The 30 Best Things to Do in St. Louis

St. Louis is a city of firsts and surprises. Did you know the ice cream cone debuted here at the 1904 World's Fair? Or that St. Louis hosted the first Olympic Games on U.S. soil that same year? This innovative spirit still pulses through the city today, from its world-class museums to its cutting-edge food scene.

Standing tall above it all is the Gateway Arch, a gleaming 630-foot monument that perfectly embodies St. Louis itself – bridging past and present, Midwest sensibility and urban sophistication. But don't let its iconic status fool you. While the Arch may be the city's most recognizable landmark, it's just the beginning of what St. Louis has to offer.

In the following guide, we'll take you beyond the obvious to discover the heart and soul of the Gateway City. From cheering on the Cardinals at Busch Stadium to exploring the whimsical City Museum, from savoring Italian cuisine on The Hill to uncovering the city's musical legacy, St. Louis is packed with experiences that will surprise and delight visitors of all ages. So grab a gooey butter cake, and let's dive into the best things to do in this remarkable Midwest metropolis.

Ascend the Gateway Arch

No visit to St. Louis is complete without a trip to its most famous landmark. The Gateway Arch stands as a testament to American expansion and ingenuity. At 630 feet tall, it's the tallest man-made monument in the United States.

You'll start your journey in the underground museum, where exhibits chronicle the history of westward expansion. Then, it's time for the main event – a four-minute tram ride to the top. As you ascend, you might feel a bit like you're in a futuristic space pod. Once you reach the observation deck, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the St. Louis skyline. On a clear day, you can see up to 30 miles in each direction.

Key Information:

• Location: 11 N 4th St, St. Louis, MO 63102
• Hours: Daily, 9am-6pm (Summer hours may vary)
• Admission: $12-$15 for adults, $8-$11 for children

Why Visit: The Arch offers unparalleled views of St. Louis and a unique architectural experience.

Insider Tip: Book your tram tickets in advance, especially during peak summer months. The best times for photos are early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer.

Explore Forest Park

Forest Park is the crown jewel of St. Louis's park system and one of the largest urban parks in the United States. At 1,300 acres, it's actually 500 acres larger than New York's Central Park!

The park is home to some of the city's best attractions, including the St. Louis Zoo, the Missouri History Museum, the St. Louis Art Museum, and the St. Louis Science Center – all of which offer free admission. But even if you're not into museums, Forest Park is worth a visit. You can rent a paddleboat on Post-Dispatch Lake, play a round of golf, or simply enjoy a picnic on the vast green spaces.

Key Information:

• Location: 5595 Grand Dr, St. Louis, MO 63112
• Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Forest Park offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and recreation in the heart of the city.

Insider Tip: Visit during the Great Forest Park Balloon Race in September to see colorful hot air balloons fill the sky.

Get Hands-On at the City Museum

Forget everything you know about museums. The City Museum is a playground, funhouse, surrealistic pavilion, and architectural marvel made out of unique, found objects.

Created by artist Bob Cassilly, this 600,000 square-foot space is filled with tunnels, slides, and climbing structures that will bring out the kid in everyone. You can explore a cave system, ride a Ferris wheel on the roof, or slide down a 10-story spiral slide. It's a place where you're not just allowed to touch the exhibits – you're encouraged to climb on them!

Key Information:

• Location: 750 N 16th St, St. Louis, MO 63103
• Hours: Thursday-Sunday, hours vary
• Admission: $16 for adults, $13 for children

Why Visit: The City Museum offers a one-of-a-kind, immersive experience that's fun for all ages.

Insider Tip: Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes. You'll be crawling, climbing, and sliding a lot!

Cheer on the Cardinals at Busch Stadium

Even if you're not a baseball fan, catching a game at Busch Stadium is a quintessential St. Louis experience. The St. Louis Cardinals are one of the most successful franchises in MLB history, and their fans are some of the most passionate in the league.

