Have you been thinking about a trip to St. Louis lately? Here are 20 things to do in St. Louis. Immerse yourself in the city’s history, savour its culinary delights, and embrace the warmth of its people. Let this city ignite your sense of adventure and wonder. Follow my guide, and I will take you deep into this city, guaranteed to make your trip worthwhile.
Is St. Louis Worth Visiting?
St. Louis is located in Missouri. It is wettest in the spring, and summer temperatures can reach 80 to 90 degrees. Autumn is mild and sunny, with occasional heavy rain. Winter usually has at least one major snowstorm. Regarding education, it is home to Washington University in St. Louis and St. Louis University. Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis has been ranked among the top 10 medical schools in the United States.
St. Louis is also an exciting city to visit. It has several things to do in St. Louis, MO, such as Arch and Forest Park, that give you an insight into the city’s history. The city is home to many world-class art museums and creative cultural activities. You can immerse yourself in a wide variety of shows and festivals and experience its unique charm.
Free Things to Do in St. Louis
St. Louis Zoo
Location: 1 Government Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110
Opening Hours: Sunday – Thursday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm / Friday and Saturday 8:00 am – 6:30 pm
Duration: More than 3 hours
Do you like animals? The St. Louis Zoo is one of the few free zoos in the United States. The park is vast and houses more than 14,000 animals. Here, you will feel like you are in the animal kingdom and feel the charm of nature’s creation. The Zoo receives rave reviews from visitors every day. However, It is worth noting that while admission to the Zoo is free, some recreational facilities (trains, carousels, etc.) require a fee. It would be one of the best free things to do in St. Louis, MO.
Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis
Location: 4431 Lindell Blvd at Newstead Ave, Saint Louis, MO 63108-2403
Opening Hours: Sunday – Friday: 7:00 am- 5:00 pm
If you are a Mosaic fan, St. Louis Cathedral will be your first choice. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis has a world-renowned collection of mosaics. Its interior walls are covered with nearly 42 million glass inlays depicting scenes from the Bible as well as St. Louis’ Catholic heritage. This Roman Catholic cathedral was built in 1907 and combines the Byzantine and Romanesque Revival architectural styles. Even if you’re not religious, its stunning exterior and interior are enough to make you stop. A visit to the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis will be one of the free things to do in St. Louis on your trip to this city.
Grant’s Farm
Location: 10501 Gravois Rd, Saint Louis, MO 63123
Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday: 9:00 am- 5:00 pm/ Friday – Saturday: 9:00 am – 10 pm/ Sunday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
If you like farms, Grant’s Farm would be a good choice. The Grant Farm is across the street from the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site. The estate is so large that a tram takes visitors from the parking lot to all the attractions within Grant’s Farm. The hotel also features a carousel and stables, which house Budweiser’s famous Clydesdale horses. Visitors over the age of 21 can also sample Anheuser-Busch beer for free. During the summer, special events such as live music and evening fireworks are often held on weekends. Here, you will experience the most native culture of St. Louis, with the locals immersed in a happy atmosphere. It would be one of the best free things to do in St. Louis, MO.
Forest Park
Location: St. Louis MO 63112
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 6:00 am – 8:00 pm/ Saturday – Sunday 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
Forest Park will allow you to get in touch with nature. It is a “forest” covering nearly 1,300 acres. It covers a large area, and the scenery is also stunning. A lush green and tranquil lake will calm your restless heart. You can jog on the trail, row on the waterway, swing on the tennis court, and do other activities. Soaking up the fresh air in Forest Park is one of the free things to do in St. Louis, Missouri.
Fun Things to Do in St. Louis
Six Flags St. Louis
Location: 4900 Six Flags Rd, Eureka, MO 63025
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm/ Saturday – Sunday: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Six Flags St. Louis will add a touch of excitement to your trip to this city. With 10 roller coasters, including three wooden ones, and dozens of rides and attractions, the park is popular with thrill-seekers and families alike. You will release all the stress and unpleasantness in the exciting entertainment here. In addition, close to summer, you can cool off in Hurricane Harbor and experience a range of water rides. The amusement park route is short and compact, and amusement facilities. This will be one of your favorite fun things to do in St. Louis, MO.
