20 Fun Things to Do in St. Louis 🇺🇸 Top Itinerary

🏠 Where to Stay in St Louis

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Four Seasons St. Louis
• ✨ 5-Star: Angad Arts Hotel St Louis, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
• 🏨 4-Star: DoubleTree by Hilton St. Louis Forest Park
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Pear Tree Inn St. Louis Near Union Station
• 💸 Cheap: Best Western St Louis Kirkwood Route 66
• 🏢 Apartment: Hampton Inn & Suites St. Louis at Forest Park
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham St Louis Route 66
• 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Saint Louis, Autograph Collection

💁 Best Guided Tours

• St. Louis Trolley Tour with Commentary from €30 (⭐4.3/5)
• St. Louis Arch Walking Tour and Entrance Ticket from €50 (⭐4.5/5)
• St. Louis: Small-Group Highlights Tour with Arch, River Cruise from €174 (⭐4.9/5)
• St. Louis Ghosts: Gateway Ghouls and Hauntings from €27 (⭐4.7/5)

Best Things To Do in St. Louis

1. Gateway Arch

Iconic monument. Standing proudly along the Mississippi River, the Gateway Arch is St. Louis’ most recognizable landmark. I was awestruck by its gleaming stainless steel structure soaring 630 feet into the sky. This magnificent monument symbolizes America’s westward expansion and offers visitors an unforgettable experience with panoramic views from its observation deck.

Tram experience. The journey to the top begins with a unique tram ride that combines elements of an elevator, train, and ferris wheel. I squeezed into one of the five-person pods for the four-minute ascent, feeling both nervous and excited. The small windows at the top provide stunning views stretching up to 30 miles on clear days, showcasing downtown St. Louis and the mighty Mississippi.

Museum exploration. Before or after your tram ride, don’t miss the free Museum at the Gateway Arch. I spent nearly two hours exploring interactive exhibits about westward expansion, including a full-sized log house and a scale model of the 1852 St. Louis riverfront. The engaging displays bring American history to life through the stories of explorers, settlers, and Native Americans.

Practical tips. Book your tram tickets well in advance as they sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. Allow at least three hours for the full Gateway Arch experience, including security lines which can take up to 30 minutes. The grounds surrounding the Arch are worth exploring too, with beautiful pathways, reflecting ponds, and the Lewis & Clark Explorers’ Garden.

2. City Museum

Playground paradise. I climbed through airplane fuselages suspended 30 feet in the air, slid down a 10-story spiral slide, and crawled through underground caves at this wildly unique attraction. City Museum isn’t actually a museum-it’s a 600,000-square-foot playground built from repurposed architectural and industrial objects.

Adventure zones. The rooftop features a Ferris wheel, school bus dangling over the edge, and spectacular city views that made my heart race. Inside, I discovered hidden passageways, an enchanted forest, and vintage architecture salvaged from St. Louis buildings that transported me to another world.

Practical advice. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty-this place is physical! I spent nearly 5 hours here and still didn’t see everything, so plan accordingly.

⭐ Best Activities

• City Museum St. Louis: Entry Ticket – Explore this weirdly wonderful adventure space featuring four floors of unique installations and attractions, including the exterior MonstroCity exhibit, for just $20 per person (ages 3+).

3. Missouri Botanical Garden

Sensory delight. Walking through the Japanese Garden (Seiwa-en), I was transported to Kyoto as koi fish darted beneath wooden bridges and bonsai trees created perfect miniature landscapes. The 79-acre Missouri Botanical Garden offers a peaceful escape from urban life with over 4,800 trees and countless flowering plants.

Climate wonders. Inside the Climatron, a geodesic dome conservatory, tropical humidity enveloped me as I explored rainforest plants, waterfalls, and exotic birds. The Mediterranean House transported me to Italy with its fragrant herbs, citrus trees, and Roman architectural elements.

Seasonal magic. I timed my visit for the Chinese lantern festival when the gardens transform with illuminated silk structures after dark-an unforgettable experience worth planning around.

