St. Louis, Missouri Travel Guide

Discover the charm of St. Louis, Missouri, where history meets modernity. From the iconic Gateway Arch to vibrant neighborhoods and rich culinary delights, the city offers a memorable experience.

St. Louis, Missouri, fondly known as the Gateway to the West, is a city rich in history and vibrant in culture. Nestled on the western bank of the Mississippi River, St. Louis is home to the iconic Gateway Arch, a symbol of westward expansion and a must-see for any visitor. The city’s skyline, dominated by this 630-foot monument, is just the beginning of the many attractions that await. From the historic neighborhoods of Soulard and Lafayette Square to the bustling streets of the Central West End, St. Louis offers a diverse array of experiences. Take a stroll through Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, home to the St. Louis Zoo, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the Missouri History Museum. The park’s lush landscapes and cultural institutions provide a perfect blend of relaxation and enlightenment. For those looking to indulge in local flavors, St. Louis doesn’t disappoint. The city is famous for its distinctive style of pizza, gooey butter cake, and toasted ravioli. Enjoy a meal at one of the many acclaimed restaurants or visit the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery for a taste of its world-renowned beers. Music lovers will find joy in the city’s rich jazz and blues heritage, with live performances lighting up venues across the city. St. Louis is also a sports enthusiasts’ haven, home to the St. Louis Cardinals and the St. Louis Blues. Catching a game at Busch Stadium or the Enterprise Center is an experience filled with local pride and excitement. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a sports fan, St. Louis offers something for everyone, making it a prime destination for travelers from all walks of life.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring St. Louis.

Visit the Gateway Arch early in the morning to avoid long lines and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Explore Forest Park on foot or by bike to fully appreciate its size and beauty.
Try the local toasted ravioli and gooey butter cake at popular eateries like Imo's Pizza and Park Avenue Coffee.
Take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River for a unique perspective of the city and its landmarks.
Plan your visit during a St. Louis Cardinals or Blues game to experience the city’s passionate sports culture.

Neighbourhoods in St. Louis

Central West End

Downtown St. Louis

Forest Park

Grand Center

Soulard

Explore All Neighbourhoods in St. Louis

Explore St. Louis: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in St. Louis

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Missouri Botanical Garden

Experience the beauty and tranquility of Missouri Botanical Garden, a stunning botanical paradise in St. Louis, dedicated to conservation and education.

4.9

The Fabulous Fox

Experience the magic of live performances at The Fabulous Fox Theatre in St. Louis, a historic venue dedicated to the performing arts.

4.9

Escape The Room St Louis

Dive into an exciting adventure at Escape The Room St. Louis, where teamwork and creativity are the keys to unraveling thrilling mysteries.

4.9

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis

Explore the breathtaking mosaics and serene atmosphere of The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, a must-see tourist attraction in Missouri.

4.9

Best landmarks in St. Louis

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Art Hill

Experience the beauty and culture of St. Louis at Art Hill in Forest Park, a perfect spot for recreation, events, and stunning views.

4.8

Museum at the Gateway Arch

Explore over 200 years of St. Louis and American history at the free, universally-designed Museum at the Gateway Arch.

4.8

Lafayette Square

Discover the beauty and history of Lafayette Square, St. Louis: Victorian architecture, vibrant community, and the city's oldest park.

4.9

The Gateway Arch

Experience the iconic Gateway Arch: ride to the top, explore the museum, and discover the history of westward expansion in St. Louis.

4.7

Best restaurants in St. Louis

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Bulrush StL Restaurant

Experience the essence of Southern cuisine at Bulrush StL Restaurant in St. Louis—where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

4.9

Aubergine

Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Aubergine in Downtown St. Louis - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

4.9

Louie

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Louie in Clayton – where every dish tells a story of tradition and passion.

4.8

Little Fox

Discover the innovative flavors at Little Fox in St. Louis—where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a cozy setting.

4.8

Best bars in St. Louis

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Venice Café

Discover the lively Venice Café in Benton Park, a unique bar and live music venue, perfect for an unforgettable night out in St. Louis.

4.8

Pagan Wine Bar

Discover the charm of Pagan Wine Bar in St. Louis, where exceptional wine selections meet a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.

4.9

The Get Down

Experience the perfect blend of cocktails, live music, and Italian cuisine at The Get Down in St. Louis, your ultimate nightlife destination.

4.8

The Crack Fox

Discover the vibrant nightlife of St. Louis at The Crack Fox, where karaoke, live music, and unique drinks await in an eclectic atmosphere.

4.7

Best nightclubs in St. Louis

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Venice Café

Discover the lively Venice Café, a vibrant night club and live music venue in St. Louis, perfect for an unforgettable night out.

4.8

HandleBar

Discover HandleBar, a lively bar and restaurant in St. Louis, offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an energetic dance atmosphere.

4.5

Cat's Meow, Inc

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and affordable drinks at Cat's Meow, Inc in Soulard, St. Louis, a must-visit bar for tourists seeking local culture.

4.6

The House Of Soul

Experience the pulse of St. Louis nightlife at The House of Soul, where music, dance, and community come together.

4.4

Best shops in St. Louis

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Soulard Farmers Market

Explore Soulard Farmers Market, a historic St. Louis hub for fresh produce, local crafts, and delectable street food, perfect for foodies and culture lovers.

