St. Louis

clear sky icon for current weather in St. Louis clear sky
68°

Overview

St. Louis is known for its iconic Gateway Arch, vibrant cultural scene, and rich history. It's a city that offers a blend of outdoor activities, music, and culinary delights.

History

St. Louis was founded in 1764 by French fur traders and named after King Louis IX of France. It grew rapidly in the 19th century and became a major port city on the Mississippi River.

Culture

St. Louis boasts a rich cultural diversity, with significant African American, Hispanic, and immigrant communities contributing to its vibrant cultural tapestry.

Interesting Facts

  • Home to the first Starbucks in the U.S.
  • The Gateway Arch is the tallest monument in the U.S.
  • St. Louis hosted the 1904 World's Fair
  • The city has more than 100 parks
  • It's known for its blues music scene
  • Home to the St. Louis Science Center
  • The St. Louis Cardinals are one of the most successful MLB teams
  • The city is famous for its barbecue and craft beer
  • St. Louis has the largest urban park in the U.S.
  • The city is named after a French king.

Expert Advice

  • Visit the Gateway Arch for stunning views
  • Explore Forest Park, larger than Central Park
  • Check out the City Museum for unique attractions
  • Don't miss the St. Louis Zoo, free admission
  • Try local specialties like toasted ravioli
  • Use public transport for easy city navigation
  • Visit during the summer for festivals
  • Explore the historic Soulard neighborhood
  • Attend a Cardinals baseball game
  • Sample local craft beers in breweries.

People on Budget

  • Take advantage of free attractions like parks and museums
  • Use public transport instead of taxis
  • Look for city passes for discounts on attractions
  • Dine at local eateries for affordable meals
  • Visit during off-peak seasons for better deals.

Emergency Details

  • 911
  • St. Louis Police Department: 314-231-1212
  • St. Louis Fire Department: 314-533-3406
  • American Red Cross: 314-516-2800
  • St. Louis City Health Department: 314-657-1499

Weather

St. Louis experiences a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summers can be quite humid, while winters may bring snow and ice.

Ideal time to visit

Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) for mild weather and local events.

Top Places to Visit in St. Louis

St. Louis caters to all tastes. Below, we have picked some crowd favorites. Prepare for memorable experiences that will leave a lasting impression:

  • Visit the Gateway Arch
  • Explore Forest Park
  • Tour the Missouri Botanical Garden
  • Attend a Cardinals game
  • Check out the City Museum
  • Stroll through the Delmar Loop
  • Visit the St. Louis Art Museum
  • Enjoy the St. Louis Zoo
  • Explore the Anheuser-Busch Brewery
  • Relax at the St. Louis Science Center
  • Discover the history at the Missouri History Museum
  • Visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis
  • Experience the Soulard neighborhood
  • Attend the St. Louis Blues hockey games
  • Walk along the Mississippi Riverfront
Image for Gateway Arch

Gateway Arch

The Iconic Gateway Arch

Image for Gateway Arch National Park

Gateway Arch National Park

Experience the Iconic Gateway Arch National Park

Image for The Gateway Arch Museum

The Gateway Arch Museum

Discover the Gateway Arch Museum

Top Places to Eat in St. Louis

St. Louis boasts a plethora of exceptional dining choices. Below, we highlight a few must-try options not to be missed during your visit. Prepare to savor the culinary delights that await you:

  • Toasted Ravioli
  • St. Louis-style pizza
  • Gooey Butter Cake
  • Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
  • Fried Chicken
  • St. Louis BBQ Ribs
  • Pork Steaks
  • Imo's Pizza
  • Soulard Farmers Market
  • Crown Candy Kitchen
  • Mango's Mexican Restaurant
  • Pappy's Smokehouse
  • The Crossing
  • Eleven Eleven Mississippi
  • The Shaved Duck

Crown Candy Kitchen

1401 Saint Louis Avenue, St. Louis

Soda Fountain, Historic Place, Dessert Shop, Ice Cream Shop, Candy Store

Pappy's Smokehouse

3106 Olive Street, St. Louis

casual dining, barbecue, food truck, local favorite, takeout, dine-in, family-friendly

The Hill

5300 Wilson Avenue, St. Louis

Historical Site, Tourist Attraction, Community, Market, Food Destination, Cultural District, Dining Area, Neighborhood

Farmhaus

3257 Ivanhoe Avenue, St. Louis

Family-Friendly, Farm-to-Table, Seasonal Menu, Sustainable Dining, Local Food, Brunch, Casual Dining, American Cuisine

Plan Your Trip to St. Louis

Ready to visit St. Louis? We can get you started! Choose how many days youd like to stay and well start an itinerary for you.