (like grape pop and raspberry cola), so you can venture out and get a Cherry Bomb or Green Monster. Be prepared, they are messy!

9. ✦ Tour Anheuser-Busch Brewery

Do you want to see where and how the King of Beers is made? That’s Budweiser for all you non-beer buffs. Anheuser-Busch Brewery is a historic beer-making complex that is more than just a brewhouse; it introduces you to the heritage and traditions behind the brand. They have plenty of tours to choose from, but their free one takes you on an unforgettable journey where you will find yourself learning about beers, the brewing process, the complex history behind it, and even meeting one of the famous Budweiser Clydesdales. Did I mention their tour includes samples? Cheers to that!

10. ✦ Explore the Moto Museum

A heaven for bikers, Moto Museum features a phenomenal collection of motorbikes spanning a century. The bikes are rare, vintage and obtained from private owners in more than 20 countries. Initially, this was a stop on the “Things to Do in St. Louis” itinerary specifically for my husband who loves motorbikes, but it was fun for me, too! From a 1925 Swedish Husqvarna to a modern Ducati, it’s interesting to see how motorcycles have changed over the past 100 years. And, it’s another free thing to do in the city!

11. ✦ Eat Toasted Ravioli on The Hill

We all know ravioli as tasty cheese or meat stuffed pasta pillows, but have you ever heard of a toasted ravioli? It’s what happens when you take the traditional dish and add it to the deep fryer. The raviolis come out crunchy, then are sprinkled with parmesan and served with a side of marinara. 

Toasted raviolis were created in St. Louis, though it’s arguable exactly where. The most logical place is in The Hill district, a renowned Italian neighborhood filled with restaurants, bakeries and flag colored fire hydrants. Almost all the eateries will serve their versions of the dish, but the ones at Zia’s Restaurant , Guido’s and Mama’s on the Hill are known as three of the best.

12. ✦ Experience the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis

The green-tiled dome and bell towers of Cathedral Basilica are hard to miss (and you won’t want to!). Boasting a stunning Byzantine interior with Italian details and intricate mosaic artwork that covers the whole ceiling spanning about 83,000 square feet of area, the Roman Catholic church is one of the major attractions of the city. 

You are welcome to attend Mass, but if you will not be, check their website to make sure your visit doesn’t coincide with Mass times, or you will not be able to tour the interior.

13. ✦ Spend the Afternoon at Forest Park

Bigger than New York’s Central Park, Forest Park sprawls over 1,300 acres and is a place where you can enjoy an escape from city life. There’s a little bit of everything there—recreational spots, cultural institutions, museums, a zoo and much more. You may first choose to stroll across the connecting bridge to the St Louis Science Center . The three-story complex has dinosaurs, a planetarium, an IMAX theatre and a plethora of exhibits. Next, you could stop by the St. Louis Art Museum housed in a magnificent beaux-arts palace. In the museum, you will come across artwork by famous artists including Picasso and Van Gogh. 

To learn the fantastic tale of how St. Louis came into being, head over to Missouri History Museum . From polar bears to sea lions, the St. Louis Zoo is an awesome place to unwind with kids. The The Jewel Box , a historic art deco greenhouse, truly is the jewel of the forest. Hit it at the right time of day to get the perfect reflection on the pond in front.

14. ✦  See the Reptiles at Turtle Playground

If you are a turtle lover, then don’t miss a stop at this whimsical sculpture garden where you can climb all over the reptiles. At Turtle Playground , there are 7 turtles that are native to Missouri and ranging in all sizes. The large snapping turtle sculpture is 40 feet long! Plus, there are even seven turtle eggs and a snake that looks like it is taking a bite out of the overpass.

15. ✦ Play Chess at the World Chess Hall of Fame

Although I am by no means a chess aficionado, the World Chess Hall of Fame still impressed me. The specialty museum aims to educate visitors about the significance of chess through cultural exhibitions, artworks and historical artifacts all connected to the game of kings and queens. It has three levels dedicated to different kinds of chess boards, tournaments, art exhibits and giant touch screens which you can explore for free! But, the real fun is to have an actual chess battle at the Hall of Fame, whether it be at the giant chess board right out front or at one of their outdoor chess tables.

16. ✦ Make a Candle at Candle Fusion

You can be the scientist of your own candle at Candle Fusion . How fun is that? First choose your favorite smells from their wall of scents (they have aromas like old books, cake batter and green apple!). Then pick the vessel for your candle and bring it to the experimentation bar. Do a little mixology testing with your top scents until you find the perfect blend of up to four. And voila, about two hours later you have your masterpiece. 

