28 Best & Fun Things To Do In St. Louis (Missouri) (2023)

St. Louis is one of those unique cities that you can identify immediately from a photo of its skyline.

However, it’s more than just the famous Gateway arch that brings tourists in.

This city on the Mississipi, the largest in Missouri, has cool things for visitors of varying ages and backgrounds.

St. Louis is a place to come if you’re looking for fun and excitement.

These are the 28 best things to do in St. Louis, Missouri.

Things To Do In St. Louis

1. Gateway Arch

It might make you seem like a typical St. Louis tourist, but the Gateway Arch is one of the most impressive parts of any city.

It’s 630-foot height towers above the city and is one of the biggest gems of all of Missouri.

In fact, the Gateway Arch is the tallest monument, built by humans, in all of the United States.

There’s also no archway in the entire world that’s as big as the Gateway Arch.

This Missouri site is actually fairly new, completing construction in the 1960s.

However, it didn’t take very long for it to become an indisputable part of American iconography.

Today, even those who have never been to St. Louis can envision the Gateway Arch juxtaposed against the rest of the skyline.

A ride to the top of the Gateway Arch is a must.

You’ll get an immaculate view of the region from the arch’s Observation Deck.

Focus on the beauty of the area and how much detail you’re able to take in from your vantage point.

It’s a sight you’ll hopefully never forget.

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

2. Saint Louis Art Museum

St. Louis has one of the best art museums in the country.

The Saint Louis Art Museum is one of the top things to do in St. Louis for anyone with a passion for art.

The pieces on display and various exhibits are an incredible indication of just how much the arts mean to St. Louis.

The Saint Louis Art Museum was opened in 1879.

It’s part of the Fines Arts Building in the massive Forest Park and is definitely a great attraction for anyone who wants to keep their mind in good shape.

It has become one of the best points of interest in Missouri due to both the quality of the pieces and the immense quantity.

The number of attractions within this museum is amazingly inspiring.

What makes the Saint Louis Art Museum one of the biggest points of interest in Missouri is just how much ground is covered by the pieces, both in terms of geography and history.

There are tens of thousands of pieces at this museum, from all over the world. Some are even thousands of years old.

This is a must see museum for everyone.

If you’re looking for what to do in St. Louis, you should definitely come to the art museum.

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

3. Old Courthouse

Some people have an “out with the old” mindset, but just because something has a bit of age doesn’t mean that it’s in any way showed a deprivation of value.

St. Louis proves this with its Old Courthouse.

This is one of the top things to do in St. Louis for anyone who wants to get an idea about the city’s history and see a legendary building.

This courthouse was erected in the 19th century.

It became a part of history in the pivotal Dred Scott case, which eventually went to the Supreme Court.

The verdict of this case had significance in how it determined the rights, or lack thereof, for slaves.

Virginia Louisa Minor also fought for the right of women to vote at Old Courthouse.

Today, you can come to Old Courthouse and look around, imagining all of the people inside fighting for what they knew was right.

One of the cool things to do during a trip to St. Louis is touring the Old Courthouse.

The architectural design, with a dome, is alone quite astonishing.

The Museum of Westward Expansion is part of the Old Courthouse and has very notable displays.

This is certainly one of the best attractions in St. Louis for history buffs.

Address:11 N 4th St, St. Louis, MO 63102, USA

4. Soulard Farmers Market

It’s hard not to have a good feeling about a Farmer’s Market that literally has “soul” in its name.

This isn’t a case of St. Louis trying to just capitalize on the farmer’s market and organic foods trend.

This market is absolutely part of Missouri history. In fact, it more than 200 years old.

When you come to visit, you’ll see why it’s one of the greatest attractions in St. Louis.

At Soulard Farmers Market, you’ll be spoiled for options.

You can purchase some of the finest produce, cheese, meat, and even flowers at this market.

Depending on when you visit, you might find that your favorite fruits and vegetable are in season.

