2025 St. Louis Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

#holidayitinerary Hidden beneath the Ozarks near Stanton, Missouri, Meramec Caverns is a vast, colorful cave system offering guided tours that reveal dramatic formations, underground lakes, and legendary outlaw stories. Jesse James is said to have used the caves as a hideout! The theatrical lighting and massive chambers make the experience magical. Above ground, you’ll find riverboat rides, ziplines, and family-friendly amenities. Perfect for a hot summer day or a rainy detour, Meramec Caverns is an unforgettable underground adventure for your Missouri #holidayitinerary.

#holidayitinerary Spanning 1,300 acres in the heart of St. Louis, Forest Park is even larger than Central Park and arguably just as iconic. It houses the city’s top attractions, including the Art Museum, Science Center, History Museum, and St. Louis Zoo—all with free admission. Paddle boating, biking, picnicking, and golf are popular in warmer months, while fall foliage turns the park into a painter’s palette. Whether you’re visiting with kids or just taking a stroll, Forest Park is a cultural and recreational highlight on any Missouri #holidayitinerary.

#holidayitinerary St. Louis’ City Museum is unlike any museum you've visited—it’s part funhouse, part art sculpture, part playground. Built inside a 10-story former shoe factory, it features caves to crawl through, slides to zip down, and airplanes suspended in the sky. It's designed for kids and adults to explore without rules or maps. From rooftop Ferris wheels to a massive ball pit, it’s all hands-on creativity. Quirky, bold, and unforgettable, City Museum is a must-see experience that earns its place on any Missouri #holidayitinerary.

#holidayitinerary Set within Forest Park, the St. Louis Art Museum houses an extraordinary collection spanning continents and centuries. With free general admission and works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso, it's a cultural gift to the city. The museum’s design merges historic architecture with modern spaces, making it a pleasure to explore. Don’t miss the special exhibitions or sculpture garden outside. Whether you're an art aficionado or curious explorer, this museum offers aesthetic inspiration and thoughtful reflection. A world-class stop on your Missouri #holidayitinerary.

#holidayitinerary Located in St. Louis, the Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the oldest and most esteemed botanical gardens in the U.S. It’s more than a collection of plants—this 79-acre paradise is a journey through global flora. Explore the serene Japanese Garden, step inside the futuristic Climatron rainforest dome, or stroll Victorian-era conservatories. Seasonal events like Garden Glow and the Orchid Show bring new magic year-round. Educational exhibits, beautifully manicured grounds, and tranquil ponds make this a perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature. A blooming beauty for your Missouri #holidayitinerary.

#holidayitinerary Once the largest and busiest train station in the world, Union Station in St. Louis has transformed into a vibrant entertainment hub. The restored Grand Hall features a mesmerizing light show on its historic domed ceiling. Today, Union Station houses attractions like the St. Louis Aquarium, a 200-foot Ferris wheel, mini-golf, and restaurants. Whether you’re there to explore marine life, admire the architecture, or ride the carousel, there’s something for everyone. Union Station beautifully blends history and fun, earning its place on your Missouri #holidayitinerary.

Located in eastern Missouri, St. Louis sits near the geographic center of the contiguous United States. It serves as a crucial point in the westward expansion of the American economy, often referred to by geographers as the "Gateway to the West." St. Louis offers a variety of attractions. Here are some highlights: Landmarks - Gateway Arch: Built to commemorate the westward expansion of the United States, this 630-foot-tall monument is the tallest arch in the world and the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors can take a tram to the top for panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River. - St. Louis Union Station: Once one of the largest and busiest passenger rail terminals in the United States, it now houses the St. Louis Aquarium, a 200-foot Ferris wheel, a carousel, a mini-golf course, and other entertainment options. Parks - Forest Park: Larger than New York's Central Park, this 1,300-acre park features a science center, history museum, art museum, zoo, opera house, and other cultural and recreational facilities. - Grant's Farm: Take a tram tour to see animals from six continents, feed goats, and enjoy two complimentary samples of Anheuser-Busch beer. Arts and Culture - Saint Louis Art Museum: Home to a vast collection of art from around the world, including Edgar Degas's sculpture "Little Dancer Aged Fourteen," this museum is a must-see for art lovers. - St. Louis Science Center: Featuring interactive exhibits and demonstrations, including large floor maps of Missouri and Illinois, this center offers an engaging way to learn about science and is perfect for families. Entertainment - Busch Stadium: Home of the St. Louis Cardinals, this stadium offers baseball fans the chance to experience the excitement of a live game. - Six Flags St. Louis: This theme park boasts thrilling rides like "Batman: The Ride," "Catwoman Whip," and "Screamin' Eagle," plus a water park, live shows, and character meet-and-greets, making it a fun destination for the whole family.

