Helen & Nathaniel
Things To Do
Forest Park
Forest Park is the heart of St. Louis. It is the home to miles of walking and biking trails (1,326 acres in total), and fantastic free museums like the St. Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, St. Louis Science Center, and St. Louis Zoo. A particular favorite spot of our is is the Jewel Box, which is a beautiful greenhouse.
Tower Grove Park
Tower Grove Park is a 289 acre municipal park in St. Louis containing 32 pavilions, most dating from the Victorian era, which make for good sightseeing while walking. The Missouri Botanical Gardens are located adjacent to Tower Grove Park. Particular highlights are the Climatron and Japanese Garden.
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
The remains of the most sophisticated prehistoric native civilization north of Mexico are preserved at Cahokia Mounds, which is located directly across the Mississippi River from St. Louis. The Interpretive Center is currently closed for renovation, so we recommend reading about the Mississippians before visiting the site.
Gateway Arch National Park
Located in Downtown St. Louis, the Arch's grounds are great for a walk and view of the river. Did you know that the Arch is the tallest monument in the US (you can take a ride to the top)? We recommend the 35-minute documentary on the construction of the Arch in its Visitor Center. The museum under the arch shares St. Louis' role in US history.
Contemporary Art Museum
The Contemporary Art Museum and Pulitzer Arts Foundation (located directly next door) put on fantastic free exhibits of modern artists. They are both part of the Grand Center Arts District, which is home to dozens of other museums, galleries, theaters, and concert halls.
Anheuser-Busch St. Louis Brewery
The brewery is designated as a National Historic Landmark District and has multiple daily tour options. The brewery facilities are unlike those that you are likely to have experienced elsewhere — there are so many beautiful architectural details in this old complex. You also get to see Clydesdales!
Classic Local Restaurants
For local favorites that have been around for years, we recommend: Fitz's Root Beer (located in Delmar Loop) - Lively root beer factory & restaurant offering American grub, floats & views of its bottling line. O'Connell's Pub (located near the Hill) - It's been open for over 50 years and is famous for its burgers and onion rings. Pappy's Smokehouse (located in Midtown) - Known for the best BBQ in St. Louis - particularly ribs. City Coffee & Creperie (located in Clayton) - A wonderful breakfast/brunch spot to get a sweet or savory crepe.
Newer Food + Drink Favorites
A few of our favorite places in STL that started in the past decade or so include: Salt + Smoke (various locations including in the Delmar Loop, Central West End and Ballpark Village) - Offers St. Louis-style BBQ. Bailey's Range (located Downtown) - Known for burgers and shakes. Check out other Bailey's restaurants here: https://www.baileysrestaurants.com/. Urban Chestnut (locations in the Grove and Midtown) - One of the most popular microbreweries in STL! Three Sixty (located Downtown) - This rooftop bar is known for its panoramic views of Downtown St. Louis, including of the Arch.