Things to do

22 Fun Things to Do in St Louis

St. Louis is a city in Missouri, USA. It is close to where the Mississippi and Missouri rivers meet. The city offers an unmatched arts and entertainment scene packed with free, first-rate events and many more things to do in St Louis.

Even, those who enjoy being outside will be pleasantly pleased by the historic buildings, thriving public parks, miles of trails, and spectacular rivers. This article will give you an insight into fun things to do in St Louis.

1. Things to do in St Louis

1.1. Saint Louis Art Museum

A decade that saw the building of art museums in key cities across the eastern section of the United States came to a conclusion with the founding of the Saint Louis Art Museum in 1879.

The extensive holdings of this museum are a testament to the inspiring and educational objectives, as well as the moral and democratic principles, that its creator espoused.

Today the museum has a spot among the top institutions of its kind because of the quality and scope of its collection.

The museum is home to a remarkable collection of over 34,000 objects from 5,000 years of history and culture. Make a trip to the Museum to see these one-of-a-kind pieces of art in person or explore the online collection to find out more.

1.2. Missouri Botanical Garden

Things to do in St Louis
Image by Goodfreephotos_com / Pixabay / Copyrights 2014

Shaw’s Garden, or the Missouri Botanical Garden, is a botanical garden southwest of downtown St in the United States. It is well renowned for its Climatron, a geodesic-dome greenhouse where 1,200 different plant species are grown under computer-controlled conditions that mimic a rainforest.

The privately managed garden got its beginnings in 1859 as a gift from a retailer called Henry Shaw. Moreover, the library’s botanical reference collection is among the best in the world.

1.3. Saint Louis Science Center

Things to do in St Louis
Image by ruthchia / Pixabay / Copyrights 2017

Just beyond Forest Park is where you will find the St. Louis Science Center. It inspires people to utilize their curiosity to create a more connected world. It inspires curious minds from all backgrounds to investigate, create, and share their ideas with them—and each other—as one of the few free nonprofit science museums in the nation.

Children (from six months to six years old) and their caregivers may play and learn together in the self-guided, hands-on Exploration Room. The exhibits, games, and activities intended to encourage inquiry into an examination of basic mathematical, scientific, and engineering concepts.

1.4. The Magic House Children’s Museum

The St. Louis Children’s Museum, commonly known as Magic House, is a nonprofit institution. It was established in 1979 with the goal of providing youngsters with experiential learning opportunities in a fun, engaging environment. This wildly popular attraction welcomes kids of all ages.

The Magic House is in Kirkwood, in St Louis. Parking is free, but spots fill up quickly, so using the train could be preferable, especially on weekends. It takes 30 minutes to get reach Kirkwood station from downtown St. Louis.

Older children can investigate politics at the Star-Spangled Centre. Watch as they attempt to read a speech from a podium, take a seat at the president’s desk, and cast their ballots in a polling booth.

Kids may practice plant care in the garden or have fun operating a model speedboat outside. They will like playing outside activities like hopscotch and paddling in the stream in the garden.

1.5. World Chess Hall of Fame

The World Chess Hall of Fame (WCHOF) lies in the Central West End area of St. Louis, MO, in the United States.

It maintains a list of people who have been inducted into the International Chess Hall of Fame and the U.S. Chess Hall of Fame, features chess exhibitions, and engages in educational outreach. It was founded in 1984, and the US Chess Trust sees its management.

You will receive a host of advantages as a member, such as access to behind-the-scenes tours with the Curators and invites to exclusive events with featured artists.

It is open every day. However, it closes for the following holidays- Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and New Year’s Eve.

When there is an event, the galleries are closed. For information on exceptional closings or early dismissals, please see the event calendar.

1.6. St Louis Zoo

Things to do in St Louis
Image by nonadski / Pixabay / Copyrights 2016

The Saint Louis Zoo in Forest Park is committed to the preservation of species and the interaction of people and nature. Home to more than 16,000 species, many of which are endangered, the zoo is open to the public every day for free.

