I have visited St. Louis several times throughout my life as my father has many cousins that lived there. I have wonderful memories of family reunions there. My father and my uncle did not grow up there like all of his other cousins, so we never really got to know the huge extended family from his side. This year, it worked out by circumstances that we had the opportunity to visit St. Louis for a vacation. My husband and son had never been there before, so it seemed like a good idea.
I love planning activities for vacations, and this time together was no exception. We had a wonderful time! there are so many activities to choose from that there was never a dull moment.
Annheuseur-Busch Brewery Tour – Learn how Budweiser brands are made in this 90 minute brewery tour. Enjoy the art deco architecture and see where the Clydesdales hang out when they are on premises. Afterwards get a free beer at the Biergarten. This tour is a must see!
Augusta Winery – Add Augusta Winery to a St. Louis Wine Trail tour. Enjoy live music every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in their Biergarten.
Ballpark Village – A multi-entertainment complex next door to Busch Stadium.
BB’s Jazz Blues and Soups – St. Louis is a hotspot for jazz. Grab a bite to eat while listening to some live jazz music.
Bellefontaine Cemetery – The final resting place for William Clark of Lewis and Clark Expedition, Adolphus Busch and Eberhard Annheuser of Annheuser-Busch brewing, William Lemp of the Lemp Brewing Company, and many other notable citizens, leaders and military from St. Louis. A walking tour of the most notable mausoleums and monuments are available at the cemetery office to peruse the manicured grounds.
Big Joel’s Safari – A petting zoo that offers a wide variety of animals plus a tire playground, pony and camel rides and hourly educational activities.
Blanche Touhill Performing Arts Center – Located on the University of Missouri St. Louis the Touhill Performing Arts Center provides three performance halls. with hundreds of performances throughout the year, check their website for a schedule of events.
Blueberry Hill – A St. Louis iconic restaurant and music venue in the Delmar Loop area where Chuck Berry played for years. Live music shows in the famous Duck Room on most nights are family friendly..
Boathouse at Forest Park – Rent a paddle boat, canoe, paddle boards, bikes or kayaks to take out on the Post-Dispatch Lake for a couple of hours. The Boathouse is located within Forest Park.
Brew House Bud Deck – Temporarily closed until further notice; however, when it opens up agan, the Bud Deck offers a view of Cardinal’s baseball games from the third floor or the Brew House in Ballpark Village. Enjoy primo drinks and food while taking in a game at Busch Stadium. Tickets to the baseball game are required with reservations through the Cardinal’s ticketing agent.
Busch Stadium – Home of the St. Louis Cardinals Baseball Team. Take in a game during baseball season if the team is in town or take a tour of the stadium if the Cards are away. Tours take you to places within the stadium that are not accessible during gamedays.
Cahokia Mounds – Located 15 minutes from St. Louis across the river in Collinsville, IL, the Cahokia Mounds are the remains of the largest prehistoric settlement north of Mexico. Visitors can climb to the top of the mounds to view the 2200 acres that once was larger than London in 1250. Stop at the Interpretive Center for maps, brochures and audio tours.
Campbell House Museum – The home of the Campbell family is one of the most significant homes preserved from the 19th century. Robert Campbell became one of the most wealthy men in St. Louis. He immigrated from Ireland and worked his way up in the fur trade business and then other business ventures.
Carousel at Faust Park – An indoor carousel that dates back to 1921 has 60 horses, 4 deer and 2 sleighs.
Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum – A huge collection of Cardinals team memorabilia is one of the largest of its kind.
Cathedral Basilica St. Louis – Take a guided or self-guided tour of the Arcdiocese of St. Louis that took 80 years to complete. Due to normal church events and activities, it is a good idea to call the church for touring availability before you go.
Cedar Lake Cellars – Check the calendar for events, including live music, festivals and holiday happenings. Enjoy the wine tasting bar, lunch or dinner for a lovely experience on the manicured grounds.
Chandler Hill Vineyards – Located 30 minutes West of St. Louis in Defianc, Missouri, Chandler Hill Vineyards is a definitely a stop to make on a wine tasting tour. Check their calendar for their weekend live music schedule, plan a visit for Sunday brunch or watch the sunset at a special sunset dinner.
Citygarden Sculpture Park – Located in downtown St. Louis, Citygarden offers 2 city blocks of pathways exhibiting sculptures, fountains, water features, and a splash zone for kids.