The experience was a perfect date afternoon with my husband! We worked together to create a candle with a mix of bourbon, cake batter, Georgia peach and brown sugar. It was the best Missouri souvenir!

17. ✦ Hang out on The Loop

If there is one neighborhood that I wouldn’t mind being stuck in for a long while, then it is the Delmar Loop  without a doubt. With more than 140 stores, eateries, cafes, and art galleries raveled in music and high spirits, the street is full of vim and vigor where one can never feel bored. 

Labeled as one of the 10 greatest streets in America, The Loop is a place you can easily spend the whole day. Wander through the quirky art galleries, indulge in barbecues and ravioli, attend the crazy Ice Carnival Festival in January, hum along to the catchy beat and stroll the St. Louis Walk of Fame. When you get tired of walking, hop on the Loop Trolley to take a tour. As the sun goes down, head over to Moonrise Hotel for some rest and to ogle the boutique hotel’s main feature: the world’s largest man-made rotating moon on top.

18. ✦ Take a Day Trip to Historic St. Charles

If you have some time, take a short day trip to the neighboring St. Charles Historic District (about a 30 minute drive from the city center). Lying beside the Missouri River, the city is oozing with historical charm, beautiful buildings, cute boutiques and sites that take you back in time. 

Start at the Lewis & Clark Boat House and continue along South Main Street popping into the more than 100 shops, and even the state’s modest first capitol building. Be sure to make a pitstop for a barbecue lunch at Salt + Smoke !

You can see my top picks for the city in this article: St. Charles Bucket List: 9 Things to Do in Missouri’s Historic Town

As you can see, St. Louis is the perfect combination of fun adventures, historical sites, museums (lots that are free!) and entertaining things to do. It offers a variety of activities and beautiful landmarks that makes it a perfect getaway for kids and adults alike

Essential Tips for Visiting St. Louis Getting There:  The Lambert International Airport is a major hub and most airlines will fly into it. You can easily check for the best fare deals at Skyscanner , which also has the option to choose ‘cheapest month’ as the departure to find the lowest priced dates to fly to your destination. From the airport to the city center, you can use the MetroLink which costs $4 from the airport and will take about 35 minutes to the city center. You can also purchase a return ticket for $2.50 for your trip back to the airport. Or you can take a shuttle, take a taxi or an Uber or Lyft. Where to Stay in St. Louis:   It’s best to stay near the city center, public transportation or the area that you will be spending the most time in. The Last Hotel is a great choice in Downtown St. Louis (this is where I stayed and loved!).

For something on the less expensive side, try The Best Western which is a 20 minute drive from the Gateway Arch. For a hotel with a little more unique and extravagant, book a room at the Angad Arts Hotel who has artfully designed guest rooms in red, blue, yellow or green (you choose!). Or search some great deals on hotels of your choice at Booking.com . If you’re looking for more of a home atmosphere (or are traveling with a group of people), head over to VRBO that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range. 

Getting Around:  Renting a car in St. Louis is the best if you’d like to explore the city and its surrounding areas, and RentalCars.com has some great deals. If you are not renting a car, there are plenty of options. The MetroLink is easy to use and will connect you to the top attractions. Bird Scooters are also available for rental all over the city (and they are fun!). Taxis, Lyft and Uber are also widely available.

City Transportation Passes:  The One-Day Adventure Pass is an all-in-one transit card offering rides on multiple forms of transportation (bus and MetroLink, Downtown Trolley and Forest Park Explorer) for $7.50 per day. You can purchase a One-Day Adventure Pass at a Metro Ticket Vending Machine at any MetroLink station, or you can purchase a pass online on their website . 

Best Tours in St. Louis : You can find some of the top tours at Get Your Guide or Viator .

Insurance: It’s always a good idea to travel fully insured so you are protected in case of trip cancellations or medical emergencies. You can check out pricing at Travelex Insurance .

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

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22 thoughts on “St. Louis Bucket List: 18 Fun Things to Do in Missouri’s STL”

Grant’s Farm in South St. Louis County is my favorite recommendation for visitors although all of the above are also worthy choices.

Thanks for the addition!

You mentioned on some of the items if they were free. What you didn’t mention is almost everything in Forest Park is free. This includes the Zoo, Art Museum, Jewel Box, & Missouri History Museum. You may have to pay to get info special exhibits and the Muny Opera, but there are very few cities that have as many free things to do as St. Louis.

