Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In St. Louis, Missouri. #Top Attractions

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Planning on a visit to St. Louis, Missouri, for your holiday? For the best travel experience in St. Louis, Missouri, check out our curated list of things to do in St. Louis, Missouri and the best places to visit in St. Louis, Missouri below. As a Web 3.0 travel startup, Wondrous Drifter has big plans to shake things up in the field.

Bogart’s Smokehouse

Bogart's Smokehouse, St. Louis, Missouri
Bogart’s Smokehouse is one of the best places to go in St. Louis, Missouri

You can never go wrong with BBQ and ribs!

Bogart’s Smokehouse offers the best BBQ and ribs in St. Louis.

Established in 2011, Bogart’s Smokehouse has won several awards such as “Best of St. Louis,” “Best New Barbecue,” “Extraordinary to Perfection Food,” “Favorite Barbecue,” and the list goes on!

If you’re a meat-lover looking for a place to fill your stomach, you will love to visit the Smokehouse!

They make sure that their dishes are well-marinated and fresh, and they care about cleanliness.

On the menu, juicy pulled pork, tender turkey, fragrant beef brisket, pastrami, and apricot-bruleed ribs are their best sellers!

For the best food experience, try out their hot VooDoo Sauce, loved by many.

You can order their meaty Old Joe Platter or BBQ salad to complement their meat.

In addition, gluten-free food and meals for children are served in the Smokehouse.

All in all, Bogart’s Smokehouse also has a lovely terrace that you can spend your time enjoying with your family.

Address: 1627 S 9th St, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA

Cahokia Mounds

Cahokia Mounds, St. Louis, Missouri
Cahokia Mounds is one of the best places to go in St. Louis, Missouri

History enthusiasts will be thrilled to visit Cahokia Mounds and catch a glimpse of the city that existed thousands of years ago.

The prehistoric archaeological site gives a background on the ancient history of America and how Native Americans lived before

During 800 A.D., Native Americans called “Cahokian” resided in the mounds.

Their hunting and farming skills were the reason they had a long civilization.

The area has over 2,200 acres of land and 70 piles of stones as their burial grounds and the foundation of their houses.

Prior to Europeans’ arrival, it was regarded as the most important city in American history, according to the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

Cahokian culture developed in the deep Southeastern and Central parts of the United States. 

A law was made to protect the area around the Cahokia Mounds, so it is very hard to get in.

Though it is open to the public, make sure you won’t leave your trash or do anything that will harm the environment.

Address: 30 Ramey Street, Collinsville, IL 62234, USA

Campbell House Museum

Campbell House Museum St. Louis, Missouri
Campbell House Museum, St. Louis, Missouri / Paul Sableman / Flickr

Learn more about St. Louis’ history and culture by visiting the Campbell House Museum.

It was the first home in the Lucas Place neighborhood, which was established in 1851. 

It used to be a townhouse, and almost everything in the house was preserved.

Robert Campbell lived in the museum until they sold it in 1938.

The old furniture and the original paintings are still displayed in the museum.

With over 1000 old photos of people that lived in the house, you’ll never believe how they kept these collections safe.

They have kept restoring the place and its history up until now.

Get ready to be amazed by the building’s exterior with a touch of Victorian style.

Just like what Taylor Swift said, this museum will never go out of style!

Even before the Civil War started, the Campbell House Museum already existed. 

It is a place to learn about Missouri’s way of life, even before the war.

Additionally, it has a collection of items from the first family who lived in the museum for more than 80 years.

A time machine, you say? It’s just Campbell House Museum giving you a nostalgic vibe.

Address: 1508 Locust St, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA

Considering a trip to Missouri? Visit our ultimate travel guides on Springfield and Branson. Bust into the unique things to do in Springfield, Missouri and the best things to do in Branson, Missouri!

City Museum

City Museum St. Louis, Missouri
City Museum St. Louis, Missouri / xiquinhosilva / Flickr

The City Museum is one of the top attractions in Missouri.