In addition, the staff guides how to be ready for a job in zoos, aquariums, and other comparable wildlife institutions.

Lakeside Crossing in the heart of the zoo, is home to a number of dining options, retail stores, and a grassy plaza where guests may unwind. It is one of the few areas of the zoo that charges an entry fee and is open during the warmer months.

Red Rocks is home to Antelope House and Big Cat Country. There are numerous different species of large cats in Big Cat Land. The species featured include snow leopards, jaguars, cougars, Amur tigers, Amur leopards, and African lions.

1.7. Campbell House Museum

The Campbell House was the first residence in the affluent Lucas Place area when it was constructed in 1851. From 1854 until 1938, prominent businessman and fur trader Robert Campbell lived there with his family.

Many authentic Campbell heirlooms, including furniture, paintings, clothes, letters, carriages, and an exceptional collection of interior photos from the mid-1880s, are on display at the museum.

The museum has maintained the Campbells’ home as well as its collection of original fixtures, furniture, artwork, antiques, and hundreds of pages of family documents.

These files include a unique book with 60 photographs of the inside of the house that was taken in about 1885.

1.8. The Gateway Arch

Things to do in St Louis
Image by mddawdy / Pixabay / Copyrights 2015

The Gateway Arch is an important monument in St. Louis, MO. It is the world’s highest arch. It is made of stainless steel and constructed in the shape of a weighted catenary arch.

A free, cutting-edge, and easily accessible experience presenting more than 200 years of the city’s history is available at the Gateway Arch National Park Museum.

You may explore unseen tales of St. Louis’ foundation, various viewpoints on westward migration, and accessible objects honoring America’s spirit of entrepreneurship with six interactive galleries.

The museum encourages visitors to explore each gallery from various perspectives and learn about undiscovered stories at every turn through its use of Universal Design.

The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch offer the best skyline views in St. Louis, day or night, with their stunning panoramas. An enjoyable and different way to view the Gateway Arch is on a riverboat cruise. It offers a range of sightseeing, dinner, and specialized trip options.

1.9. The Frank Lloyd Wright House

Frank Lloyd Wright, widely regarded as the finest American architect of the 20th century, built the Frank Lloyd Wright House at Ebsworth Park, a historic mansion near Kirkwood, Missouri.

One of only five Wright designs in Missouri, the home constructed for Russell and Ruth Kraus was the architect’s first structure in the St. Louis region. It is a superb illustration of Wright’s democratic ideal, which aimed to make a magnificent building accessible to middle-class Americans at a reasonable price.

The docent-led tour includes a thorough walkthrough of the Usonian architecture as well as details on its history, conception, construction, and restoration.

In addition, you will discover more about Ruth and Russell Kraus and their inventiveness, tenacity, and dedication to creating their “little treasure.”

The tours run around an hour. It is always a good idea to get tickets in advance since there is a maximum number of people that may be on a tour and because they usually sell out.

1.10. St Louis Aquarium

Inside the remodeled Union Station is where you will find the aquarium. It is a train station that is a National Historic Landmark. You first go through a freshwater river and the shallow salt marsh waters of the St. Louis Aquarium before entering the vast, black open ocean.

On the subjects of water conservation, local waterways, and the consequences of plastic on our rivers and seas, the St. Louis Aquarium Foundation offers interactive science-based displays throughout the Aquarium.

The St. Louis Aquarium Foundation is devoted to performing STEM education programs and providing free Aquarium admission to those in underprivileged areas. It also speaks up for water conservation in the area.

1.11. International Photography Hall of Fame Museum

The International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum (IPHF) recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry. It also preserves historic images for the benefit of future generations.

The museum is situated in one of the country’s most heavily inhabited cultural districts, Grand Central, in St. Louis. It has 6,000 square feet of gallery and exhibition space.

Along with changing exhibits from IPHF and partner collections, the building houses a permanent tribute to the Hall of Fame Inductees.

