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

Are you packing your bags for St. Louis, Missouri? Get excited! This gateway to the West is bursting with charm, history, and experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, beer enthusiast, or cultural explorer, St. Louis is ready to surprise and delight you at every turn. Here are five things you can’t miss in St. Louis, MO. 

1. Meet 14,000 Friends at the Saint Louis Zoo

No trip to St. Louis is complete without a visit to the Saint Louis Zoo, one of the city’s crown jewels. This world-renowned zoo is home to over 14,000 animals, from playful penguins to majestic elephants. The best part? Admission is absolutely free!

You can enjoy a day surrounded by wildlife without opening your wallet.  

For an extra unique experience, consider these add-ons:

• Hop on the Zooline Railroad for a scenic ride through the zoo.
• Take advantage of the Sea Lion Show, a fun, family-friendly spectacle.  

With affordable extras like these (starting at just $14.95), the St. Louis Zoo offers a perfect blend of adventure and value, making it a must-visit spot for any traveler.  

2. Step into History at the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site  

You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate the rich, thought-provoking experience at the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site—the former home of the 18th U.S. President. Known as “White Haven,” this site offers an intimate look at Grant’s early life and the lives of enslaved individuals who worked there.  

Take a guided tour of the beautifully preserved estate and stroll through its pristine grounds. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of the people and events that shaped America.

Insider Tip: White Haven is about a $30-$35 Uber ride from downtown St. Louis. Well worth it!  

Head to Starkville, Mississippi, to tour the Grant Presidential Library.

3. Take in the Views at the Iconic Gateway Arch  

Say hello to the city’s most iconic landmark—the Gateway Arch National Park. Towering 630 feet above the ground, the Gateway Arch isn’t just a magnificent photo op; it’s also an experience you’ll talk about long after your visit.  

Here’s what not to miss:

• Ride the tram to the top for breathtaking views of St. Louis and the mighty Mississippi River.  
• Spend some time at the Museum of the Gateway Arch, which explores the history of westward expansion and St. Louis’s role in shaping it.  

The Gateway Arch seamlessly blends history, architecture, and scenic beauty. It is St. Louis at its finest—don’t skip it!  

4. Discover the Art of Brewing at Anheuser-Busch

Beer lovers, this one’s for you! The Anheuser-Busch Brewery isn’t just home to Budweiser—it’s a landmark of brewing excellence. Since 1852, this brewery has been crafting some of the world’s most beloved beers, and this is your chance to peek behind the curtain.  

On the Budweiser Brewery Experience Tour, you’ll:

• Learn about the seven-step brewing process that defines Anheuser-Busch’s quality.  
• Visit the Beechwood Aging Cellar and see beer technology meet tradition.  
• Catch a glimpse of the legendary Budweiser Clydesdales in their iconic stables.  

For only a few dollars per person, you’ll enjoy 75 minutes packed with history, hands-on experiences, and beer so fresh it practically sparkles. Beer lover or not, this tour is sure to impress.

Pro Tip: Head to the onsite Biergarten for premium brews and delicious bites after the tour.  

We have St. Louis, MO, restaurant recommendations, too. Check out these tasty eateries around town, and what you should try from each of them.

5. Indulge in St. Louis Culture and Luxury 

Wrap up your time in St. Louis with a dose of culture and indulgence. The city offers free access to incredible museums and some genuinely world-class accommodations. 

Museum Must-Sees:  

• The Saint Louis Art Museum features a remarkable collection spanning 5,000 years.  
• The Missouri History Museum dives deep into events like the 1904 World’s Fair and the Louisiana Purchase Exposition.  

Where to Stay in St. Louis

For a touch of luxury, check into the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis. My favorite things at this property are the floor to ceiling windows with exceptional views and the breaktaking Sky Terrace, with an outdoor pool and splash pad.

Alternatively, book a room at the Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta Hotel, where Hollywood glamour and exquisite dining come together. Bonus points for their onsite cinema, which features five films daily and even live organ presentations!  

Looking for unique vibes? The St. Louis Union Station Hotel is packed with character and history. Its majestic Grand Hall hosts nightly 3D light shows. The hotel is also connected to the St. Louis Aquarium—perfect for families!  

I love that the Union Station Hotel has so many different room options — one for every budget.

Wrap-up  

St. Louis, MO, delivers a travel experience that’s as exciting as diverse. From world-class attractions to rich history and free museums, this city offers an unforgettable mix of adventure and relaxation for anyone lucky to visit.

What will your first stop be?

Read more posts about Missouri travel:

27 Fun Things to Do in Columbia

Photo Ops for Route 66

Branson: The Ultimate Family-Friendly Destination