Whether you’re coming to St. Louis for a weekend or week-long visit, you make a stop at Soulard Farmers Market.

It’s open throughout the year, from Wednesday to Sunday.

Plan a trip to this farmer’s market, and you’ll see why it’s been so popular for so many years.

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

5. Missouri Botanical Garden

One of the best parts of St. Louis is that there’s such a focus on keeping its most historic aspects.

The Missouri Botanical Garden is definitely part of that.

This garden began in 1859, the brainchild of Henry Shaw, a botanist.

Shaw’s vision has not gone to waste, as the Missouri Botanical Garden has continued to grow and enchant adults and kids who explore its grounds.

At the Missouri Botanical Garden, there are all kinds of things to see.

This garden is comprised of different sections, including Tower Grove House, where Shaw lived.

There’s also the Japanese Garden, featuring plants such as lotus and flowering cherries.

Other things to see when you walk around this garden are the tropical plant-based Climatron and the Doris I. Schnuck Children’s Garden.

The Missouri Botanical Garden is without a doubt one of the greatest St. Louis attractions.

If you come for a weekend visit on a bright day, you’ll be able to see just how much Shaw’s passion has made this one of the top parts of St. Louis.

For a glimpse at a wonderful collection of plants, come to the Missouri Botanical Garden.

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

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6. Forest Park

The St. Louis Art Museum is definitely one of the biggest attractions of Forest Park, but it’s in good company.

This entire park is one that shows why St. Louis holds a place is so many people’s hearts.

You don’t need to spend any money to experience Forest Park. The only wealth you need is an ample amount of excitement.

This Missouri park is unlike any you’ve ever seen. Where else can you see pagodas, go for a picnic, and go for a hike in one day?

The 1,000-plus acres are all used to total potential.

If you ever want to just clear your mind in the comfort of nature, this is one of the best places to do so.

What you do in Forest Park is up to you, but you should definitely see Turtle Park, a wonderful sculpture garden.

There are also opportunities for activities such as golf.

Forest Park is one of the biggest shows of generosity from St. Louis, and you need to check it out.

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

7. EAT Saint Louis Food Tours

Food quality is a major determining factor when choosing what city to visit. Thankfully, St. Louis has seriously high-quality dining options.

However, there’s also the beast of indecision that strikes when you have so much to choose from.

That’s why EAT Saint Louis Food Tours is one of the best options for visitors.

On these food tours, you’ll be taken around different excellent eateries in the city.

There are three tours, the Maplewood Food Tour, Taste of the Hill Food Tour, and Historic Soulard Food Tour.

Cuisine these cover include pastries, Italian cuisine, and Mexican cuisine.

Tours cost $54 and are available between Friday and Sunday, depending on which you choose.

EAT Saint Louis Food Tours are also excellent sightseeing opportunities.

Anyone looking for food-related activities needs to come on one of these tours.

It’s definitely one of the best tourist attractions for a weekend visit to Missouri.

You can go to bed at night, glad about your decision.

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

8. Cahokia Mounds

For another no-cost glimpse at the magic of Missouri nature, take a trip to the Cahokia Mounds.

These mounds are the most significant archaeological location in all of North America.

Research and careful study have suggested that this was something of a miniature metropolis thousands of years ago.

Today, the Cahokia Mounds are a must-see part of a St. Louis visit, as they are very close, in Southern Illinois.

The Native Americans who lived at the Cahokia Mounds created a thriving culture.

During the 11th century, their population seems to have increased tenfold.

They put their bodies and minds to work, creating a strong economy based on farming and trade.

It hasn’t been determined what happened to the tribespeople of the Cahokia Mounds, their legacy remains.

Many of the earthen mounds they built are still standing.

The Cahokia Mounds are without a doubt one of the biggest points of interest for visitors to the Greater St. Louis area.

You can see a beautiful example of how past cultures have made use of land.

