Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, St. Louis is a city that embodies the best of both worlds: the down-to-earth charm of the Midwest and the warm hospitality of the South. As the weather begins to warm up and the winter chill fades away, St. Louis springs to life with a host of outdoor activities, festivals, and cultural offerings that make it an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the joys of spring.

With its abundant green spaces, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class cuisine, St. Louis is a city that is sure to enchant visitors of all ages and interests.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top things to do in St. Louis in the spring, from exploring its beautiful parks and gardens to indulging in its mouthwatering cuisine and experiencing its vibrant culture. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to discover the many delights of St. Louis in the spring!

st louis neighborhood during spring with flowers blooming

Parks and Outdoor Spaces

Spring is the perfect time to explore St. Louis’ many parks and outdoor spaces, which offer an array of activities and events for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top parks and outdoor spaces to check out in the spring:

Forest Park

As one of the largest urban parks in the country, Forest Park is a must-visit destination in St. Louis. In the spring, the park comes alive with blooming flowers and trees, making it an ideal spot for picnics, bike rides, and leisurely strolls. The park is also home to several attractions, including the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, and the Saint Louis Zoo.

Tower Grove Par

Located in the heart of the city’s historic Shaw neighborhood, Tower Grove Park is a 289-acre oasis that is home to beautiful gardens, walking paths, and a popular farmers’ market. In the spring, visitors can enjoy the park’s vibrant floral displays, attend free concerts and events, or simply relax under the shade of a tree.

Missouri Botanical Garden

Known as one of the top botanical gardens in the world, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. In the spring, visitors can enjoy the garden’s stunning displays of blooming flowers and trees, including the famous Japanese Garden and the Climatron greenhouse. The garden also hosts several events throughout the spring, including the annual Japanese Festival and the Orchid Show.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking to soak up some sun, St. Louis’ parks and outdoor spaces offer something for everyone in the spring. So pack a picnic basket, grab your hiking shoes, and get ready to explore the beauty of St. Louis’ great outdoors.

Gateway Arch National Park

A symbol of St. Louis’s role as the “Gateway to the West,” the Gateway Arch is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting the city. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top of the arch for stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River.

Bike Trails

St. Louis has over 200 miles of bike trails, making it a great destination for cyclists of all skill levels. Some of the most popular trails include the Katy Trail State Park, which stretches over 240 miles from St. Charles to Clinton, and the Riverfront Trail, which offers scenic views of the Mississippi River.

Festivals and Events

St. Louis is a city that loves to celebrate, and the spring months are no exception. From music festivals to food fairs, there are plenty of events happening throughout the season. Here are some of the top festivals and events to check out in St. Louis in the spring:

Missouri Cherry Blossom Festival

Every April, the city of Marshfield, just a short drive from St. Louis, hosts the Missouri Cherry Blossom Festival. Visitors can enjoy live music, food vendors, and cultural performances, all while taking in the beauty of the cherry blossoms in full bloom.

St. Louis Earth Day Festival

Held every April in Forest Park, the St. Louis Earth Day Festival is a celebration of all things eco-friendly. Visitors can learn about sustainable living, enjoy live music, and shop for locally made goods at the festival’s many vendors.

St. Louis Microfest

Beer lovers won’t want to miss the St. Louis Microfest, a two-day festival held every May at the Upper Muny Parking Lot in Forest Park. With over 100 breweries in attendance, visitors can sample a variety of craft beers, enjoy live music, and learn about the brewing process from experts in the field.

Shakespeare Festival St. Louis

Each year, Shakespeare Festival St. Louis hosts free performances of the bard’s plays in Forest Park. Visitors can bring a picnic and enjoy a night of theater under the stars, surrounded by the beauty of the park in spring.

These are just a few of the many festivals and events happening in St. Louis in the spring. Whether you’re interested in culture, food, or music, there’s something for everyone in this lively city.

Culinary Delights

St. Louis is a foodie’s paradise, with a vibrant culinary scene that draws inspiration from the city’s rich history and diverse cultural influences. In the spring, many of the city’s best restaurants offer seasonal menus that feature fresh, local ingredients. Here are some of the top culinary delights to try in St. Louis in the spring:

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

A St. Louis institution since 1929, Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is a must-visit spot for anyone with a sweet tooth. Their famous frozen custard is made fresh daily and served in a variety of flavors and toppings.

The Hill

Known as the city’s “Little Italy,” The Hill is a neighborhood that’s packed with Italian restaurants and markets. Visitors can indulge in classic dishes like toasted ravioli, spaghetti and meatballs, and provel cheese pizza.

Schlafly Bottleworks

Located in the Maplewood neighborhood, Schlafly Bottleworks is a brewery and restaurant that serves up craft beers and delicious pub fare. In the spring, visitors can enjoy seasonal brews like the Raspberry Hefeweizen and the Spring Lager, as well as fresh, locally sourced ingredients in dishes like the grilled asparagus salad and the smoked pork belly.

Soulard Farmers Market

One of the oldest farmers markets in the country, the Soulard Farmers Market is a St. Louis institution. In the spring, visitors can shop for fresh produce, meats, and baked goods from local farmers and vendors.

Whether you’re in the mood for sweet treats, classic Italian cuisine, or locally sourced pub fare, St. Louis has something to satisfy every palate in the spring. So come hungry, and get ready to indulge in some of the city’s most delicious culinary delights.

Family-Friendly Activities

St. Louis is a great destination for families, and there are plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained in the spring. Here are some family-friendly activities to consider:

St. Louis Zoo

The St. Louis Zoo is one of the top zoos in the country, and with free admission, it’s also one of the most affordable. Visitors can see a variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, and penguins, and learn about conservation efforts to protect these species. Special events and exhibits in the spring may include the Butterfly House, where visitors can walk among thousands of butterflies in a tropical conservatory.

Riverboat Tours

Taking a riverboat tour is a fun way to see the city from a new perspective. Several companies offer sightseeing cruises along the Mississippi River, including the Gateway Arch Riverboats and the Tom Sawyer Riverboat. Some tours even include live music or dinner options for a unique experience.

City Museum

The City Museum is an interactive art museum that’s fun for all ages. Visitors can climb through tunnels and slides, explore a rooftop playground, or ride on a ferris wheel. Special exhibits and events in the spring may include an outdoor circus show or an indoor art installation.

Ticket prices and hours of operation vary for each activity, so it’s best to check the individual website for up-to-date information. Additionally, some attractions may have special events or exhibits happening in the spring, so it’s worth checking their calendars before planning your visit.

Conclusion

Spring is a wonderful time to visit St. Louis, with plenty of outdoor activities, festivals, and family-friendly attractions to explore. From the blooming flowers and trees in Forest Park to the lively celebrations of music, art, and culture, there’s something for everyone in St. Louis in the spring.

Whether you’re a local looking for new things to do or a visitor planning a trip, St. Louis offers a diverse range of activities and experiences that are sure to make your spring memorable. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to discover all that St. Louis has to offer in the springtime.

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