This national park and its famous arch are dedicated to the country's westward expansion. The stainless steel Gateway Arch – an engineering marvel – was designed and submitted by Eero Saarinen during a national competition in the mid-1940s. It rises 630 feet into the air and spans 630 feet from leg to leg. Visitors can learn more about the arch's construction, Colonial St. Louis, the Lewis and Clark Expedition and more at the Museum at the Gateway Arch, which is located beneath the arch and houses six galleries.

For those who want to head to the top of the Gateway Arch (63 stories high), a tram ticket is required. From the indoor observation deck at the top of the arch, you can see as far as 30 miles on a clear day. Keep in mind: The tram is not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers, and there are no restrooms at the top of the Gateway Arch. If you're riding the tram to the top, you'll have to go through an airport-style security line, so budget an additional 30 minutes to successfully get through security before boarding your tram. In addition to the tram, there's also an hourlong riverboat cruise along the Mississippi River from March to November. Cruises are narrated by the boat's captain or a National Park Service ranger and spotlight the importance of the Mississippi River and the riverfront's role in the St. Louis economy.

Forest Park opened in 1876 and played host to the 1904 World's Fair. The park is huge. In fact, it's larger than New York City's sprawling Central Park. As such, this "forest" holds nearly 1,300 acres of things to do. You'll find everything from the Saint Louis Zoo to the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Saint Louis Science Center (all three free to visit), a golf course and the list goes on. You can also jog its trails, boat its waterways and swing your racket on its tennis courts, among other activities. Just glance at this map; most visitors see only a fraction of the park's offerings.

Overall, past travelers enjoyed visiting this park, citing its beautiful grounds and ample facilities as highlights. Most were thrilled that many of the museums were free. However, some cautioned that parking fills up fast here, so some advised taking the MetroLink and enjoying a pleasant walk instead of congested parking lots, especially in the summer and over weekends.

Spread across 79 acres and home to more than 4,800 trees, the Missouri Botanical Garden delights visitors with displays like the Chinese Garden, the English Woodland Garden and the 14-acre Japanese Garden – one of the largest in North America. It also honors Dr. George Washington Carver with a garden in his name. Carver, an African American and Missouri native, was considered a pioneer in 19th and 20th century science, agriculture and education. Among the garden's viburnums, hydrangeas and holly trees is a life-size bronze sculpture of Carver.

The new visitor center, which opened in August 2022, offers an indoor conservatory featuring Mediterranean plants, along with a dining and shopping area. One of the more unique things about the Missouri Botanical Garden is its ability to appeal to kids. The seasonal Doris I. Schnuck Children's Garden features a limestone cave (to explore), the Spelunker's Slide (to hurtle down), a treehouse (to climb) and a steamboat (to board), among other attractions. The children's garden is open from April to October.

With nearly 42 million glass tesserae pieces covering the interior walls in the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, it enjoys worldwide recognition for its mosaics collection. The collection depicts scenes of the Bible, along with the Catholic heritage of St. Louis. Originally started in 1907, the Roman Catholic cathedral exemplifies a blend of the Byzantine Revival and Romanesque Revival architectural styles.

The cathedral's massive mosaics collection is why most previous travelers recommend visiting, even if you're not religious. Other visitors gushed about the cathedral's architecture and stunning interior, comparing it to many of the grand churches in Europe. Several recent visitors said a stop at the cathedral was a highlight of their trip to St. Louis.

Downtown's City Museum is hard to describe, so maybe we should use its own words: "a mixture of children’s playground, funhouse, surrealistic pavilion, and architectural marvel made out of found and repurposed objects." Spread across 10 stories and 600,000 square feet, the museum is constantly changing, so there is no official map. There are a variety of exhibitions and attractions, including several slides, caves, mazes and chutes.

According to recent visitors, City Museum appeals to older children and young adults. In fact, parents of younger kids cautioned that City Museum is chaotic for children since they could easily get lost among the many mazes. Most thought the concept was cool and interesting, though several reviewers commented that it can get warm inside the building during the summer.

