St. Louis, MO: Where to Stay, Eat & Explore

St. Louis Travel Guide

Missouri (MO) United States St. Louis County

Region Midwestern United States – Mississippi River Valley

Nickname Gateway to the West

Known For Gateway Arch, blues music heritage, historic neighborhoods, and iconic barbecue cuisine

Best Time to Visit April–June & September–October

Population: ~300,000 Area (mi²): ~66

St. Louis sits along the Mississippi River and is famous for the iconic Gateway Arch, historic neighborhoods, world-class museums, and a rich musical and culinary heritage.

Founded in 1764 by French fur traders Pierre Laclède and Auguste Chouteau, St. Louis became an important trading post along the Mississippi River. Its location made it a vital gateway for westward expansion in the United States.

Today St. Louis is a cultural and economic hub of the Midwest. Visitors explore historic districts, vibrant music scenes, large urban parks, and renowned museums that celebrate the city’s diverse history and culture.

Top Attractions

Gateway Arch National Park – Iconic 630-foot monument symbolizing westward expansion
Forest Park – One of the largest urban parks in the U.S., home to museums and the zoo
St. Louis Zoo – One of the top free zoos in the United States
City Museum – Unique interactive museum built from reclaimed architectural materials
Missouri Botanical Garden – Historic garden with beautiful landscapes and conservatories
Busch Stadium – Home of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team

Best Areas to Explore

Downtown St. Louis – Gateway Arch, sports venues, and historic landmarks
The Delmar Loop – Entertainment district with music venues, restaurants, and shops
Central West End – Trendy neighborhood with cafes, boutiques, and historic homes
Soulard – One of the city’s oldest neighborhoods known for nightlife and markets
Clayton – Business district with upscale dining and shopping

Food & Local Specialties

St. Louis–style barbecue ribs
Toasted ravioli – a famous local appetizer
St. Louis–style pizza with Provel cheese
Craft breweries and historic beer culture
Classic Midwestern comfort food and steakhouses

Outdoor Activities

Biking and walking through Forest Park trails
Riverfront strolls along the Mississippi River
Exploring botanical gardens and urban parks
Attending outdoor concerts and festivals
Boating and scenic river cruises

Traveler Tip: Take the tram ride to the top of the Gateway Arch for panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the St. Louis skyline.

Did you know? The Gateway Arch is the tallest monument in the United States and stands 630 feet (192 meters) tall.

Best Time to Visit St. Louis

St. Louis has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for exploring the city’s parks and attractions.