St Louis Ward Map

If you’re planning a trip to St. Louis, you’re in for a treat. This city has a rich history, a vibrant culture, and plenty of things to see and do. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports. Read on to discover what makes St. Louis such a special place to visit.

Top Attractions in St. Louis

When it comes to attractions, St. Louis has something for everyone. Here are a few must-see sights:

The Gateway Arch

The Gateway Arch is the most iconic symbol of St. Louis. It stands 630 feet tall and is the tallest arch in the world. You can take a tram to the top for stunning views of the city.

Forest Park

Forest Park is a sprawling green space that’s home to several attractions, including the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, and the Saint Louis Science Center. It’s a great place to spend a day with the family.

The St. Louis Zoo

The St. Louis Zoo is one of the best zoos in the country, with over 16,000 animals and 600 species. Best of all, admission is free!

Hidden Gems in St. Louis

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, check out these hidden gems:

The City Museum

The City Museum is a unique attraction that’s part playground, part art museum. It’s a fun place for kids and adults alike.

Laumeier Sculpture Park

Laumeier Sculpture Park is a 105-acre outdoor sculpture park that features over 60 sculptures. It’s a beautiful place to go for a walk and take in some art.

Lone Elk Park

Lone Elk Park is a wildlife reserve where you can see elk, bison, and other animals up close. It’s a great place to go for a hike.

Food Scene in St. Louis

St. Louis is known for its unique cuisine. Here are a few dishes you have to try:

Toasted Ravioli

Toasted Ravioli is a St. Louis classic. It’s ravioli that’s breaded and fried, usually served with marinara sauce.

Gooey Butter Cake

Gooey Butter Cake is a sweet dessert that’s unique to St. Louis. It’s a buttery cake with a gooey center.

Pork Steaks

Pork Steaks are a St. Louis barbecue staple. They’re thick-cut pork shoulder steaks that are seasoned and grilled.

Budget-Friendly Tips in St. Louis

St. Louis can be an affordable destination if you know where to look. Here are a few tips for saving money:

Free Attractions

St. Louis has several free attractions, including the St. Louis Zoo, the Missouri Botanical Garden, and the Saint Louis Art Museum.

Happy Hours

Many restaurants and bars in St. Louis offer happy hour specials, which can help you save money on food and drinks.

Public Transportation

St. Louis has a decent public transportation system, including buses and light rail. Using public transportation can help you save money on rental cars and parking fees.

Outdoor Adventures in St. Louis

If you love the great outdoors, St. Louis has plenty to offer. Here are a few outdoor adventures to consider:

Kayaking on the Mississippi River

You can rent a kayak and paddle down the Mississippi River for a scenic adventure.

Biking on the Katy Trail

The Katy Trail is a 240-mile rail trail that runs through Missouri. It’s a great place for a bike ride.

Hiking in Castlewood State Park

Castlewood State Park is a beautiful park with hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Meramec River.

Historical Landmarks in St. Louis

St. Louis has a rich history, and there are several landmarks that reflect that. Here are a few to check out:

The Old Courthouse

The Old Courthouse is a historic building that played a significant role in the Dred Scott case. It’s now a museum that tells the story of the case and its impact on history.

The Missouri Botanical Garden

The Missouri Botanical Garden was founded in 1859 and is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the country. It’s a beautiful place to explore and learn about plants.

The Anheuser-Busch Brewery

The Anheuser-Busch Brewery is a St. Louis institution. You can take a tour of the brewery and learn about the history of beer in St. Louis.

Family-Friendly Activities in St. Louis

If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities in St. Louis. Here are a few:

The Magic House

The Magic House is a children’s museum that’s full of interactive exhibits. It’s a great place for kids to learn and play.

The St. Louis Science Center

The St. Louis Science Center is a hands-on science museum that’s fun for kids and adults alike.

The City Museum

As mentioned earlier, the City Museum is a playground/art museum that’s fun for the whole family.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in St. Louis

If you’re looking for something unique, check out these off-the-beaten-path experiences:

The Lemp Mansion

The Lemp Mansion is a historic mansion that’s said to be haunted. You can take a tour of the mansion and learn about its spooky history.

The Graffiti Wall

The Graffiti Wall is a colorful, ever-changing wall that’s covered in graffiti art. It’s a great spot for Instagram photos.

The Citygarden

The Citygarden is a beautiful urban park that features sculptures and fountains. It’s a peaceful oasis in the midst of the city.

Natural Wonders in St. Louis

St. Louis is surrounded by natural beauty. Here are a few natural wonders to check out:

The Ozark Mountains

The Ozark Mountains are a few hours’ drive from St. Louis, but they’re worth the trip. They offer stunning views and outdoor adventures.

The Missouri River

The Missouri River is the longest river in North America and offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking.

The Meramec Caverns

The Meramec Caverns are a series of underground caves that offer a unique and fascinating experience.

Vibrant Nightlife in St. Louis

St. Louis has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues. Here are a few to check out:

The Delmar Loop

The Delmar Loop is a street that’s full of bars, restaurants, and music venues. It’s a great place to go for a night out.

The Pageant

The Pageant is a music venue that hosts concerts by top artists. It’s a great place to catch a show.

The HandleBar

The HandleBar is a bar that’s also a bicycle shop. You can rent bikes and ride around the city while enjoying a drink.

Local Markets in St. Louis

St. Louis has several local markets that offer fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique finds. Here are a few to check out:

The Soulard Farmers Market

The Soulard Farmers Market is the oldest farmers market west of the Mississippi River. It’s a great place to stock up on fresh produce.

The Tower Grove Farmers Market

The Tower Grove Farmers Market is a Saturday morning tradition in St. Louis. It’s a great place to find local produce and artisanal goods.

The Cherokee Street Antique Row

The Cherokee Street Antique Row is a stretch of street that’s full of antique shops and vintage finds. It’s a great place to hunt for unique treasures.