1.12. Busch Stadium

Things to do in St Louis
Image by ESD-SS / Pixabay / Copyrights 2015

This stadium is one of St. Louis’s success most obvious emblems. If you arrive early, you may see batting practice at Busch Stadium.

If you arrive as the gates open, you can catch the final few pitches of the Cardinals’ batting practice. Enter through one of the outfield gates as they all open at the same time.

You have 45 minutes to find your seats after the conclusion of the visitors’ batting practice.

1.13. Old Courthouse

This Greek Revival structure with a Renaissance dome can be found at 11 North 4th Street and tops the slope that overlooks the Gateway Arch.

Architect Henry Singleton designed the structure, and construction on it began in 1839. It took till 1862 to complete the famous dome. Overlooking the roadway by 190 feet is the dome.

The Old Courthouse received formal designation as the second City Landmark in 1971.

Virginia Minor campaigned for women’s voting rights here, and it served as the location of the first two trials in the important Dred Scott case. provides a thorough history of early St. Louis through its four display halls. Ranger-led tours and trial reenactments are available.

It opens every day. It remains closed during Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Day.

1.14. The Butterfly House

It has more than 60 tropical butterfly species in the Conservatory. The conservatory also has many tropical plants. This area’s focal point is a lovely garden, which is complemented by the beauty of the butterflies.

Sam Sachs, who founded Sachs Electric Co. and was married to Sophia M. Sachs, had a considerable influence on the development of Chesterfield, Missouri, a suburb of St. Louis.

Up until the time of her passing in May 1999, Mrs. Sachs still marveled at discoveries. Over her life, she imparted that beauty to kids of all ages. This building bears her giving spirit’s name.

There is something fresh to discover here every day of the year. There is always something fascinating going on at the Butterfly House, from Morpho Mardi Gras in February and March to the spectacular Firefly Festival in June.

Caterpillar hosts and butterfly nectar sources abound in the Native Butterfly Garden. Also, this is the location for special occasions like weddings and private rentals.

Several of the unique invertebrates we have collected from throughout the world are on show in the exhibit hall.

1.15. Miniature Museum

Take an afternoon or an hour. Every trip is full of surprises. You will witness historical kitchens, primitive cottages, and disorganized attics among exquisite mansions, spooky houses, groomed gardens, game rooms, and stores, as well as hundreds of dolls, animals, and accessories.

The museum hosts a “Miniatures Only” Garage Sale in the spring and a “Museum Only” Garage Sale in the fall where other enthusiasts can sell extra artifacts and treasures to the public.

An all-volunteer Board of Directors oversees the operation of the museum. There are volunteer opportunities in both the museum and gift shop.

1.16. Grant’s Farm

You will find the parking lot just off Gravois Road on Grant Road. Get on the tram once you have parked, to go through Deer Park and visit all of the farm’s attractions.

Grant’s Farm does not accept cash. This location only accepts debit and credit cards.

Usually, mornings are the busiest. You may think about going in the afternoon. Grant’s Farm could briefly close when it hits capacity during busy times.

Your journey starts with a tram trip through Deer Park, where you may view a lot of wild creatures walking about. You may feed a variety of animals there, including goats when the tram drops you off at Tiergarten.

The Grant’s Farm Animal Friends show the carousel and the grounds are all available for your enjoyment. You may have lunch at the Brat Haus at the Bauernhof before catching the tram to return down to the visitor parking.

Do not forget to stop by the barn in the visitor parking area to see the renowned Budweiser Clydesdales. Please take note that several of the attractions, like the carousel and animal feed, have an extra price.

1.17. Soulard Farmers Market

The Soulard Farmers Market is housed in a “Grand Hall” designed in the Italian Renaissance “H” form, with four exterior wings serving as vendor booths and a central area for stores.

The market’s 147 vendors draw the largest visitors on Friday and Saturday, but it is open every week from Wednesday through Saturday.

At the outdoor market, vendors frequently sell fresh produce, meat, fish, cheese, baked goods, spices, flowers, and other items. The market offers a playground, park, and plaza in addition to free and metered parking.

