Planning a holiday to St. Louis? This midwest city in North America is the perfect place to keep any visitor busy, with loads of fun and interesting attractions on offer! There is so much history on show, and such a vibrant culture in St. Louis, any trip here will offer an unforgettable experience!

Whether you are interested in food, museums, authentic blues music, or are planning an exciting holiday with the kids, there will be something to interest you in St. Louis!

This complete guide will leave you with no shortage of things to do in St Louis!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.










    Top Things to Do in St Louis

    Wondering what to do in St Louis (apart from grabbing a top-tier Airbnb)? This city has some must-see attractions for anyone paying a visit! Here are some of the best things to do in St Louis.

    1. Explore the Landmarks of Downtown-East

    Downtown-East, St. Louis
    Some of the young nations oldest buildings can be found in St Louis

    The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.

    Downtown-East is the historical heart of the city, and there is so much amazing architecture to take in here! One of the essential things to do in St Louis has got to be walking around the old part of the city, admiring the celebrated buildings, and soaking the history of USA’s 4th largest city

    Some unmissable sights include the Old Courthouse, the Gateway Arch, the Old Cathedral, Eads Bridge, the Old Post Office, and the Wainwright Building. St Louis was once a French fur trading post that expanded in a big way to create the city that you see today. Exploring the historical architecture of Downtown is a great way to see this history in motion.

    2. Soak Up the Panoramic View From the Gateway Arch

    Gateway Arch in St. Louis

    The Gateway Arch has got to be the most iconic and striking landmark in St Louis. This awesome 630-foot structure towers above the city, and it stands as the tallest arch in the world!

    The Gateway Arch is also Missouri’s tallest accessible building, it is a brilliant way to gain a 360 degree perspective over the city.

    You can take a ride up to the top of this stainless steel structure for the ultimate vantage point. Experiencing the Gateway Arch is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in St Louis center!

    And for a quick and interesting Missouri fact: Gateway Arch is actually a designated national park, the country’s smallest one!

    FIRST TIME IN ST. LOUIS

    Downtown

    Downtown St. Louis is a lively and thriving neighborhood. It is the central business district and is home to St. Louis’ main tourist attractions as well as the entertainment and nightlife districts.

    Places to visit:
    • Browse the Inside the Economy Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank.
    • Catch a performance at the Peabody Opera House.
    • Delve deep into the history of blues music at the National Blues Museum.

    For more Places to Stay, check out our full St. Louis Neighborhood Guide!

    3. Discover the Story of the Blues

    National Blues Museum, St. Louis
    Alongside other giants such as Nashville and New Orleans, St Louis was a hotbed of creativity during Americas cultural awakening

    The culture and history of St Louis is the history of blues music, the two and inseparably intertwined. When visiting this city, stopping in at the National Blues Museum is an absolute must! The influence and importance of Blues in the history of world music can’t be overstated, making this a must-see for any fan of contemporary music.  There wouldn’t be any Beyonce without BB King,

    Not only are there loads of interesting artifacts and blues legend’s memorabilia, but there is also an interactive blues songwriting section to test your chops. The National Blues Museum is one of the most popular things to do in St Louis.


    Want to save money on accommodation?

    supporting image for Booking.com deals promo

    We got you. For reals.


    4. Admire Art at Citygarden

    Citygarden, St. Louis
    Photo: Ron Cogswell (Flickr)

    At Citygarden plaza you’ll find the artistic hub of St Louis. This beautiful space is full of modern and contemporary art installations and sculptures, nestled within well kept green spaces. Whether you’re interested in enjoying the aesthetics, taking in the local fauna, or just want an escape from the buzz of the city, then Citygarden is the place to be. You’ll find a host of cool coffee spots in the area to keep you on your toes.

    If you’d like to see a wider selection of contemporary sculptures in the region, then you can also visit the Laumeier Sculpture Park or Chesterfield while in St Louis!

    5. Taste Your Way Through Downtown St Louis

    Downtown Food Tour
    St Louis’s unique style of pizzas has turned brother against brother and the closets friends into the worst of enemies

    You can’t visit St Louis without indulging in some of the delicious food on offer. There’s a number of treats that call St Louis home, from their unique method for cooking ribs, the illustrious St Pauls Sandwich, all the way through to world-famous candy apples, there’s a smorgasbord of weird snacks to try! (Sorry St Louis,  but deep-fried pasta is just weird.) Make sure to sample the incredibly divisive St Louis style Pizza and let us know where you stand!