The strangest museum in the world will leave you in awe due to the fact that the collection exhibited in the museum is St Louis’ trash!

The museum used to be an old factory that produced shoes.

Artists from St. Louis came up with the idea of making art out of other people’s trash.

Each collection has its own story to tell and will help individuals to be educated regarding environmental awareness, reducing trash, and much more!

The architectural design of the museum is a mix of a funhouse, strange architectural marvel, playground, and surrealistic pavilion.

You’ll see abandoned parts and stumbling blocks in the city, such as planes, old school buses, chimneys, and bank vaults.

Whatever your expectations of the museum are, it will surely meet them!

The museum also exhibits a school bus hanging off the building, and visitors are allowed to drive it!

If you’re traveling with your children, a play area called “Toddler Town” is a spot for them! The area has ball pits and tunnels.

An underground cave that looks like a set of teeth, called “Enchanted Caves,” is one of the strangest exhibits.

You can also rent the place, and it is also available for birthday parties.

Address: 750 N 16th St, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA

EAT Saint Louis Food Tours

EAT Saint Louis Food Tours, St. Louis, Missouri
EAT Saint Louis Food Tours is one of the best places to go in St. Louis, Missouri

After a long day of going from one place to another, EAT Saint Louis Food Tours is where you can fill your stomach with delicious food.

Make it a habit to try out a city’s food when visiting one!

EAT Saint Louis Food Tours is a great place to satisfy your cravings for Mexican, pastries, and Italian food!

Your stomach isn’t the only thing that will be pleased; the smell and interiors of the place will leave you in awe.

The freshly baked bread and garlic will surely take you places, and friendly staff awaits at the restaurant. 

The tour is called “Taste of the Hill,” which is a 3-hour food tour that consists mainly of food, history, way of life, and culture.

On tour, there are six samples of authentic food from local cafes and restaurants with specialty foods that can only be found in St. Louis.

Pasta shops, butcher shops, salami shops, and pizzerias are some of the destinations.

Gain a fun and knowledgeable experience at EAT Saint Louis Food Tours!

Address: 5348 Devonshire Ave; St. Louis, MO 63109, USA

Making plans to travel abroad? Missouri is surely a must-visit! Choose your travel destination here on our travel guides for Jefferson City and Kansas City. Explore the best things to do in Jefferson City, Missouri and the best things to do in Kansas City, Missouri!

Forest Park

Forest Park St. Louis, Missouri
Forest Park St. Louis, Missouri / David Wilson / Flickr

The Forest Park is one of the best places to visit in  Missouri.

Missouri’s biggest park has stolen the hearts of tourists, and it will surely steal yours too!

The land area stretches around 1,371 acres and is 45 percent bigger than New York City’s Central Park. 

Due to the large green space of the forest park, locals and tourists usually spend their time here.

Dubbed the largest urban park in the United States, it makes the city look beautiful. 

The area’s main attraction is the pagoda, which is a perfect place to take pictures.

Visitors who want an active trip can try golfing or hiking on the park’s beautiful trail.

If relaxation is why you came to the park, have a picnic at their picnic area where you can see the park’s pagoda. 

An area called Turtle Park can be found in the park’s garden, where several sculptures are displayed.

About 12 million people go there every year to wander around and see the historic sites and beautiful scenery.

Visit the forest park and create memorable experiences with your family!

Address: 5595 Grand Dr, St. Louis, MO 63112, USA

Gateway Arch

Gateway Arch St. Louis, Missouri
Gateway Arch St. Louis, Missouri / Lorie Shaull / Flickr

The Gateway Arch is one of the best things to do in  Missouri.

The tallest building in the U.S. that almost touches the sky is a place you shouldn’t miss.

The Gateway Arch is Missouri’s gem that stands out at about 630 feet tall and 255 meters in height.