Thanks for adding that information! I was shocked by how many free things there were to do in the city.

You forgot a visit to the Butterfly House in Chesterfield! One of the top insectariums in the country, with over 2,000 butterflies!

I don’t know how I missed visiting there!

The Butterfly House is at Faust Park, which is also home to the St. Louis Carousel. The carousel is over 100 years old and is the only surviving piece of The Highlands amusement park that was in the area of the Science Center until the mid 1960’s. The carousel and Wurlitzer calliope were renovated and are now housed in a climate controlled building and rides are available for a small charge. The park also has a playground that is specifically ADA accessible with wheelchair accessible swings and stainless steel slides. You can also visit Thornhill, the home of Missouri’s second governor, and the Historic Village of nearly 20 structures that have been moved to the park from the St. Louis County area and preserved. So much to see and do in St. Louis-you may need several visits!

The Frank Lloyd Wright House in Ebsworth Park (Kirkwood, MO) is definitely worth the time. The website is ebsworthpark.org for tour information.

I’m visiting St. Louis this weekend and moving there next year when I get married! I can’t wait to check out these spots, thanks for all the recommendations!

Congrats on your engagement! It would be a great place to get married!

Been to St. LOUIS many times. Love the city The Museum under the arch was something to see.A few more things you might add would be seeing a St Louis Cardinals game,Lemp mansion,and can’t forget 6 flags,Moved back to Springfield after being gone 20 years. Can’t wait to show wife and kids all the wonderful things we have here

Thank you so much for the suggestions!

I don’t think most of this stuff is open!

The Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum is another great place to visit in Saint Louis. It’s a relatively new history museum that is 15-minute drive south of downtown St. Louis. It has hundreds of different and unique telephones and other telephone-related items. The museum is a hidden gem that charges a nominal admission fee. It’s an interesting history lesson for children and a great way to reminisce for adults.

Thanks for all this info! I think this was the most helpful guide to St Louis that I’ve seen yet.

Best one I’ve seen thank you for writing this

We made a candle today. Great experience! Zia’s was yummy with great service. Thanks for the info. You helped make our quick getaway fun!!!

I am so happy to here that you enjoyed your time in St. Louis as much as me :)

Are these places open this weekend- Oct. 23-25?

St.louis is boring ash bro

I had no idea some of these places existed at all. thanks!

Thank you so much!

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Slide into St Louis and revel in the unique vibe of the largest city in the Great Plains. Beer, bowling and baseball are some of the top attractions, but history and culture, much of it linked to the Mississippi River, are a vital part of the fabric. And, of course, there's the iconic Gateway Arch that you have seen in a million pictures; it's even more impressive in reality. Many music legends, including Scott Joplin, Chuck Berry, Tina Turner and Miles Davis, got their start here and jammin' live-music venues keep the flame burning.

Best Things to Do

Attractions, must-see attractions.

Gateway Arch National Park

As a symbol for St Louis, the Gateway Arch has soared above any expectations its backers could have had in 1965 when it opened. Now the centerpiece of its…

Forest Park

New York City may have Central Park, but St Louis has the bigger (by 528 acres) Forest Park. The superb, 1371-acre spread was the setting of the 1904…

City Museum

Possibly the wildest highlight of any visit to St Louis is this frivolous, frilly fun house in a vast old shoe factory. The Museum of Mirth, Mystery &…

Old Courthouse & Museum

Facing the Gateway Arch across the new plaza, this 1845 courthouse is where the notorious Dred Scott slavery case was first tried in 1857. Considered one…

Museum at the Gateway Arch

After receiving a facelift along with the rest of the park and reopening in summer 2018, this now sleeker museum not only offers more high-tech…

Columbia Bottom Conservation Area

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National Blues Museum

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• Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch
• Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch
• Live! By Loews - St. Louis Missouri
• The Pennywell St.Louis Downtown, a Hilton Hotel
• St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
• Charlie Gitto's On the Hill
• Anthonino's Taverna
• Pappy's Smokehouse
• Eleven Eleven Mississippi
• Zia's on The Hill
• Grant’s Farm
• City Museum
• The Gateway Arch
• St. Louis Zoo
• Missouri Botanical Garden
• St. Louis Narrated Trolley Tour
• Lemp Haunted Neighborhood Walking Tour
• The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - St. Louis, MO
• True Crime Walking Tour in Soulard Neighbourhood
• Landmarks Downtown-West Walking Tour

St. Louis   Travel Guide

Why Go To St. Louis

With a slice of Midwestern Americana and a hint of cosmopolitan flair, St. Louis' charms are best viewed in the reddened stands of Busch Stadium , in the nostalgia of the iconic Judy Garland film "Meet Me in St. Louis," or at the bottom of a pint of Budweiser. And yes, there's the  Gateway Arch  – that gleaming curve of stainless steel looking westward. But beyond its star attractions, you'll find a vibrant city that has plenty to offer for beer, food, sports and music enthusiasts. 

