5 Things You Can’t Miss in St. Louis, MO

Are you ready for an unforgettable trip to St. Louis, Missouri? This vibrant city has so much to offer, from its breathtaking attractions to its world-class offerings. Get ready to fall in love all over again with a city that never fails to impress, and namely these five things you can’t miss in St. Louis, MO, that won me over.

Family-Friendly St. Louis Attractions

St. Louis, Missouri, has a big city feel and plenty of top-notch attractions to substantiate that claim.

St. Louis Zoo

One of the must-visit places in St. Louis is the Saint Louis Zoo, where you can encounter a wide variety of animals (14,000+ is a good guess). From penguins to polar bears, from big cats to elephants, this place is a haven for nature lovers. And the best part? Admission is free!

For just $14.95, you can even enjoy some extra special experiences like riding the zooline railroad and catching the sea lion show.

Grant National Historic Site

Another gem in St. Louis is the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site. Step back in time and explore the historic house (White Haven) where the 18th President of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant, lived from 1854 to 1859.

Take a tour of the house and the quarters of the enslaved people, and be mesmerized by the stunning grounds. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

Tip: An Uber ride from the city is about $25 each way. 

Gateway Arch National Park

Of course, no visit to St. Louis would be complete without seeing the iconic Gateway Arch National Park, formerly the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. This massive arch stands at a towering 630 feet and offers breathtaking views of the city.

Take a tram to the top and snap some incredible photos from the viewing platform. It’s a sight that will leave you in awe. The Gateway Arch is near where Lewis & Clark started their Expedition and offered gorgeous views of the Mississippi River from the back.

Tour the Most Famous Brewery in America: Anheuser-Busch

Discover the heart of America at the legendary Anheuser-Busch Brewing Company in St. Louis. This iconic company has been shaping the beer industry since 1852 and is the proud creator of Budweiser, the world’s most recognized beer.

Immerse yourself in the ultimate Budweiser Brewery Experience tour, where you’ll uncover the secrets behind their signature seven-step brewing process. Explore the Beechwood Aging Cellar, where beer technology and timeless traditions come together.

And don’t miss the highlight of the tour – the chance to sample beer that is just minutes old, bursting with incredible freshness and crispness.

For only $5 per person, you’ll enjoy a 75-minute guided tour that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art of brewing. Be sure to make a reservation, as these tours fill up quickly.

But the Budweiser Clydesdales steal the show. These magnificent horses have become iconic symbols of American tradition, and getting a glimpse of them in the paddock and stables is truly thrilling. Even if you’re not a beer lover, this tour offers so much more than just a taste of Budweiser.

While you’re there, explore the National Historic Landmarks on the Anheuser Busch grounds and soak in the rich history and beauty of the company. And if you have the time, treat yourself to premium beers and delicious food at the Biergarten.

Did you know? Anheuser Busch is not just about Budweiser. They also own popular brands like Stella Artois, Goose Island, Michelob, LandShark, and Rolling Rock. So there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this incredible destination.

Enjoy Stellar Accommodations at Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta

Discover two amazing hotels in St. Louis that will make your stay unforgettable! The first is the iconic Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta Hotel, where you can immerse yourself in the glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Era.

With spacious rooms, three fantastic restaurants, luxurious amenities, and a stunning outdoor pool that has hosted Hollywood legends and US Presidents, this hotel is a must-visit.

Don’t miss the chance to dine at their incredible onsite restaurants or enjoy exceptional room service. Plus, experience the charm of their historic theater, Chase Park Plaza Cinemas, which showcases five films daily and features live organ presentations.

The second hotel I absolutely love is the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis. This five-star gem is perfect for those seeking pampering and relaxation, and it’s conveniently located near the lively Lumiere Place Casino and entertainment district.

The hotel rooms offer the ultimate in luxury, including quality linens, floor-to-ceiling windows, marble bathrooms with Terry bathrobes, and a cozy chaise lounge. Don’t miss the breathtaking Sky Terrace on the 8th floor, where you can lounge by the splash pad or outdoor pool while enjoying epic views of St. Louis. Plus, the Gateway Arch is just a short 15-minute walk away.

Visit the St. Louis Museums

Discover the best part of visiting St. Louis – free museum admissions! That’s right, no charge! Don’t miss out on the incredible St. Louis Art, Contemporary Art, Missouri History, and the Westward Expansion Museums.

At the St. Louis Art Museum, you’ll find a rich collection spanning 5,000 years of culture and breathtaking masterpiece paintings.

Immerse yourself in history at the Missouri History Museum, where you can explore fascinating artifacts from the Louisiana Purchase Exposition and 1904 World’s Fair.

Step into the Museum of the Gateway Arch (Museum of Westward Expansion) to discover rare exhibits on Lewis & Clark, 201 years of history, and the role of St. Louis in exploring the west.

For a stunning view of the city, hop on the tram inside the Arch that reaches an impressive height of 630 feet and enjoy the aerial scenery of the city and historic Old Courthouse.

And if you’re craving something unique, check out the World Chess Hall of Fame, Missouri Civil War Museum, and National Blues Museum.

Eat Delicious St. Louis Food

Discover St. Louis’s vibrant restaurant scene, home to nearly 3 million people. You’ll be amazed at the incredible dining options available without breaking the bank.

Mission Taco Joint

Get your taste buds dancing at Mission Taco Joint, a casual street-taco eatery. Don’t miss out on their fresh-made Guacamole and try their festive Tiki Drinks. If you’re in the mood for Mexican cuisine, El Burro Loco is the place to be. Indulge in their delicious Arroz con Pollo and sip on top-notch margaritas while enjoying the lively and colorful atmosphere.

Chase Park Plaza Hotel Restaurants

Looking for a more upscale experience? Head over to The Chase Club and The Preston at the Chase Park Plaza Hotel. Delight in their Short Rib Mac and Cheese at The Chase Club and savor the incredible Chilean Sea Bass at The Preston.

Bar Italia

If you’re craving homemade Italian food, treat yourself to a fantastic pasta meal at Bar Italia Ristorante for under $20. From Tortellini with Cream to Rigatoni with Wild Mushrooms, they have all your classic Italian favorites. Plus, their exceptional service will make your dining experience memorable.

Salt + Smoke

For the ultimate Missouri barbecue feast, look no further than Salt + Smoke. With many locations in the area, it is a haven for bourbon, BBQ, and beer lovers. Try their famous St. Louis Cut Ribs and the delectable Sweet Pepper Potato Salad, though you may want to start your meal with the epic Burnt Ends Toasted Raviolis, a St. Louis delicacy that will leave you wanting more.

For dessert, consider a road trip over to St. Charles for these fantastic chocolate chip cookies from Grandma’s Cookies.

St Louis: A Midwest Powerhouse

I think you could visit a new attraction or restaurant in St. Louis every day for years and still not see it all. Prepare to be wowed in this Missouri city, one of the greatest in the country. I hope you’ll love these things about St. Louis just as much as I did. 

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