    Walking tours are available in the downtown food scene if you are looking for specialized insider information, history, and recommendations on the best places to eat!

    6. Lose Yourself in the Beautiful Missouri Botanical Garden

    Botanical Garden, St. Louis
    Experience fauna from distant corners of the globe in the architecturally marvelous greenhouses

    If you are wondering what to do in St Louis on a sunny day then the Missouri Botanical Garden should definitely be on the cards! Also known as Shaw’s Garden, this stunning destination is one of the best green spaces imaginable.

    Besides the incredible collections of plants and curated gardens that are available to explore, you’ll often find markets, lively garden parties, and activities like spring bulb planting sessions to enjoy.

    Small Pack Problems? 😉

    Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

    These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

    Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

    Get Yours Here Read Our Review

    Unusual Things to Do in St Louis

    While St Louis is home to some famous and popular attractions, there are things to do here that can appeal to just about anyone! Here are some of the best things to do in St Louis off-the-beaten-path for a unique, non-touristy experience!

    7. Be Moved at the National Museum Of Transportation!

    National Museum Of Transportation St Louis
    A must-see for fans of design, engineering, history and culture alike

    The history of the 21st century is the history of the combustion engine, and the history of the United States is the history of the motor car. Showcasing a variety of classic American muscle, all the way up to such behemoths as the mighty locomotives that tamed the west, you’ll be treated to a host perfectly preserved vehicles and bizarre machines from every corner of the country. The museum provides a unique and captivating lens through which to see the history of the country.

    8. Zoom Through the Treetops on a Zip Line

    Zoom Through the Treetops on a Zip Line
    If the idea of this makes you feel faint-hearted, don’t worry, there’s immaculate woodland to enjoy too!

    For an outdoor adventure that’ll get the heart racing and the blood flowing, be sure to check out the forest canopy adventure just outside the city! Reach a flying speed of over 50mph as you zoom along the mile-long lines.

    Besides the high octane fun of the Zip Lines, you can set aside part of the day to enjoying the grand Missouri Forrest. Excellent especially in the fall.

    9. See Interesting Animals at the World Aquarium

    World Aquarium, St. Louis
    An informative day out for fans of all creatures great and small

    The World Aquarium in St Louis is an amazing day out for any animal lover! You can get up-close and personal with all kinds of interesting creatures – including sloths, sharks, lizards, crocodiles, and even baby turtles.  This interactive museum is also a conservation research center and animal sanctuary, and there are heaps of exhibitions exploring the centers’ good work.

    This is one of the best St Louis things to do for those wanting to witness a wide variety of creatures up-close and who want to learn all about their behavior. Guided tours of the aquarium are also available for those wanting to gain more insights!

    Safety in St Louis

    Overall safety for visitors to St Louis is a negligible concern.  This city isn’t much different from any other urban area in the US when it comes to safety, so be sure to exercise your usual caution and you should be fine. Be careful when walking at night and keep a close eye on your belongings just to be safe

    If you are sticking to the main tourist area in St Louis, then safety should not be a major concern for you! However we always advise to get travel insurance so you can have peace of mind during your stay.

    Read our tips for traveling safely before you fly and always get travel insurance. Check out our roundup of the best travel insurance.

    Travel with peace of mind. Travel WITH a security belt.
    Active Roots Security Belt

    Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

    It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

    Hide Yo’ Money!

    Things to Do in St Louis at Night

    While this city is an exciting and interesting destination by day, it really comes alive after hours! There are plenty of fun things to do in St Louis at night that will take your trip to the next level!

    10. Soak Up Some Live Blues

    Soak Up Some Live Blues St Louis
    The legends might have moved on, the standards are as high as ever!

    If you are after a truly special night out in St Louis, then you’ve got to experience the blues in-situe! Head down to the historic Soulard neighborhood for some of the best live blues venues in the world. B.B’s Jazz, Blues, and Soups are names that ring loud through the decades as the former stomping grounds of the genre’s greats and are still some of the most popular bars for a night of soulful live music.

    Enjoy a few cocktails or local craft brews while soaking up the authentic blues and jazz performances in St Louis!

    11. Test Your Quick Thinking in an Escape Room

    James Bomb Mission
    A great activity to do with your partner or best friend after a long flight or tense argument… really.

    St Louis was an early adopter of the now global escape room trend, and some of the most highly regarded venues in the world call the city home. But be warned, tempers can run high and the bonds of friendship can be tested.

