33 Best & Fun Things To Do In St. Louis, MO

Are you searching for fun activities in St. Louis, Missouri? Regardless of your status as a local or a visitor, this guide features 33 best and fun things to do to make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

As a fundamental metropolis along the Mississippi River, St. Louis is renowned for its iconic Gateway Arch, which symbolizes the city’s role as the “Gateway to the West.”

This bustling city offers a rich blend of history, culture, and entertainment that promises to captivate visitors. As one of the largest cities in Missouri, St. Louis boasts numerous attractions that cater to diverse interests.

From exploring the Missouri History Museum and the St. Louis Art Museum to enjoying a day at the St. Louis Zoo or catching a game at Busch Stadium, the city ensures a memorable experience for all who visit.

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33 Best And Fun Things To Do In St. Louis, MO (2024)

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1. Saint Louis Zoo

Start your St. Louis trip with an adventure to the Saint Louis Zoo, also known as the St. Louis Zoological Park, a free zoo specializing in animal care, research, preservation, and education.

Nestled within the Forest Park, the zoo boasts over 14,000 animals from 500 species across six themed zones, animal exhibits, a narrow-gauge train, and a kiddies’ tree house.

An adventure to the Saint Louis Zoo allows you to view different animals in a natural setting, learn about conservation, and enjoy a fun day out, making it one of the free things to do in St. Louis, MO, for everyone..

2. The Gateway Arch

Catching a glimpse of The Gateway Arch, a real icon of the American Midwest, is among the unique things visitors and locals can do in St. Louis, MO.

The magnificent monument, soaring over 630 feet into the sky, is the tallest artificial monument in the Western Region and the tallest available structure in Missouri.

A museum is also available to expose you to the history of St. Louis, the Louisiana Purchase, and the western development of the United States.

3. Missouri Botanical Garden

Also known as Shaw’s Garden, The Missouri Botanical Garden is the oldest botanical establishment in the United States and a landmark offering unique things to do in St. Louis, MO, for nature enthusiasts.

Founded in 1859, the garden prides itself on 79 acres of botanical displays, with indoor conservatories, themed gardens, special exhibits, and the Climatron, a dome-structured greenhouse.

A visit to the Missouri Botanical Garden allows visitors to get immersed in various plant life, survey diverse garden styles, and learn about botany and preservation.

Address: 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States

4. City Museum

City Museum, unlike the regular museum, is a gigantic, whimsical playground built from recycled buildings and industrial objects presenting fun things to do in St. Louis, MO, for all ages.

The playground has tunnels, caves, whizzing-down slides, a rooftop Ferris wheel, a school bus, and large structures made from airplanes and recovered bridges.

Exploring City Museum offers a chance to climb onto the structures, explore the caves, and let your fantasy run wild.

Address: 750 N 16th Street, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States.

5. Forest Park 

Experience a plethora of recreational things to do in St. Louis, MO, for families at Forest Park, a massive public park.

Established in 1876, the park houses the Missouri History Museum, the Saint Louis Zoo, the Saint Louis Science Center, and a civic center with over 1,300 acres of space for recreation and organizing special events,

A trip to Forest Park allows individuals and families a chance to relax, explore nature, experience historical events or cultural gatherings, and create unforgettable memories together.

Address: 5595 Grand Drive, St. Louis, MO 63112, United States.

6. Busch Stadium

Busch Stadium is a modern ballpark with a unique design and the home field for Major League Baseball’s St. Louis Cardinals with entertaining things to do in St. Louis, MO, this weekend.

The stadium encompasses scenic views, a Cardinals Hall of Fame museum, tasty meals and refreshing drinks, and behind-the-scenes excursions.

Enjoy the thrills of catching a Cardinals game, engaging in ballpark treats, and immersing in the electrifying atmosphere of St. Louis baseball.

7. Saint Louis Art Museum

As an art enthusiast, a visit to the Saint Louis Art Museum, an outstanding museum known for its variety of over 5,000 years of arts and cultures, should make your checklist of unique things to do in St. Louis, Missouri.

The museum has over 34,000 artworks, with paintings, sculptures, artifacts, and cultural items making it an incredible destination for art lovers seeking free things to do in St. Louis, MO, today.