The stadium itself is a marvel, offering great views of the Gateway Arch and the downtown skyline. Before the game, take a stroll through Ballpark Village, a entertainment district right next to the stadium filled with restaurants, bars, and the Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum.

Key Information:

• Location: 700 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO 63102
• Hours: Varies by game schedule
• Admission: Ticket prices vary

Why Visit: Experience the electric atmosphere of a Cardinals game in one of baseball's most beloved stadiums.

Insider Tip: Try to catch a game against the Chicago Cubs – it's one of baseball's oldest and most intense rivalries.

Wander Through the Missouri Botanical Garden

The Missouri Botanical Garden is a lush oasis in the heart of the city. Founded in 1859, it's the nation's oldest botanical garden in continuous operation and a National Historic Landmark.

The garden spans 79 acres and includes a 14-acre Japanese strolling garden, Henry Shaw's original 1850 estate home, and one of the world's largest collections of rare and endangered orchids. Don't miss the Climatron, a geodesic dome conservatory that houses a tropical rainforest.

Key Information:

• Location: 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110
• Hours: Daily, 9am-5pm
• Admission: $14 for adults, $6 for children

Why Visit: The Botanical Garden offers a serene escape and the chance to see plants from around the world.

Insider Tip: Visit during the Garden Glow event in winter to see the garden transformed with over a million lights.

Sample Local Brews at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery

St. Louis has been a beer town since German immigrants brought their brewing traditions in the 19th century. The Anheuser-Busch Brewery tour offers a chance to explore this history – and sample some great beers.

The tour takes you through the whole brewing process, from the impressive brew kettles to the packaging facility. You'll learn about the company's history, see the famous Clydesdales, and end with a tasting session. Even if you're not a Budweiser fan, the scale of the operation and the historic architecture make this a fascinating visit.

Key Information:

• Location: 1200 Lynch St, St. Louis, MO 63118
• Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, hours vary
• Admission: Free tours available

Why Visit: Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world's largest breweries and taste fresh beer straight from the source.

Insider Tip: The free tour includes one beer, but it's worth upgrading to the "Beer Master Tour" for a more in-depth experience and additional tastings.

Indulge in Italian Cuisine on The Hill

The Hill is St. Louis's Little Italy, a charming neighborhood known for its Italian-American heritage, red-brick houses, and fantastic restaurants. This is where you'll find some of the best Italian food outside of Italy itself.

Start your culinary journey at Zia's for classic pasta dishes, then head to Gioia's Deli for a hot salami sandwich (a St. Louis specialty). For dessert, stop by Missouri Baking Company for cannolis and cookies. Between meals, explore the neighborhood's boutiques, galleries, and bocce courts.

Key Information:

• Location: Bordered by Manchester Ave, Columbia Ave, Southwest Ave, and S Kingshighway Blvd
• Hours: Individual restaurant hours vary
• Admission: Free to explore, restaurant prices vary

Why Visit: Experience St. Louis's rich Italian-American culture and enjoy some of the best food in the city.

Insider Tip: Visit during the week to avoid crowds and have a better chance of getting a table at popular restaurants without a reservation.

Discover History at the Missouri History Museum

Located in Forest Park, the Missouri History Museum offers a deep dive into the state's rich history. From the Lewis and Clark expedition to the 1904 World's Fair, the museum covers it all.

The museum's permanent collection includes artifacts from the Louisiana Purchase Exposition and Charles Lindbergh's transatlantic flight. Rotating exhibits often focus on local history, including St. Louis's musical heritage and its role in the Civil Rights movement.

Key Information:

• Location: 5700 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112
• Hours: Daily, 10am-5pm (Tuesday until 8pm)
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Gain a deeper understanding of Missouri's history and St. Louis's role in shaping the nation.

Insider Tip: Check the museum's website for information on guided tours, which offer additional insights and stories not found on the exhibit labels.

Experience Art at the Saint Louis Art Museum

The Saint Louis Art Museum is a cultural powerhouse, housing works from ancient times to the present day. Located in Forest Park in a beautiful Beaux-Arts building (a remnant of the 1904 World's Fair), the museum's collection includes works by masters like Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso.

