St. Louis is often called the “Gateway to the West,” but it's also a gateway to one of the most unexpectedly fun city getaways we've experienced. From Broadway-caliber theater and major league baseball to world-class museums, iconic local eats, and family-friendly attractions, this Midwestern gem packs a punch. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a longer adventure, here are our favorite Travel Brat-approved things to do in St. Louis.
Use the sections below as a flexible menu, not a checklist. Pick one anchor activity, one meal, and one low-pressure wandering window each day.
Take the tram to the top of America's tallest monument for incredible views of downtown, the Mississippi River, and Illinois. Free to walk around the grounds!
$16-54
One of the largest urban parks in the country, Forest Park is home to miles of trails, scenic lakes, and several of St. Louis' best attractions—all with free admission.
Free
Consistently ranked among the best zoos in the country, the Saint Louis Zoo is free to enter and home to more than 12,000 animals.
Free
Even if you're not a baseball fan, the atmosphere of a St. Louis Cardinals game is a quintessential city experience.
Depends
Part playground, part art installation, and 100% unlike anything you've ever seen. Expect giant slides, tunnels, climbing structures, and hidden surprises around every corner.
$29.94 Adults
Learn about the brewing process, meet the famous Budweiser Clydesdales, and enjoy a tasting at one of America's most iconic breweries.
$15-150
Located in Forest Park, this world-class museum offers an impressive collection spanning thousands of years—and general admission is free.
Free
Explore one of the city's oldest neighborhoods, known for its red-brick architecture, Soulard Farmers Market, lively nightlife, and annual Mardi Gras celebration.
Free
See the Gateway Arch and downtown skyline from the Mississippi River aboard a sightseeing or dinner cruise.
$25-64
St. Louis' famous Italian neighborhood is the perfect place to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, local bakeries, and family-owned restaurants.
Free
This place is so much more than a traditional museum about chess. It explores the game's history, art, culture, and legendary players through rotating exhibitions, historic artifacts, chess sets, and interactive displays.
Free
If you love musical theatre, The Muny is one of the coolest things you can experience in St. Louis. It isn't just a theatre venue—it’s a huge part of the city's identity and one of the most historic musical-theatre institutions in America.
DependsA St. Louis institution and one of the city's most famous restaurants.
Located on The Hill, St. Louis' historic Italian neighborhood.
**Order: Toasted ravioli (a St. Louis specialty)
Excellent modern American food and brunch.
Cajun and Creole food with live music nearly every night.
For weekend trips, make dinner reservations before locking in your daily itinerary. The best food plans disappear first!
Excellent value, central location, and breakfast included
Open linkHistoric, fun, and a destination in itself
Open linkLuxury, riverfront location, spa, pool, and polished service
Open linkTech Traveler Edition:
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