• Best seasonal highlights:
  • Spring: Cherry blossoms, tulips, daffodils (March-May)
  • Summer: Water lilies, tropical blooms (June-August)
  • Fall: Japanese maples, chrysanthemums (September-November)
  • Winter: Holiday light displays, camellias (December-February)

⭐ Best Activities

• St. Louis Arch and River Cruise Small Group Walking Tour – Discover the heart of St. Louis on this comprehensive 4-hour tour featuring the Gateway Arch, National Blues Museum, and a relaxing riverboat cruise along the Mississippi.

4. Busch Stadium (Cardinals Game)

Baseball heaven. The sea of red-clad fans erupted as a Cardinals player hit a home run, creating an electric atmosphere I could feel in my bones. The Stadium offers stunning views of the Gateway Arch beyond the outfield, making it one of baseball’s most picturesque venues.

Foodie finds. I skipped the standard hot dogs and discovered local specialties like toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake, and craft beers from Urban Chestnut Brewing. The food stands on the main concourse offer a taste of St. Louis that elevates the typical stadium experience.

Fan experience. Even as a casual baseball fan, I was swept up in the traditions-from the Clydesdales appearance to the “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” sing-along during the seventh-inning stretch.

• Stadium tips:
  • Enter through Gate 3 for shortest lines
  • Free water bottle refill stations on all levels
  • $15 guided tours on non-game days
  • Cardinals Hall of Fame Museum adjacent to stadium ($12)

⭐ Best Activities

• Busch Stadium: St. Louis Cardinals Baseball Game Tickets – Experience America’s favorite pastime at Busch Stadium with tickets starting from just $3 for budget seating, offering full views of the field and the unforgettable atmosphere of a Cardinals game.

5. St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station

Historic transformation. The grand 1894 Union Station train terminal has been reborn as an entertainment complex, with the aquarium as its crown jewel. I walked beneath the station’s magnificent vaulted ceiling before entering the 120,000-gallon aquatic wonderland that opened in 2019.

Interactive experiences. I touched stingrays as they glided past in their shallow pool, watched playful river otters perform acrobatics, and even felt doctor fish gently nibble dead skin from my fingers in a special touch tank. The 250,000-gallon shark tank with its walk-through tunnel was the highlight of my visit.

Local waters. The most surprising exhibit showcased creatures from the Mississippi and Missouri rivers-I had no idea such diversity existed in local waterways, from massive paddlefish to colorful darters.

6. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis

Mosaic masterpiece. My jaw dropped as I entered this magnificent cathedral and gazed upward at the world’s largest collection of mosaic art-41.5 million glass tiles covering 83,000 square feet. The Byzantine and Romanesque-style Cathedral Basilica took my breath away with its shimmering gold, blue, and red designs depicting biblical scenes.

Peaceful sanctuary. I sat in a wooden pew, letting the rainbow-colored light filtering through stained glass windows wash over me. The cathedral’s perfect acoustics amplified even the quietest sounds, creating an atmosphere of profound tranquility in the heart of the city.

Historical significance. Construction began in 1907 and continued for decades, with the mosaics completed in 1988. Pope John Paul II visited in 1999, designating it as a basilica and further cementing its importance.

• Visitor information:
  • Free admission (donations appreciated)
  • Self-guided tours available daily
  • Guided tours: Tuesday-Sunday at 1pm ($2 suggested)
  • Photography allowed (no flash)
  • Dress respectfully (shoulders covered)

⭐ Best Activities

• St. Louis: 90-Minute Narrated Trolley Tour – Get oriented in St. Louis with this informative 90-minute narrated trolley tour covering the city’s major landmarks.

7. Grant’s Farm

Presidential history. I walked the grounds once owned by Ulysses S. Grant, where he built his famous “Hardscrabble” cabin in 1855. Now operated by the Busch family (of Anheuser-Busch fame), this 281-acre farm combines history with animal encounters in a uniquely St. Louis experience.

Animal kingdom. The tram ride through the deer park brought me face-to-face with bison, zebras, and various antelope species roaming freely. I fed baby goats from bottles, watched elephant demonstrations, and admired the magnificent Budweiser Clydesdales in their pristine stables.

