8 Recommended Spots in St. Louis, a City Blessed with Abundant Nature!

St. Louis is a city located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers in eastern Missouri. Known as an independent city that does not belong to any county, St. Louis has developed through commerce and industry and is dotted with tourist spots that attract visitors from both within the country and abroad. It’s an ideal city that coexists with rich natural surroundings.

In the heart of St. Louis, modern buildings create an urban skyline, giving the impression of a bustling metropolis, yet plenty of greenery can be found throughout, making it an eco-friendly city. Although it may not frequently be highlighted as a tourist destination, St. Louis is filled with lesser-known attractions that make it a place worth visiting. Here are some recommended sightseeing spots in St. Louis that you’ll want to check out right away.

1. Gateway Arch

When you visit the town of St. Louis, the first thing that will catch your eye is the massive arch. The Gateway Arch is a must-visit spot, highly popular with tourists. Ticket booths often have long lines, so it’s recommended to go early. When you see it, you’ll feel compelled to go closer, right?

St. Louis, as the starting point for westward expansion in the U.S., built this enormous arch as its symbol in 1965. Surprisingly, the arch is hollow, and visitors can take a tram up to an observation space at the top. It’s a highly crowded spot with visitors flocking from all around. The arch-shaped observatory is rare worldwide, making it a unique structure; be sure to enjoy the view from the arch as a memorable part of your visit to St. Louis. The Gateway Arch illuminated at night is also magical and worth seeing.

2. Missouri Botanical Garden

The beautifully maintained Missouri Botanical Garden is a highly rated tourist attraction in St. Louis. With its extensive grounds, it’s a popular destination with a variety of gardens, including Victorian-style ones, that keep visitors fascinated. The colorful flowers planted throughout add to the vibrant, American feel.

The Japanese Garden, one of the largest in the U.S., is also famous. Its large scale and meticulous attention to detail astonish visitors with its beauty. Spring is the busiest season, when flowers like weeping cherry and dogwood are in bloom. The autumn foliage is also highly recommended.

3. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis

One of the most striking Catholic churches in St. Louis, the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis often draws crowds of tourists and worshipers. If there’s no mass, tourists are free to explore inside.

The exterior is impressive, but the interior’s beauty is even more astonishing. The ceilings and walls are covered in detailed mosaic tiles (except for the floor), which took approximately eight years to complete. There’s a mosaic gallery in the basement that is also a must-see. The high level of artistry makes it feel almost like a museum. There’s also a shop for souvenirs, making it one of the historical buildings you should visit in St. Louis. Surrounded by its mystical ambiance, you’ll find a sense of peace.

4. Saint Louis Zoo

Located in Forest Park, the Saint Louis Zoo is a favorite with both locals and tourists. This large zoo, covered in well-maintained lawns, makes it seem like the animals are living comfortably. While there are many zoos across America, what’s special about the Saint Louis Zoo is that admission is typically free. You can see all the popular animals, making it a favorite among tourists. It’s even been named the top zoo in the nation in the past!

A tram runs through the extensive grounds, so you can rest if you get tired of walking. There’s also an aquarium and a small amusement park, allowing you to spend a full day there if time permits. Enjoy the nature of St. Louis while interacting with animals in this recommended tourist spot. Weekends are especially crowded with locals, so expect some hustle and bustle.

5. City Museum

Located not far from the Gateway Arch, the City Museum is a museum where visitors can learn about the history and culture of St. Louis. It’s a fascinating place for tourists visiting St. Louis. Learning about the town before you go sightseeing will enhance your understanding. The museum building was previously used as a shoe factory, and the grounds outside display airplanes and space capsules, creating an art-like, whimsical space.

Almost all the exhibits can be touched, making it a hands-on experience. There are narrow passageways, slides, and tunnels, allowing for a fun, interactive visit for both kids and adults. With easy access from the center of St. Louis and free admission, this museum is a great stop before heading out to explore the city.

6. Saint Louis Art Museum

The Saint Louis Art Museum sits on a hill in Forest Park. Surrounded by beautiful nature, the bright white building stands out against the blue sky of St. Louis, making it a popular destination for tourists. In front of the museum, there’s a spacious lawn with a fountain. The dynamic statue of St. Louis in front is eye-catching, and tourists are often seen taking photos there.

The Saint Louis Art Museum was originally built as part of a school established in 1879. After several expansions, it became the grand structure it is today, resembling a Greek temple. The entrance is open and airy, creating a very welcoming feel. The collection is, of course, superb, with historical artifacts from around the world and a diverse range of art pieces from various eras. There’s also a coffee shop, so you can relax and enjoy a break during your tour.

7. Saint Louis Science Center

Located near Forest Park in the center of St. Louis, the Saint Louis Science Center is a science museum that offers fun learning experiences for both kids and adults, making it a popular spot for tourists. The dome-shaped roof of the building, a notable feature, houses a planetarium that becomes bustling during showtimes. The interior is spacious, with exhibits covering various themes, such as dinosaur models and an optical illusion experience corner, making it truly captivating. It’s a favorite among locals as well.

The center also includes interactive science experiments and an Omnimax Theater with powerful visuals, making time fly as you explore. American exhibit methods and explanations differ slightly. Many free facilities are available in St. Louis, and this center is one of them. It’s a perfect stop for a mental workout during your tour.

8. Grant's Farm

Located in the suburbs of St. Louis, Grant's Farm is a popular tourist destination that attracts locals in large numbers, especially on weekends. One of the reasons for its popularity is the free tram ride that takes visitors around the grounds. Additionally, tourists visiting Grant's Farm receive two free beers as a bonus. St. Louis truly offers great value! The large grounds feature various animals, with experiences like feeding milk to baby goats, feeding alpacas, and pony rides, providing plenty of opportunities to interact with adorable animals.

Numerous events are held across the farm daily, with the Elephant Show being a particular highlight. The performances by these large elephants are impressive. Grant's Farm is a recommended relaxation spot in St. Louis, so if you feel tired from sightseeing, it’s a great place to unwind with the animals.

◎ Summary

How was your tour of St. Louis, an ideal town coexisting with nature? This beautiful city combines the vastness characteristic of America with artistic delicacy, captivating the hearts of tourists. Even first-time visitors to St. Louis will feel embraced by the city’s warmth. The locals, too, seem to be always smiling.

While wild America has its charm, experiencing the gentle side of St. Louis reveals another wonderful aspect of the country. Take your time exploring the town of St. Louis, and discover a new charm of America.

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8 Recommended Spots in St. Louis, a City Blessed with Abundant Nature!