© 2019 Rachel L. Shumate | All rights reserved.
I have been to St. Louis more times than I can count. My entire family lives in either Missouri (in or near St. Louis) or in northern Illinois so I’ve spent my whole life traveling to visit my relatives. It occurs to me that I’ve never thought to write a post about St. Louis since when I do visit there I’m going to spend time with my family, not really to vacation or sightsee. In fact, I just returned from such a road trip that included four days of traveling with a toddler in the backseat (yikes), and I didn’t even get to visit all of the family members I would have liked – probably because I have a BIG family, and plans got changed the moment we toted my 90 year old Granny to the hospital (she’s ok though; thank goodness!!). However, it’s not likely you’re interested in all of that and I don’t plan on boring you.
What I will tell you is that St. Louis is an awesome place to visit and sightsee. I can tell you first hand that this city is full of jammed packed fun for all ages. Below are just a few attractions you might want to check out. After reading, maybe you might decide to plan a trip…
(For my family and anyone else who already lives in the St. Louis area, maybe you can let me know if I need to add anything!)
Awesome Places:
(tip: the titles are hyperlinked)
The Gateway Arch is truly impressive to see in person. In my opinion, it’s an absolute must to visit if you find yourself in St. Louis. There’s a neat visitor center and museum underground (which has currently been relocated to the Old Courthouse while they are renovating), and you can ride up the leg of the arch in a small elevator that takes you to the tippy top where you can get out and peer through the small windows at the city below.
This zoo is like nothing you’ve ever seen. And it’s free! The animals live in their own welcoming zoo habitat – not depressing small cages. The zoo has a wide variety of activities and events to attend, restaurants and vendors, shows, and much more. (I advise going on a cooler day, as it can get pretty hot.)
This is a gorgeous place to visit. The gardens are breathtaking and they host an eclectic variety of events from concerts and Christmas lights displays to glass art exhibits and lantern festivals. Be sure to check their calendar for fun things you won’t want to miss.
I must admit that I haven’t yet visited City Museum, but I really, REALLY want to go. I’m told by family members that it is an amazing and super fun place. I understand that it’s essentially a very big inside playground and funhouse for young and old alike. It’s constructed of reclaimed materials found in the city which are then recreated to provide maximum entertainment for exploration. I highly recommend checking it out. (Check the tips section on their website before going so you remember to wear tennis shoes and bring a flashlight and so forth.)
OK, I haven’t done this one either. I’m probably bringing shame upon my family, most of whom are diehard Cardinals fans. Admittedly I’m not a big baseball fan, but I don’t think you need to be to enjoy the experience. I really wouldn’t mind going to a ballgame as long as I got to eat a hotdog!
Forest Park is full of neat things to see. The zoo is actually considered part of this huge park. Other things to check out are the Jewel Box, the World’s Fair Pavilion, Steinberg Skating Rink, The Muny, Art Hill (art museum), Missouri History Museum, and the Science Center (see below). It’s so big and awesome; you can’t see it all in one day.
This is one of my favorite places to take friends that are traveling with me to St. Louis for the first time. And I absolutely recommend going to the Omnimax Theater while there. (They even show regular movies!) It is a fun and fantastic place to explore and learn.
This one is awe-inspiring. Many years ago my aunt took me to see “Jesus Christ Superstar” at The Fox and it’s an experience I will never forget. It was simply amazing. The building, ambiance, and performance were truly fantastic. I’d love to go back. It’s certainly something worth looking into if you find yourself in St. Louis.
I love old architecture and history and this is a neat place to check out for both reasons. This enormous old station has been turned into a hotel, with shops, restaurants, and it even has a lake. If that’s not enough to pique your interest, there’s a Hard Rock Café next door and The Fudgery inside Union Station is not only yummy, it’s famous for their fantastic demonstrations.
Casinos
If you’re the gambling type, this city is for you. You might be interested in checking out the Casino Queen, River City Casino & Hotel, or the Lumière Place Casino and Hotels. I can’t remember which one is my Granny’s favorite, but I can tell you that the buffet at the Lumière is pretty tasty. I like to take Granny gambling when I’m in town so she can have fun blowing her $20 and I can eat at the restaurants.
This is technically not in St. Louis, but it’s fairly close. My aunt actually lives about 10 minutes away and unfortunately it’s been several years since I’ve been able to talk anyone into riding the rollercoasters with me. I LOVE going though!!! They even have a water park as well. This is a super fun place for adults and kids alike.
So yes indeed; St. Louis has quite a bit to offer tourists as well as locals. I know I’m slightly partial since it’s sort of like a second home to me, with my family living there and all. However, the places listed above are truly fun to visit. If you find yourself planning a trip, be sure to check them out!