    Escaping from one of these rooms can be quite a challenge, but it is one of the most fun things to do on a night out in St Louis! This is a particularly good activity for groups or families.

    Where to Stay in St. Louis

    Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in St. Louis.

    Best Value Hotel in St. Louis: City Place St Louis – Downtown Hotel

    City Place Downtown Hotel, St. Louis

    This charming hotel is our pick for the best value hotel in St. Louis because it has a great location and offers wonderful views. It also boasts a rooftop swimming pool, a terrace and a relaxing lounge bar. Guests can enjoy comfortable and well-equipped rooms, as well as an on-site restaurant.

    Best Hotel in St. Louis: Hampton Inn & Suites St Louis at Forest Park

    Hampton Inn & Suites St Louis at Forest Park

    The Hampton Inn is one of our favourite hotels in St. Louis because of it’s great Forest Park location. It is close to the Saint Louis Zoo and offers easy access to downtown and the Grove. This hotel boasts spacious rooms, a fitness centre, and an excellent indoor swimming pool.

    There are so many amazing Airbnbs in Missouri that offer a perfect city break.

    Romantic Things to Do in St Louis

    Looking for the best things to do in St Louis for couples? Here are our top romantic activities in this city!

    12. Take a Riverboat Cruise Down the Mississippi

    Mississippi River, St. Louis
    Step into the pages of a Mark Twain novel as you basque in vintage Americana

    Head over to the iconic Gateway Arch where you can find 19th-century paddlewheel boats that offer narrated cruises down the great Mississippi River! You can visit the National Expansion Memorial where Lewis and Clark set out on their famous expedition., before hopping on to the period vessel and starting your own adventure.

    Peacefully cruising down a river always has an air of romance to it, and it is also one of the best ways to see more of the city! The view from the famous Mississippi River offers an unbeatable perspective of St Louis.

    13. Enjoy a Picnic in Forest Park

    Forest Park, St. Louis
    A great spot for big groups to sprawl out

    Forest Park is St Louis’s major green space. It’s one of America’s largest urban parks and it is full of awesome attractions, walks, and biking trails. Once you have spent some time wandering around the grounds and appreciating its peaceful beauty, you can find many a great spot to relax with a picnic.

    Other great things to see in Forest Park include the thriving Jewel Box Greenhouse and the 1904 World’s Fair Pavillion. With lush lawns, water features, and beautiful flowers, visiting Forest Park is one of the best ways to spend a day outdoors in St Louis.

    Best Free Things to Do in St Louis

    If you’re looking to make the most out of your time in St Louis, but you’re worried about your budget, we’ve got you covered. Here are some greatest free things to do in St. Louis.

    14. Explore the Exhibits at the St Louis Art Museum

    St Louis Art Museum
    Photo: Reading Tom (Flickr)

    The St Louis Art Museum can be found on Art Hill, overlooking Forest Park. This is a world-class gallery and museum with great permanent collections, alongside a creative host of temporary exhibitions.  St Louis is an excellent destination for art lovers, and this free museum is one of the best artsy things to do in St Louis!

    The St Louis Art Museum hosts a wide range of exhibitions that are well worth the visit. The museum is housed inside one of the World’s Fair buildings which helps to add to the interest of this free attraction!

    15. Interact With Animals at Grant’s Farm

    Grant's Farm, St. Louis
    Get a sense of life out on the pastures as you get up close and personal with the animals!
    Photo: Katherine Johnson (Flickr)

    Grant’s Farm is an open air, interactive animal park and petting zoo, where guests can frolic with native North American wildlife, and enjoy some quaint attractions like the farm tram or carousel.  There are all kinds of exciting animals at this park, such as buffalo or goats, that you and the kids can feed and socialize with.

    Grants Farm is one of the best things to do in St Louis on a budget, and it is also a great destination for those traveling with kids.

    Books to Read in St Louis

    Sometimes a Great Notion – A tale of a hardheaded Oregonian logging family that goes on strike, leading the town to drama and tragedy. Written by PNW legend, Ken Kesey.

    Walden – The transcendental masterpiece by Henry David Thoreau that helped modern Americans rediscover nature and her beauty.

    To Have and To Have Not – A family man gets involved with the drug smuggling business in the Key West and ends up in a strange affair. Written by the great Ernest Hemingway.

    Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

    Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.










      Best Things to Do in St. Louis With Kids

      With many fun activities and attractions on offer, St Louis is a fantastic destination for kids! Here are some of our top-rated things to do in St Louis with little ones.