Bavarian charm. The central courtyard resembles a German village, where I sampled complimentary Anheuser-Busch products (limit two per adult). The pretzel and bratwurst I purchased made for a perfect lunch while watching a live band perform traditional German music.

• Visitor tips:
  • Parking costs $16 per vehicle
  • Arrive early (9-10am) to avoid crowds
  • Bring hand sanitizer for after animal encounters
  • Free beer samples for adults 21+ (limit two)
  • Closed during winter months (November-March)

8. St. Louis Science Center

Hands-on discovery. I piloted a Mars rover simulation, built and tested paper airplanes in a wind tunnel, and watched lightning generated by a massive Tesla coil-all for free! The Science Center’s interactive exhibits made complex concepts accessible and genuinely fun.

Dinosaur delight. Walking among the life-sized dinosaur models in the Ecology and Environment Gallery, I came face-to-face with a T-Rex that moved and roared in response to visitors. The paleontology lab showed real scientists preparing fossils discovered in Missouri and surrounding states.

Space exploration. The James S. McDonnell Planetarium’s unique hyperboloid design houses one of the most advanced star projectors in the country. I reclined in my seat as the night sky came alive above me, with a knowledgeable guide pointing out constellations and explaining celestial phenomena.

• Science Center highlights:
  • Energizer Machine (giant ball machine)
  • Life Science Lab with live animals
  • Structures Gallery with bridge building challenges
  • Makerspace with rotating hands-on activities
  • Planetarium shows change seasonally

⭐ Best Activities

• St. Louis: 75-Minute City Trolley Tour – Explore the Gateway City aboard a charming trolley on this 75-minute guided tour showcasing St. Louis’ most famous sights and hidden gems.

Things to Do in St. Louis with Kids

1. Magic House Children’s Museum

Interactive wonderland. My nephew’s eyes widened as he “milked” a life-sized cow, climbed a three-story beanstalk, and conducted electricity experiments that made his hair stand on end. The Magic House occupies a beautiful Victorian mansion filled with over 100 hands-on exhibits designed specifically for children.

Role-play adventures. The Children’s Village let kids try on adult roles-my niece spent an hour running a veterinary clinic, depositing checks at the bank, and shopping at the grocery store. The Star-Spangled Center taught civic lessons through a kid-sized Oval Office and courtroom.

Creative spaces. The art studio offered daily projects with real materials-not just crayons and paper, but clay, textiles, and recycled objects transformed into masterpieces. Even as an adult, I found myself drawn into the creative process.

• Parent tips:
  • Visit after 2pm on weekdays to avoid school groups
  • Bring socks for climbing areas
  • Café on-site, but outside food allowed in picnic area
  • $12 admission, but free on third Friday evenings (limited capacity)
  • Allow 3+ hours for full experience

2. Union Station Carousel & Mirror Maze

Nostalgic charm. The hand-carved wooden carousel at Union Station features 30 unique animals and spins beneath a kaleidoscope of colored lights. I watched children’s faces light up as they chose between riding a sea dragon, frog prince, or traditional horse while classic carnival music played.

Puzzling pathways. The 2,500-square-foot mirror maze challenged my sense of direction with endless reflections and false paths. Equipped with special gloves to prevent fingerprints on the mirrors, I bumped into my own reflection multiple times before finding the center chamber with its spectacular light show.

Entertainment complex. Beyond these attractions, Union Station offers the St. Louis Wheel (a 200-foot observation wheel), mini-golf, ropes course, and light shows projected onto the Grand Hall’s ceiling every hour after dark.

• Best times to visit:
  • Weekday mornings (fewer crowds)
  • During light shows (after 5pm)
  • Holiday season (special decorations)
  • Summer evenings (cooler temperatures)
  • Rainy days (all indoor activities)

3. St. Louis Cardinals Family Sundays

Game day traditions. On Family Sundays, I watched kids run the bases after the game, high-fiving the same spots where their baseball heroes had stood hours earlier. The Cardinals organization truly embraces young fans with special programming that makes America’s pastime accessible to all ages.

