Discovering The Best Of St Louis Through Its Zip Code Map
St Louis, Missouri is known for its iconic Gateway Arch, but there is so much more to this city than meets the eye. With a rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse neighborhoods, St Louis is a destination worth exploring. To help you plan your trip, we have created a comprehensive travel guide based on the city’s zip code map. From top attractions to hidden gems, here are the best things to do in St Louis.
Top Attractions in St Louis
The city boasts an array of must-see attractions, including the Gateway Arch, Forest Park, and the Missouri Botanical Garden. The Gateway Arch is an iconic symbol of the city standing at 630 feet tall, offering breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country, spanning over 1,300 acres and featuring a world-class zoo, museums, and a golf course. The Missouri Botanical Garden is a stunning oasis of lush greenery and flowers, with a Japanese garden, Victorian garden, and a Climatron conservatory.
Hidden Gems in St Louis
While the top attractions are a must-see, there are also some hidden gems to discover. The City Museum is a unique space that combines art, architecture, and play, featuring a ten-story slide, caves, and a circus. The Hill is a charming Italian neighborhood with delicious restaurants and specialty food shops. The Cherokee Antique Row is a vintage lover’s paradise, with over 30 antique shops and art galleries to explore.
Food Scene in St Louis
St Louis is a foodie destination, with an array of local specialties and international cuisine to indulge in. St Louis-style pizza is a must-try, with a thin, crispy crust and a unique cheese blend. The city is also known for its barbecue, with Pappy’s Smokehouse and Sugarfire Smoke House being two of the best spots to satisfy your cravings. For a taste of international cuisine, head to The Hill for Italian, or to Cherokee Street for Mexican and Vietnamese.
Budget-Friendly Tips
St Louis is a budget-friendly destination, with many free or low-cost activities to enjoy. The St Louis Zoo, Art Museum, and History Museum are all free to enter. The Gateway Arch is also free to visit, but there is a fee to ride up to the top. You can save money on food by exploring the city’s food trucks and local markets, or by dining during happy hour when many restaurants offer discounted prices.
Outdoor Adventures in St Louis
For outdoor enthusiasts, St Louis offers an array of activities to enjoy. The Katy Trail State Park is a 237-mile trail that runs through the heart of Missouri, offering scenic views of the countryside. The Missouri River is also a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing. Forest Park is a great place to explore on foot or bike, with over 80 miles of trails to enjoy. And for a unique experience, head to Citygarden, a sculpture park in downtown St Louis.
Historical Landmarks in St Louis
St Louis has a rich history, and there are many landmarks that showcase the city’s past. The Old Courthouse is where the famous Dred Scott case was heard, and it now houses a museum dedicated to the history of the courthouse and the city. The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is located just across the river in Illinois and features the remains of an ancient Native American city. And the Missouri History Museum in Forest Park offers a fascinating look at the state’s history.
Family-Friendly Activities in St Louis
St Louis is a great destination for families, with many attractions and activities that cater to all ages. The St Louis Science Center is a hands-on museum with interactive exhibits and a planetarium. The Magic House is a children’s museum that features over 100 exhibits, including a miniature town and a bubble room. And the City Museum is a playground for all ages, with a ten-story slide, caves, and a circus.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in St Louis
For those looking for something unique, St Louis has several off-the-beaten-path experiences to discover. The Lemp Mansion is a historic home that is said to be haunted, offering ghost tours and a restaurant. The Turtle Playground in University City is a whimsical space with giant turtle sculptures and a turtle-themed playground. And the Soulard Farmers Market is a lively market with fresh produce, specialty foods, and live music.
Natural Wonders in St Louis
St Louis is surrounded by natural beauty, from the Mississippi River to the Ozark Mountains. The Missouri Botanical Garden is a stunning oasis of lush greenery and flowers, with a Japanese garden, Victorian garden, and a Climatron conservatory. The Shaw Nature Reserve is a beautiful space to explore, with over 2,400 acres of gardens, trails, and forests. And the Ozark Trail offers scenic views of the Ozark Mountains, with hiking, camping, and rock climbing opportunities.
Vibrant Nightlife in St Louis
St Louis has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. The Delmar Loop is a popular spot for live music, with venues like Blueberry Hill and The Pageant. The Central West End is a trendy neighborhood with upscale bars and restaurants. And the Soulard neighborhood is known for its lively bar scene, with many options for craft beer and cocktails.
Local Markets in St Louis
For those who love to shop, St Louis has several local markets to explore. The Soulard Farmers Market is a lively market with fresh produce, specialty foods, and live music. The Tower Grove Farmers Market is a weekly market that features local vendors, food trucks, and live music. And the Cherokee Street Antique Row Market is a monthly market that showcases vintage and handmade goods.
Beaches and Mountains in St Louis
While St Louis is not known for its beaches or mountains, there are several options within driving distance. The Lake of the Ozarks is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. The Ozark Mountains offer scenic views and outdoor activities like hiking and camping. And the nearby town of Grafton, Illinois has a beach on the Mississippi River, with swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding opportunities.
Cultural Immersion in St Louis
St Louis is a diverse city with a rich culture, and there are many opportunities to immerse yourself in the local community. The International Institute of St Louis offers classes and events that celebrate the city’s multicultural heritage. The Cherokee Street neighborhood is a hub for the city’s immigrant communities, with Mexican, Vietnamese, and Bosnian restaurants and businesses. And the Missouri History Museum offers exhibits and events that highlight the city’s cultural history.
Art and Music Scene in St Louis
St Louis has a thriving art and music scene, with many galleries, museums, and venues to explore. The St Louis Art Museum is a world-class museum with a collection that spans from ancient to contemporary art. The Pulitzer Arts Foundation is a contemporary art museum that showcases works by international artists. And the Sheldon Concert Hall is a historic venue that hosts a range of music genres, from classical to jazz.
Walking Tours in St Louis
St Louis is a great city to explore on foot, with many walking tours to choose from. The Gateway Arch grounds offer a variety of tours, including a tram ride to the top of the arch. The Missouri Botanical Garden offers guided tours of the gardens and conservatories. And the Laclede’s Landing neighborhood offers history tours that showcase the city’s colonial past.
Architectural Marvels in St Louis
St Louis has a rich architectural history, with many buildings and landmarks that showcase the city’s past and present. The Gateway Arch is a modern marvel of engineering, designed by Eero Saarinen. The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis is a stunning example of mosaic art, with over 41 million pieces of glass. And the Fox Theatre is a historic venue with Spanish-inspired architecture and a stunning interior.
Historical Sites in St Louis
St Louis has a rich history, and there are many historical sites to discover. The Old Courthouse is where the famous Dred Scott case was heard, and it now houses a museum dedicated to the history of the courthouse and the city. The Missouri Botanical Garden was founded in 1859 and is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the country. And the Gateway Arch was built to commemorate the westward expansion of the United States in the 19th century.
Biking Routes in St Louis
St Louis is a bike-friendly city, with many biking routes to choose from. The Katy Trail State Park is a 237-mile trail that runs through the heart of Missouri, offering scenic views of the countryside. Forest Park is a great place to explore on bike, with over 80 miles of trails to enjoy. And the Riverfront Trail offers stunning views of the Mississippi River, with a dedicated bike lane and bike rental options.
Wellness Retreats in St Louis
For those looking for a wellness getaway, St Louis has several options to choose from. The Four Seasons Hotel St Louis offers a range of