Lions, tigers and bears, oh my! The Saint Louis Zoo got its start as the 1904 World's Fair Flight Cage, and today, it is the one of the few free zoos in the U.S. Housing more than 14,000 animals across 90 acres within Forest Park, the zoo features six different zones, including the "Rivers Edge" with elephants and hippos, and "The Wild," which houses bears and primates. To get a sense for how far the zoo has come since its debut at the World's Fair, head over to the "Historic Hill" zone to view the original Flight Cage, as well as the Primate House, which dates back to 1925, and the Charles H. Hoessle Herpetarium, which was originally constructed in 1927. Though general admission to the zoo is free, some areas and activities, such as the train, the carousel and the stingray touch tank, require extra fees.

The wide assortment of animals isn't the only reason why past visitors praised this St. Louis attraction. Many recent travelers raved about the free admission, as well as the large, natural enclosures created for the animals. Since it is a free attraction, some reviewers advised arriving early in the day to avoid the midday crowds.

Grant's Farm was built by Civil War Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, who settled on the land in 1855 to farm and raise cattle. In 1903, August A. Busch Sr. bought the land, and ever since it has belonged to the Busch family. Situated across the street from the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site, Grant's Farm now sprawls across 280 acres and houses more than 900 animals. The property is so large, a tram takes visitors from the parking lot to all the attractions within Grant's Farm. The property also features a carousel and stables that house some of Budweiser's famous Clydesdale horses. Visitors who are 21 years or older can also enjoy complimentary samples of Anheuser-Busch beer. During the summer, special events like live music and evening fireworks are frequent on the weekends. If you're interested in seeing more of the property, consider signing up for the two-hour behind-the-scenes tour, which includes access to the exterior of the Busch family estate, as well as Grant's Cabin.

Recent travelers raved about seeing the Clydesdales (and the free beer). Other visitors recommended arriving early since attractions can close later in the day. Some guests said this attraction is well worth a visit despite its fees for special activities.

Whether you enjoy art or happen upon it while exploring Forest Park, the Saint Louis Art Museum, or the SLAM, offers art from five millennia and six continents. Founded in 1879, it is home to more than 34,000 works of art originating from Europe, Asia, Africa and ancient Egypt. You'll find works from Matisse, Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe and Paul Cézanne, along with sculptures, photographs, textiles and more. One highlight is the museum's spotlight on African and African American art, which includes more than 300 works by artists of African descent.

Former visitors loved perusing the Saint Louis Art Museum's collections. Past travelers also appreciated the museum's complimentary admission and close proximity to the zoo. A few travelers made of a day of their visit, enjoying lunch and shopping in the museum store.

Major League Baseball's St. Louis Cardinals are much beloved by their hometown. A visit to Busch Stadium will prove that, as you see the 46,000-seat ballpark bathed in swaths of red-shirted fans. Even if you miss a game day, you can still explore the stadium. Busch Stadium offers hourlong tours that include stops at the UMB Bank Champions Club, the Redbird Club and the broadcast booth. After the tour, visit the Cardinals Hall of Fame and the Museum at Cardinals Nation (access is included in the tour ticket). If you're visiting on a game day, the Budweiser Terrace and the Family Pavilion, which features a multilevel play structure, are hubs of activity.

Past visitors were impressed with the kindness of the park employees, from the front gate to the people working at the food outlets. For baseball fans, this is a bucket-list ballpark experience thanks to the memorable atmosphere and variety of amenities. Several recent visitors commented on the amount of food options in the park, or even close by.

Just south of Forest Park's Oakland Avenue border lies the Saint Louis Science Center. This free museum features more than 700 hands-on exhibits about animals, space, weather and skyscrapers, among other topics. Favorite exhibits include the James S. McDonnell Planetarium, the OMNIMAX Theater, a flight simulator and the GROW pavilion, dedicated to agriculture. Kids will love (or scream at) the life-size T. rex.