It sticks out over the Mississippi River and looks down on the Old Courthouse. 

With a height of 255 meters, the Gateway Arch is the tallest man-made structure in the United States.

Built in the 1960s, due to the preservation of the building, it still looks new.

Originally, it was built to honor President Thomas Jefferson, Lewis, and Clark, since they are the most significant individuals in American history. 

Later on, the building became the symbol of the United States of America.

After you’ve looked at the world’s tallest man-made structure from afar, take the tram to the top.

The arch’s Observation Deck will give you a bird’s-eye view of the area.

You can see for 30 miles in every direction from the deck.

Bring your cameras with you and capture great photos of the Gateway Arch’s skyline.

Address: 100 Washington Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63102, USA

Left Bank Books

Left Bank Books St. Louis, Missouri
Left Bank Books St. Louis, Missouri / Paul Sableman / Flickr

If you’re someone who loves to read books, you need to visit the oldest and largest bookstore in St. Louis!

Left Bank Books was known to open its doors to the public in 1969 and has a variety of books, from preloved to brand new ones.

The individuals behind the greatest bookstore are feminists, leftists, and humanitarians.

Even though society hated the group, they wanted to raise awareness regarding the Vietnam War and anti-war campaigns.

Moreover, Left Bank Books believes that by giving access to a wide range of literature among many cultures, they can encourage visitors to become more imaginative and curious about the world around them.

The bookstore was named after Mary Engelbreit, an illustrator of children’s story books. 

Upon entering the bookstore, visitors will love the friendly atmosphere of the staff and locals.

Not only do they sell books, but they also hold exhibits and events too!

They have an art gallery that features well-known and local artists.

After a long day wandering around St. Louis, the best place to end your day is by reading a book.

Address: 399 N Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA

Missouri Botanical Garden

Missouri Botanical Garden St. Louis, Missouri
Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis, Missouri / Flannery Allison / Flickr

The Missouri Botanical Garden is a haven for all plant lovers and growers! 

One of the best-known landmarks in St. Louis is the Missouri Botanical Garden.

It was recognized as one of the National Historic Landmarks and the oldest botanical garden in the country. 

In 1859, Henry Shaw, a National Historic Landmark, set up the garden to let people know more about plants and how to grow them. 

His movement improved the lives of people residing in the area and raised awareness regarding environmental protection.

The Missouri Botanical Garden has indoor conservatories, unique horticultural displays, demonstration gardens, and formal and international gardens.

The kids wouldn’t get bored in the garden because they have a riverboat, a slide, and a treehouse. 

The place is more than just a botanical garden; it has been home to different animals.

A Japanese garden area features lotus and cherry blossom flowers.

If you’re wondering where to spend your Missouri trip, add the Missouri Botanical Garden to your list!

Address: 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA

Old Cathedral

Old Cathedral St. Louis, Missouri
Old Cathedral St. Louis, Missouri / xiquinhosilva / Flickr

The Old Cathedral is a sacred place to worship and send prayers to Catholics.

Built between 1831 and 1834, they completed the church in 1834.

The Old Cathedral was the first cathedral in west Mississippi and is also known as the Catholic Basilica of St. Louise of France. 

Named after King Louis IX of France, the cathedral stands out from Missouri’s church architecture because it has a dome and other unique features.

A marble altar, religious items from the 1800s, Diego Velazquez’s copy of the Crucifixion, and a painting of Saint Louis are displayed in the cathedral.

Along with this, they also have a museum beside the church that exhibits St. Louis’ and the Old Cathedral’s history.

No matter how much renovation the cathedral has gone through, its holiness and faith of it remain the same.

Visitors may also rent the place for a wedding or for a burial blessing.

If you’re looking for a peaceful place to have a one-on-one conversation with the Lord, the basilica is the perfect place to go.