An exploration of the Saint Louis Art Museum offers the chance to see different collections, dive into diverse artistic eras and cultures, and witness unique exhibitions.

Address: 1 Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States.

8. Saint Louis Science Center

Nestled within Forest Park, Saint Louis Science Center is a large science museum and planetarium offering free and educational things to do in St. Louis, MO, for everyone.

The science center prides itself on over 750 exhibits across 300,000 square feet, many interactive exhibits, a big screen OMNIMAX theater, and the James McDonnell Planetarium, the largest artificial sky in the Western Hemisphere.

An adventure to the Saint Louis Science Center sparks curiosity and encourages engagement with science through hands-on exhibits, shows, and educational programs.

Address: 5050 Oakland Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States

9. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis

As a Christian, attending a worship session at the Cathedral Basilica, a charming Romanesque Revival and Byzantine-fashioned Catholic cathedral is one of the best things to do in St. Louis, MO, this Sunday.

Built and completed in 1914, the cathedral is the mother church of the Archdiocese of St. Louis and offers the world’s second-largest mosaic collection of over 83,000 square feet.

The Cathedral Basilica allows for viewing structural magnificence, admiring eye-catching mosaics, and experiencing a spiritual connection.

Address: 4431 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108, United States.

10. Gateway Arch National Park

Gateway Arch National Park is the smallest national park in the United States, known for housing the Gateway Arch and offering family-friendly things to do in St. Louis, MO, this weekend.

The park consists of the Gateway Arch, a museum with exhibits displaying westward expansion and St. Louis’ role, the Old Courthouse, and grounds with picturesque views of the Mississippi River.

Get the chance to ride a tram to the arch top for scenic views, explore the history of Lewis & Clark’s expedition and westward migration, and learn about the Dred Scott court case at the Old Courthouse.

Address: St. Louis, MO 63102, United States.

11. Anheuser-Busch St. Louis Brewery

The Anheuser-Busch St. Louis Brewery, also regarded as the “Home of Budweiser”, is a longstanding landmark with unique things to do in St. Louis, MO, for beer lovers.

Established in 1852, the brewery features guided excursions, a beer museum, a Biergarten restaurant, a gift shop, and brewing classes.

Explore the rich history of Anheuser-Busch, learn more about the brewing process, test different beers, and enjoy German-influenced meals in a vibrant environment.

Address: 1200 Lynch Street, St. Louis, MO 63118, United States

12. The Fabulous Fox

The Fabulous Fox is a significant performing arts hub with multiple entertaining things to do in St. Louis, MO, at night.

With its inception as a movie palace in 1929, the theater possesses a charming interior with a mixed Asian-motivated design and organizes different live events like Broadway shows, concerts, and comedies.

Attending a show at the Fabulous Fox offers exceptional entertainment experiences in a picturesque and classic setting.

Address: 527 N Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States

13. Crown Candy Kitchen

Grace your tastebuds at Crown Candy Kitchen, the ancientest working soda fountain in the urban area, presenting a variety of unique things to do in St. Louis, MO, in the evenings.

The food hub offers a retro experience with classic diner decor, homemade chocolates, and an American lunch and dinner list.

Visiting Crown Candy Kitchen allows visitors to savor tasty food, and house-made milkshakes, and step back in time in the nostalgic ambiance.

Address: 1401 St Louis Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63106, United States

14. Art Hill

Art Hill is a famous green destination with picturesque vistas of surrounding parks and attractions and different fun things to do in St. Louis, Missouri.

The attraction prides itself on an ample green area, ideal for picnics, relaxing, or relishing outdoor events, with a principal view of the Art Museum, and surrounding cultural establishments.

Gain a chance to relax outdoors, enjoy the panorama, and attend concerts or other events held at the Art Hill.

Address: 35-43 Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States

15. Grant’s Farm

An adventure to Grant’s Farm, a free site blending a former residence of Ulysses S. Grant and an animal park owned by the Busch Family with adventurous things to do in St. Louis, MO, for adults.

Spanning 281 acres, the historic site consists of tram rides for seeing over 900 animals across 100 species, Grant’s home, and flattering beer samples.

