Top 26 Attractions and Activities in St. Louis, Missouri for 2025

Awesome Things to Do in St. Louis, MO

Founded in 1764, St. Louis boasts numerous historical buildings that have been beautifully renovated for modern-day use. This vibrant city is rich with nationally recognized museums that host fascinating exhibits and art. Moreover, St. Louis offers delicious local food and unique twists on classic dishes that are a must-try.

Here’s a look at some of the best things to do in St. Louis!

1. Check out The Gateway Arch National Park

The Gateway Arch National Park is named after the spectacular 630-foot-tall Gateway Arch. This national park embodies St. Louis’ historical significance in the Westward Expansion of the United States in the 19th century. It highlights Thomas Jefferson’s pivotal role, the pioneers who shaped American history, and Dred Scott’s historic lawsuit for freedom in the Old Courthouse.

The Gateway Arch is the park’s centerpiece, offering a short 4-minute ride to the top, priced between $13-$19 per person. Additionally, visitors can explore a brand new free museum that details St. Louis’ part in the westward expansion, along with a 30-minute documentary detailing the Arch’s construction.

This iconic landmark provides breathtaking views of downtown St. Louis and the Illinois side of the Mississippi River. If you visit St. Louis, the Gateway Arch is an essential experience!

2. Go to a Cardinals Game at Busch Stadium

The St. Louis Cardinals are the city’s professional baseball team, competing at Busch Stadium, where they have proudly clinched the Major League Baseball World Series title 11 times, trailing only the New York Yankees. While some may be biased, Cardinals games offer an exhilarating experience for fans and visitors alike.

From April to September, capturing the thrill of a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium is easy. It offers an affordable outing for families, with tickets averaging around $40. If you’re willing to embrace the excitement from the nosebleed section, you can find tickets as low as $11.

Arriving early is highly recommended to fully embrace the Busch Stadium experience, including wonderful views of the Gateway Arch and downtown St. Louis. Don’t forget to indulge in the delicious ballpark food!

3. Go out for Drinks at Ballpark Village

Ballpark Village is a vibrant 150,000-square-foot retail and entertainment district located directly across from Busch Stadium. It features popular venues like Budweiser Brewhouse, Cardinals Nation, Bally Sports Live!, and various other restaurants and entertainment spots.

Producing over 120 free annual events, Ballpark Village has attracted more than 10 million visitors! This exciting area is firmly established as a hub for St. Louis nightlife and community activities, conveniently located within walking distance of downtown attractions.

Open year-round, Ballpark Village provides options for all ages, with a lively atmosphere throughout the day and night. Enjoy a drink, dine, shop, and explore everything this enjoyable destination has to offer!

4. Get out in Nature at Forest Park

Forest Park is regarded as one of the nation’s premier urban public parks, encompassing 1,300 acres of stunning landscapes featuring diverse ecosystems, nature reserves, lakes, and streams. Notably, many of its cultural institutions are free for the public!

To put its size into perspective, Forest Park is even larger than Central Park in New York City! This makes it the ideal location to host the Saint Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, The Muny, Saint Louis Science Center, and Saint Louis Zoo, all within its expansive grounds.

The Saint Louis Zoo, located on the southwest side of Forest Park, ranks among the top 10 zoos in the United States and is one of the few free zoos, focusing on conservation and research efforts.

5. Day Trip to St. Charles

St. Charles is a fantastic day trip option from St. Louis, also offering opportunities to float down Missouri’s stunning rivers on a Missouri float trip. Founded in 1769, St. Charles is a beautifully restored historic city situated on the west side of the Missouri River.

Visitors can enjoy dining, drinking, and shopping on Historic Main Street. Numerous events take place throughout the year, many of which are free to attend, enhancing the charm of St. Charles.

St. Charles is conveniently located approximately 35 minutes from St. Louis, making it an ideal day trip to include in your St. Louis itinerary!

6. Visit the Saint Louis Art Museum

The Saint Louis Art Museum, also known as SLAM, is situated on the west side of Forest Park. It serves as one of the major art museums in the United States, showcasing stunning and thought-provoking paintings, sculptures, cultural artifacts, and ancient masterpieces from across the globe.

The museum welcomes visitors every Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with free admission every day of the year, including for the main rotating exhibitions on Fridays.

With over 34,000 pieces spanning 5,000 years of history and culture, the continuously evolving exhibitions and interactive activities make it an exciting destination for all ages.

7. Meander through the Missouri Botanical Garden

The Missouri Botanical Garden, affectionately known as Shaw’s Garden, serves as a center for botanical research and education in St. Louis. Spanning 79 acres, the garden features a spectacular 14-acre Japanese garden, historic architecture, and one of the world’s most significant collections of rare and endangered plants.

Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, visitors can enjoy top attractions such as the Climatron, Japanese Garden, and Sachs Museum. For those looking to take a break, there are narrated tram tours to explore the garden.