      16. Feel the Excitement at Six Flags St Louis

      St Louis Six Flags
      Famous around the world for its nearly overwhelming selection of activities, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
      Photo: Jeremy Thompson (Flickr)

      If you’re seeking adventure and thrills, then head over to Six Flags St Louis! This theme park is Missouri’s biggest and most popular family attraction, featuring all kinds of rides, activities, shows, and attractions. It’s famous around the world, and deservedly so!

      If you are visiting St Louis with kids, then Six Flags is absolutely one of the top destinations! You can spend a whole day of fun here, with thrills that the whole family can enjoy! Visiting Six Flags is one of the best and most jam-packed things to do around the St Louis area with a family.

      17. Explore the Thrilling City Museum

      City Museum, St Louis
      Photo: sawdust_media (Flickr)

      The City Museum in St Louis is far from your regular museum! This awesome attraction is a kind of massive all-ages playground loaded with interesting things to see and do! Between the caves, slides, climbing apparatus, the Museum of Mirth, Mystery, and Mayhem, children of all ages will be sure to have hours of fun!

      Amongst the museum’s attractions, you can also find daily circus classes and workshops, the Elmslie and Sullivan architectural exhibit, and a host of mind-bending installations.

      Day Trips From St Louis

      If you have a few days on your hands then you may wish to consider taking a day trip or two. Let’s take a quick look at some of the best day trips from St Louis.

      Get Subterranean in the Meramec Caverns

      The Meramec Caverns are one of the most intriguing natural wonders around St Louis Missouri is actually renowned as ‘the cave state’,  and these caverns are far and away some of the best on offer.

      The caves are a striking  example of nature’s master work. Incidentally, they are  the oldest attraction along the famous Route 66, and many road trippers stop by here for a visit. And check this – Jesse James was rumoured to have used the caves as a hideout. Before that they are thought to have been used as shelter by Native Americans/First Nation.

      Check Out the Johnsons Shut-Ins

      An intriguing natural attraction in the surrounds of St Louis is Johnson’s Shut-Ins.

      Johnsons Shut-ins is a geological quirk created by ancient volcanic activity. Over time, the river’s flow has created pools, rapids and waterfalls that make for great exploration and some lovely pictures.

      There are some nice hiking trails in the area. In the summer, the crystalline waters or an amazing place to take a dip. There are plenty of picnic spots and an excellent visitors’ centre.

      Save $$$ • Save the Planet • Save Your Stomach!
      backpacker drinking using grayl geopress filter bottle

      Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

      Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

      We’ve tested the Geopress rigorously from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

      View on REI Read the Review

      2 Day St Louis Itinerary

      With so much to do in St Louis, you not even know where to begin! In case you feel overwhelmed, them simply follow our 3 day St Louis Itinerary.

      Day 1

      Let’s kick off Day of our St Louis itinerary by exploring Downtown East and checking out the landmarks – if you can find a walking tour to join, then even better. After this, it’s time to boogie on down and learn all about the Blues at the epic, unmissable National Blues Museum.

      By this point, I expect you’ll have worked up an appetite so head back Downtown and try the famous St Louis style Pizza or the deep fried pasta!

      After lunch, walk off that heavy food with a stroll through the lovely Botanical Gardens. If you still feel energised visit the Transportation Museum or if you feel tired, head back to your accommodation for a rest. For sunset, or after dark, try make your way up to the Gateway Arch – the city looks awesome at night when all the lights are on.

      Day 2

      For a morning culture fix come and check out the St Louis Art Museum housed inside a former Worlds Fair building – the collection is quite impressive. Then take an afternoon cruise along the Mississippi river.

      This evening is all about experiencing the blues for real – head to any of the Juke Joints or blues clubs and catch a live blues band jamming into the night.

      Don’t forget your travel insurance for St Louis

      ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

      They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

      SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

      Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

      FAQ on Things to Do in St Louis

      Here are some quick answers to common questions about what to do and see in St Louis.

      Conclusion

      If you love art, history, beautiful spaces, architecture, or adventure, then St Louis is the place to go! This amazing midwestern city is packed full of awesome things to do and see – making it the ideal destination for a fun-filled getaway!

      St Louis offers visitors a strong, unique culture to dive into and experience – and this city promises a great time for all! We hope that this list of unmissable things to do in St Louis will lead you to have the ultimate adventure!


      Buy Us a Coffee!

      A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

      You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

      the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali
      Thank you <3