Destination Spotlight: St. Louis - Gateway to the West
- corbinbyers2
- May 15, 2024
- 4 min read
Destination Spotlight: St. Louis - Gateway to the West
St. Louis, Missouri, often referred to as the "Gateway to the West," is a city with a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a dynamic present. From its iconic Gateway Arch to its eclectic neighborhoods, St. Louis offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or someone who loves the great outdoors, St. Louis has something for everyone. Here's why you should consider STL for your next travel destination:
The Gateway Arch: An Iconic Landmark
No visit to St. Louis would be complete without a trip to the Gateway Arch, the tallest arch in the world. This iconic structure, soaring 630 feet into the sky, symbolizes America's westward expansion and offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top for a breathtaking perspective, or explore the Gateway Arch National Park to learn about the history and significance of this engineering marvel.
Forest Park: A Nature Lover's Dream
Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, offering over 1,300 acres of lush greenery, lakes, and walking trails. It's a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for biking, boating, and golfing. The park is also home to several FREE attractions, including the incredible St. Louis Zoo (My 2nd Favorite Zoo in the country), the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, and the Saint Louis Science Center. Whether you're interested in nature, art, history, or science, Forest Park has it all.
The Soulard District: Music, Food, and Culture
The Soulard District is one of St. Louis's oldest neighborhoods, known for its vibrant music scene, historic architecture, and lively festivals. It's a must-visit destination for music lovers, with numerous venues offering live blues, jazz, and rock performances. Soulard is also famous for its food, with a variety of restaurants and bars serving up classic St. Louis cuisine, such as toasted ravioli and St. Louis-style pizza. Don't miss the Soulard Farmers Market, one of the oldest farmers markets in the country, offering fresh produce and local goods.
The Delmar Loop: A Hub of Creativity
The Delmar Loop, often simply called "The Loop," is a bustling entertainment district with a unique blend of shops, restaurants, theaters, and art installations. This vibrant area is a hub for creativity, where you can find everything from vintage clothing stores to innovative restaurants. The Loop is also home to The Pageant, a popular music venue that hosts both emerging and established artists. Stroll along the Walk of Fame to see stars honoring famous St. Louisans, and be sure to check out the historic Tivoli Theatre for a classic movie experience.
Anheuser-Busch Brewery: A Taste of St. Louis
St. Louis has a deep brewing tradition, and the Anheuser-Busch Brewery is a key part of that history. Visitors can take a brewery tour to learn about the beer-making process and the company's heritage, as well as see the famous Budweiser Clydesdales up close. The tour includes a tasting session, where you can sample some of the brewery's signature beers. It's an enjoyable and informative experience, even if you're not a beer aficionado. You can also tour the Clydesdale farm a few miles away at Warm Springs Ranch.
City Museum: An Urban Playground for All Ages
A unique playground and art installation housed in a former shoe factory, the City Museum offers a maze of tunnels, caves, slides, and interactive sculptures, along with outdoor attractions like the rooftop Ferris wheel and MonstroCity, a massive climbing structure made of recycled materials with chutes and ladders big enough for even adults to enjoy. Great for families and adventurous visitors, it's a must-visit destination for creativity and fun in St. Louis.
Pappy's Smokehouse
St. Louis is renowned for its barbecue, and Pappy's Smokehouse is a standout. Known for its Memphis-style ribs, slow-smoked over apple and cherry wood, Pappy's has gained a reputation for serving some of the best barbecue in the country. The menu features a range of smoked meats, including pulled pork, beef brisket, and smoked turkey, accompanied by classic sides like baked beans and coleslaw. Get there early, as this popular spot often has a line out the door, and some of the items sell out. It's a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts exploring the St. Louis food scene, and my all-time favorite BBQ restaurant.
BONUS: Off the Beaten Path in STL
For a unique experience, explore some of St. Louis's hidden gems. Visit the Lemp Mansion, a historic and reportedly haunted site, to learn about the Lemp family's intriguing story. Check out Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, a short drive across the Mississippi River into Illinois, where you can explore ancient Native American mounds and an interpretive center (for free). For nature lovers, the Missouri Botanical Garden offers tranquil walks and themed gardens. Don't miss Crown Candy Kitchen, a nostalgic soda fountain and candy shop known for its decadent milkshakes and classic American comfort food. These off-the-beaten-path spots provide a different perspective on St. Louis.
Conclusion
St. Louis is a city that combines a rich history with a vibrant contemporary culture, offering visitors a wide variety of experiences. From the majestic Gateway Arch to the lively music scene in the Soulard District, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city. Whether you're interested in exploring its iconic landmarks, enjoying its diverse neighborhoods, or simply taking in the local atmosphere, St. Louis is a destination worth discovering.
So, pack your bags, head to the "Gateway to the West," and prepare to be charmed by the unique energy and spirit of St. Louis. With its mix of history, culture, and entertainment, it's a city that will leave you with lasting memories and a desire to return.
St. Louis is Actually one of my favorite cities in the country. If you're interested in booking a trip to St. Louis or anywhere else in the world, make sure to send me a text or call me:
Corbin Byers
Licensed Travel Agent/Owner
Corbellen Travel
(321) 247-9427
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