But it's not all about European art. The museum has strong collections of African, Asian, and Ancient American art, as well as an impressive array of contemporary works. The 2013 East Building expansion, designed by renowned architect David Chipperfield, provides a stunning contrast to the original 1904 structure.

Key Information:

• Location: 1 Fine Arts Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm (Friday until 9pm)
• Admission: Free (some special exhibitions may have a fee)

Why Visit: Explore world-class art collections in a stunning architectural setting.

Insider Tip: Visit on Friday nights for "SLAM Underground," when the museum stays open late and hosts special events, often with live music and themed activities.

Stroll Through the Delmar Loop

Named one of the "10 Great Streets in America," the Delmar Loop is six blocks of exciting dining, shopping, live music, and entertainment. It's a melting pot of ethnicity, culture, and ages, making it one of the most vibrant areas of St. Louis.

Start your visit at Blueberry Hill, a landmark restaurant and music club where Chuck Berry played monthly shows for years. Check out the St. Louis Walk of Fame, which honors famous St. Louisans with brass stars and informational plaques embedded in the sidewalk. Don't miss the Tivoli Theatre, a restored 1924 movie house that now shows indie and foreign films.

Key Information:

• Location: Delmar Blvd between Kingsland Ave and DeBaliviere Ave
• Hours: Individual business hours vary
• Admission: Free to explore

Why Visit: Experience the eclectic, energetic heart of St. Louis's entertainment scene.

Insider Tip: If you're there in the evening, catch a show at The Pageant, one of the best live music venues in the Midwest.

Meet the Animals at the Saint Louis Zoo

Consistently ranked as one of the top zoos in the country, the Saint Louis Zoo is a must-visit, especially if you're traveling with kids. Home to over 12,000 animals representing 500 species, the zoo offers a chance to see everything from polar bears to penguins.

Don't miss the Sea Lion Sound, where you can watch sea lions swim above and around you in an underwater tunnel. The River's Edge exhibit, mimicking four different continents, is another highlight, featuring hippos, rhinos, and elephants in naturalistic habitats.

Key Information:

• Location: 1 Government Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110
• Hours: Daily, 9am-5pm (summer hours may vary)
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Enjoy one of the best zoos in the nation, with a wide variety of animals in well-designed habitats.

Insider Tip: While admission is free, some attractions within the zoo require a fee. Consider purchasing an Adventure Pass for access to all paid attractions.

Travel Back in Time at the Campbell House Museum

For a glimpse into the life of wealthy St. Louisans during the city's Golden Age, visit the Campbell House Museum. This meticulously restored 19th-century townhouse offers a window into the past, showcasing original furnishings, fixtures, and family possessions.

Built in 1851, the house was home to Robert Campbell, a prominent fur trader and entrepreneur, and his family. The guided tour provides fascinating insights into 19th-century life, Victorian decorative arts, and St. Louis history.

Key Information:

• Location: 1508 Locust St, St. Louis, MO 63103
• Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm
• Admission: $12 for adults, $5 for children

Why Visit: Step back in time and experience life in 19th-century St. Louis.

Insider Tip: Ask about the "Behind the Scenes" tour, which allows you to explore areas of the house not included in the regular tour.

Rock Out at the National Blues Museum

St. Louis has a rich musical heritage, particularly in blues and jazz. The National Blues Museum celebrates this legacy, tracing the history and impact of blues music from its roots to its influence on modern music.

Interactive exhibits allow you to create your own blues riffs, mix a blues song, and even perform on a simulated juke joint stage. The museum also hosts live performances, making it a great place to experience the blues firsthand.

Key Information:

• Location: 615 Washington Ave, St. Louis, MO 63101
• Hours: Thursday-Sunday, 10am-5pm
• Admission: $15 for adults, $12 for children

Why Visit: Immerse yourself in the history and sounds of blues music in an engaging, interactive setting.