To start, it's the birthplace of iced tea and ice cream cones, both mainstays for a summer visit. What's more, it’s home to the National Blues Museum. And with 79 distinct neighborhoods to tour, including tranquil  Forest Park  and historic Soulard, there's plenty to see, eat and do in this Midwestern metropolis. Plus, sightseeing here won't put a major dent in your wallet: St. Louis boasts tons free attractions, from the zoo to the art museum to the grounds of the Gateway Arch. So, take a cue from Lewis and Clark, who "discovered" the area in the early 19th century, and start your exploration of the West – and St. Louis – here.

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• # 1 in Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis
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Best Things to Do in St. Louis

• # 1 in Gateway Arch National Park
• # 2 in St. Louis' Forest Park
• # 3 in Missouri Botanical Garden

Popular Tours

St. Louis Narrated Trolley Tour

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St. Louis Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit St. Louis are in April and May and September through October. St. Louis experiences hot and sticky summers and long, cold winters. The spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and set the stage for a full event calendar.

Weather in St. Louis

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

It's multicultural  Although the Gateway to the West offers its fair share of classic Americana (think: Cardinals baseball and barbecue), St. Louis also boasts a sizable immigrant population. In fact, this Midwestern city is home to the world's largest Bosnian population outside of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

It's hopping For a night out, head to The Loop in the West End. This area features a vibrant set of watering holes, plus dance lounges and several live music venues.

It's a barbecue town St. Louis' version of barbecue is tangy and sweet. To sample some of the city's finest barbecue, visit traveler-approved barbecue joints like Bogart's Smokehouse in Soulard and  Pappy's Smokehouse in Midtown.

How to Save Money in St. Louis

Be mindful of the Cardinals' home schedule Although hotel rates stay fairly consistent throughout the year, prices can rise when the Cardinals play at home. To avoid these higher prices, plan your visit in the offseason or when the Cardinals are away.

Take advantage of the city's free attractions  One of the draws of this Missouri city is its abundance of free activities. Save some money by sticking to St. Louis' free attractions , such as the Saint Louis Zoo  and the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis .

Use public transportation  If you're hoping to avoid the added expense of renting a car or paying for parking, consider using Metro, the city's light rail and bus system. One-day Adventure passes, which cover unlimited rides on all buses and light rail, cost $5.

Culture & Customs

Like Chicago and New York City , St. Louis is home to a plethora of immigrant communities. In addition to the world's largest Bosnian population outside of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the city boasts large German, Indian, Libyan and Mexican enclaves. Neighborhoods like The Hill are prime spots to try authentic cuisines from all around the world. Other neighborhoods, such as The Ville, are essential for understanding St Louis history. The Ville was the home of many prominent Black figures during the 1920s, including Annie Malone, one of the country’s first Black millionaires. It's also where Sumner High School still stands. The high school was the first school west of the Mississippi to provide secondary education for Black students. If you'd like to learn more about Black history in St. Louis, pay a visit to the Missouri History Museum , which features exhibits on the civil rights movement, as well as seasonal guided walks through The Ville.

Music is also an integral part of St. Louis. The birthplace of ragtime – a precursor to jazz music that was popular in the late 19th century – St. Louis offers multiple kinds of music (think: rock, jazz, reggae and swing) at its performance venues. Traveler's favorites include Broadway Oyster Bar , The Ready Room and Off Broadway . For a complete list of clubs, check out Explore St. Louis' website . And to learn more about blues music specifically, pay a visit to the National Blues Museum.

Another vital aspect of this Midwestern city is its baseball culture. The hometown team, the St. Louis Cardinals, regularly play at downtown's Busch Stadium . Some seats even feature views of the Gateway Arch .

What to Eat

From St. Louis-style barbecue to classic pub grub to authentic Bosnian and Italian fare, odds are you'll find plenty to sink your teeth into in this vibrant multicultural city. Many of the city's neighborhoods are home to a particular ethnic background and style of cuisine, so if you know what kind of food you're after, consult Explore St. Louis' Neighborhoods page  before venturing out for grub. Or if you'd rather heed the advice of past diners, try eating at one of the following traveler-approved eateries.