Address: 209 Walnut St, St. Louis, MO 63102, USA

Saint Louis Art Museum

Saint Louis Art Museum, St. Louis, Missouri
Saint Louis Art Museum is one of the best places to go in St. Louis, Missouri

If you’re wondering where to go when in Missouri, the Saint Louis Art Museum will keep you entertained with its 33,000 art collections.

The museum was established in 1897 and is the oldest art museum that still exists to this date. 

It is a go-to place for people who seek pleasing artifacts and those who love to keep their minds active.

From fine arts to abstract art, the exhibits will help you deepen your understanding of Missouri’s rich history.

For the past 5,000 years, the museum has been able to collect 33,000 works of art from all 7 continents.

They make sure that they always feature a new exhibit to give different experiences for each visitor.

Edith “Edie” Spink and C.C. Johnson Spink donated 200 Asian art pieces and a total of 25 artifacts by prominent American artists. 

Every year, over 500,000 visitors drop by the three-story museum.

Visit the Saint Louis Art Museum to learn how to appreciate art and use it as inspiration to create your own.

Address: 1 Fine Arts Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA

Saint Louis Zoo

Saint Louis Zoo St. Louis, Missouri
Saint Louis Zoo St. Louis, Missouri / BFS Man / Flickr

Get a chance to meet more than 2,000 animals from around the world face-to-face.

If you’re looking for a place to see animals, the Saint Louis Zoo should be on your top list.

They make sure to follow the standards regarding animal and environmental conservation.

This doesn’t only make the animals that live in the zoo happy but the visitors as well.

Saint Louis Zoo was hailed as the largest zoo in the United States and is known for its research, wildlife conservation, and care for animals in need of a home.

Every year, there are about 3 million individuals visit the zoo.

Some of the animals that you’ll meet are flamingos, zebras, lions, and sharks, with 700 different species.

Not only do they envision helping the animals but also the plants, bacteria, and the overall environment.

The Saint Louis Zoo’s Living Earth Collaborative is a project that the Saint Louis Zoo established in 2017, supported by the University of St. Louis and the Missouri Botanical Garden.

Drop by the Saint Louis Zoo and take great photos!

Address: Government Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA

Six Flags St. Louis

Six Flags Saint Louis, Missouri
Six Flags St. Louis is one of the best places to go in St. Louis, Missouri

Six Flags St. Louis will make you scream at the top of your lungs with its thrilling rides.

The most popular family attraction in Missouri is full of fun things to do for people of all ages and levels of adventure. 

Opened in 1971, Six Flags St. Louis’ amusing rides based on Warner Bros. movies will bring you back to your childhood.

It is hailed as the best amusement park in the United States due to its ownership of three parks in different parts of the country. 

For individuals who are more into thrilling rides, they have roller coasters that you can enjoy.

Their popular rides are Screamin’ Eagle, SkyScreamer, American Thunders, Justice League: Battle for Metropolis, and Dragon’s Wing.

If you’re more into less-thrilling activities, Speed O’Drome Go-Karts or Colossus Ferris Wheel are suitable for children and for individuals who prefer a more relaxed ride. 

Enjoy a fun-filled day at Six Flags St. Louis and take great photos for your Instagram!

Address: 4900 Six Flags Rd, Eureka, MO 63025, USA

Soulard Farmers Market

Soulard Farmers Market, St. Louis, Missouri
Soulard Farmers Market is one of the best places to go in St. Louis, Missouri

Looking for farm-fresh goods? Soulard Farmers’ Market provides straight-from-the-farm goods!

Soulard Farmers Market opened in 1779 and has a rich history in Missouri’s goods and trading industry.

Farmers from Missouri would often meet in the area and sell their goods.

The market has a total of 122-acre land area and has been the locals’ favorite for more than 200 years due to its fresh organic produce.

The building’s exterior has a touch of the Renaissance style, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi from Italy. 

In addition, it is an H-shaped building with four wings that has booths from different vendors in every corner of the building.

The building’s second floor has a theater and a gym, which were established by Albert Osberg.

