If you’re planning a trip to St. Louis, you’re in for a treat! This vibrant city has so much to offer, from world-class museums and cultural institutions to outdoor adventures and culinary delights. With so much to see and do, it can be tough to narrow down your options. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in St. Louis.
From the iconic Gateway Arch to the beautiful Missouri Botanical Garden, these are the must-see attractions that should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re a local looking for new experiences or a visitor seeking the best of the city, this guide has you covered. So come along with us as we explore the best of St. Louis.
The Best St. Louis Attractions
If you’re planning a trip to St. Louis and wondering what to do, here are the top things to add to your itinerary:
#1 Visit the Gateway Arch
No trip to St. Louis is complete without a visit to the iconic Gateway Arch. Standing 630 feet tall, this stainless steel structure is the tallest arch in the world and serves as a tribute to the westward expansion of the United States. You can take a tram ride to the top of the arch for breathtaking views of the city, or visit the museum located underneath for a history lesson on the city’s role in westward expansion.
#2 Explore the Missouri Botanical Garden
The Missouri Botanical Garden is a must-see for nature lovers. This 79-acre garden features a Japanese strolling garden, a children’s garden, and a formal garden with over 7,000 plant species. You can also visit the Climatron, a geodesic dome that houses a rainforest ecosystem.
#3 Tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery
St. Louis is home to the world-famous Anheuser-Busch Brewery, and a tour of the facility is a great way to learn about the beer-making process and taste some of the company’s most popular brands.
#4 Visit the City Museum
The City Museum is a one-of-a-kind attraction that’s great for kids and adults alike. This museum is a playground, art exhibit, and architectural marvel all rolled into one, with tunnels, slides, and climbing structures made from recycled materials.
#5 Check out the St. Louis Zoo
The St. Louis Zoo is consistently ranked as one of the top zoos in the country, and for good reason. With over 700 species of animals and attractions like the Big Cat Country exhibit and the Children’s Zoo, there’s something for everyone at this family-friendly destination.
#6 Forest Park
Forest Park is a must-see for anyone visiting St. Louis. This massive urban park is home to numerous attractions, including the St. Louis Art Museum, the St. Louis Zoo, and the Missouri History Museum. You can also enjoy a round of golf at one of the park’s two golf courses, go for a bike ride or jog along the park’s many trails, or relax by one of the park’s many ponds.
#7 The Muny
The Muny is the country’s oldest and largest outdoor musical theater, and a visit here is a great way to experience some of the best in live entertainment. The Muny presents a season of seven musicals each summer, and tickets are affordably priced.
#8 The St. Louis Cardinals
St. Louis is a baseball town, and a visit to Busch Stadium to watch the St. Louis Cardinals play is a must for any sports fan. Even if you’re not a baseball fan, the atmosphere at a Cardinals game is electric, and the stadium itself is a marvel of modern architecture.
#9 The Old Courthouse
The Old Courthouse is a National Historic Landmark and a must-see for history buffs. This building played a significant role in the Dred Scott case, and today it serves as a museum showcasing the history of St. Louis.
#10 The St. Louis Science Center
The St. Louis Science Center is a great place for kids and adults alike. This interactive museum features over 700 hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater. You could easily spend an entire day here exploring all that the Science Center has to offer.
#11 The Magic House
The Magic House is a children’s museum that’s great for kids of all ages. With over 100 hands-on exhibits, this museum is a great place to learn and have fun.
#12 The St. Louis Art Museum
The St. Louis Art Museum is home to over 33,000 works of art, ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern and contemporary pieces.
#13 The Missouri History Museum
The Missouri History Museum is a great place to learn about the history of St. Louis and the surrounding region. The museum features exhibits on the city’s role in westward expansion, the World’s Fair, and more.
#14 The Delmar Loop
The Delmar Loop is a vibrant neighborhood known for its diverse array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. You’ll find everything from vintage clothing stores to live music venues in this trendy part of town.
#15 The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
If you’re a fan of classical music, consider attending a performance by the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. This world-renowned orchestra performs at Powell Symphony Hall and presents a variety of concerts throughout the year.
#16 The Missouri Civil War Museum
The Missouri Civil War Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the Civil War and its impact on Missouri. This museum features exhibits on the lives of soldiers and civilians during the war, as well as artifacts and memorabilia from the period.
#17 The Missouri Botanical Garden’s Butterfly House
The Missouri Botanical Garden’s Butterfly House is a must-see for nature lovers. This greenhouse is home to over 50 species of butterflies and is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of these colorful insects.
#18 The St. Louis Union Station
The St. Louis Union Station is a historic landmark that was once the largest and busiest passenger rail terminal in the world. Today, it’s home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
#19 Laclede’s Landing
Laclede’s Landing is a historic district located in downtown St. Louis. It was named after Pierre Laclede, the founder of St. Louis, and was once a bustling port along the Mississippi River. Today, Laclede’s Landing is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options. The district is known for its cobblestone streets and historic buildings, which give it a charming and atmospheric feel. You’ll find everything from jazz clubs to BBQ joints in Laclede’s Landing, making it a great place to experience the city’s nightlife.
#20 Lemp Mansion
Lemp Mansion is a historic mansion located in the St. Louis neighborhood of Benton Park. The mansion was built in the 1860s and was once the home of the Lemp family, who owned the famous Lemp Brewery. The mansion is now a restaurant and inn and is known for its eerie history and rumored paranormal activity. Many visitors come to Lemp Mansion to enjoy a meal or a drink in one of the mansion’s historic rooms or to take a guided tour and learn about the mansion’s past. If you’re interested in history and ghost stories, Lemp Mansion is a must-see attraction in St. Louis.