Should you crave a classic deli sandwich, previous visitors suggest checking out  Blues City Deli  in Benton Park or Adriana's on the Hill in – you guessed it – The Hill district. For American comfort food like burgers, wings and nachos, dine at Hendel's Restaurant & Market , Gourmet Soul or Stacked STL . And if you're looking for a quintessential rack of St. Louis-style ribs (which are slathered in sweet barbecue sauce before cooking on a grill), head to local barbecue hot spots, such as  Bogart's Smokehouse , Pappy's Smokehouse or Sugarfire Smoke House .

For fine dining, consider making reservations at Bait (for seafood), Olive + Oak (for elevated American fare), Brasserie by Niche (for a French menu), Vicia (perfect for vegetarians) or Juniper (for Southern eats).

No visit to St. Louis would be complete without sampling the city's twist on authentic Italian and Bosnian cuisines. The Hill's  Charlie Gitto's and Zia's on the Hill are two places known for traditional Italian fare and toasted ravioli, a local Italian-inspired dish that features filled pasta covered in breadcrumbs and pan-fried. If you'd rather try Bosnian cuisine, head 5 miles outside the city center to Grbic Restaurant & Events , a family-owned and operated restaurant that serves classic European dishes like goulash and Serbian stuffed cabbage, among other items. For authentic Mexican fare, locals suggest El Toluco Taqueria & Grocery (order a torta), and Mai Lee for Vietnamese and Chinese classics like pho, rice porridge, noodle bowls and more.

St. Louis is relatively safe to visit, but like other metropolitan areas, it's best to exercise caution while visiting, especially in areas north of Delmar Boulevard and across the Mississippi River in Illinois’ East St. Louis. Explore St. Louis recommends several tips for staying safe during your trip, including hiding your valuables in parked cars hidden and walking with others at night. For more safety suggestions, consult Explore St. Louis' website .

Getting Around St. Louis

The best way to get around St. Louis is by car or MetroLink. Metro's efficient light rail system offers stops throughout the city, though locales removed from the main tourist areas, such as Grant's Farm , are generally harder to reach (if at all). Having your own set of wheels – which you can rent from St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) – will ensure you can get to all of St. Louis' must-visit sights, but this convenience comes at a cost: You'll have to pay between $3 and $25 to park in the downtown area on top of daily car rental fees. Metro's network also includes MetroBus routes, but its longer travel times make them less convenient. Hailing a taxi or renting a bike are other options, but cabs are pricey and biking is not recommended during the cooler months.

Head to the Illinois side of the Mississippi River for breathtaking skyline and Gateway Arch vistas.

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A St. Louis Museum Revisits a Famous but Complex World’s Fair

A new exhibit at the Missouri History Museum examines “the triumphant side and the tragic side” of the 1904 spectacle to present a fuller story.

By Valerie Schremp Hahn

Reporting from St. Louis

This article is part of our Museums special section about how institutions are striving to offer their visitors more to see, do and feel.

In the final scene of the 1944 musical film “Meet Me in St. Louis,” the Smith family, dressed in fancy attire, wanders the grounds of the Louisiana Purchase Exposition, better known as the 1904 World’s Fair. Daylight fades, the electric lights flash on and the group stops in its tracks.

“I can’t believe it,” Judy Garland, playing Esther Smith, says breathlessly. “Right here where we live. Right here in St. Louis.”

A new exhibit about the fair opens here this month at the Missouri History Museum. It shines a light on the wonder and complexity of the seven-month spectacle, still a mythical, sometimes pinnacle moment in the minds of many St. Louisans.

As the exhibit explains, the fair was where a vendor might have created the ice cream cone, but it was also where vendors might not have served Black people.

It was where governments of more than 60 nations came together to show off artwork, furniture and marvels, including the Liberty Bell and two butter sculptures of President Theodore Roosevelt. But it was also where spectators gawked at more than 1,000 Filipinos who came to live on the grounds of a 47-acre reconstructed village known as the Philippine Reservation as part of a living exhibition.

It was where scientists and engineers showed off technology like electricity, the wireless telegraph and baby incubators. But it was also where up to 39 out of 43 babies on display in the incubator exhibit died because of unsafe conditions. It was new technology at the time. The exhibit was run by an inexperienced doctor, the babies got a poor diet and the incubators overheated, the museum explains.

The fair stories about the ice cream cone and the much-loved 264-foot Ferris wheel that was sent down from Chicago are good ones, said Jody Sowell, president and chief executive of the Missouri Historical Society, which runs the museum.

