Are you planning a trip to St. Louis and looking for the ultimate guide to the top attractions? Look no further than our St. Louis Itinerary 5 Days. From iconic landmarks to outdoor adventures, this travel guide offers insider tips to make the most of your time in the Gateway City. Discover the best St. Louis attractions and sightseeing opportunities, and plan your unforgettable vacation today.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to St. Louis, our travel guide has everything you need to know for a memorable trip. From exploring the St. Louis Gateway to immersing in art and culture, our itinerary covers all the must-see St. Louis landmarks and attractions. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to discover the wonders of St. Louis!
Day 1: Exploring the St. Louis Gateway
Welcome to St. Louis, the Gateway City! On your first day, explore the St. Louis Gateway and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture and rich history. Begin your day by visiting the iconic Gateway Arch, a symbol of the city’s role as the Gateway to the West. Take a ride to the top of the arch for breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River.
Next, head over to the City Museum, a playful indoor playground and surrealistic wonderland for all ages. You could spend hours exploring the museum’s intricate tunnels, enchanting caves, and unique art exhibits.
Stop for lunch at the historic Soulard Neighborhood, known for its delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine, lively atmosphere, and street festivals throughout the year.
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Top Restaurants in Soulard Neighborhood |
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End your day by catching a live music show at the Broadway Oyster Bar, known for its delicious seafood and vibrant atmosphere, or take a stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront and admire the beauty of the river and the city skyline.
Stay tuned for more adventures on your St. Louis Itinerary!
Day 2: Discovering Historical Landmarks
St. Louis is a city with a rich history that dates back to the early 18th century. On day two of your St. Louis itinerary, experience the city’s captivating history firsthand by exploring its historical landmarks.
Begin your journey at the Old Courthouse, located in the heart of downtown St. Louis. This iconic courthouse was the site of Dred Scott’s infamous slavery case, which helped paved the way for the emancipation of slaves.
Next, head over to the world-renowned Anheuser-Busch Brewery, where you can take a tour and learn about the brewing process that created the famous Budweiser beer.
Finally, visit the Missouri History Museum, where you’ll find a plethora of exhibits and artifacts that showcase the rich history of St. Louis and Missouri. You can even take a stroll through the museum’s beautiful outdoor park, Forest Park.
Make sure to take your time at each historical landmark and appreciate the unique stories and culture they offer.
Day 3: Immerse in Art and Culture
Spend your third day in St. Louis exploring the city’s vibrant art and culture scene. St. Louis is home to a number of museums and galleries, and you won’t want to miss out on the opportunity to experience them all.
The St. Louis Art Museum
Start your day by visiting the world-renowned St. Louis Art Museum. With over 34,000 works of art spanning from ancient to contemporary times, the museum is sure to impress. Take your time exploring the museum’s impressive collection, which includes everything from Chinese jades to contemporary American paintings.
The Delmar Loop
After lunch, take a stroll through the Delmar Loop, one of St. Louis’ most vibrant and eclectic neighborhoods. The Loop is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and galleries that showcase the unique character of St. Louis. Spend some time exploring the area and taking in the lively atmosphere.
The Fabulous Fox Theatre
In the evening, head to the Fabulous Fox Theatre to catch a show. The historic theater is known for its grand architecture and stunning performances. Be sure to check the theater’s schedule in advance to see what shows are playing during your visit.
Day 4: Outdoor Adventures in St. Louis
On your fourth day in St. Louis, it’s time to leave the city behind and explore the great outdoors.
Start your day at Forest Park, a sprawling urban park with numerous attractions, such as the Saint Louis Art Museum and the Saint Louis Zoo. Take a stroll through the manicured gardens or rent a paddleboat to explore the surrounding lakes.
Next up, go on a relaxing riverboat cruise along the Mississippi River. This leisurely excursion is a fantastic way to see the city from a unique perspective while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.
Later in the day, make your way to the Missouri Botanical Garden. Home to over 79 acres of horticultural displays and vibrant plant collections, it’s the ideal destination to unwind and soak up the beauty of nature.
End your day of outdoor adventure by taking a stroll in one of St. Louis’s many parks. Lafayette Square Park and Tower Grove Park are two popular destinations among locals, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation.
Day 5: Fun-filled Attractions for the Whole Family
Wrap up your St. Louis itinerary with a day of family-friendly fun. Your first stop is the world-famous St. Louis Zoo. Spanning over 90 acres, the St. Louis Zoo boasts more than 16,000 animals and 600 species from all over the world, making it a must-visit destination for animal lovers of all ages.
Next up, head to Grant’s Farm, a historic site and an animal reserve. Your kids will love the wildlife park and petting zoo, while you can enjoy a cold beer at one of the onsite restaurants.
Wrap up your day at St. Louis Carousel, also known as the Grand Hall. Step back in time and enjoy a ride on the oldest and most beautiful carousel in the world. The St. Louis Carousel is a true work of art and it is a must-visit attraction for visitors of all ages.
Insider Tips for a Memorable Visit
Make your St. Louis vacation truly unforgettable with these helpful insider tips:
Best Time to Visit St. Louis
St. Louis enjoys mild weather during spring and fall, making these seasons the best time to visit for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be cold and snowy. Keep an eye on the weather and plan accordingly.
Local Dining Recommendations
When in St. Louis, don’t miss out on the local cuisine. Some must-try dishes include toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake, and St. Louis-style pizza. For a unique dining experience, head to The Hill neighborhood for authentic Italian cuisine.
Getting Around the City
St. Louis offers several transportation options to explore the city, including the MetroLink light rail system, bus routes, and bike sharing. If you prefer to drive, be prepared for busy traffic during rush hour. Consider using ride-share services or renting a bike for a fun and eco-friendly way to get around.
Insider Tip: Save money on admission fees by visiting popular St. Louis attractions on their free admission days. For example, the Missouri History Museum offers free admission every Tuesday, and the St. Louis Zoo is free on selected days throughout the year.
Exploring Beyond St. Louis
While St. Louis has plenty to offer, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the neighboring areas and discover their beauty. Here are some of the top St. Louis day trips and neighboring attractions:
St. Charles
Just 25 miles from St. Louis, the charming town of St. Charles offers an array of activities and attractions. Stroll along Main Street with its quaint shops and restaurants, visit the Lewis and Clark Boat House and Nature Center, or take a Missouri River cruise.
Cahokia Mounds
Explore the ancient history of the area at Cahokia Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located across the river from St. Louis. Learn about the ancient Native American civilization that once thrived in the area and climb the 156-step Monks Mound to take in stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Hermann
Nestled in the heart of Missouri wine country, Hermann is a picturesque town known for its German heritage and wineries. Take a tasting tour of the local vineyards, shop for handcrafted treasures, or explore Hermann’s historic district.
With so many St. Louis neighboring attractions, you’ll never be at a loss for something to see or do. So go ahead, plan a day trip or two and experience the best of the Midwest.
Conclusion
St. Louis is a city with a rich history and vibrant culture that offers something for every traveler. By following this St. Louis Itinerary 5 Days guide, you can explore iconic landmarks, immerse in art and culture, enjoy the beautiful outdoors, and have fun-filled family-friendly experiences.
Don’t forget to take advantage of insider tips such as the best time to visit, local dining recommendations, and transportation options to enhance your St. Louis vacation.
If you have additional time, consider exploring the neighboring attractions beyond the Gateway City, such as the charming town of St. Charles or the historic Cahokia Mounds.
Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, nature enthusiast, or seeking family-friendly activities, St. Louis landmarks and tourism have you covered. Start planning your trip today and discover what makes St. Louis a unique and exciting destination.