Come day or night, this is one of the finest attractions.

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

9. The Magic House

Hardly anything enchants the mind like magic.

For young minds, the Magic House is definitely one of the best places to visit in St. Louis.

This Missouri museum shows just how much wonder is all around us.

Contrary to its name, the Magic House isn’t about pulling rabbits out of hats or making things disappear.

This Missouri children’s museum gives guests the chance to get educated and have fun.

They can learn about science, government, and math in a way that makes these subjects totally awesome.

It’s a place for kids of all ages, as there’s also a “For Baby and Me” section for young children.

Magic House is one of the most fun places to go for families coming to St. Louis.

With so many fantastic exhibits, your kids can be fascinated by all the things to see.

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

10. Saint Louis Zoo

The Saint Louis Zoo is one of the best places in the country to see animals.

Part of Forest Park, this Missouri zoo lives up to the standards of animal conservation as well as guest satisfaction.

When you come to the Saint Louis Zoo, you can feel happy knowing that the animals are protected and that your experience is pleasurable.

One of the best aspects of the Saint Louis Zoo is just how many kinds of animals you can see.

There are ones from Africa, such as lions, zebras, and flamingos.

You can also see ones from the Caribbean, such as sharks.

700 different types of animals reside here, making it a haven for biodiversity.

Perhaps the best aspect of this Missouri zoo is free admission. Certain attractions cost money, but the price is minimal.

However, if you want to have fun on a budget in St. Louis, you definitely need to check out the zoo.

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

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11. City Museum

This is a museum that completely lives up to its name, but it might not be in the way you think.

City Museum is made up of pieces of St. Louis that might no longer serve their original function but still have use, albeit in a more creative fashion.

In this one-time shoe factory, the phrase “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” comes to life.

When you step into this St. Louis museum, you might feel like you’ve come across one of the funkiest galleries ever.

You’ll see a giant praying mantis, an old school bus, and so much more.

It’s the kind of place that has guests doing double takes, even adults who thought they’d seen everything.

But the City Museum is one of the best tourist attractions in St. Louis because there’s just so much fun to be had.

There are giant chutes to go down and an overall amazing sense of design.

Look for a time in your Missouri weekend to go to the City Museum.

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

12. Lewis and Clark Trail

For anyone wanting to experience the truly great outdoors in Missouri, they should go for a hike on the Lewis and Clark Hiking Trail in Weldon Spring Conservation Area.

For no charge, you can make your way through two intense but highly rewarding loops.

Both the Lewis and the Clark loops give hikers one of the best opportunities in the Great St. Louis area.

While there’s considerable distance for each hike, it might be easier for you to take the Clark loop, as it’s two miles shorter than the seven-mile Lewis loop.

You should come with good hiking shoes and plenty of insect repellant in case of mosquitoes.

It might also be in your greatest interest to arrive early in the morning so that heat conditions aren’t too intense during your hike.

On a temperate day, you’re likely to see and meet all kinds of people on Lewis and Clark Trail.

Do your best to be considerate to them and the park by not littering or doing anything else to harm the natural body.

You’re not the first to come across this territory, and you definitely won’t be the last.

13. Market Street

You’ll likely be around Market Street regardless, due to its proximity to the Gateway Arch.

One of the top things to do in St. Louis, Missouri is to visit this part of town.

It’s full of important buildings that show why St. Louis has become such an integral part of Missouri.

If you like baseball, you should be sure to come to Market Street to catch a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium.

Sightseeing can also be done at the breathtaking St. Louis City Hall and the International Bowling Hall of Fame.

The attractions give the city of St. Louis so much life.

While there’s a lot of fun to be had around Market Street, there’s also a lot to take seriously.

Soldiers Memorial Building is where to go if you want to pay your respects to those who gave their lives for your country.

It’s absolutely beautiful to know that we have a city that cares as much as St. Louis does.