Insider Tip: Check the museum's schedule for live performances, which often feature local and national blues artists.

Explore the Quirky Attractions of Cherokee Street

Cherokee Street is St. Louis's eclectic, artistic hub. This vibrant neighborhood is known for its antique shops, art galleries, vintage clothing stores, and authentic Mexican restaurants.

Start your visit at the intersection of Cherokee and Jefferson, known as Antique Row. Then head west to explore the street's artistic side, filled with murals, galleries, and indie boutiques. When hunger strikes, grab some tacos at one of the many excellent Mexican eateries.

Key Information:

• Location: Cherokee St between Jefferson Ave and Gravois Ave
• Hours: Individual business hours vary
• Admission: Free to explore

Why Visit: Experience St. Louis's artistic side and enjoy a mix of cultures in this vibrant neighborhood.

Insider Tip: Visit on the second Saturday of the month for the Cherokee Street Art Crawl, when galleries stay open late and the street comes alive with performances and events.

Catch a Show at The Fabulous Fox Theatre

The Fox Theatre is a St. Louis landmark and one of the most beautiful theaters in the country. Built in 1929 as a movie palace, it now hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other live performances.

The theater's ornate Siamese-Byzantine style architecture is a spectacle in itself. Gold leaf, intricate plasterwork, and crystal chandeliers create a dazzling atmosphere. Even if you're not catching a show, consider taking a tour to see the stunning interiors.

Key Information:

• Location: 527 N Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63103
• Hours: Box office open Monday-Friday, 10am-6pm
• Admission: Varies by show

Why Visit: Experience world-class entertainment in a breathtaking historic setting.

Insider Tip: If you're flexible on dates, check for last-minute ticket deals at the box office.

Visit the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis

Known as the "New Cathedral" to distinguish it from the older Basilica of St. Louis, King of France, the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis is a stunning example of Romanesque and Byzantine architecture. But it's the interior that will truly take your breath away.

The cathedral houses the largest collection of mosaic art in the world outside of Russia, with 41.5 million glass tiles covering 83,000 square feet. The installation took nearly 80 years to complete. Look out for the main dome, which depicts scenes from St. Louis's history.

Key Information:

• Location: 4431 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108
• Hours: Daily, 7am-5pm (hours may vary for masses and events)
• Admission: Free (donations appreciated)

Why Visit: Marvel at one of the most impressive displays of mosaic art in the world.

Insider Tip: Take one of the guided tours offered to learn about the cathedral's history and the symbolism in the mosaics.

Explore the Citygarden Sculpture Park

Citygarden is a unique blend of nature and art in the heart of downtown St. Louis. This urban sculpture park spans two city blocks and features 24 works of modern and contemporary art alongside native plants, water features, and gathering spaces.

You can walk through a maze of hedges, splash in the fountains on a hot day, or simply relax on the lawn. The sculptures range from playful to thought-provoking, making it an engaging experience for art lovers and casual visitors alike.

Key Information:

• Location: 801 Market St, St. Louis, MO 63101
• Hours: Open daily, 6am-10pm
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Enjoy world-class sculpture in a beautifully designed urban green space.

Insider Tip: Visit at night to see the sculptures dramatically lit up.

Take a Riverboat Cruise on the Mississippi

See St. Louis from a different perspective with a riverboat cruise on the mighty Mississippi. These cruises offer fantastic views of the city skyline and the Gateway Arch, along with insights into the river's history and its ongoing importance to the region.

You can choose from a variety of cruise options, including sightseeing tours, dinner cruises, and even blues cruises featuring live music. It's a relaxing way to see the city and learn about its riverfront history.

Key Information:

• Location: 50 S Leonor K. Sullivan Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63102
• Hours: Varies by cruise, check schedule
• Admission: Prices vary by cruise type

Why Visit: Get a unique perspective on St. Louis and enjoy scenic views from the Mississippi River.

Insider Tip: Sunset cruises offer particularly beautiful views of the city and the Arch.