Pre-game festivities. We arrived early for the Prairie Farms Kids Zone, where my friend’s children tested their pitching speed, took photos with team mascot Fredbird, and collected autographs from players during the designated signing period. Face painters transformed little fans into Cardinals with team logos and colors.

Budget-friendly. The special Sunday ticket packages included food vouchers that saved us at least $10 per person compared to regular game day prices. The promotional giveaways-mini bats, bobbleheads, or Cardinals caps-gave the kids souvenirs to remember their day.

• Family Sunday tips:
  • Bring empty water bottles to refill (saving $5+ per person)
  • Request “First Game” certificates for children at Guest Services
  • Use family restrooms with changing tables on all levels
  • Check promotional calendar for giveaway items
  • Consider shade in afternoon games (1st base side is cooler)

4. City Museum Play Areas for Kids

Toddler havens. Tucked within the adventure-filled City Museum, I discovered Toddler Town-a gentler space where little ones under 4 feet tall can explore without being overwhelmed by bigger kids. The soft surfaces, mini slides, and ball pit provided age-appropriate challenges while parents relaxed on nearby benches.

Artistic play. In the Art City section, children created masterpieces with recycled materials under the guidance of working artists. I watched kids transform cardboard tubes, bottle caps, and fabric scraps into sculptures they proudly carried home-a refreshing alternative to digital entertainment.

Water worlds. During summer months, the outdoor play areas feature water pumps, channels, and spray features that delighted overheated children. Parents appreciated the thoughtful design that kept kids cool without completely soaking their clothes.

• Parent survival guide:
  • Dress kids in layers (building temperature varies)
  • Knee pads recommended for serious explorers
  • Bring change of clothes during water play season
  • Establish meeting points in case of separation
  • Consider weekday visits to avoid weekend crowds

5. St. Louis Science Center Discovery Room

Young scientist paradise. In this special area designed for children under 8, I watched kids don lab coats and safety goggles to conduct simple experiments with magnets, water, and light. The Discovery Room offers a calmer, more structured environment than the main Science Center exhibits.

Animal encounters. Children gathered for the animal presentations where staff introduced them to bearded dragons, hissing cockroaches, and corn snakes. The gentle handling demonstrations taught respect for living creatures while addressing common fears through education.

Building challenges. The engineering station featured magnetic tiles, wooden blocks, and LEGO bricks that encouraged collaborative construction projects. I noticed how children naturally formed teams to build increasingly complex structures, with staff facilitating rather than directing their creativity.

• Discovery Room essentials:
  • Timed entry tickets ($7 per person)
  • 60-minute sessions (perfect attention span length)
  • Limited to 30 children per session
  • Adult supervision required (1:3 ratio)
  • Advance reservations recommended for weekends
  • Includes free take-home activity sheets

Free Things to Do in St. Louis

1. Forest Park (walks, picnics, paddle boating)

Urban oasis. Larger than New York’s Central Park at 1,300 acres, Forest Park surrounds you with nature minutes from downtown. I walked the 5.8-mile perimeter trail, passing joggers, cyclists, and families enjoying this green heart of St. Louis that hosted the 1904 World’s Fair.

Water features. The park’s system of interconnected lakes and waterways creates peaceful vistas at every turn. I rented a paddleboat ($20/hour) to explore from the water, spotting turtles sunning on logs and herons stalking fish along the shorelines.

Picnic perfection. The Emerson Grand Basin offered my favorite picnic spot, with the Classical Revival buildings of the Art Museum creating a backdrop that transported me to another era. The nearby visitor center provides free maps highlighting the park’s best picnic locations.

• Forest Park highlights:
  • World’s Fair Pavilion (free to visit)
  • Jewel Box greenhouse (free on Monday/Tuesday mornings)
  • Shakespeare Glen (free performances in summer)
  • Steinberg Skating Rink (winter only, rental fees apply)
  • Dual Path system (separate walking and cycling paths)

2. Saint Louis Zoo

World-class wildlife. I couldn’t believe this incredible zoo charges no admission fee! Home to over 12,000 animals representing 500+ species, the St. Louis Zoo consistently ranks among America’s top zoos despite being completely free to enter.