Climatron – A botanical garden inside a dome where visitors can experience a tropical environment that include a variety of plants found in the rainforest, a canopy bridge and tropical fish in a river habitat
Contemporary Art Museum – Experience contemporary art that exemplifies the world we live in along with different cultures in the community. Best part is it is free! Reserve a timed ticket for entry during this time of social distancing.
Creve Couer Lake Memorial Park – Activities abound at this natural space. Bring the family for disc golf, boating, nature walks, fountain play, archery, tennis and more.
Delmar Loop – Spend the day shopping, eating, and enjoying all the specialty boutiques, entertainment venues and restaurants on this famous street in St. Louis. Ride the trolley to hop on and hop off as you travel from one end of this street to another.
Eat St. Louis Food Tours – A guided walking tour for adults only that provides historical information about the neighborhoods and foods of the city. Several tours are available in different areas of St, Louis. Check the website for availability and tickets.
Enterprise Center – Home of the St. Louis Blues Hockey Club, Enterprise Center is also a venue for concerts, ice shows and other sporting events. Check their website for the events calendar and tickets.
The Fabulous Fox Theater – Check the calendar of events for a wide variety of concerts and shows at the beautifula nd historical Fabulous Fox Theater.
Frank Lloyd Wright House in Ebsworth Park – Do you like unique architecture? Reserve a tour at a house designed by the renowned Frank Lloyd Writght.
Gateway Arch – Take a tram to the top of the Gateway Arch that overlooks downtown St. Louis. Check their website to book reservations and tickets. Stroll through the beautiful grounds after browsing through the museum at the base of the Arch. Make sure to buy tickets for the documentary film to see how the Arch was built. If you are going to the Arch, this is a must see!
Gateway Grizzlies Baseball – An independent professional league playing at the GMC Stadium. Baseball fanatics can purchase tickets through their website.
The Grandel – Houses several venues in one complex: a theater, bar and restaurant featuring photography exhibits and live music and a private event space
Grant’s Farm – See the home of the Clydesdales where they live when not at the brewery. Also experience behind the scenes tours and animal encounters. Reservations are recommended.
The Hill Neighborhood – Visit this neighborhood for its Italian culture, popular for its Italian markets and restaurants.
Hollywood Casino Amphitheater – Bring a lawn chair or reserve a seat undercover to attend an outdoor concert or festival at this amphitheater. Check the website for a calendar of events.
Horseshoe Casino – If you like to spend a little time playing slots and other adult games, sop on over to the Lumiere Place for slots, casino table games or poker.
Jazz St. Louis – Take in some jazz in St. Louis. Go to the Jazz St. Louis website for concert information and a calendar.
Jefferson Barracks Historic Park – Once an Army Barracks from 1826-1946, The Jefferson Barracks Historic Park provides museums, such as The Old Ordinance Room, the Powder Magazine Museum, the Laborers House and Ordinance Stable and a visitor center. Other museums on the grounds include the Missouri Civil War Museum, Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum and Jefferson Barracks POW-MIA Museum. Visitors can easily spend the day at this park by utilizing the trails, shelters, cross country course, golf course and archery site.
The Jewel Box – Located in Forest Park, the Jewel Box is a small indoor greenhouse that is most popular for events. The grounds surrounding the Jewel Box are beautiful. This is a quick stop, but worth the time and truly picture worthy.
Kranzberg Arts Center – Provides spaces for artists, performances and events. Check the website for their calendar.
Lewis and Clark Trail – Considered the most scenic hike in the St. Louis area, the Lewis and Clark Trail is an 8.3 mile moderate hike offering beautiful views of the Missouri River.
Laumeir Sculpture Park – Grab a park map and follow the guide to see unusual outdoor scuptures, including a free hanging chain, elaborate topiaries, intricate metal sculptures, a triangular bridge, a concrete ball wall, a giant eyeball and much more. The area is located in a lovely setting with plenty of walking trails to explore.
Laclede’s Landing – Within the view of the Gateway Arch, this historical area is known for its restaurants, events and clubs.
Lafayette Square – The oldest historic district in St. Louis, Lafayette Square is near downtown and the Gateway Arch area. Stroll the streets to view the colorful Victorian style homes called “the painted ladies,” the oldest urban park in the area and landmarks dating back to the late 1800’s. Try to catch an old time baseball game using rules of the 1860’s. Stop at the craft breweries and specialty shops to pick up gifts and other remembrances of your visit.