St. Louis Union Station
Location: 1820 Market St, Saint Louis, MO 63103
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
St. Louis Union Station was once a Union station until it ended its duties as a train station in 1978. However, it was so beautiful that it was developed as a mixed-use complex. Today’s visitors can admire the ornate halls and feel the artistic style of the last century. You can also visit the many restaurants and shops in the station to get a taste of this city and get a visual insight into it.
The St. Louis Ferris Wheel is located just outside the station, and it only takes you 15 minutes to enjoy some of the best views of this city (the St. Louis Aquarium, a rope course, a carousel and a mini golf course, among others). And there’s a light show in the train station lobby every day to brighten your eyes. I promise you that visiting St. Louis Union Station will be one of the fun things to do in St. Louis.
Busch Stadium
Location: 700 Clark Street, St. Louis, MO 63102
If you are a Major League Baseball’s St. Louis Cardinals fan, I recommend you visit Busch Stadium. On game day, it will be packed with hordes of red-shirted fans. Here, you will meet countless like-minded friends, cheer together, and cheer for your favourite team. The warm atmosphere will be unforgettable. You can still explore the stadium even if you miss the match day. Busch Stadium has an hour-long tour where you can visit the UMB Bank Champions Club, the Redbird Club and the broadcast booth. Feel the atmosphere of sports competition here.
Saint Louis Art Museum
Location: 1 Fine Arts Dr, Saint Louis, MO 63110
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm/ Friday 10:00 am – 9:00 pm/ Closed on Monday
The Saint Louis Art Museum will introduce you to the world of Art. Founded in 1879, it has more than 34,000 works of Art from Europe, Asia, Africa and ancient Egypt. Here, you’ll find works by Matisse, Picasso, Georgia O ‘Keeffe and Paul Cezanne, as well as sculptures, photographs, textiles and more. A highlight of the museum is its focus on African and African American Art, which includes more than 300 works by artists of African descent. Here, you seem to be in the paradise of Art, deeply influenced by aesthetics. If you are interested in Art, visiting the Saint Louis Art Museum will be one of the most fun things to do in St. Louis this weekend.
St. Louis’ Brewing
Drinking beer is a very laid-back lifestyle in St. Louis. The city is famous for its brewing. Anheuser-Busch is a hub of brewing innovation, producing more than 30 beer brands using the finest ingredients grown by American farmers. St. Louis is also home to nearly 65 craft breweries. I hope you can find your favourite beer in the city, join us in a toast, and feel the city’s unique vitality.
Cherokee Antique Row
Location: 701 Convention Plaza, Suite 300, St. Louis, MO 63101
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm/ Saturday: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Cherokee Antique Row is located just minutes from downtown St. Louis. From antique shops to art galleries and speciality shops to various restaurants, you’ll find your favourite shops here. Many storefronts are decorated in colourful colours, with hand-painted signs showcasing incredible craftsmanship. The street has an old style, with many charming 19th-century Victorian buildings. These buildings tell the story of St. Louis.
Broadway Oyster Bar
Location: 736 S. Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102
Opening Hours: Sunday – Saturday: 11 am – 1:30 am
The Broadway Oyster Bar is a local pub with a long history. Some people think the building is haunted, such as doors suddenly opening and closing and lights turning on and off as if by magic. But it could also be because the building is over 170 years old. The Bar’s food has won numerous awards and reader votes and features some of the most sustainable seafood, such as fresh Bay and Blue Point oysters, Louisiana crayfish and shrimp, Prince Edward Island mussels, scallops, and crab. Broadway Oyster Bar’s Cajun and Creole dishes rip off many of Louisiana’s traditional cuisine. If you love New Orleans, you’ll feel at home at Broadway Oyster Bar. Broadway Oyster Bar will also present the best local and national touring shows for your most memorable nights in St. Louis. It would be one of the best things to do in St. Louis.
