Planning on vacationing in Missouri? If so, you can’t skip over St. Louis, Missouri’s capital city. This bustling city has several ‘must visit’ attractions that will keep you busy for as long as you are there. So, let’s take a look at the 10 things that you must see while in St. Louis.
1. St. Louis Arch
The St. Louis Arch is the city’s most known attraction, for a good reason! It stands at 630 feet(192 meters), making it the world’s tallest arch and tallest man-made monument in the western hemisphere. The arch was built in 1965 and has been accessible to the public since 1967.
The awe-spiring shape of the arch is enough to amaze visitors. If you decide to go to the top, you will be provided with magnificent views from both sides! Buy your tickets online, by phone(1.877.982.1410), or at the Old Courthouse(11 North 4th Street).
2. St. Louis Old Courthouse
Built between 1839 and 1862, the Old Courthouse stands in the center of St. Louis downtown. Visitors can tour this architectural gem and get an insight into St. Louis’s role in early settlers westward expansion. Also, Dred and Harriet Scott sued for their freedom and Virginia Minor fought for women’s right to vote in this building. Entry into the courthouse is for free, and this is a ‘must visit’ for those who love history!
3. City Museum
This attraction is a must for those traveling with children or those who love to have fun. Formally an international shoe building, the museum has been renovated into a HUGE play house. It boasts 10 stories of spiraling slides, playgrounds, Ferris wheel, playgrounds, fun houses, and more! Those who visit will find it hard to see and do everything here! Be prepared to spend a few hours at the City Museum.
4. Busch Stadium
Home of the St. Louis Cardinals, Busch Stadium is the city’s major league baseball franchise. The stadium was renovated in 2010, and can now hold up to 46,000 fans. If you’re not able to make it to a game, the stadium also hosts many concerts.
The stadium is easily accessible, as it lies in the center of the city. Keep in mind that this can also cause a large amount of traffic! So, be aware before you decide to drive in the area.
5. Forest Park
It is impossible to see everything that this massive park has to offer. The total area covers 1,371 acres(555 hectares) with attractions from prominent landmarks to beautiful scenery.
Be sure and bring a picnic, because Picnic Island offers a beautiful spot for picnicking. If you become famished while exploring, then stop at one of the seven restaurants! Many museums, such as the Missouri History Museum, are also located in the park.
This park is perfect for those who want to get out of the city and into nature! You will be surrounded by the beauty of nature, regardless of which area you chose to go!
The park also hosts many venues that are worth visiting. Use the interactive map on the website to plan your perfect day!
6. Missouri Botanical Garden
This attraction is a must-see for plant and nature lovers. Founded in 1859, it is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States. Not only is it open for visitors, but is also a center for botanical research. The 79 acre(32 hectares) garden consists of many different types of Gardens. The most notable is the Climatron, which includes lowland rainforest plants, as well as the Seiwa-en Japanese Garden, the largest Japanese garden in North America.
While paying, you can choose to take a tram tour, which allows you to explore the gardens with more ease. Please note that all of the gardens are worth visiting because they offer unique plants that others don’t!
7. St. Louis Zoo
Voted the Best Zoo and America’s Top Free Attraction, the zoo welcomes more than three million visitors a year. They care for over 17,000 animals, many of which are endangered.
The Zoo is located in Forest Park, a massive and must-visit park. This is a great attraction for people of all ages, but your kids will especially love it!
8. Missouri History Museum
Located on the edge of the Forest Park, the Missouri History Museum showcases Missouri’s history(obviously). It is hosted by the Missouri Historical Society and founded in 1866. It is a great place to learn about the history of the state.
Exhibits change, so check the website before you visit! Exhibits can range from the Civil Rights movement in Missouri, to how World War I affected Missouri.
9. Cathedral Basilica Of St. Louis
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis is a Roman Catholic Church located in the Central West End of St. Louis. The Cathedral was named as a basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1997 and was built in 1914. Although it’s fairly modern, the architecture is based on Neo-Byzantine style. The inside of the church is just as alluring as the outside, making it a worthwhile place to visit!
10. Anheuser-Busch Brewery
Anheuser-Busch Brewery was opened in 1852 by German immigrant Adolphus Busch and is now a famous adult beverage. As one of the largest and oldest breweries in the United States, visitors can witness first-hand the history and techniques put into brewing. The brewery was designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1966.
Visitors can also observe the Budweiser Clydesdales; the draft horses used to pull wagons carrying beer in the 19th century.
Those who wish can take a public tour, which is free! Those of legal age can have any two free glasses of their products.
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