An adventure to Grant’s Farm promises a special mix of history, wildlife experiences, and family-friendly fun for free.

Address: 7385 Grant Road, St. Louis, MO 63123, United States

16. River City Casino Hotel

One of the best things to do in St. Louis, MO, for adults is to stop by River City Casino Hotel, an exclusive AAA Four-Diamond distinguished hotel and casino facility.

Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, this attraction boasts Vegas-style gaming with over 1,900 slots, different table games, an Asian gaming lounge, elegant rooms and suites, restaurants, a fitness center, and a nightclub.

At River City Casino Hotel, adults can enjoy an exhilarating mix of elite gambling, exclusive accommodations, and savory dining options.

Address: 777 River City Casino Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63125, United States.

17. Stifel Theatre

Catch a view of St. Louis’ cultural and classic performances at Stifel Theatre, a notable performing arts destination offering various entertaining things to do in St. Louis, MO, at night.

The theater hosts an assortment of events, including concerts, musicals, comedy shows, and more to keep you entertained in a beautiful and historic setting.

Address: 1400 Market Street, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States.

18. Budweiser Brewery Experience

A visit to the Budweiser Brewery Experience offers the inner workings of the brewing process of one of America’s most famous beers. bringing to light one of the unique things to do in St. Louis, MO, for visitors and locals alike.

Nestled in the Soulard neighborhood, the brewery offers excursions to cover diverse interests, exposing visitors to the brewing process from the selection to the packaging line.

On your visit to this destination, you can explore the brand’s rich legacy at the Budweiser Museum, or embark on a tour to unearth diverse concealed areas and get a clear view of the finishing tanks.

19. Scott Joplin House State Historic Site

The Scott Joplin House State Historic Site is a museum dedicated to the life and work of Scott Joplin, the popular early jazz composer.

To offer entertaining things to do in St. Louis, MO, today, the site prides itself on Joplin’s rehabilitated apartment equipped in the style of the era, historical exhibits, and some early jazz music played on an ancient player piano.

Experience a step back in time and learn about the life and music of an iconic American composer at Scott Joplin House State Historic Site.

Address: 2658 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States

20. The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum

Let the children loose and have them experience a plethora of educational and thrilling things to do in St. Louis, MO, for kids at The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum.

The museum features practical exhibits designed to ignite creativity, originality, and problem-solving skills in children, a maker space, and unique areas for the younger kids.

Children are offered a fun and educational experience, allowing them to explore and learn more through the hands-on exhibits present at the Magic House.

Address: 516 S Kirkwood Road, St. Louis, MO 63122, United States.

21. St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station

An adventure to St. Louis Aquarium At Union Station, a fascinating treasure presenting a trip through different water bodies is among the unique things to do in St. Louis, MO, for everyone.

This aquarium prides itself on over 120,000 square feet of water, different aquatic habitats, practical displays, and educational programs.

22. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

Enjoy a 15-minute drive from St. Louis to Collinsville, IL, to explore Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site , a breathtaking beehive with a plethora of educational things to do near St. Louis, MO, for history lovers

Spanning 2,200 acres, this wonderful site features over 80 artificial mounds that acted as ceremonial platforms, burial sites, and public buildings from 700 to 1400 AD. It also houses the Monk Mound, which is the biggest ancient mound in America.

Additionally, the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site offers scenic views of the entire landscape, with a revamped fortification wall, and the Woodhenge, a wooden structure that gives realizations into the lives of the Cahokian people.

23. Ballpark Village

Releasing your inner sports fan at Ballpark Village, the home of the St Louis Cardinals baseball team, is one of the fun things to do in St. Louis, MO, for all ages.

Beyond sports, the park boasts different restaurants with tasty foods, a live music performance at a stylish and modern bar, an entertainment complex with family-friendly games and a cinema, and a space to unwind with scenic views of the city.

The entertainment center allows you to be satisfied with tasty meals and refreshing drinks at the different restaurants and bars, enjoy live music, catch your favorite movies, or dig out other entertainment choices to jazz up your visit.