Things to Do in St. Louis for Couples
The Gateway Arch
Location: 11 N 4th St, St. Louis, MO 63102
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm/ Saturday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
The view of The Gateway Arch is stunning and unforgettable. It is the tallest arch in the world, and some believe it is the tallest artificial monument in the Western Hemisphere. Built to commemorate The westward expansion of the United States, The Gateway Arch is a recognized symbol of this city. Every day, thousands of tourists come to see The Gateway Arch. Its monumental significance and spectacular appearance are one of the romantic things to do in St. Louis for couples to punch in for a photo.
The Fabulous Fox Theatre
Location: 527 N Grand Blvd, Saint Louis, MO 63103
The Fox Box Office is only open on show days:
• For evening performances – 4pm until ½ hour after the show begins
• For 2pm matinee performances – Noon until ½ hour after the final show of the day begins
• For 1pm matinee performances – 11am until ½ hour after the final show of the day begins
“St. Louis residents no longer need to look outside their city for the best entertainment.” This fabulous theatre can accommodate 15 million people. People can watch Broadway shows, listen to top pop and rock music, and watch classic movies. The theatre opened in 1929 and is one of the crown jewels of William Fox’s film empire. The theatre has been called “the largest and grandest entertainment temple in St. Louis.” Since its opening, the theatre has undergone a process of closure and restoration and finally reappeared in front of everyone with a stunning image. The National Trust Honours Award has also recognised the theatre restoration project. Today, the mythical fox proudly presents the supreme charm of art. This will be one of the best things to do in St. Louis for couple.
City Museum
Location: 750 N 16th St, Saint Louis, MO 63103
Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (Please check the official calendar for daily business hours)
City Museum is not a museum in the traditional sense; it is entirely different from museums that only display cultural relics. It is a hybrid of a children’s playground, an amusement park, a surrealist pavilion, and architectural marvels made from found and repurposed objects. The City Museum is attractive to older children and young adults because of its many slides, caves, mazes, and slides. Such places are perfect things to do in St. Louis for couple to let off steam.
Armory STL
Location: 3660 Market Street
Opening Hours:
Sunday: 11 am – 12 am
Monday: Closed
Tuesday – Wednesday: 4 pm – 12 am
Thursday: 4 pm – 1 am
Friday – Saturday: 11 am – 1 am
The Armory STL was designed by St. Louis architect Albert Osburg to house the Missouri National Guard Armory of the 138th Infantry Regiment. For decades, the building has been home to the St. Louis Tennis Club, National Bowling Championships, rock concerts, indoor sports leagues, and more. This 250,000-square-foot, multi-venue entertainment destination is the largest indoor entertainment venue. You can eat and drink with your partner and friends here and feel the charm of St. Louis at night. I promise it will be one of the best things to do in St. Louis for couple.
Victory Raceway
Location: 8800 Watson Road, St. Louis, MO 63119
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 1 pm – 9 pm/ Saturday: 11 am – 10 pm/ Sunday: 11 am – 7 pm
If you and your partner love the Fast & Furious, welcome to Victory Raceway! The electric go-kart can reach up to 45 miles per hour on an indoor track. There are no two-seater cars here. Everyone drives. At Amp Up Action Park, you and your partner can ride the world’s most technologically advanced indoor kart around a custom-built track for a thrilling adventure in a three-level black-lit laser arena. There are also high rope courses, axe throwing, arcade games and pickleball. All the related items you can think of can be found here. It would be one of the most fun things to do in St. Louis for couples.