Well done National Park Service! I bought tickets online about a month ahead of time. I was able to have the tickets on my phone. We arrived about 30 to 45 minutes ahead of our tour time to allow for the security check. At the appointed time we were directed through the tour. The tour guides were courteous and very helpful answering questions. The views from the top are spectacular and for me, well worth the price of admission. The ride up and down is a little bumpy and the pod is a little claustrophobic, but should be no problem for most people. There is a historical museum after entry and before or after the tour that is worth a walk through. There is a concession stand of sorts as well as a souvenir shop. Overall, a great experience!

Location - One Hundred Above the Park Apartments Address - 100 N Kingshighway Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108, United States Getting There - By Uber or Car or 10 minutes walk from Central Wedt End Metro Restaurants Nearby - The Cup, Kingside Diner, Thai 202, Drunken Fish, Shake shack etc. One Hundred Above the Park is one of the iconic skyscraper which you will spot it even when you are on the interstate highway. It is one of the tallest building there along with chase park plaza where the cinema at Central West End is located. At the street level of One Hundred Above the Park, you will find a pirates lab as well. The building is also commonly known as the building with a lot of glass since that is literally what you will see there. #createwithtrip

Location - The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum Address - 516 S Kirkwood Rd, St. Louis, MO 63122 Ambiance/Facilities - A place with plenties to do for children Avg. Price per Person - $12 The Magic House is definitely a go to place when you have children with you. There have lots of zone that spread over 3 different levels. There is also currently a sand playzone that was just opened with sand castle as well as a giant sand sculpture there. Within the musuem, you will find pretend play zone, a learning garden and a huge STEM learning place. Unfortunately, the musuem closes at 5pm and there is still so much more to explore. We will definitely be back again if we are in the area.

Location - The Cup - Central West End Address - 28 Maryland Plaza Rear, St. Louis, MO 63108 The Cup was St. Louis’ first gourmet cupcake bakery opened in 2007. It is a corner stall hiding behind the main maryland plaza. Not only do they have the classic Cup cake, they also have vegan option, gluten free option and seasonal special such as carrot, pumpkin, and summer crush. Our favourite among all is the Gooey Butter Cake. There even have a cupcake calendar to let us know in advance what cupcake flavour will be available in the next few weeks. The venue can also accommodate dine in as well as event such as birthday party or cocktail party but with lots of sweet treat!

Address - 4652 Maryland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108 Ambiance/Facilities - Musuem with plenty of unique chess set display Highlights - World largest chess piece right outside the musuem Avg. Price per Person - Free The World Chess Hall of Fame (WCHOF) is located in Central West End neighborhood of St. Louis, Missouri. Right outside the musuem stood a Guinness World Record for the world's largest chess piece, a Staunton King measuring 20 feet tall. There is also a giant complete chess set for you to have a game with your friend. If you are more interested in unique chess display, there are plenty to see and explore within the World Chess Hall of Fame musuem. There are also plenty of restaurants and starbucks coffee right next door if you are looking for a bit or your caffeine boast.

Address - 4656 Maryland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108 Ambiance/Facilities - Awesome ambience with tree and greenery overlooking the place, giving you an impression on entering into a nature wonderland. Highlights - the coffee is as good as it get the place is wonderful for an afternoon coffee break or even a spot for working with a change of environment. Avg. Price per Person - $10 There is the the World Chess Hall of Fame right next door which you can find the largest individual chess piece in the world. You can also bring your coffee to the outdoor table next door to have a chess game while sipping your coffee.

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#holidayitinerary Towering 630 feet over the Mississippi River, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis is a must-see monument to American expansion. The sleek, stainless steel structure is not just photogenic—it’s experiential. Take the tram to the top for panoramic views of the city, then explore the fascinating Museum of the Westward Expansion below. The surrounding parkland is ideal for a riverfront stroll, picnic, or riverboat cruise. Whether you're into architecture, history, or epic views, the Arch is a shining star on your Missouri #holidayitinerary.

