St. Louis, Missouri
Discovering St. Louis: A Three-Day Itinerary
Introduction
St. Louis, the Gateway to the West, is a city rich in history, culture, and fun. Its eclectic mix of attractions ranges from the world-class Saint Louis Zoo to the iconic Gateway Arch, with plenty in between. With delicious cuisine, thriving nightlife, and verdant parks, St. Louis offers a unique vacation experience. Let’s dive into a three-day weekend trip, carefully crafted for you and your friends to get the best of this vibrant city.
Day One:
Morning: Gateway Arch National Park
Begin your journey at the Gateway Arch National Park. As the nation’s tallest monument, the 630-foot Arch symbolizes St. Louis as the ‘Gateway to the West’. The tram ride to the top guarantees stunning views of the city and beyond. The park also houses the Museum of Westward Expansion, where you can learn about the pioneers’ journey westward.
Afternoon: City Museum and Lunch at Rooster
Just a few blocks away, visit the City Museum, an offbeat, funhouse-style attraction. Housed in a 600,000 square-foot former shoe factory, it features a vast array of repurposed architectural and industrial objects. Don’t miss the 10-story slide or the enchanted caves.
For lunch, head to Rooster, a local favorite for their delicious crepes and sandwiches.
Evening: Dinner at Sidney Street Cafe and The Hill Neighborhood Tour
Wrap up your day with dinner at Sidney Street Cafe, one of St. Louis’ finest restaurants, known for its innovative yet comforting cuisine. Later, take a stroll around The Hill, a historic Italian neighborhood known for its vibrant, Old-World vibe, and charming red-brick homes.
Day Two:
Morning: Forest Park and Saint Louis Zoo
Start day two at Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. This verdant oasis offers several trails, waterways, and landmarks to explore, including the World’s Fair Pavilion and the Jewel Box greenhouse.
Don’t miss the Saint Louis Zoo, nestled within the park. This world-class zoo is known for its commitment to conservation and animal diversity. Its Penguin and Puffin Coast and Bear Bluffs are must-sees.
Afternoon: Lunch at Pappy’s Smokehouse and the Missouri Botanical Garden
Experience authentic St. Louis barbecue at Pappy’s Smokehouse for lunch. Their slow-smoked ribs and pulled pork are legendary.
Post lunch, head to the Missouri Botanical Garden, a serene 79-acre oasis featuring a dozen themed gardens, including the stunning Japanese Garden and the Climatron conservatory.
Evening: Dinner at the Broadway Oyster Bar and a Cardinals Game
Experience the vibrant nightlife in St. Louis at the Broadway Oyster Bar, offering Cajun-style seafood and regular live music. Then, catch a Cardinals baseball game at Busch Stadium to end your day on a high note.
Day Three:
Morning: Saint Louis Art Museum and The Loop
Start your day with a visit to the Saint Louis Art Museum, home to a broad spectrum of art styles and eras. The museum boasts an impressive collection of modern art, ancient masterpieces, and cultural artifacts.
Next, venture to The Loop, a vibrant six-block area packed with trendy boutiques, galleries, and eateries. Make sure to check out the Delmar Loop‘s Walk of Fame, featuring brass stars and plaques honoring famous St. Louisans.
Afternoon: Lunch at Blueberry Hill and Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis
Enjoy lunch at Blueberry Hill, a popular restaurant and music club known for its burgers and pop culture memorabilia. After lunch, visit the breathtaking Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, famous for its stunning mosaics.
Evening: Dinner at Tony’s and Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour
End your tour of St. Louis with a fine dining experience at Tony’s, a revered institution known for its impeccable service and Italian fare.
Finally, take a tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, where you can get an inside look at the brewing process of one of the world’s largest and oldest breweries. Don’t miss the Clydesdale horses’ stables!
Conclusion
St. Louis is a city teeming with history, culture, and a spirit of adventure. This three-day itinerary captures the essence of the city, offering a balance of sightseeing, dining, and experiences. It’s time to pack your bags and prepare to be captivated by the charm and beauty of St. Louis.