The admission fee is only $14 for adults, which grants access to rotating events throughout the season, ensuring a beautiful experience at one of St. Louis’s most picturesque locations.

8. Learn about History at the St. Louis History Museum

Another free standout, the Missouri History Museum located at Forest Park’s north entrance, delves into the histories of those who call the St. Louis region home. Managed by the Missouri Historical Society, it explores the city’s history from its founding in 1764 to modern day.

Exhibits showcase various aspects of St. Louis history, including sports, life on the Mississippi, and the 1904 World’s Fair. The museum operates Tuesdays through Sundays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with free admission offered for general entrance and most rotating exhibits.

For a more in-depth history experience, the Missouri Historical Society provides over 24 different tours that creatively blend storytelling with rich historical knowledge.

9. Go on a Brewery Crawl

St. Louis is renowned for its thriving craft beer scene, featuring over 20 breweries and thousands of beer styles. Favorites include 4 Hands Brewing Co., The Schlafly Tap Room, and Urban Chestnut Brewing Co., among many others.

Moreover, St. Louis is famously home to Budweiser, the headquarters of Anheuser-Busch, where you can experience the Budweiser Brewery Tour. This tour allows visitors to explore the brewery, meet the iconic Clydesdales, and sample beer right from the source.

Budweiser offers tailored experiences that vary in cost from $15-$40, ensuring a memorable visit for beer enthusiasts.

10. Head to The Hill for Delicious Italian Food

The Hill is an iconic Italian neighborhood in St. Louis, founded by Italian immigrants in the 1800s. The area is characterized by its charming “little Italy” atmosphere, full of proud residents and rich history.

Visitors can enjoy authentic Italian dining at any of the 25 superb restaurants, shop for unique gifts, or stay at local bed and breakfasts within historic homes.

Lastly, don’t miss out on St. Louis’s beloved toasted ravioli, often served as an appetizer with marinara sauce. This local delicacy was first created in the 1950s and remains a cherished favorite!

11. Go on an Adventure at The City Museum

While exploring downtown St. Louis, you might find yourself in front of a building featuring a school bus hanging off the side—welcome to the City Museum!

This whimsical museum is a playground of creativity, featuring rooftop attractions, four floors of interactive installations, and fascinating collections made from repurposed architectural materials. It’s perfect for adults and children alike to enjoy.

Entry starts at $20 per person, granting access to over 30 slides, man-made caves, treehouses and tunnels, and even the world’s largest pencil. Additionally, visitors from March to October can access the rooftop for an additional $8 for panoramic views of the city.

12. See the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis dates back to 1764, showcasing stunning artistry both inside and outside. Its architectural beauty makes it a must-visit stop while in St. Louis.

Both guided and self-guided tours are available most days between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. The lower level houses the Mosaic Museum, which showcases several displays about mosaic design and installation, including historic religious artifacts.

You can also explore the Crypt within the museum for a unique experience. The museum remains open until 4:00 PM, with a suggested donation of $2 for admission.

13. Drink a Root Beer Float at Fitz’s

Fitz’s is a beloved St. Louis microbrewery and restaurant, known for its delicious American food, famous floats, and shakes. Fitz’s bottles its unique flavors right inside the restaurant, with their root beer being the star.

This isn’t your ordinary root beer; it’s been recognized as one of the best in the United States, based on an original recipe developed in St. Louis in 1947. The iconic Root Beer Float is a must-try!

Fitz’s serves these large floats daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM at their historic Delmar Loop or South County locations.

14. Head to the Museum of Transportation

Founded in 1944, the Museum of Transportation offers a fascinating journey through 190 major exhibits. Recognized as home to the largest collection of transportation vehicles globally, it features historic trains, cars, boats, and planes, all embedded in St. Louis history.

Beyond transportation, the museum also includes beautiful gardens across three levels, complemented by native plants that support local wildlife.

Barrett’s Landing Café, located on-site, offers a variety of foods, perfect for a break during your visit. The museum opens Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with admission starting at just $5 per person.

15. Get an Ice Cream at Ted Drewe’s

Ted Drewe’s has been a popular destination for frozen custard in St. Louis for more than 80 years. Best known for its “concrete”—a thick malt or shake served upside down—this unique treat is perfect for cooling off after a busy day of activities.

Ted Drewe’s offers a variety of delicious frozen desserts, making it a traditional stop for locals and visitors alike, especially after visiting attractions like the Arch, the Fox and Muny Theaters, or enjoying a Cardinals game.

16. Visit Union Station

Once one of the largest and busiest passenger rail terminals globally, St. Louis’s Union Station now serves as a vibrant hub for entertainment and dining.

Union Station houses the St. Louis Aquarium, a giant Ferris wheel, a rope course, mini-golf, a carousel, and light shows. With numerous dining options, including nine restaurants, it’s easy to make a full day exploring the attractions available. Visitors can also stay overnight at the Union Station Hotel.