14. Urban Chestnut Brewing Co.

The people of St. Louis love their beer, and they’re eager to share it with you.

No weekend trip to Missouri for any beer lover is complete without going to Urban Chestnut Brewing Co.

This brewery has can’t-miss brews of both a domestic and European variety. No matter what you order, you’re sure to get an amazing flavor.

It says a lot about how big of a splash Urban Chestnut has made on St. Louis that there are three locations to visit.

Each gives guests an opportunity to try beers made with a total vision.

These include ones like Big Shark Lemon Radler, Forest Park Pilsner, and Schnickelfritz.

They also know how well beer pairs with food. Along with a great craft beer, you should also order some currywurst, a burger, or pizza.

Coming here is definitely one of the most fun things to do in St Louis for adults.

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

15. World Chess Hall of Fame

Chess is more than just a game. It’s also a powerful metaphor for the importance of strategy and considering all your options.

One of the top things to do in St. Louis, Missouri is to visit the World Chess Hall of Fame.

At this West End attraction, you can see just how much of an impact this game has had on our world.

In this Missouri museum, you’ll learn about the history of chess, including its most renowned players.

The likes of Sammy Reshevsky, Bobby Fischer, and Garry Kasparov are honored here.

Each of these players became masters of their game by thinking shrewdly about what to do at every possible turn.

You can learn so much about the value of chess.

Even if you’re not a player, the World Chess Hall of Fame can show how much is gained from playing.

Visit this museum and prepared to be filled with inspiration.

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

16. The Caramel House

One of the sweetest activities you can take part in during a visit to St. Louis is checking out The Caramel House.

This is what to do if you love caramel.

Proprietor Janet Ansehl Shulman has made one of the best sweets businesses in the country through her ingenuity and commitment to excellence.

Just eating one of Shulman’s sweet treats will revolutionize your idea of what caramel can be.

Her concoctions have just the right consistency, creating a pleasing texture without making your reach for the dental floss.

She also does a great job of incorporating caramel with other flavors to create a complex flavor profile.

Some of the things you can buy at The Caramel House include caramel-covered pretzels, salted caramel of a variety of flavors, and Swiss dark chocolate caramels.

If you’re tickled by what you try, you can also order more online.

The Caramel House is without a doubt one of the top things to do in St Louis.

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

17. Left Bank Books

Bookworms in St. Louis flock to Left Bank Books, the longest-running independent shop for all your reading needs in the whole city.

This bookstore holds all kinds of great works.

It’s the perfect place to stop in after having a satisfying meal at one of the terrific local restaurants.

Come into this Missouri bookshop on any given day, and there’s a chance you’ll stumble across something interesting, including fantastic books.

Hundreds of events are hosted at Left Bank Books each year. These are usually done at no cost.

If the books aren’t enough to convince you that Left Bank Books is one of the most fun places to go in St. Louis, then the hospitable staff and lovely customers who come through every day should make you fall in love with it.

Left Bank Books might just seem like a humble bookstore, but the most modest attractions are often the most endearing ones.

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

18. Old Cathedral

St. Louis certainly isn’t shy about telling you what’s been there for a while.

Old Cathedral, also known as the Catholic Basilica of St. Louis of France, was completed in 1834.

Features like a dome have made it one of the most striking pieces of religious architecture in all of Missouri.

Old Cathedral also stands as a major example of miracles of arguably biblical features.

During a fire that ravaged, Old Cathedral emerged without damage.

The cathedral continues to be well cared-for and bring in visitors wishing to show their devotion.

Along with the cathedral, you can also tour the Old Cathedral Museum to get a glimpse of St. Louis’ story.

No matter how much culture grows, there’s always a place for faith, as Old Cathedral shows.

This is one of the most impactful places to visit in St. Louis.

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

19. Six Flags St. Louis

Those who are into thrills know that Six Flags is one of the greatest theme parks in the world, regardless of which location you go to.