Things to Do in St. Louis with Kids
The Magic House
Location: 516 S Kirkwood Rd, Saint Louis, MO 63122
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm/ Sunday: 10:30 am – 5:00 pm
If you are a parent with children, set aside time to show them the magic House. It offers a variety of interactive exhibits for younger children, including a miniature building area, a bubble room and climbing structures. On sunny days, your kids can also run around the outdoor play garden with a circular stream, hopscotch court, garden kaleidoscope and more. There are not only popular entertainment programs for children but also a variety of beautiful exhibits. These exhibits are fascinating and more educational than other children’s museums nationwide. I promise it will be one of the perfect things to do in St. Louis with kids.
Missouri Botanical Garden
Location: 4344 Shaw Blvd, Saint Louis, MO 63110
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm/ Thursday: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
The Missouri Botanical Garden will take you to the sea of flowers. At the 79-acre Missouri Botanical Garden, visitors are captivated by displays such as the Chinese Garden, the English Woodland Garden and the 14-acre Japanese Garden, one of the largest in North America. A wide variety of flowers will allow children to get in touch with the natural world and realize the wonder of nature. The botanical garden contains not only plants but also dining and shopping areas. One of the most unique things about the Missouri Botanical Garden is its recreational facilities that appeal to kids. The Doris I. Schnuck Children’s Garden is open seasonally and features attractions such as limestone caves (for exploring), spelunking slides (for lunching down), tree houses (for climbing) and steamboats (for boarding). This design allows children to feel the charm of nature in the process of entertainment. It would be one of the meaningful things to do in St. Louis with kids.
Saint Louis Science Center
Location: 5050 Oakland Ave, Saint Louis, MO 63110
Opening Hours: Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Thursday: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm/ Friday: 9:30 am – 7:30 pm/ Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday
The Saint Louis Science Center has more than 700 hands-on exhibits on animals, space, weather, and skyscrapers. Popular exhibits include the James S. McDonnell Planetarium, the OMNIMAX Theater, flight simulators and the GROW Pavilion dedicated to agriculture. Kids will love (or scream) a life-size Tyrannosaurus Rex. The St. Louis Science Center offers a variety of ways to entertain children of all ages. And it’s great for families because it’s free. The rich content of the Science Center will make you feel that this is one of the best things to do with kids in St. Louis.
Citygarden
Location: 1200 Market Street
Opening Hours: 6 am – 10 pm
Citygarden is an urban sculpture park located downtown. This park is an oasis of free interactive art, fountains, and gardens that span two blocks. Winding paved paths lead visitors past 24 sculptures on broad lawns with six rain gardens, a children’s spray plaza, a 180-foot-long swimming pool, and a 6-foot waterfall. You can take your child here to feel the charm of art and let it play happily with water. This is one of the best things to do in St. Louis with kids.
Conclusion
Combined with the things to do in St. Louis I recommend, it’s easy to see that this city is vibrant and artistic. Whether you’re looking for stress relief, exciting entertainment, or a place of peace, St. Louis is the place to be. Welcome to St. Louis and all that this city has to offer.
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FAQ
Is St. Louis a beautiful city?
Yes. St. Louis is a city with a unique blend of charm and history, offering visitors and residents diverse experiences. From the iconic Gateway Arch to the vibrant cultural scene and picturesque parks, St. Louis exudes a beauty that captivates all who explore its streets.
Is St. Louis a walking city?
Yes. St. Louis beckons exploration on foot, with its charming neighbourhoods, historic architecture, and scenic parks creating a pedestrian-friendly environment. St. Louis invites visitors to embrace the beauty of urban walking adventures, from strolls along the riverfront to discovering hidden gems in its vibrant streets.
How do I spend a day in St. Louis?
St. Louis is a great city to visit. Here’s how you can spend a day in St. Louis:
- From its iconic building, the Gateway Arch, you can see the beauty of St. Louis and learn about its history and culture.
- If you are a Baseball fan, Busch Stadium is also an excellent place to feel the excitement of the game.
- St. Louis Union Station offers a wealth of entertainment, allowing you to immerse yourself in St. Louis culture and relax at the same time.
- Spend a day at Six Flags St. Louis with entertainment, sensory stimulation, and relaxation.