Immersive habitats. Walking through the River’s Edge exhibit, I watched elephants splash in pools, hippos swim underwater (viewed through glass), and rhinos graze in naturalistic settings. The attention to habitat design makes this zoo special-animals have space and enrichment rather than bare enclosures.

Conservation focus. Throughout my visit, I learned about the zoo’s 12 conservation programs operating in 13 countries. The educational signage explained how visitor support helps protect endangered species and their habitats worldwide.

3. Saint Louis Art Museum

Artistic treasure. Housed in a magnificent Beaux-Arts building from the 1904 World’s Fair, this museum’s collection spans 5,000 years of human creativity-all accessible for free. I wandered through galleries featuring everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary installations.

Masterpiece highlights. Standing before Van Gogh’s “Stairway at Auvers,” I marveled at the vibrant brushstrokes created by the artist’s own hand. The museum’s impressive collection includes works by Monet, Picasso, Matisse, and an exceptional collection of German Expressionist paintings.

Cultural diversity. I was particularly impressed by the extensive African art collection, one of the finest in the country, and the Native American galleries that showcase artistic traditions from tribes across North America.

• Visitor essentials:
  • Open Tuesday-Sunday (closed Mondays)
  • Free general admission (special exhibitions may charge)
  • Free guided tours available daily
  • Friday evening hours until 9pm
  • Photography allowed (no flash)
  • Café on premises for lunch or coffee

4. Missouri History Museum

Local stories. I discovered St. Louis’s rich history through compelling exhibits that brought the past to life-from the 1904 World’s Fair to the city’s musical heritage. The Missouri History Museum presents complex historical narratives in accessible, engaging ways that connected me to the city’s identity.

Interactive learning. The History Clubhouse invited visitors of all ages to try on period costumes, “pilot” a steamboat, and build model buildings. Even as an adult, I enjoyed the hands-on elements that made historical concepts tangible and memorable.

Cultural context. The museum doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, addressing racial segregation, economic inequality, and environmental challenges that shaped the region. I appreciated this honest approach to history that acknowledges multiple perspectives.

5. Laumeier Sculpture Park

Outdoor gallery. Walking the 1.4-mile art trail, I encountered massive sculptures integrated perfectly with the natural landscape-a 60-foot red steel structure rising from a hillside, concrete forms emerging from earth, and whimsical figures nestled among trees.

Natural beauty. The 105-acre park combines art with nature conservation, creating a peaceful setting where I spotted deer, rabbits, and numerous bird species while contemplating contemporary sculptures. The Eastern Woodland Garden showcases native Missouri plants alongside artistic installations.

Seasonal programming. I happened upon a free outdoor concert during my visit, but the park also offers yoga classes, art workshops, and family days throughout the year-most at no cost to participants.

• Visitor information:
  • Open daily from 8am to sunset
  • Free admission and parking
  • Dogs welcome (leashed)
  • Indoor gallery with rotating exhibitions
  • Free guided tours on weekends at 2pm
  • Annual Art Fair (May) charges admission

6. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis (self-guided visit)

Mosaic wonderland. I stepped into the cool interior of this magnificent cathedral and felt instantly humbled by the 41.5 million glass mosaic tiles covering nearly every surface. The self-guided tour (free, though donations are appreciated) allowed me to explore at my own pace, discovering biblical scenes and saints depicted in vibrant colors.

Architectural marvel. Looking up at the central dome rising 143 feet above the floor, I marveled at the Byzantine-Romanesque design that began construction in 1907. The cathedral combines old-world craftsmanship with American innovation in a uniquely St. Louis landmark.

Sacred space. Even as a non-religious visitor, I appreciated the peaceful atmosphere and artistic achievement. The soft lighting, perfect acoustics, and sense of history created a contemplative experience unlike anything else in the city.