#holidayitinerary In the heart of St. Louis, the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery invites you into the legacy of American brewing. The free brewery tour includes a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, stables of the iconic Budweiser Clydesdales, and tastings of classic and seasonal brews. The Bevo packaging plant and century-old architecture add industrial beauty to the visit. With options ranging from basic tours to Beer Master experiences, there’s something for every beer lover. If you're 21+, this tour is a must-sip on your Missouri #holidayitinerary.

#holidayitinerary One of the best free zoos in the world, the St. Louis Zoo in Forest Park is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Home to over 16,000 animals across 500 species, it’s easy to spend a full day exploring exhibits like the Polar Bear Point, River’s Edge, and Penguin & Puffin Coast. The zoo’s commitment to conservation and education is impressive, and the lush, walkable layout makes visiting a breeze. The fact that it’s free only adds to the magic. Don’t miss this gem on your Missouri #holidayitinerary.

#holidayitinerary The City Museum in St. Louis defies categorization—part funhouse, part sculpture park, part urban jungle gym. Built inside a 10-story former shoe warehouse, this attraction is packed with repurposed architectural and industrial objects. Crawl through tunnels, climb into an airplane hanging off the roof, or slide down a 10-story chute. It's creative chaos for both kids and adults. Every corner is a work of art and a surprise. This is not your typical museum—it’s a joyful mess of imagination. Add this quirky adventure to your Missouri #holidayitinerary for a completely unique experience.

📅 Itinerary Day1：visiting St Louis arch Day2: going out to bar Day3: canafest in St louis 🏨 Accommodation 🍴 Food Recommendations 📌 Tips

Standing beneath the iconic Gateway Arch is awe-inspiring, isn’t it!? Riding to the top is a whole other experience, it feels like you are in a spaceship. Absolutely amazing how they managed to transport people up! The sleek, modern design contrasts beautifully with the historic Mississippi River views. Pro tip: Visit at sunset for golden hues reflecting off the arch’s steel curves. Don’t forget to explore the museum below—it’s packed with fascinating stories about America’s westward expansion. And of course, lay directly under the arch in the grass and just admire the view 😉. #thingstodo #citydaytours #familytravel #GatewayArch #StLouis #TravelUSA #ArchitectureLover #MustVisit

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🕰️Business Hours: 9AM to 6PM 📍Address: The gateway Arch 💰Average Price per Person: 20$ to 50$. 🗓️Itinerary Scheduling: 4 to 5hours. #travel #thingstodo #familytravel

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#4月好去地方2025 St. Louis is famous for its majestic Arch, a 304-meter-high steel structure that symbolizes the expansion of the West. Take the elevator to the top for spectacular views of the city and the Mississippi River. The city center is rich in museums and historical attractions, such as the Missouri History Museum, which tells the local pioneering story. The park along the river is a great place for walking and picnics. St. Louis has a strong blues music culture. You can listen to live music in bars at night and feel the charm of the city. The barbecue and beer here are also very famous and will make you salivate.

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, is a iconic 630-foot-tall stainless steel monument that symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States. Must-see Attractions 1. Tram Ride to the Top:Take a tram ride to the top of the Arch for breathtaking views of the city and Mississippi River. 2. Museum: Explore the Museum of Westward Expansion to learn about the history and significance of the Arch. 3. Grounds and Plaza: Stroll around the grounds and plaza, enjoying the beautiful views and public art installations. Tips 1. Book Tickets in Advance: Plan ahead and book tickets for the tram ride and museum to avoid long wait times. 2. Arrive Early: Get there early to beat the crowds and heat. 3. Take Photos: Don't miss the photo opportunities at the top of the Arch and around the grounds. The Gateway Arch is a must-visit attraction in St. Louis, offering stunning views, rich history, and a unique experience. #postandearn #urbanexplorer #missouri #travel #usa