According to past visitors, the Saint Louis Science Center offers ample ways to keep kids of all ages entertained. Families, in particular, loved the free admission. However, some adult museumgoers lamented the crowded atmosphere, particularly on Saturdays and school breaks. Meanwhile, others wished there were more exhibits that interested adults. The lack of free parking also seemed to annoy some recent visitors.

If you're traveling with little ones, save time for a visit to The Magic House. This children's museum in Kirkwood, a southwest suburb of St. Louis, offers a variety of interactive exhibits for younger kids to enjoy, including a miniature construction zone, a bubble room and a "Jack and the Beanstalk"-inspired climbing structure. On sunny days, your children can also run around the Outdoor Play Garden, which features a circular stream, hopscotch courts, a garden kaleidoscope and more.

Families rave about The Magic House, citing its exhibits as more educational than those found at other children's museums around the country. Visitors also praise the property's attentive staff, though some caution that the facility can get crowded, especially during holiday breaks and when school groups are on-site. Some parents say the St. Louis Children's Museum is best suited for kids ages 3 to 7.

Located in Forest Park, the building that now houses the Missouri History Museum was originally constructed as the first national monument dedicated to Thomas Jefferson. Now honoring state history, the museum features exhibits on everything from the 1904 World's Fair to the civil rights movement to baseball. There's even a space for kids: History Clubhouse sprawls across nearly 6,000 square feet and features a variety of hands-on exhibits. The Missouri History Museum also hosts several temporary exhibits that cover arts, culture and current issues of Missourians. For a more in-depth history lesson, consider signing up for one of the Missouri Historical Society's guided tours, which cover everything from LGBTQIA+ history in St. Louis to The Ville, a historically Black neighborhood home to a variety of prominent figures in the music, sports and education industries.    

Recent visitors appreciated the museum's free admission and complimented the friendly staff. Some recent visitors thought the museum's exhibits appeared a bit worn, but most agreed it's a great way to spend a few hours. Families enjoyed their time, saying they liked the special areas that cater to kids. 

According to the Smithsonian, the National Museum of Transportation has "one of the largest and best collections of transportation vehicles in the world." With 190 rail and transportation exhibits, this is the place for train enthusiasts. Highlights of the collection include the Boston Providence Railroad "Daniel Nason," one of the oldest steam locomotives in the U.S., the "Big Boy" #4006 Union Pacific Steam Locomotive – one of the world's largest steam locomotives – and the U.S. Army Air Force Douglas Aircraft C-47A "Gooney Bird," which is believed to have been used in the U.S. invasion of Normandy in 1944. In addition to the displays, there are also gardens, a miniature train, a trolley and an interactive transportation-themed play and educational area designed for children ages 5 and younger.

According to recent visitors, the National Museum of Transportation appeals to both young and old. Some reviewers enjoyed the history lesson that the museum provided, while others (particularly families) gravitated to the hands-on activities and the tram and train rides. 

The first train rolled into Union Station in 1894 and the last one rolled out in 1978. Too beautiful to demolish, the National Historic Landmark was developed into a mixed-use complex and reopened in 1985. Today's visitors can admire the opulent Grand Hall, which features original terrazzo floor, green glazed terracotta bricks, stained-glass windows and wooden carpentry detailing, or enjoy the many restaurants and shops that call the station home. You can even spend the night at the adjoining St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton.

Just outside the station, the St. Louis Wheel, an illuminated 200-foot tall observation wheel, provides some of the best views of St. Louis during its 15-minute rotations. Other attractions include the St. Louis Aquarium, a ropes course, a carousel and mini golf, among others. You also won't want to miss the daily light show in the Grand Hall.

As the headquarters and flagship brewing facility for Anheuser-Busch, this is a must-visit for beer drinkers. You can stop by the beer garden to enjoy a pint or two with a side of pub fare from the on-site eatery, or you can sign up for a tour to see more of the complex. Experiences range from the Day Fresh Tour, which takes visitors through the brewing process and includes a visit to the Clydesdale stables, to the Beermaster Tour, which invites participants to sample beer right from the finishing tank and include stops at the packaging facility and Old Lyon Schoolhouse Museum.