4.7

The Hill Antique Market

Unearth unique vintage treasures at The Hill Antique Market, a charming destination in St. Louis for antique lovers and curious tourists alike.

4.8

LUXE Department Store

Explore unique styles at LUXE Department Store, where fashion meets affordability in the vibrant heart of St. Louis.

4.9

Frenchtown Records, Antiques & More

Explore a treasure trove of vintage vinyl records and antiques at Frenchtown Records, Antiques & More in St. Louis, a must-visit for music and history lovers.

5.0

Explore St. Louis on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in St. Louis, mapped for you.

St. Louis Essentials

St. Louis is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL) is the primary airport serving the city, with flights from major domestic and international destinations. The city is also accessible by Amtrak, with the Gateway Station serving as the main train terminal. If you prefer driving, St. Louis is reachable via several major highways, including I-70, I-64, I-55, and I-44.
St. Louis offers multiple transportation options. The MetroLink light rail system is a convenient and affordable way to navigate the city and its suburbs. The MetroBus network covers areas not serviced by the light rail. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available. For those who prefer driving, car rental services are plentiful, and the city has a well-maintained road network.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals. Contactless payments and mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are also gaining popularity.
St. Louis is generally safe for tourists, but certain areas have higher crime rates. Tourists should avoid North St. Louis and parts of East St. Louis, especially after dark. Downtown and popular tourist areas like Forest Park and the Central West End are generally safe but stay vigilant. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded places.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The city has numerous hospitals, including Barnes-Jewish Hospital and SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor issues, there are several pharmacies and urgent care centers throughout the city.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably, especially in summer months, but avoid overly casual attire in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect different religious practices. Some churches may have dress codes. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers and avoid loud conversations. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' A handshake is common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do tip your servers, generally around 15-20%. Don't rush your meal; dining is often a leisurely activity.
To experience St. Louis like a local, visit the Soulard Farmers Market, one of the oldest farmers markets in the U.S. Explore the neighborhoods of The Hill for authentic Italian cuisine and Cherokee Street for a vibrant arts scene. Don't miss the City Museum, a quirky and interactive experience. Attend a Cardinals baseball game at Busch Stadium for a true taste of local sports culture.

When is the best time to visit St. Louis?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for St. Louis

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in St. Louis. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haou-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see-yuh]
- YesYeah
  [yeh]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lem]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dn me/my bad]
- How are you?How you doin'?
  [haow yu doin]
- Fine. And you?A-OK. You?
  [ay-ok yu]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak english]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [i don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me see the menu, please
  [let me see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [i don't do meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'll pay, please
  [i'll pay, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [i'm turned around]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [i'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [i wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brows-ing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
- That's too expensiveThat's steep
  [that's steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can you cut the price?
  [can you cut the price]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [what's the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
- Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [ten-thur-tee]
- MorningMorning
  [morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [what's the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
  [can you point it out]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [when's the next bus]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket]

History of St. Louis

St. Louis was founded on February 15, 1764, by French fur traders Pierre Laclède and Auguste Chouteau. Named after King Louis IX of France, the settlement quickly became a hub for trade and exploration due to its strategic location along the Mississippi River.
In 1803, the United States acquired the Louisiana Territory from France through the Louisiana Purchase, which included St. Louis. This acquisition marked a significant expansion of U.S. territory and led to St. Louis becoming known as the 'Gateway to the West' as American pioneers started their journeys from this city.
St. Louis played a crucial role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which began in 1804. Commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark set out from St. Louis to explore the newly acquired western territories, mapping the region and establishing relationships with Native American tribes.
During the early 19th century, St. Louis became a bustling port city due to the advent of steamboats. The city’s location on the Mississippi River allowed it to flourish as a center for transportation, commerce, and trade, connecting the eastern and western parts of the United States.
St. Louis was a critical location during the Civil War due to its strategic importance and divided loyalties. The city saw significant military activity and played a key role in the Union's control of the Mississippi River. The Camp Jackson Affair in 1861 highlighted the tensions within the city as Union forces took control to prevent Confederate sympathies from taking hold.
One of the most memorable events in St. Louis history was the 1904 World's Fair, officially known as the Louisiana Purchase Exposition. Held in Forest Park, the fair celebrated the centennial of the Louisiana Purchase and showcased technological innovations, cultural exhibits, and introduced new foods such as the ice cream cone and Dr. Pepper.
Completed in 1965, the Gateway Arch is an iconic symbol of St. Louis and represents the city’s role as the 'Gateway to the West.' Designed by architect Eero Saarinen, the 630-foot stainless steel monument is the tallest arch in the world and serves as a centerpiece of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial.
St. Louis is known for its rich cultural diversity, shaped by waves of immigration throughout its history. The city boasts vibrant neighborhoods such as The Hill, famous for its Italian heritage; Soulard, known for its French influence and historic architecture; and the Delmar Loop, a bustling area with a mix of cultures, shops, and entertainment.
St. Louis has a deep musical heritage, particularly in blues and jazz. The city produced legendary musicians such as Scott Joplin, known as the 'King of Ragtime,' and Chuck Berry, a pioneer of rock and roll. The rich musical culture is still celebrated today in various venues and festivals throughout the city.