Home to over 12,000* animals, representing 500* species, the Saint Louis Zoo is recognized worldwide for its innovative approaches to animal care and management, wildlife conservation, research and education. One of the few free zoos in the nation, the Saint Louis Zoo attracts approximately 3 million visitors annually and is the most-visited attraction in the region.
Plaza Frontenac is an upscale, two-level, enclosed, regional shopping center in Frontenac, Missouri (just 15 minutes from downtown St. Louis). Plaza Frontenac opened in 1974, anchored by Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, this mall has high-end tenants, many of which are unique to the region. You might even spot a celebrity during your visit!
City Museum is a hundred-year-old warehouse in downtown St. Louis in which artists have repurposed the pieces of old cities to build miles of tunnels, slides, climbers, bridges, and castles. There are secret passages and grand galleries. Playgrounds and ball pits. A circus and a train. A rooftop school bus and a Ferris wheel. This place is fun for ALL ages!
Gaze at over 43,000 tons of concrete and steel making an iconic, elegant arc 63 stories high into the Midwest sky. Shaped by the inspired design of Finnish-America architect Eero Saarinen, the Gateway Arch celebrates the westward expansion of the United States and the pioneers who made it possible. Since its completion in 1965, the monument has taken millions of visitors on the trip to the top to enjoy stunning views stretching up to 30 miles to the east and west. Begin your tour with the new, interactive pre-boarding exhibits featuring 60s era animation and Gateway Arch trivia. Then, be transported 630 feet to the top of America’s tallest monument.
West County Center is a huge shopping mall located in Des Peres, Missouri, a suburb of St. Louis. The mall is anchored by Macy's, JCPenney, Nordstrom, and Dick's Sporting Goods. This mall is three levels and filled with great restaurants.
You can't visit St. Louis without having a frozen custard from Ted Drewes! Ted’s “concrete” has been the most popular treat at the custard stands. The concrete, which was created in 1959, is a malt or shake so thick that it is served upside down.
Ranch lovers, THIS is your place! Twisted Ranch opened in June 2015, offering a full menu of ranch-infused fare like loaded fries, a garlic-ranch burger and pulled pork nachos in addition to 18 housemade ranch varieties. The brand quickly gained national attention thanks to a viral Buzzfeed video!
Voted the best toasted ravioli restaurant in St. Louis, Lombardo's Trattoria serves up its trademark toasted raviolis in a unique half circle shape that is also thicker than most others. They are lightly fried and tenderer than the usual toasted ravioli. Reservations HIGHLY recommended!