Ballpark Village is also a perfect destination to have a lively date night, making its visit one of the romantic things to do in St. Louis, MO, for couples.

Address: 601 Clark Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63102, United States.

24. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

Unearthing the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, a historic feature also known as the Chains of Rocks Bridge, is among the unique things to do in St. Louis, MO, for history enthusiasts,

Established in 1929, the focal point of this attraction is its dramatic bend which was constructed due to the presence of a water intake and uneven bedrock.

Other striking features include a well-kept pedestrian-cyclist walkway, beautiful scenes, and remains of the Route 66 signs.

25. The St. Louis Wheel

Discover an array of family-friendly things to do in St. Louis, MO, for all ages when you take an adventure to The St. Louis Wheel, an iconic wheel that presents stunning vistas and exciting rides for everyone.

The wheel features 42 temperature-regulated gondolas with broad windows giving you an incredible all-round view of the city skylines, the Mississippi  River, and the nearby terrains.

Besides taking a 15-minute ride on the 200-foot wheel, you can also explore the variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options to complete your experience.

Address: 201 S 18th Street, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States

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Exploring other attractions near Saint Louis, Missouri? Why not check out some fun things to do in Collinsville, IL?

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26. The Darkness Haunted House

27. Gateway Arch Riverboats

Taking a cruise on the Gateway Arch Riverboats is one of the adventurous things to do in St. Louis, MO, for families.

The attraction offers different sailing experiences to cater to diverse interests and time limitations. The cruises offer beautiful views of the Mississippi River, the surrounding terrain, and a peek into the rich history of the region.

Visitors to this destination are allowed to enjoy picturesque views of the Mississippi River and scenic landscapes, while gaining historical wisdom of the area, thus fostering a relaxing and educational experience.

28. MX Movies & Bar

29. Citygarden Sculpture Park

An adventure at Citygarden Sculpture Park, a free and urban haven is among the fun and family-friendly things to do in St. Louis, MO, for all ages.

30. The Mural Mile

The Mural Mile, a bustling outdoor gallery, offers a plethora of free things to do in St. Louis, MO, for art enthusiasts.

Spanning over two miles, the gallery boasts artistic works of over 250 graffiti and street artists on the Mississippi River floodwall, thus creating an appealing landscape of the city’s culture and artistic endeavors.

31. St. Louis Public Library – Central Library

Paying a visit to the St. Louis Public Library – Central Library, a great Beaux-Arts building designed by Cass Gilbert, is one of the educational things to do in St. Louis, MO, for all ages.

Built in 1912, the library features lovely structures, a large collection of books and materials, access to computer services, meeting rooms, and passport services.

Exploring the Central Library allows you to appreciate the beautiful landmark, browse a large collection, and attend programs and events.

Address: 1301 Olive Street, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States.

32. Cherokee Antique Row

Are you searching for a vibrant destination to explore special and lovely things in St. Louis, MO? Look no further than Cherokee Antique Row, a six-block district teeming with preferential shops.

The enchanting environment offers colorful storefronts, Victorian structures, and shady sidewalks, making it an amusing place for visitors and residents alike.

Engage in a treasure hunt for special antiques, and get a glimpse into the area’s rich history, including tours of the Chatillon-DeMenil Mansion.

Address: 1900-2300 Cherokee Street, St. Louis, MO 63118, United States.

33. World Chess Hall of Fame

The World Chess Hall of Fame is a museum devoted to memorializing chess and its rich history, culture, and art among other unique things to do in St. Louis, MO, today.

The museum houses the Guinness World Record’s Largest Chess Piece, exhibits about great chess players, historic games, and the influence of chess worldwide.

A trip to the World Chess Hall of Fame promises an opportunity to learn about chess legends, dig into its connection to art and history, and see special exhibitions while enjoying hosted special events like music nights.

Address: 4652 Maryland Avenue #1, St. Louis, MO 63108, United States.

Plan your Visit to St. Louis, MO

St. Louis, Missouri, presents an array of activities for visitors and locals of all ages. Whether you’re in search of adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, you’re certain to find something that suits your preferences in this vibrant and historic city.

Plan your trip to St. Louis today, and experience the beauty and charm of its appeals like never before!