Six Flags St. Louis has all kinds of fantastic rides.

It’s one of the best places to visit in St. Louis for anyone who is serious about screaming their head off in absolute excitement.

Some of the top rides at Six Flags St. Louis include Dragon’s Wing, SkyScreamer, and Justice League: Battle for Metropolis.

You also can’t forget the powerful rollercoasters, such as American Thunder, Ninja, and Screamin’ Eagle.

For those who want a milder experience, there are great family rides offered, including the Colossus Ferris wheel and Speed O’Drome Go-Karts.

Six Flags St. Louis is the most sensational theme park in all of Missouri.

A day spent at this theme park is a day that’s sure to leave everyone smiling.

If you’re really serious about your Six Flags devotion, you might consider getting a membership.

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

20. Sweetology

The Caramel House isn’t alone when it comes to offering incredible sweets in St. Louis.

One of the biggest travel tips for anyone coming to St. Louis is to check out Sweetology.

There might be nowhere else in Missouri that provides cakes quite as exquisite as these.

Among the selections at Sweetology are cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.

What makes it really special is that you get the opportunity to do your own decorating.

With a bit of guidance, you can create stunning and delicious works of art.

Sweetology also offers events such as cake decorating parties for birthdays. You can also order sweets and decorating kits online.

There should be absolutely no debate that this business lives up to the “sweet” part of its name.

Fun things to do in St. Louis like this show how much wonder exists in this city.

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

21. The Muny

One of the biggest travel hacks for a trip to St. Louis is to score some tickets to a show at The Muny.

This is the country’s longest-standing outdoor venue for musical theater.

The experience of seeing a beautiful performance full of lively singing and dancing is made so much better when it takes place outside.

The Muny has been in St. Louis since 1917. Its mission is to give audiences more access to live theater.

Tickets are quite affordable, starting at $15. The shows they bring are also cream of the crop.

Some of the productions that have come to The Muny include Guys and Dolls and Kinky Boots.

Shows that are coming up include Footloose and Matilda.

One of the most fun activities in Missouri is catching a show at The Muny.

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

22. Scott Joplin House

Even if you don’t know Scott Joplin’s name, you’ve very likely heard his most famous tune.

“The Entertainer” is a deliriously fun piano tune that has entertained people of all ages.

Its ragtime style is the kind that sticks in your head right away, and Joplin helped to lead the way for jazz.

For a few years in Joplin’s tragically short life, he lived in St. Louis. During this time, he had many of his artistic breakthroughs.

His home for part of this time has become a major tourist attraction.

At Scott Joplin House, you can see artifacts from Joplin’s life.

Tours can also give an in-depth look at Joplin’s life.

If you’re looking for stuff to do in St. Louis, come by the Scott Joplin House.

Address:2658 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA

23. Bogart’s Smokehouse

One of the best things to do in St. Louis is to eat barbecue.

Bogart’s Smokehouse is an ace place to get ribs and other beyond scrumptious items.

There’s hardly any place in Missouri that’s better for barbecue than Bogart’s.

While there are plenty of classic barbecue options here, there’s also quite a bit of innovation on display.

Items like the immensely flavorful BBQ salad and the hearty Old Joe Platter show that those who are serious about barbecue are also serious about giving their customers something new.

Eating at Bogart’s Smokehouse is a great way to spend part of your St. Louis weekend.

You also can’t discount the importance of the sauces, like the heat lover’s favorite, VooDoo Sauce, as well as Mad Maddie’s Vinegar and Pineapple Express.

This is one of the top things to do in St. Louis as long as your appetite is big enough.

You’ll likely want to get an extra order to take home with you or to simply enjoy later in the night.

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

24. Budweiser Brewery Tours

If you’ve heard of beer, you’ve heard of Budweiser.

Coming to St. Louis gives you a chance to see just how “The King of Beers” is made.