The St. Louis Union Station offers an experience rich in history and fun for families looking to spend a delightful day together!

17. Spend a day at St. Louis Science Center

The Saint Louis Science Center is another free and exciting attraction. As one of the only free nonprofit science museums in the United States, it welcomes over a million visitors annually.

With more than 700 interactive experiences across 10 galleries, it includes an outdoor agricultural pavilion, the well-known McDonnell Planetarium, and a four-story OMNIMAX Theater. Children will be awed by the dinosaur exhibits!

The Science Center beautifully blends experimentation, creativity, and education, making it an excellent destination for a family outing.

18. See a Show at The Fabulous Fox Theater

The Fabulous Fox Theater, a former movie palace, is now a performing arts center presenting some of the best Broadway shows in St. Louis. Offering performances ranging from Broadway productions to renowned concerts, the theater is a staple of the city’s cultural scene.

Known for its exquisite interior, visiting the Fabulous Fox can be an experience for as little as $32. Located in the Grand Center arts district, the area boasts fantastic dining options and hotels for a complete evening out.

19. Check out the City Garden Sculpture Park

Right in the heart of downtown, City Garden Sculpture Park offers free interactive art, fountains, and gardens. Spanning approximately two blocks, it features paved paths leading visitors around 24 sculptures, six rain gardens, a children’s spray plaza, and a 180-foot-long pool with a waterfall.

The City Garden Sculpture Park is particularly inviting on hot summer days and is an excellent spot for families, as the sculptures are made for interaction and enjoyment.

20. Grab some Veggies at the Soulard Farmers Market

The Soulard Farmers Market is the oldest public market in St. Louis and west of the Mississippi River. Situated in the heart of the Soulard neighborhood, the market offers 147 vendor stalls selling everything from fresh produce to cheeses, snacks, sweets, and more!

This open-air market operates from Wednesday through Saturday year-round. While there is no entry fee, it’s advisable to carry cash for vendors who may not accept credit or debit cards.

21. Use your Imagination at the St. Louis Magic House

The St. Louis Magic House is a nonprofit children’s museum filled with hands-on exhibits that foster interactive learning. Located in nearby Kirkwood, this educational destination has delighted over 15 million visitors since its inception in a Victorian mansion.

Open Tuesdays through Sundays from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM, admission costs just $6.00 for visitors aged one and older, with a Free Family Night occurring every third Friday of the month.

22. Art Hill

Positioned in front of the St. Louis Art Museum, Art Hill offers a picturesque grassy area overlooking the Grand Basin in Forest Park, previously the center of the World’s Fair in 1904.

It is an ideal setting for a picnic during sunny days, and in the summer, Art Hill hosts a film series, showcasing popular movies and concerts throughout the week. In winter, it becomes a popular sledding hill!

23. World Chess Hall of Fame

Located in the Central West End, the World Chess Hall of Fame is a nonprofit institution dedicated to the celebrated game of chess with year-round exhibits and programs.

Here, visitors learn about the history of chess and its cultural impacts. The Hall is home to the Guinness World Records’ Largest Chess Piece, making it a must-visit for chess enthusiasts.

Working in conjunction with its sister organization, the Saint Louis Chess Club, St. Louis holds the esteemed title of the Chess Capital of the United States, making it a viable destination for chess lovers!

24. Laumeier Sculpture Park

Laumeier Sculpture Park lies about 20 minutes from downtown St. Louis, providing a beautiful venue for art and nature enthusiasts. Covering 105 acres, it features rolling gardens and 60 outdoor sculptures.

In partnership with the St. Louis County Parks and Recreation Department, the park frequently hosts workshops, events, and festivals that celebrate local art.

25. Contemporary Art Museum

The Contemporary Art Museum in St. Louis invites visitors to explore a wealth of contemporary art. It is yet another free venue that takes pride in its captivating exhibits.

Located in the Grand Center Arts District, where numerous museums and concert halls converge, the CAM regularly hosts artist talks, film screenings, and workshops. First Fridays brings even more excitement, with live DJ performances and guided tours.

26. National Blues Museum

The National Blues Museum is dedicated to honoring and educating visitors about the origins of blues music and its profound cultural influence. Opened in 2016, the museum’s opening featured a speech from B.B. King’s daughter, celebrating its significance.

The museum features rotating educational exhibits and stellar performances within its state-of-the-art theater, with an entry fee of $15 for adults. Conveniently located downtown, it’s easily accessible for visitors exploring other significant sites like the Arch.

Wrap-Up: The Best Things to Do in St. Louis, Missouri

Whether you plan to spend a day or a week, St. Louis has an abundance of fun and exciting activities for everyone. From enjoyable days spent outdoors at a baseball game to discovering unique local cuisine like toasted ravioli, this vibrant city offers something for everyone.

While it may be challenging to experience all 26 attractions in one visit, we hope this guide helps you narrow down your must-do experiences, making your St. Louis adventure unforgettable!