7. Tower Grove Park & Farmer’s Market

Victorian splendor. I wandered among 19th-century pavilions, ornate fountains, and more than 7,000 trees in this historic 289-acre park designed in the Victorian gardenesque style. The 11 decorative pavilions-each with unique architecture-provided perfect picnic spots and photography backdrops.

Global gardens. The park’s distinctive feature is its collection of gardens representing different world cultures. I explored the Chinese garden with its moon gate, the Turkish gazebo with intricate woodwork, and the Roman ruins that transport visitors to another time and place.

Market day. Saturday mornings transform the northwest corner into one of the city’s best farmers markets, where I sampled local cheeses, freshly baked bread, and seasonal produce while listening to live music. The market operates year-round, moving indoors during winter months.

• Park highlights:
  • Free weekly yoga classes (summer)
  • Bird watching (over 200 species recorded)
  • Food truck events (Friday evenings, April-October)
  • Historic walking tours (first Sunday monthly)
  • Seasonal festivals (Chinese Festival, Festival of Nations)

8. Grant’s Farm (grounds and tram, some activities extra)

Presidential history. The 281-acre ancestral home of the Busch family (of Anheuser-Busch brewing fame) was once owned by Ulysses S. Grant, who built his cabin “Hardscrabble” here in 1855. I visited the preserved cabin before boarding the free tram tour through the wildlife preserve.

Animal encounters. The tram ride took me past herds of bison, zebras, antelope, and other exotic animals roaming freely across the property. While some animal experiences cost extra, watching the Clydesdale horses in their stables and visiting the goat feeding area were completely free.

Bavarian hospitality. The central courtyard resembles a German village, complete with food stands, and live entertainment. Adults receive two complimentary beer samples (a nod to the property’s brewing heritage), making this one of St. Louis’s best free attractions.

9. Contemporary Art Museum

Modern masterpieces. This sleek, 27,000-square-foot museum showcases cutting-edge contemporary art in a building that’s itself an architectural statement. I explored rotating exhibitions featuring both international stars and emerging local artists, all without paying a cent for admission.

Interactive installations. Unlike traditional museums with “do not touch” signs, many exhibits here invited participation-I walked through immersive light installations, contributed to community art projects, and engaged with digital interfaces that responded to movement.

Cultural conversations. The museum doesn’t shy away from provocative topics, using art to address social justice, environmental concerns, and cultural identity. The free artist talks and curator tours deepened my understanding of complex works.

10. Walk the Gateway Arch National Park grounds

Riverfront views. I strolled the beautifully landscaped 91 acres surrounding the Gateway Arch, enjoying spectacular views of the river on one side and the St. Louis skyline on the other. The recently renovated grounds connect downtown to the riverfront through accessible pathways and green spaces.

Historical context. The Old Courthouse (free to enter) stands as part of the national park, where the Dred Scott case was first heard-a pivotal moment in American history. The museum beneath the Arch (also free) chronicles westward expansion through interactive exhibits.

Photography paradise. I discovered countless angles to photograph the 630-foot stainless steel arch, with morning light creating dramatic shadows and evening offering silhouettes against colorful sunsets. The reflecting pools and landscaped paths frame the monument beautifully.

• Free activities:
  • Ranger-led talks (hourly)
  • Museum beneath the Arch
  • Old Courthouse tours
  • Riverfront trail access
  • Summer concerts and events
  • Historical markers and exhibits

Seasonal Activities

Christmas in St. Louis

Winter wonderland. I laced up rental skates ($12) and glided across the outdoor ice rink at Kiener Plaza, surrounded by the twinkling lights of downtown St. Louis. Winterfest transforms the area from late November through early January with festive decorations, fire pits for warming up, and weekend visits from Santa.

Dazzling displays. The Garden Glow at Missouri Botanical Garden became my favorite holiday tradition, with over one million lights illuminating the historic landscape. I wandered through interactive light tunnels, watched colorful projections on the Climatron dome, and warmed up with spiked hot chocolate at multiple stations.