Budweiser Brewery Tours are great for anyone who wants to know how this beer has become such a part of American culture, with more than 140 years of history.

Although Anheuser-Busch has multiple breweries in various cities, this one has been here the longest.

Beer lovers from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries have received refreshing beers from this very brewery.

You can enjoy one of the most fun activities in the whole city by experiencing a Budweiser Brewery Tours.

On these tours, you’ll get to see the processes that make Budweiser production possible.

The taste is even better when you have it right on-site.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in St. Louis, come on a Budweiser brewery tour.

Address:1200 Lynch St, St. Louis, MO 63118, USA

25. Bissinger’s Handcrafted Chocolatier

The sweets keep on coming, with Bissinger’s Handcrafted Chocolatier being a shining example of one of the greatest legacy businesses.

Though it didn’t start in Missouri, Bissinger’s story has been one of legend for centuries.

The story goes all the way back to France, showing that great flavors can be quite universal.

When you go to Bissinger’s Handcrafted Chocolatier, you’ll be amazed by all of the confectionaries.

There’s French macarons, truffles, and wonderful caramels. All of these are made with the finest amount of care.

There’s so much fun to be had in enjoying chocolate and other sweets, and going to Bissinger’s is one of the best things to do in St. Louis.

Address:1600 N Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102, USA

26. Campbell House Museum

At first glance, Campbell House Museum might not look like a whole lot, but it’s actually one of the most special parts of Missouri.

This townhouse is one of the greatest St. Louis attractions for how much it teaches you.

It dates back to before the Civil War and has a lovely design that makes it absolutely timeless.

The Victorian look of Campbell House Museum still holds up today.

When you tour this museum, you’ll see how the residing family lived for over eight decades.

It’s an incredible piece of Missouri and America’s history.

It’s also lots of fun t tour, as you can feel like you’ve just stepped into a time machine.

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

27. Grant’s Farm

Near the city is Grant’s Farm, a large farm and residence of the Buschs.

This Missouri family shows they’re about more than just beer by curating such an inviting farm for the public.

This is one of the top things to do in St. Louis for animal and nature lovers.

Named in honor of Ulysses S. Grant, Grant’s Farm isn’t typical in what it offers, particularly not when it comes to animals.

While other farms might just have cows and pigs, this one has tortoises, elephants, lemurs, and much more.

It’s one of the top things to do in St. Louis for anyone who’s looking to have fun near exotic animals.

Address:10501 Gravois Rd, St. Louis, MO 63123, USA

28. Laumeier Sculpture Park

Some of the most fun and creative artworks are done in sculpture form.

Laumeir Sculpture Park is a great place to visit for anyone who loves dynamic approaches to sculpture.

As an outdoor venue, it’s perfect for experiencing the twin beauties of art and nature.

Plenty of St. Louis attractions can be found at Laumeier Sculpture Park.

Works fit seamlessly against the scenery, with the trees and gorgeous sky.

Come by Laumeier Sculpture Park to discover one of the top things to do in St. Louis and to learn just how much art can influence space and vice-versa.

Address:12580 Rott Rd, St. Louis, MO 63127, USA

Start Planning Your Trip To St. Louis

The number of fun things to do in St. Louis, Missouri is even greater than the number on this list.

Adults can love the breweries and museums, while kids can love the theme parks and candy.

However, both adults and kids can agree that St. Louis, Missouri is an awesome city.

There are tons of fun activities, and you’ll never have a hard time figuring out what to do next. Day and night, options run abound.

Coming up for just a brief weekend can still be lots of fun, but you’ll hopefully come back soon for a longer trip.

Go through the top things to do in St Louis and determine which sound most fun to you.

Today, there are so many activities and stuff to do in St Louis, as well as in the surrounding Missouri area.

You might also look into things to do in Kansas City.

St. Louis is one of the most beautiful places in America and one of the best vacation spots.

The answer about what to see in St. Louis is everything you possibly can.