Visit the Soldiers Memorial Military Museum

The Soldiers Memorial Military Museum honors those who have served our country, with a focus on St. Louis's contributions to various conflicts. Recently renovated, the museum offers a poignant and educational experience.

Exhibits cover conflicts from the American Revolution to recent wars, with a particular emphasis on World Wars I and II. The outdoor Court of Honor includes memorials to St. Louisans who died in 20th and 21st-century wars.

Key Information:

• Location: 1315 Chestnut St, St. Louis, MO 63103
• Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Gain a deeper understanding of military history and St. Louis's role in various conflicts.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the view from the top floor, which offers a unique perspective on downtown St. Louis.

Explore the St. Louis Science Center

The St. Louis Science Center makes learning fun with hundreds of hands-on exhibits covering topics from space exploration to dinosaurs. It's one of the few free nonprofit science centers in the country and a great destination for visitors of all ages.

Highlights include a life-size animatronic T-Rex, a replica of the Mercury space capsule, and the James S. McDonnell Planetarium. The OMNIMAX Theater shows immersive films on a giant domed screen.

Key Information:

• Location: 5050 Oakland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110
• Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:30am-4:30pm; Sunday, 11am-4:30pm
• Admission: Free (some special exhibits and OMNIMAX shows require tickets)

Why Visit: Engage with science through interactive exhibits and stunning planetarium shows.

Insider Tip: Visit on the first Friday of the month for "First Fridays," when the center stays open late with special activities and events.

Shop and Dine at Union Station

Once one of the world's largest and busiest passenger rail terminals, St. Louis Union Station has been transformed into a entertainment complex while preserving its stunning architecture. The Grand Hall, with its 65-foot ceiling and Romanesque arches, is particularly impressive.

Today, you can shop, dine, and even stay at the St. Louis Union Station Hotel. Don't miss the dazzling 3D light show projected on the Grand Hall's ceiling every hour. For family fun, check out the St. Louis Aquarium, the St. Louis Wheel (a 200-foot observation wheel), and the mini-golf course.

Key Information:

• Location: 1820 Market St, St. Louis, MO 63103
• Hours: Vary by attraction, generally 10am-9pm
• Admission: Free to enter, individual attraction prices vary

Why Visit: Experience a piece of St. Louis history while enjoying modern entertainment and dining options.

Insider Tip: Time your visit to catch the light show in the Grand Hall, which happens on the hour from 5pm to 10pm daily.

Enjoy Nature at Laumeier Sculpture Park

Laumeier Sculpture Park is a unique outdoor museum that combines art with nature. The 105-acre park features over 60 large-scale outdoor sculptures set against a backdrop of rolling lawns, woodlands, and walking trails.

The sculptures range from abstract to whimsical, created by both local and internationally renowned artists. It's a great place for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or simply to appreciate art in a natural setting.

Key Information:

• Location: 12580 Rott Rd, St. Louis, MO 63127
• Hours: Daily, 8am-30 minutes past sunset
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience a unique blend of art and nature in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Insider Tip: Check the park's calendar for outdoor concerts and events during the summer months.

Taste St. Louis at Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

No visit to St. Louis is complete without a stop at Ted Drewes Frozen Custard. This St. Louis institution has been serving up delicious frozen custard since 1930 and is credited with inspiring the Blizzard at Dairy Queen.

The most popular item is the "concrete," a shake so thick it's served upside down. With dozens of mix-ins available, from fruits to nuts to hot fudge, you can create your perfect dessert.

Key Information:

• Location: 6726 Chippewa St, St. Louis, MO 63109
• Hours: Daily, 11am-11:30pm (summer hours may vary)
• Admission: Prices vary

Why Visit: Taste a St. Louis classic and one of the best frozen desserts you'll ever have.

Insider Tip: Lines can get long, especially on summer evenings, but they move quickly. Have your order ready to keep things moving!

Discover History at the Old Courthouse

The Old Courthouse is a significant piece of American history. It was here that Dred Scott sued for his freedom in a landmark case that helped spark the Civil War. The courthouse also hosted Virginia Minor's case for a woman's right to vote in the 1870s.