“But I am convinced that most visitors want the full story,” Sowell said. “They want both the triumphant side and the tragic side, and they can handle both. And in fact, they get suspicious when they think one side’s being left out.”

The fair was meant to celebrate progress — namely, the commemoration of the 1803 Louisiana Purchase that doubled the size of the country. The fair’s opening was delayed by a year in order to complete the large-scale preparations. The exhibition covered around 1,200 acres, about two square miles, more than half of which took over the western end of Forest Park.

The museum, now in the park, stands on the site of the fair entrance. The building, the first national monument to Thomas Jefferson, was constructed in 1913 using fair proceeds.

In 2022, in another reinterpretation of a complex story, the museum installed labels around the building lobby’s Jefferson statue, acknowledging that the Declaration of Independence author and former president enslaved more than 600 people and that his Louisiana Purchase (from France) ultimately stripped Native Americans of their ancestral lands.

One label asks, “Can we still be moved by Jefferson’s words but horrified by his actions?”

“That’s an answer that I could give you as a historian,” Sowell said. “Or I can say, ‘Let me tell you the story and then open this up to a dialogue and let you have this conversation.’”

The exhibit’s centerpiece, a massive, 3-D-printed map of the fairgrounds, shows off nearly 300 of the fair’s buildings and structures, most of which were meant to be temporary. Projectors bring the map to life with color and movement, showing tiny figures walking the grounds.

The map is meant to wow visitors. It’s also meant to help them orient themselves in space, time and thought.

Sharon Smith, the museum’s curator of civic and personal identity, found herself peering at the map to find the location of the fair’s re-enactments of the Anglo-Boer War, now known as the South African War. The war between Britain and two South African republics had ended two years before the fair opened, and some of its veterans staged battles twice daily for fairgoers who paid 50 cents (about $17.50 today) to watch.

“I’m looking at that model,” Smith said. “And I’m thinking, ‘That’s where that was.’” She said that she had heard of it but that “I never really examined it so deeply because we didn’t have to, or we didn’t choose to.”

Nearby hangs a print by the artist Ria Unson , whose great-grandfather Ramon Ochoa came from the Philippines as a teenager to work as a waiter and guide at the fair’s Philippine Reservation, also represented in the 3-D map.

The artwork is based on a photograph of her uncle, Ramon Unson, his grandfather’s namesake, and contains overlays of newspaper articles about the reservation. It’s her way of reclaiming the narrative, Ria Unson said.

“The fair is actually material evidence of when America chose to be an empire,” she said in an interview.

The Philippines had been colonized by the United States in 1898, and her great-grandfather served as an example of what a “civilized” Filipino could become, she said. He then went to school in Oswego, N.Y., northwest of Syracuse, and became Americanized by his experience. She grew up in the Philippines speaking American English and now lives in St. Louis.

“The past continues to impose itself on the present,” Unson said. “And we will be creating a certain kind of future because of who we are in the present.”

Linda Young Nance, who grew up in St. Louis, is the historian for the National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs. She helped the museum create a digital walking tour and video about the Black experience at the fair. The National Association of Colored Women had met in St. Louis for their convention in 1904 but boycotted the fair after several members were treated poorly there, even denied cups of water.

While Young Nance says the fair was wonderful and glorious in many ways, she worries that some people in St. Louis, which has a long history of racial division, won’t be prepared to hear a more complete story. But they may learn something, she said.

“So when they come, they get to learn the whole story about our city, and they also get to learn that we are a city that is at least working toward including everybody and stories of all of us that are here. If you don’t keep working toward equity, you’ll never get it.”

The exhibit dazzles with fair memorabilia: dozens of pieces of ruby red glassware like ones that still appear in local antiques shops, the clockworks from the fair’s giant floral clock and the desk of David R. Francis, a former mayor of St. Louis and governor of Missouri who was president of the Louisiana Purchase Exposition. He famously closed the fair with the words “Farewell, a long farewell to all thy splendor!” before throwing the switch to turn off the lights.

As for the movie “Meet Me in St. Louis,” a beloved classic, the exhibit includes a movie poster and a screen playing clips, including the final scene.

It’s a movie Sowell loves, about a complex chapter that took place right here in St. Louis, a complex city he also loves.

“There are these great inspirational chapters in St. Louis’ history that can help us get more connected to this place and be more invested in its future,” he said. “We want to look back at the past, again from all of those perspectives, and understand that it’s important to never write a simple story of history.”