St. Louis, Missouri, often referred to as the "Gateway to the West," is a city bursting with vibrant culture, rich history, and a plethora of attractions that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you're a foodie, history buff, sports enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, there's no shortage of things to do in St. Louis.
From its iconic Gateway Arch to the bustling streets of its downtown, St. Louis offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern urbanity that's hard to resist. With its eclectic food scene, world-class museums, magnificent parks, exciting events, and hidden local gems waiting to be discovered, the list of things to do in St. Louis is endless. Let's embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Missouri and explore everything this beautiful city has to offer.
Food & Drink in St. Louis
One of the first things to do in St. Louis is to indulge in its diverse food scene. Start your culinary journey at the historic Soulard Market, where you can sample local produce and specialty foods. For a taste of St. Louis-style barbecue, head over to Pappy's Smokehouse on Olive Street for their slow-smoked ribs and pulled pork. Don't forget to try the city's unique take on pizza at Imo's Pizza, known for its cracker-thin crust and Provel cheese.
For beer enthusiasts, a visit to Anheuser-Busch Brewery is a must. Here, you can learn about the brewing process, see the iconic Clydesdale horses, and of course, sample some brews. As a local resident, Sarah, once said, "The food and drink scene in St. Louis is a true reflection of our city's diverse culture and history."
Best Museums in St. Louis
When it comes to museums, St. Louis doesn't disappoint. One of the top things to do in St. Louis is to visit the world-renowned Saint Louis Art Museum, located in Forest Park. With its extensive collection of art from around the world, it's a paradise for art enthusiasts. For history buffs, the Missouri History Museum offers a deep dive into the state's rich past.
The City Museum, located on Washington Avenue, is a one-of-a-kind attraction that both kids and adults will love. This 600,000 square-foot playhouse is filled with a maze of tunnels, slides, and climbing structures made from repurposed architectural and industrial objects. As visitor John remarked, "The museums in St. Louis are not just places to see, but places to experience."
Outdoor Adventures in St. Louis
For those who love nature, there are plenty of outdoor things to do in St. Louis. Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, offers a plethora of activities, from boating on the Grand Basin to bird watching at the Kennedy Forest.
For a spectacular view of the city, take a tram ride to the top of the Gateway Arch. And if you're up for a hike, Castlewood State Park offers several scenic trails along the Meramec River. Local hiker, Emily, recommends, "Don't forget to bring your camera, the views are simply breathtaking."
Must-See Tours & Attractions
Among the many things to do in St. Louis, taking a tour should be high on your list. The Old Courthouse, part of the Gateway Arch National Park, offers guided tours that take you through the history of the city. For a unique experience, take a riverboat cruise along the Mississippi River.
The Saint Louis Zoo, consistently ranked as one of the best in the country, is a must-visit. And if you're a fan of beautiful architecture, make sure to check out the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, known for its stunning mosaics. As tourist Mark said, "Each attraction in St. Louis has its own story to tell, making the city a living, breathing history book."
Festivals & Events You Can’t Miss
From music festivals to food events, there's always something happening in St. Louis. The Mardi Gras celebration in Soulard is one of the biggest in the country, second only to New Orleans. The St. Louis International Film Festival is another must-attend event, showcasing films from around the world.
One of the most anticipated things to do in St. Louis is attending the Fair St. Louis, a Fourth of July celebration featuring air shows, live music, and spectacular fireworks. Local resident, Mike, says, "The festivals in St. Louis are a true testament to the city's vibrant and inclusive community."
Music & Nightlife Hotspots
When the sun goes down, the city comes alive with music and nightlife. The Delmar Loop, named "One of the 10 Great Streets in America," is packed with bars, clubs, and live music venues. BB's Jazz, Blues and Soups is a local favorite for live performances.
The Broadway Oyster Bar in downtown St. Louis is another hotspot, offering delicious seafood and live music. One of the most exciting things to do in St. Louis is experiencing its rich blues heritage at the National Blues Museum. As visitor Lisa noted, "The nightlife in St. Louis is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself."
Where to Shop in St. Louis
Shopping is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in St. Louis. The Central West End is known for its chic boutiques and antique shops. The Saint Louis Galleria in Richmond Heights offers a variety of high-end retailers and dining options.
For a more unique shopping experience, head over to Cherokee Antique Row, a six-block district filled with antique shops, specialty stores, and art galleries. Local shopper, Kate, says, "Shopping in St. Louis is like going on a treasure hunt, you never know what you'll find."
Local Sports & Stadium Experiences
If you're a sports fan, there are plenty of things to do in St. Louis. Catch a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium or cheer on the Blues at the Enterprise Center. For soccer fans, the new St. Louis City SC will kick off their inaugural season in 2023 at a brand-new stadium.
The city's love for sports extends to amateur events as well, with the Go! St. Louis Marathon attracting runners from all over the country. As local sports fan, Joe, says, "In St. Louis, sports is not just a pastime, it's a way of life."
Theatre & Performing Arts in St. Louis
Rounding out your list of things to do in St. Louis, the city's performing arts scene is not to be missed. The Fabulous Fox Theatre, located on Grand Boulevard, hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other performances. The Muny, the country's oldest and largest outdoor musical theater, offers a unique under-the-stars experience in Forest Park.
The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, while not a traditional theater, regularly hosts performances and other events. As local arts enthusiast, Rachel, says, "The performing arts scene in St. Louis is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself."