Today, the beautifully restored building houses exhibits on St. Louis history and the Dred Scott case. Don't miss the chance to stand in the actual courtroom where these historic trials took place.

Key Information:

• Location: 11 N 4th St, St. Louis, MO 63102
• Hours: Daily, 8am-4:30pm
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Stand where history was made and gain insights into pivotal moments in American history.

Insider Tip: Climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of downtown St. Louis and the Gateway Arch.

Explore the World Chess Hall of Fame

Even if you're not a chess enthusiast, the World Chess Hall of Fame offers a fascinating look at the game's history and its impact on art and culture. The museum features a mix of history, art, and interactive exhibits.

Don't miss the giant chess piece outside – at 20 feet tall, it holds the Guinness World Record for the largest chess piece. Inside, you'll find everything from historic chess sets to contemporary chess-inspired art.

Key Information:

• Location: 4652 Maryland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm
• Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for students

Why Visit: Discover the rich history and cultural impact of chess through engaging exhibits and artwork.

Insider Tip: Check out the gift shop for unique chess sets and chess-themed items you won't find anywhere else.

Experience Nature at the Butterfly House

Located in Faust Park, the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House is a magical experience for visitors of all ages. The 8,000-square-foot conservatory is home to more than 60 species of butterflies in free flight.

As you walk through the tropical environment, butterflies may land on you – a truly enchanting experience. The conservatory also features exotic plants, waterfalls, and a reflecting pool. Don't miss the outdoor native garden, which attracts local butterflies and other pollinators.

Key Information:

• Location: 15193 Olive Blvd, Chesterfield, MO 63017
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm
• Admission: $8 for adults, $5 for children

Why Visit: Immerse yourself in a tropical paradise filled with colorful, fluttering butterflies.

Insider Tip: Visit on a sunny day – the butterflies are most active when it's warm and bright.

Structuring Your St. Louis Trip for a 3-Day Itinerary

Now that we've explored the best things to do in St. Louis, let's put it all together into a 3-day itinerary. This plan will help you make the most of your time in the Gateway City, but feel free to adjust it based on your interests and energy levels.

Day 1: Downtown and Gateway Arch

• Morning: Start your day early at the Gateway Arch. Take the tram to the top for stunning views of the city and Mississippi River.
• Late Morning: Explore the Old Courthouse and learn about its significant role in American history.
• Lunch: Head to Laclede's Landing, the city's oldest district, for lunch at one of the historic restaurants.
• Afternoon: Take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi for a unique perspective of the city.
• Evening: End your day with dinner and entertainment at Ballpark Village, especially if there's a Cardinals game happening at Busch Stadium.

Day 2: Forest Park and Cultural Attractions

• Morning: Begin your day at the Saint Louis Zoo. Arrive early to see the animals at their most active.
• Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch in Forest Park or grab a bite at the Boathouse.
• Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring the other attractions in Forest Park. Choose between the Saint Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, or Saint Louis Science Center based on your interests.
• Evening: Catch a show at The Fabulous Fox Theatre or enjoy dinner in the Central West End neighborhood.

Day 3: Neighborhoods and Local Flavors

• Morning: Start your day at the Missouri Botanical Garden. Don't miss the Climatron and Japanese Garden.
• Late Morning: Head to The Hill for lunch and explore this historic Italian neighborhood.
• Afternoon: Spend some time at the quirky City Museum. It's fun for all ages!
• Late Afternoon: Explore the shops and galleries on Cherokee Street.
• Evening: End your trip with dinner on Delmar Loop, followed by live music at one of the area's many venues.

Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion. St. Louis has so much to offer that you could easily spend a week or more exploring all its attractions. Don't be afraid to wander off the beaten path – some of the best experiences come from unexpected discoveries. Whether you're interested in history, art, food, or outdoor activities, St. Louis has something for everyone. Enjoy your visit to the Gateway City!