Lone Elk Park – Go early to see the bison, wild turkey, waterfowl, elk and deer that reside at Lone Elk Park. Hike the trails or enjoy fishing at this historic park.
Market Street – The main street running through downtown St. Louis from the Gateway Arch to St. Louis Memorial Plaza. Apps are available for self-guided walking tours. You can see Busch Stadium, Cardinals Hall of Fame, Bowling Hall of Fame, the old armory building and more along the way.
McDonnell Planetarium – Located in Forest Park, The McDonnell Planetarium inspires people to explore the opportunities in space. Lots of fun inside and outside on the grounds.
The Magic House – A hands-on children’s museum with interactive exhibits featuring a play town, water activities, art, music, climbing area, toddler play area, bubbles room, construction zone, outdoor play area and so much more.
Maplewood Neighborhood – This quarter mile stretch of the area know as Maplewood is home to over 200 small businesses, restaurants, breweries and shops, selling artisanal and handcrafted items.
The Marcelle – Part of the Kranzburg Arts Foundation, The Marcelle is a venue for theater and dance. Check their website for a calendar of events.
Meramec Cave – Go on a spelunking adventure at Meramec Caverns. The staff offers tours in the 60 degree temperature that showcase the spectacular geological landforms.
Metro Theater Company – A theater for young people to perform and inspire on stage. Check the calendar for events and show times.
Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum – Contains a collection of modern and contemporary art along with lectures, classes and special exhibits, and IT’S FREE.
Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis – A unique museum of miniatures. Only opened on Friday, Saturdays and Sundays. If you are interested in seeing the miniature displays, call before you go as it may be closed during bad weather. Check their website for details.
Missouri Botanical Garden – The Missouri Botanical Garden is over 150 years old. Home to a Climatron garden dome, Japanese garden, children’s garden, a museum in the founder’s home and one of the original greenhouses, visitors can learn about and enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna. Tram tours are available.
Missouri Civil War Museum – Located a short distance from the Mississippi River, the Missouri Civil War Museum tells the story of Missouri’s participation in the Civil War. Along with the permanent exhibits, the museum offers several films.
Missouri History Museum – Contains rotating exhibits chronicling the history and social history of St. Louis. The Missouri History Museum is free to the public. Check their website for hours of operation.
Montelle Winery – Planning a Missouri wine country tour? Add this winery to your list. Founded in 1970, the Montell Winery produces environmentally favorable wines and brandy. Plan to have lunch at the Klondike Cafe on property to enjoy the beautiful view of the vineyard from their deck.
Moto Museum – View a collection of motorcycles from around the world and from different eras. Admission is free.
The Muny Theater – A 100 year old outdoor theater that presents popular plays and musicals. Check the website for showtimes.
Museum of Contemporary Religious Art – A collection of interfaith contemporary works of art as part of the St. Louis University community. Check the website for current exhibitions on display.
Museum of Transportation – Recognized as one of the largest collections of transportation in the world, the Museum of Transportation in St. Louis houses trains, boats, buses, wagons, bicycles, steam rollers and so much more. Check the website to see what is on property at any particular time.
Myseum – Bring some socks to explore the more than 30 exhibits at the Myseum in St. Louis. Recommended for ages 2-12, experience the interactive fun the whole family will enjoy.
National Blues Museum – Located in downtown St. Louis, the National Blues Museum is a wonderland for those who love American music.
North County Neighborhood – a lovely community worth exploring on the north side of St. Louis.
Old Courthouse – In the shadow of the Gateway Arch stands the Old Courthouse where the Dred Scott case was tried. Check the website for visiting hours as the Old Courthouse is under renovation.
Onondaga Cave State Park – Tour the cave that is registered as a national natural landmark. The park is also a great place for camping, hiking and picnics.
Opera Theater of St. Louis – Check the website for all the events, opportunities and operas for the season.
The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows – Walk the shrine grounds or attend a Mass at Our lady of the snows. Check the website for hours.
Powell Hall – Tour the home of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and learn the history of this beautiful performance hall. Check the website for availability.
Pulitzer Arts Foundation – A contemporary art museum whose mission is to bring art and people together for a meaningful experience. Check the website for hours, available exhibits and event.