Summer Festivals and Events

Riverfront celebration. I joined thousands of St. Louisans for Fair St. Louis, the “America’s Biggest Birthday Party” held annually on July 4th weekend. The free festival features major concert headliners, air shows over the Mississippi River, and spectacular fireworks launched from barges.

Shakespeare under stars. I spread a blanket on Forest Park’s Shakespeare Glen for the annual Shakespeare Festival St. Louis (mid-May through mid-June). Professional actors perform classic works on an elaborate outdoor stage-completely free, though donations are appreciated for this world-class production.

Cultural immersion. The Festival of Nations in Tower Grove Park (August) became my favorite multicultural event, with over 40 ethnic food booths, international craft vendors, and continuous performances on multiple stages representing cultures from around the world.

Spring Blooms

Floral explosion. I timed my visit to catch the 20,000 tulips that transform the garden each April. The central axis becomes a rainbow of colors, with daffodils, hyacinths, and flowering trees creating a multi-sensory experience that signals spring has truly arrived.

Cherry blossom magic. The Japanese Garden’s cherry trees typically bloom in late March to early April, creating a two-week window of pink perfection. I joined the hanami (flower viewing) tradition, sitting quietly beneath the blossoms while contemplating their fleeting beauty.

Woodland wonders. Forest Park’s hidden gem-the John F. Kennedy Memorial Forest-erupted with native wildflowers during my April hike. The trillium, Virginia bluebells, and wild sweet William created carpets of color beneath the emerging tree canopy.

• Spring visitor information:
  • Garden admission $14 (free for St. Louis residents on Wednesday mornings)
  • Forest Park always free
  • Bloom times vary with weather (check websites for updates)
  • Annual Chinese Culture Days (late April) celebrates spring
  • Butterfly House reopens outdoor habitats
  • Earth Day festival in Forest Park (mid-April)

Autumn Foliage Walk

Maple magnificence. I discovered the best fall colors in Tower Grove Park’s historic maple groves, where trees planted in the 1870s create a canopy of red, orange, and gold by mid-October. The Victorian pavilions provide perfect framing elements for autumn photography.

Scenic drives. The winding roads through Forest Park became my favorite fall drive, especially the route past the Jewel Box and around the Muny Theater. Parking at key overlooks allowed me to capture the reflection of colorful trees in the park’s many ponds and lakes.

Harvest festivals. The Best of Missouri Market (first weekend in October) at the Botanical Garden combines fall foliage with local food producers, craftspeople, and live music. I sampled apple butter, artisanal cheeses, and pumpkin treats while enjoying the autumn landscape.

• Fall activity recommendations:
  • Shaw Arboretum fall color walks (guided, weekends in October)
  • Great Forest Park Balloon Race (September)
  • Oktoberfest celebrations in various neighborhoods
  • Apple picking at nearby Eckert’s Farm
  • Fall beer festivals featuring seasonal brews

Day Trip from St. Louis

1. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

Ancient metropolis. Just 15 minutes from downtown St. Louis, I explored the remains of the largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once home to 20,000 people-larger than London in 1250 CE-and features over 80 earthen mounds built by the Mississippian culture.

Monumental climb. I climbed the 156 steps to the top of Monks Mound, the largest prehistoric earthwork in the Americas at 100 feet tall and covering 14 acres. The panoramic view from the summit includes the St. Louis skyline to the west and the vast ancient plaza where thousands once gathered for ceremonies.

Archaeological insights. The interpretive center houses artifacts excavated from the site-pottery, tools, ceremonial objects-that revealed the sophisticated society that thrived here. The recreated “Woodhenge” solar calendar demonstrated their advanced astronomical knowledge.

2. Augusta Wine Country

Scenic vineyards. Just 45 minutes west of St. Louis, I discovered America’s first designated wine region (AVA) in the rolling hills along the Missouri River. The microclimate here creates ideal conditions for growing grapes, with family-owned wineries offering tastings with spectacular views.