Most visitors praised the impressive facilities and the beautiful grounds. The Clydesdales were definitely a hit among recent visitors, while others were pleased with the knowledgeable tour guides. Summer travelers advised timing your visit early or late in the day to avoid the mid-day heat since part of the tours take place outside.

Explore a nearly 3-arce art oasis in downtown St. Louis at Citygarden Sculpture Park. As visitors peruse the space, they will find 24 sculptures, a children's spray and splash area, six rain gardens and a 180-foot-long pool with a waterfall. If the weather is warm, find everyone from locals on a lunch break to visitors enjoying the free art installation.

Recent visitors loved the space and found their time in the park well spent. Gateway Arch visitors meandered to Citygarden as they admired the architecture of downtown St. Louis. Several reviewers commented on the excellent photo-ops.

This nearly 10-acre site is dedicated to the U.S. Civil War general and two-term U.S. president, Ulysses S. Grant, who lived here with his wife, family and enslaved workers in the 1850s. A large portion of the original 850-acre estate was sold off to the Busch family and now operates as Grant's Farm. The National Park Service maintains five historic buildings, including the White Haven home, a horse stable, an ice house, a chicken coop and a summer kitchen, where the property's enslaved workers once cooked and did laundry. While exploring the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site, visitors should walk through the museum, located in the restored horse stables. The visitor center (a separate building) offers an interpretive film. Park rangers also offer free, 30- to 45-minute walking tours of the property, which include the interior of the White Haven home. 

Reviewers said the ranger tours were engaging and informative, and encouraged future visitors to join one, especially since tagging along on a guided tour is the only way to see the interior of the house. Several travelers mentioned that the site was small, but well-kept. Most said their time at the historic site was well-spent, and recommended watching the film in the visitor center, as it does a good job of not sugarcoating some of the more controversial aspects of Grant's life. Meanwhile, families appreciated the free admission. 

Architecture and history lovers will want to pay a visit to the opulent Campbell House Museum, which offers a look at what life was like for wealthy tastemakers in 19th-century St. Louis. Owned by fur trader and entrepreneur Robert Campbell, the 19th-century home served as the Campbell family's main residence until 1938, and it was the center of St. Louis society for many years. The house was restored to its 1880s appearance (with the help of photos of the house from that era) and includes much of the original furniture and art, along with personal effects from the Campbell family.

After touring the house, recent visitors were blown away by the historic restoration of the house, including the opulent Victorian interiors. Several travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guide, who enthusiastically shared the house's history. One visitor commented that they planned to return since there was so much to see inside the home.

If screaming your head off on a roller coaster sounds like your ideal vacation, then Six Flags St. Louis is for you. Home to 10 roller coasters, including three wooden ones, and dozens of rides and attractions, the park is a hit with thrill-seekers and families alike. There are also a handful of tame rides perfect for young children. What's more, Six Flags hosts "Looney Tunes" character meet-and-greets throughout the day and live entertainment (great for when you need a break from the rides). What's more, summer visitors can beat the heat at Hurricane Harbor, which offers a range of water rides, from a lazy river to a wave pool to slides. Across both parks (Six Flags and Hurricane Harbor), there are more than a dozen dining options.

Recent visitors provided mixed reviews for Six Flags St. Louis. Most were pleased with the short lines and variety of rides, noting that the park's manageable size is particularly suitable for little ones. However, a few travelers were disappointed with state of the water park and the unfriendly staff members.

Housed in the restored Jefferson Barracks 1905 Post Exchange Building, the Missouri Civil War Museum is the oldest active military installation west of the Mississippi River. Within the 22,000-square-foot facility, visitors will find more than 1,000 artifacts, including weapons, equipment, items and uniforms that serve to tell the story of Missouri's role in the Civil War. There's also a theater on-site.

Recent visitors recommend starting your experience with the film in the theater, which they say sets the tone for the self-guided tour. Reviewers say the museum is small, but well-done. Many also said you'll leave with a greater appreciation for Missouri's role in the Civil War.