Many of the sellers at Soulard Market are local farmers who regularly fill their trucks with seasonal, field-fresh fruits. Other vendors sell resale items that include both imported food and, when available, locally grown produce.

A little background:

Soulard, a French surveyor who worked for the Spanish during the colonial era, is the name given to the neighborhood where Soulard Market is situated. Julia, his widow, donated two blocks of property to the city for a permanent market when he passed away.

The market dates back to a local open-air farmer’s market that first opened in 1779, making it among the nation’s oldest farmer’s markets.

1.18. Laumeier Sculpture Park

Laumeier is home to a wide variety of animals, like owls and snakes, in addition to sculptures, flowers, and native plant species.

The Western Ratsnake, often known as a Black Snake, is one species in particular that you could encounter. It is one of the biggest and most well-known snakes in the city. It hunts its prey without the use of venom.

Keep in mind that if you encounter wildlife while exploring the Park, they won’t disturb you if you do not annoy them. If you observe any snakes, lizards, or most turtles in the Park, it is best to leave them alone as they are also covered by state protection.

The outdoor galleries’ exhibits by Laumeier create wonderful backdrops and topics for selfies. Due to copyright restrictions, visitor safety concerns, and access constraints, Laumeier only permits commercial photography and filmmaking with prior approval.

1.19. City Museum

Things to do in St Louis
Image by stefib230 / Pixabay / Copyrights 2015

A century-old shoelace warehouse known as City Museum has been turned into an art installation and playground.

Local artists have built a sort of indoor “theme park” with kilometers of bridges, tunnels, aircraft, and castles from repurposed old industrial pieces.

Be careful to decide on a meeting location in advance because the museum is a never-ending maze of halls. The thrilling 10-story spiral slide, the eerie Museum Caves, and the enormous outdoor castle towers are some of the attractions.

1.20. Missouri History Museum

The Missouri History Museum in Forest Park, St. Louis, Missouri, features exhibits on Missouri history. The Missouri Historical Society, which was established in 1866, is in charge of running it. It was first built as Thomas Jefferson’s first national monument.

Visitors may learn about living on the Mississippi River, take in the scale of the 1904 World’s Fair, explore the city’s baseball history from the Browns to the Cardinals, and much more. Children’s interactive exhibits are available in a dedicated gallery called The History Clubhouse.

The Museum’s general entrance is free. Additionally, the museum hosts a variety of annual free special exhibitions. A visit here is a must for history buffs.

1.21. Delmar Loop

There are several shops, restaurants, cafés, galleries, and live music venues on the Delmar Loop. The easiest way to explore The Loop, as it is called locally, is on foot. However, a trolley that connects the strip to Forest Park is also available. The Loop is located in the Parkview area.

Walk the St. Louis Walk of Fame and honor some of the city’s most illustrious residents, including Yogi Berra and Chuck Berry. Known for its pop culture memorabilia and burgers, the Loop’s western end is home to the famed live music venue Blueberry Hill.

The Pageant, St. Louis’ top nightclub, is the perfect place to cap off your day with a comedy performance or music.

1.22. Contemporary Art Museum (CAM)

The Grand Center Arts District in Midtown St. Louis is where CAM is located.

Grand Center is home to a wide variety of museums, galleries, theaters, and performance spaces.

Participate in interactive workshops and performances by visiting artists to get a closer look at the museum’s artwork. There are several movie showings that are related to the on-view exhibitions every season.

Due to criticism of a contentious exhibition, Jefferey Uslip left his post as chief curator of the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis in 2016.

More than twenty artists pulled out of the annual open studio tour at the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis due to the continued criticism of Kelley Walker’s allegedly racially inappropriate exhibition “Direct Drive.”

  1. Final Note
Things to do in St Louis
Image by Goodfreephotos_com / Pixabay / Copyrights 2014

In conclusion, on your next trip to St. Louis, be sure to take the whole family to the attractions mentioned above and enjoy.

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