The market has a lot of goods to offer, such as cheese, flowers, fruits, vegetables, and meats. 

Enjoy the open-air market and grab some freshly-baked goods when you’re visiting St. Louis.

Address: 730 Carroll St, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA

Sweetology

Sweetology, St. Louis, Missouri
Sweetology is one of the best places to go in St. Louis, Missouri

Sweetology is a haven for all sweet tooths who are visiting St. Louis.

Try out the pride and honor of St. Louis when it comes to sweet treats.

One thing that’s unique about Sweetology is that visitors are allowed to make their own cookies, cakes, and cupcakes!

It is a family-friendly bakery shop, so you won’t have to worry about your children getting bored.

You can even make sweet delicacies with them and unleash your child’s creativity in baking.

A blank canvas is prepared for each customer, where they are free to decorate it however they like.

It doesn’t only teach you about baking, but can be a starting point to find out whether you’re into the arts.

If you’re a first-timer, the staff will assist you with mixing, baking, and decorating.

Chocolates, gourmet sweets, candies, and coffee are also available on their menu.

Looking for a birthday party venue? Sweetology will make your party a memorable one.

Sweetology is open every day and accepts walk-ins, so drop by the place!

Address: 1232 Town and Country Crossing Dr, Town and Country, MO 63017, USA

The Caramel House

The Caramel House, St. Louis, Missouri
The Caramel House is one of the best places to go in St. Louis, Missouri

Nothing is sweeter than St. Louis’s famous Caramel House.

For people who love the taste of sweet caramel, the Caramel House is the place to go if you want creamy caramel that melts in your mouth.

Visitors may also enjoy their other salty and sweet treats that will bring back memories.

Janet Ansehl Shulman, the owner, discovered her skill in making sweet treats and opened up the store after her family and friends complimented the treats she made.

Due to her commitment to providing the highest quality of treats, The Caramel House became one of the best candy companies in the United States.

Making the perfect caramel takes a lot of time and effort in order for it to melt in your mouth.

Janet has practiced mixing the caramel and producing the best caramel in the country.

She also innovated flavors other than plain caramel.

On the menu, visitors may try their best sellers: Swiss dark chocolate caramels, caramel-covered pretzels, or salted caramel. 

The best thing about the store is that they use recyclable packaging!

Don’t forget to buy a treat before anything else.

Address: 9639 Olive Blvd, Olivette, MO 63132, USA

The Magic House

The Magic House, St. Louis, Missouri
The Magic House is one of the best places to go in St. Louis, Missouri

Nothing will make your kids more curious than St. Louis’s The Magic House.

Opened in 1979, the museum consists of a three-story house with a Victorian touch. 

The Magic House will help kids of all ages develop their creativity and motor skills and increase their mental capacity with regard to information processing.

It increases their interest not only in playing but in learning as well.

Kids can learn about math, science, basic technology, and government to keep their little minds working.

There are different stations for different age groups.

For young children and babies, a spot called “For Baby and Me” teaches them the basics, such as learning about numbers, shapes, and sizes.

Several hands-on activities await your kids with the area’s 55,000 square feet. The Magic House will be one of the places where they’ll find their happiness. 

Got a problem to solve? Visit The Magic House to learn the formulas for solving them!

Address: 516 S Kirkwood Rd, St. Louis, MO 63122, USA

The Muny

The Muny, St. Louis, Missouri
The Muny is one of the best places to go in St. Louis, Missouri

Looking for a place to get entertained? St. Louis’s biggest outdoor musical theater has got you!

Aside from being the biggest, the Muny is also the oldest outdoor theater for musicals in the country.

The outdoor theater opened its doors to the public in 1917 and has provided an outstanding experience for its visitors.

The outdoor theater can accommodate up to 11,000 visitors without making it hard for them to watch a live performance.

Dancing, live singing, comedy, and stage performances are what to expect in the outdoor theater.