Historic charm. The town of Augusta itself looks like a postcard from the 1800s, with well-preserved brick buildings housing antique shops, cafes, and art galleries. I wandered the quiet streets between winery visits, discovering local history and architecture.

Cycling adventure. The Katy Trail-a 240-mile rail-trail-runs directly through Augusta wine country, allowing me to bike between wineries. Several outfitters offer bicycle rentals ($25-35/day) with shuttle service back to your starting point.

• Wine country tips:
  • Designate a driver or book a tour service
  • Most wineries open 11am-5pm (longer hours weekends)
  • Several offer food (cheese plates, sandwiches)
  • Best visited spring through fall
  • Harvest festivals in September-October
  • Call ahead for large groups

3. Meramec Caverns

Underground wonder. I ventured 60 minutes southwest of St. Louis to explore one of Missouri’s most spectacular cave systems-a 4.6-mile labyrinth of limestone chambers formed over 400 million years. The 80-minute guided tour took me through colorfully lit rooms with dramatic formations.

Natural masterpieces. The highlight was the “Theater Room” featuring the Stage Curtain-a massive, undulating formation of onyx that resembles a frozen waterfall illuminated by changing colored lights. The Wine Table, a rare formation balanced on a single pedestal, defies gravity.

Outlaw history. The tour guide shared stories of Jesse James using these caves as a hideout in the 1870s, pointing out secret passages and explaining how the outlaws evaded capture in the vast underground network.

4. Pere Marquette State Park

River vistas. I drove 45 minutes north of St. Louis to Illinois’ largest state park, where limestone bluffs rise dramatically above the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers. The scenic drive through the park features numerous overlooks with breathtaking views, especially spectacular during fall foliage season.

Eagle watching. Winter brings dozens of bald eagles to the area, making this one of the Midwest’s premier eagle-watching destinations from December through February. The park lodge offers guided eagle tours, but I spotted several from the main overlooks with my binoculars.

Trail network. I hiked the moderately challenging Goat Cliff Trail (3.5 miles) through forests and along ridgelines with panoramic river views. The park maintains 12 miles of marked trails ranging from easy walks to strenuous climbs.

• Park information:
  • Free admission
  • 45-minute drive from St. Louis
  • Historic lodge with restaurant and accommodations
  • Visitor center with interpretive displays
  • Picnic areas with grills
  • Campground (reservations recommended)
  • Boat launch to access rivers

FAQ

How long is the Gateway Arch ride to the top?

The complete Gateway Arch tram ride to the top takes approximately 45 minutes round-trip. Visitors get about 7-9 minutes at the top observation deck before boarding the same tram for their return journey.

When will the Old Courthouse in St. Louis reopen?

The Old Courthouse, a prominent architectural landmark in St. Louis history, is anticipated to reopen in Spring following renovations. This historic building was the site of pivotal legal cases including Dred Scott’s suit for freedom and Virginia Minor’s case for women’s voting rights.

Is the Museum at the Gateway Arch free to visit?

The Museum at the Gateway Arch offers free admission to its six interactive galleries showcasing over 200 years of St. Louis history. Visitors can explore exhibits on Colonial St. Louis, Jefferson’s Vision, and other aspects of the city’s rich heritage in this award-winning Midwest institution.

What brewery tours are available around St. Louis?

The Anheuser-Busch Brewery offers free tours where visitors can see the famous Clydesdales and sample complimentary beer. Many craft breweries in the Central West End and throughout the STL area also provide tours and tastings, making brewery exploration a perfect addition to your St. Louis itinerary.

What is The Muny and where is it located?

The Muny is North America’s oldest and largest outdoor musical theatre, located in Forest Park at #1 Theatre Drive in St. Louis. Every summer, they produce seven Broadway-style musicals created specifically for their stage, offering a St. Louis tradition since 1919.

How can I learn about the history of St. Louis?

You can explore St. Louis history at the Missouri History Museum in Forest Park and the Museum under the Gateway Arch, both offering free admission. The city’s rich musical heritage, including Chuck Berry’s contributions to rock and roll, can be discovered through various historical exhibits and landmarks throughout the area.