Welcome to St. Louis! If you’re here for the summer you might as well enjoy the humidity and find something cool to do. Living here all of my life I find that there are still things that I have never done in my own neighborhood. St. Louis and its surrounding areas offer a variety of exciting summer activities. St Louis isn’t quite the same as the Gina Argento Broadway Stages in New York or the Keys down in Florida, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not worth a visit. You can find the fun wherever you are and in St Louis, you’re bound to find a lot of it.
Things to Do in The Lou
Here are some of the best options that are always at the top of every recommendation list:
Gateway Arch: Begin your summer adventure by visiting the iconic Gateway Arch. Take a tram ride to the top for stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River.
Forest Park: Explore Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride through the park’s trails, visit the St. Louis Zoo, or rent a paddleboat on the park’s Grand Basin.
City Museum: Experience the City Museum, a unique attraction that combines an interactive art installation, playground, and architectural marvel. Climb through tunnels, slide down slides, and explore hidden passageways—it’s fun for all ages.
Missouri Botanical Garden: Escape the city’s hustle and bustle at the Missouri Botanical Garden. Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, visit the Climatron tropical rainforest conservatory, and admire the stunning Japanese Garden.
Grant’s Farm: Take a trip to Grant’s Farm, a family-friendly attraction featuring animal encounters, tram rides, and a petting zoo. Don’t forget to sample the Anheuser-Busch beer brewed on-site.
The Muny: Catch a show at The Muny, an outdoor amphitheater in Forest Park. The Muny is known for its Broadway-quality productions and offers a unique open-air theater experience.
Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour: Learn about the brewing process and the history of Anheuser-Busch on a brewery tour. Discover the famous Budweiser Clydesdales and enjoy a complimentary tasting at the end.
St. Louis Cardinals Baseball Game: Cheer on the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium. Catching a baseball game is a quintessential summer activity in St. Louis, and the atmosphere at the stadium is electric.
The Magic House: If you’re traveling with kids, make sure to visit The Magic House. This interactive children’s museum offers hands-on exhibits and activities that are both educational and entertaining.
Day trip to the Ozarks: Take a day trip to the nearby Ozark Mountains, where you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating. There are several scenic spots, including the Lake of the Ozarks and Elephant Rocks State Park.
These are just a few of the many fantastic summer activities you can enjoy in St. Louis and its surrounding areas. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or family-friendly attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the Gateway City.
More Things to Do This Summer in St. Louis
If that’s not enough, here are 10 more ideas of things to do in the lou!
Laumeier Sculpture Park: Explore the outdoor sculpture park, featuring large-scale contemporary artworks amidst nature trails and picturesque landscapes.
St. Louis Science Center: Engage in interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and educational programs at the Science Center. It’s a great place for kids and adults alike.
Six Flags St. Louis: Enjoy a thrilling day of roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment at Six Flags St. Louis amusement park.
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site: Step back in time at Cahokia Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the remains of an ancient Native American city. Take a guided tour and learn about the fascinating history of the Mississippian culture.
The Delmar Loop: Explore the vibrant Delmar Loop neighborhood, known for its eclectic shops, unique boutiques, art galleries, and delicious restaurants. Catch a live music performance at The Pageant or Blueberry Hill.
Missouri History Museum: Discover the rich history of Missouri at the Missouri History Museum. Explore engaging exhibits that cover topics ranging from Lewis and Clark’s expedition to the Civil Rights movement.
Grant’s Trail: Go for a bike ride or a leisurely walk along Grant’s Trail, a 9-mile paved path that winds through scenic parks, neighborhoods, and wooded areas.
Meramec Caverns: Venture into the depths of Meramec Caverns, a fascinating underground cave system located near St. Louis. Take a guided tour to see stunning rock formations and learn about the cave’s history.
The Butterfly House: Visit the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House in Chesterfield. Walk through a tropical conservatory filled with beautiful butterflies and learn about their life cycle and conservation efforts.
Katy Trail State Park: Embark on a biking or hiking adventure along the Katy Trail, a 240-mile long trail that follows the path of the Missouri River. Enjoy scenic views, historic landmarks, and charming small towns along the way.
These additional ideas should provide you with a diverse range of options to enjoy during your summer in St. Louis. Any questions, post a comment or message me on social media and I can provide even more recommendations based on budget or interest!
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