Aside from the 11,000 seats available, visitors may also sit in the first nine rows of the theater, which has around 1,500 free seats.

The first show that was performed at the Muny was Robin Hood.

This has gained popularity due to its successful launch and has been a well-known tourist destination for more than a century.

There is an estimate of 350,000 individuals who visit the outdoor theater.

Listen to live performances and enjoy the show when you’re traveling to St Louis.

Address: 1 Theatre Dr, St. Louis, MO 63112, USA

Urban Chestnut Brewing Co.

Urban Chestnut Brewing Co., St. Louis, Missouri
Urban Chestnut Brewing Co. is one of the best places to go in St. Louis, Missouri

A trip wouldn’t be complete without a glass of cold beer.

Urban Chestnut Brewing Co. is a brewery located in St. Louis and opened in 2011.

Beer drinkers and lovers should stop by the place and enjoy their beer and food.

They craft beers from Europe and the United States, so you don’t have to worry about going to Europe to get a taste of their beer! 

The brewing company started with a 20-bbl brewhouse.

They have a large Biergarten and a tasting room outside of the brewing company, and most of their beers are complemented with meat, cheese, or other foods available on the menu.

Due to the positive impact that Urban Chestnut had on St. Louis, three places were established and soon became famous tourist destinations.

The three establishments are called The Forest Park Pilsner, The Schnickelfritz, and Big Shark Lemon Radler.

Visitors can try their beers, and each place has its own style of brewing its beers.

Their beers are available in bottles and on tap in St. Louis’ local market.

Bottom’s up! Have the time of your life at Urban Chestnut Brewing Co.

Address: 3229 Washington Ave, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA

World Chess Hall of Fame

World Chess Hall of Fame, St. Louis, Missouri
World Chess Hall of Fame is one of the best places to go in St. Louis, Missouri

If you ever watched the series Queen’s Gambit, the World Chess Hall of Fame will give you the same experience the main character had in her competitions!

The World Chess Hall of Fame opened its doors to the public in 1984.

Explore a world-class chess exhibition and its history located in St. Louis.

Visitors will learn the connection between chess, art, and critical thinking skills.

Some of the members of the chess hall of fame in the United States are Larry Evans, Benjamin Franklin, Bobby Fischer, George Koltanowski, Sammy Reshevsky, Arnold Denker, Paul Morphy, John W. Collins, and 44 other members.

Three of the 19 inductees around the globe are Boris Spassky, Anatoly Karpov, and Garry Kasparov.

The World Chess Hall of Fame’s mission is to educate people about the historical and cultural significance of the game of chess.

You’d be surprised at how chess has impacted the world and its economy.

You’ll learn how to value every move you make and every opportunity you’ll get and apply it in a real-life setting.

The World Chess Hall of Fame is open to all chess enthusiasts, regardless of their level of expertise.

Address: 4652 Maryland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA

Volunteer At Animal Shelters

Animal Shelters in St. Louis, Missouri
Animal Shelters in St. Louis, Missouri

One of the best things to do is to help out at animal shelters. Animals do not ask for much in life; most just need a warm, safe, and sheltered place to live, as well as adequate food, water, and exercise. They will give you unconditional love, loyalty, and companionship.

Volunteering is a fantastic method to bring attention to the problem of pet overpopulation, neglect, and abuse and contribute toward a solution.

Working directly with the animals might seem like the most obvious way to help, but shelters are complex places that need the work of a strong team. Maybe the best way for you to help is to volunteer as a pet publicist and take pictures of the animals that can be adopted to show what makes them special. This is only one way you can help: Check with the animal shelter near you to see what jobs you might be able to do. Many shelters also have programs for kids and teens to help and do something good.

Learn more about the animal shelters in St. Louis, Missouri, where you can dedicate your time. Donate to an animal shelter.

Traveling and having fun in the USA? You have to check out this page – the best states to visit in USA for the most fun and unusual travel ideas.

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