I've been in St. Louis for a month and finally found the time to explore this city. I'm falling more in love with it every day!🥰 The slow pace of life here is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the moment.😌 Let's start with the attractions🧐. [One] Gateway Arch: This iconic arch is the gateway to the American West and a symbol of westward expansion. It's also said to be the tallest arch in the world.😎 You can take a trip to the top for panoramic city views (it takes about 2 hours). Right next door is Gateway Arch National Park and City Garden, which features some impressive sculptures and is definitely worth a visit.📷 [Two] The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis: This cathedral boasts stunning Romanesque architecture and an eye-catching green tiled roof. Inside, the intricate mosaic decorations are unique and awe-inspiring.🤩 The bells chime melodiously on the hour every day, and there are free tours after weekend Mass – don't miss them!👏 [Three] Six Flags: While not as large as some other Six Flags parks, you can easily experience everything it has to offer in half a day. The fireworks display on Independence Day is incredibly romantic.🎆 [Four] Saint Louis Zoo: This zoo has an amazing variety of animals, and best of all, it's free!🆓 You can easily spend 4 or 5 hours here admiring all the adorable creatures. I especially loved the flamingos – they're so cute!🥰 [Five] Saint Louis Art Museum: Located near the zoo, this museum houses a rich collection of art from around the world, creating a vibrant artistic atmosphere.🎨 [Six] Washington University in St. Louis: This prestigious Ivy League university has a serene and elegant campus. Take a stroll and soak in the academic ambiance.📚 [Seven] Market Street: Explore the historic architecture, antique shops, craft stores, and restaurants along Market Street, and experience the blend of history and modernity.😃 [Eight] City Museum: This unique museum is full of fun and surprises – waiting for you to discover them!🧐 Now, let's talk about food!😋 I was craving Sichuan and Northeastern Chinese cuisine, so I did some research. Chilispot is a highly recommended Sichuan restaurant with authentic flavors.👍 I also wanted to try Cate Zone for Northeastern food, but unfortunately, it was closed when I went. A bit of a disappointment.😔 If you ever have the chance to visit St. Louis, be sure to follow this guide for an amazing trip!

| A free animal wonderland. Who could have imagined that there's such a fantastic free zoo in St. Louis! Located in Forest Park, the Saint Louis Zoo is one of the best zoos in the world, where you can have a close encounter with many adorable animals🐾. As soon as you enter the zoo, you can feel the vibrant atmosphere. The African Savanna is a must-see, where you can watch herds of zebras and antelopes strolling leisurely, and giraffes stretching their necks to eat leaves, as if you've been transported to the African continent in a second🌍. The Penguin & Puffin Coast is also worth a visit. Watching the penguins waddle around and occasionally dive into the water for a quick swim is incredibly cute. In the cat complex, lions, tigers, and other big cats exude a regal aura, inspiring both awe and fascination. Travel Guide Transportation✈: If you're driving, navigate to the Saint Louis Zoo. There's a parking lot, but it can get crowded on weekends and holidays. For public transportation, take the bus to a stop near Forest Park and then walk to the zoo. Tickets🎫: The Saint Louis Zoo is free, but some special exhibitions or experiences require separate fees, such as close encounters with animals. Opening Hours⏰: Generally open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with last entry at 4:00 pm. Opening hours may be extended during the summer. Check the official website for details. Suggested Route🗺: It is recommended to enter through the main gate and visit the African Savanna first, followed by the Penguin & Puffin Coast, then the cat complex, primate house, and so on. The zoo is quite large, so plan your rest time accordingly. There are plenty of rest areas and restaurants in the park. Tips✨: You can bring your own snacks and water. There are also restaurants and snack stalls in the zoo, but the prices may be a bit higher. Animals are more active in the morning, so it's recommended to visit early.

📍 St. Louis, a city in the Midwestern United States 🚗 Transportation Guide: St. Louis is easily accessible, with Lambert–St. Louis International Airport connecting to destinations worldwide. The city has a well-developed public transportation system, with buses and light rail covering major attractions. Driving is also a good option, with wide roads and convenient parking. 🏰 Must-See Attractions: 1️⃣ Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis: This magnificent cathedral is not only a religious site but also an architectural gem. Stepping inside feels like traveling back to medieval Europe, with every detail imbued with a sense of history. 2️⃣ St. Louis Zoo: One of the top-ranked zoos in the United States, and it's free! It houses animals from all over the world, offering a chance to connect with nature. 3️⃣ Saint Louis Art Museum: A legacy of the 1904 World's Fair! It has three floors and is free on Thursdays. The museum boasts a rich collection of art from ancient times to the present day. - 📸 Photo Spots: ✨ Gateway Arch: The iconic landmark of St. Louis. Take the elevator to the top for a panoramic view of the city. ✨ Forest Park: An urban oasis with picturesque scenery, perfect for capturing natural beauty and enjoying leisure time.