Purina Farms – If you are a dog or cat owner, you will especially appreciate the exhibits and events at Purina Farms. Chick the website for cat and dog shows available seasonally.
River City Casino – Place your bets for a good time at River City Casino. Book your stay at the adjoining hotel and experience the many dining options on the property.
St. Louis Aquarium – Located at the Union Station complex, tour the animals that live in the sea at the S. Louis Aquarium. Arrange for a behind the scenes tour and take advantage of the animal encounters. Enjoy additional attractions in the Union Station complex, such as the giant ferris wheel, mini golf, carousel and much more.
St. Louis Art Museum – You will want to designate the whole day to this art museum. The museum is over 100 years old and exhibits high quality art representing art from different cultures and times. Check the website for hours of operation.
St. Louis Blues Hockey – Take in a hockey game at Enterprise Center to watch the Blues battle it out wit another team. Check the website for the schedule.
St. Louis Cardinals Baseball – Take in a baseball game at Busch Stadium to watch the St. Louis Cardinals. Check the website for te schedule.
St. Louis Carriage Company – Treat yourself to something special with a horse-drawn carriage around the city. Carriages are available nightly at three locations. Check the website for pricing and location.
St. Louis Forest Park – This 1300 acre park is home to five major cultureal venues, including The Muny, St. Louis Art Museum, St. Louis Science Center, St. Louis Zoo and the Missoury History Museum. The walking path provides plenty of places to workout, have a picnic or enjoy a quiet moment. The park is host to many events and festivals as well.
St. Louis Mercantile Library – Schedule a docent-led tour of the first library in St. Louis to learn about history, devleopment and growth of St. Louis.
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra – Enjoy a night with the symphony at a concert. Check the website for concert dates and tickets.
St. Louis Wheel – The St. Louis Wheel is located in downtown St. Louis not far from the Gateway Arch. Your 15 minute ride takes place in a enclosed, climate controlled cabin that holds eight riders. The Wheel moves slowly, but makes four revolutions on your ride.
Saint Louis Zoo – One of the best zoos in the country, the St. Louis Zoo is home to over 12,000 animals. The st. Louis Zoo i srecognized for its wildlife conservation, animal care and manangement, research and education. The grounds are beautiful and represent regional foliage. Admission is free.
Science Center – Spend the day at this non-profit science museum with over 700 interactive exhibits, the McDonnell Planetarium and a 4-story OmniMax Theater.
Scott Joplin House – Tour the home of Scott Joplin while enjoying the melodies of his music at this state historice site.
Shakespeare Festival St. Louis – If you are in town at the right time, you can attend the Shakespeare Festival. Check the website for dates and performances.
Six Flags St. Louis – Enjoy the day riding some retro rides from other Six Flags parks along with some new ones. If it is summer time, take a spin at the Hurricane Harbor to cool off.
Soulard Farmer’s Market – Open Wednesday -Saturday, the Soulard Farmer’s Market is a fun place to shop for fresh produce, flowers, meats and other products
Spiral Slide at City Museum – The main attraction at this museum is the 10 story slide. It is definitely worth it!
Stifel Theater – A beautiful historic theater in downtown St. Louis has hosted many famous entertainers and events. Check the website for the current offering of entertainment.
Tower Grove Park – An arboretum that is an oasis of beautiful landscaping, event venues and activities.
Turtle Playground – Take the youngsters to blow off some steam at this beautiful playground full of turtle statues that the can climb, slide and play on.
Union Station – Union Station has many attractions including The Wheel, historic train shed, fire and light sow, mini golf, carousel, aquarium, shopping, ropes course, mirror maze, 50s sytle soda fountain and dining.
Up Down St. Louis – Contains classic games from the 80s and 90s. If you love arcades and gaming. You will love tis!
Washington Avenue shopping – The Gateway Arch and Busch Stadium might be th biggest attractions in downtown St. Louis, but don’t forget to take some time to visit the designer shops and entertainment on Washington Avenue. You can find some unique specialty shops and dining experiences not far from the main attractions.
Westport Entertainment District – From dining and a comedy club to lodging and jazz, the Westport Plaza Entertainment District is a great place to stay and play.
World Chess Hall of Fame – Admission is free to enjoy all things chess! Check their website for current exhibitions, classes, and scheduled events for a fun-filled day for the entire family.
