How Many Days in St. Louis Do You Actually Need?

St. Louis, the Gateway to the West, is a city brimming with history, culture, and unique attractions. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation, you might be wondering just how many days you need to truly experience all that St. Louis has to offer. The answer, of course, depends on your interests and travel style, but I’ll break it down to help you plan the perfect trip.

The Short Answer: 3 to 4 Days

For most visitors, 3 to 4 days is an ideal amount of time to spend in St. Louis. This gives you enough time to see the major attractions, sample some local cuisine, and get a feel for the city’s vibe without feeling rushed. However, if you’re a museum enthusiast or love to explore off the beaten path, you might want to consider staying longer.

Day 1: Gateway Arch and Downtown

No trip to St. Louis is complete without visiting its most iconic landmark, the Gateway Arch. Start your day early by heading to the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, where the 630-foot stainless steel arch stands tall. Take the unique tram ride to the top for breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River.

After descending, spend some time in the Museum at the Gateway Arch to learn about the city’s role in westward expansion. The museum underwent a major renovation in recent years, making it more interactive and engaging for visitors of all ages.

Next, take a stroll through downtown St. Louis. Stop by the Old Courthouse, a beautiful example of mid-19th century architecture and the site of the famous Dred Scott case. For lunch, head to the nearby Soulard neighborhood, known for its historic farmer’s market and delicious local eateries. Try some St. Louis-style pizza or the city’s famous toasted ravioli.

In the afternoon, explore the City Museum. Despite its name, this isn’t your typical museum – it’s a wonderland of repurposed architectural and industrial objects, featuring caves, slides, and climbing structures that will bring out the kid in everyone. It’s a truly unique St. Louis experience that shouldn’t be missed.

End your day with dinner in the Central West End, a charming neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful homes, and vibrant restaurant scene.

Day 2: Forest Park and The Hill

Dedicate your second day to exploring Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Start at the Saint Louis Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection spanning five millennia of human creativity. The best part? Admission is free.

Next, visit the Saint Louis Zoo, consistently ranked as one of the best zoos in the country. With over 14,000 animals representing 500 species, it’s easy to spend several hours here. Don’t miss the penguin exhibit – it’s a crowd favorite!

For lunch, head to The Hill, St. Louis’s historic Italian neighborhood. This area is famous for its Italian-American cuisine, including the aforementioned toasted ravioli. Take a stroll through the neighborhood to admire the colorful fire hydrants painted like the Italian flag.

In the afternoon, return to Forest Park to visit either the Missouri History Museum or the Saint Louis Science Center, depending on your interests. Both offer engaging exhibits and are free to enter.

For dinner, consider trying one of St. Louis’s acclaimed barbecue restaurants. The city has its own unique style of BBQ, characterized by heavily sauced ribs.

Day 3: Anheuser-Busch Brewery and Citygarden

Start your third day with a tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. Even if you’re not a beer enthusiast, the historic architecture and the chance to see the famous Budweiser Clydesdales make this a worthwhile visit.

Afterward, head to Citygarden, a unique sculpture park in the heart of downtown. This urban oasis features works by renowned artists, interactive fountains, and native plants. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy some public art.

For lunch, try out the food hall at City Foundry STL. This redeveloped industrial space offers a variety of local food vendors, giving you a chance to sample different St. Louis flavors.

In the afternoon, visit the Missouri Botanical Garden, a beautiful 79-acre oasis featuring a Japanese garden, a geodesic dome conservatory, and various themed gardens. If you’re visiting in spring, don’t miss the tulip display.

End your day with a St. Louis Cardinals game at Busch Stadium if it’s baseball season. Even if you’re not a sports fan, the atmosphere at a Cardinals game is something special. If it’s not baseball season, consider checking out a show at the Fox Theatre, a restored 1920s movie palace that now hosts Broadway productions and concerts.

Day 4: Beyond the City Limits

If you have a fourth day, consider venturing beyond St. Louis proper. History buffs might enjoy a trip to St. Charles, Missouri’s first state capital. Its historic Main Street is lined with buildings dating back to the early 19th century.

Alternatively, take a day trip to Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Illinois, just across the Mississippi River. This UNESCO World Heritage site preserves the remains of the most sophisticated prehistoric native civilization north of Mexico.

For nature lovers, a visit to Elephant Rocks State Park, about an hour and a half south of St. Louis, offers the chance to climb on massive pink granite boulders in a beautiful Ozark setting.

When to Visit St. Louis

The best time to visit St. Louis is in the spring (April to May) or fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities. Spring brings beautiful blooms to the city’s many parks and gardens, while fall offers stunning foliage.

Summer in St. Louis can be hot and humid, but it’s also when many outdoor festivals and events take place. Winter can be cold, but it’s a good time to take advantage of indoor attractions and potentially lower hotel rates.

Where to Stay

For first-time visitors, staying downtown or in the Central West End puts you close to many attractions. The St. Louis Union Station Hotel, housed in the city’s historic train station, offers a unique stay with easy access to downtown sights. For a more boutique experience, consider The Last Hotel in downtown’s garment district.

If you prefer a quieter neighborhood feel, look for accommodations in Clayton or the Central West End. These areas offer a mix of hotels and vacation rentals, with easy access to restaurants and shops.

Budget-Friendly Options

One of the great things about St. Louis is that many of its top attractions are free, including the Saint Louis Zoo, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the Missouri History Museum. This makes it an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers.

To save on accommodations, consider staying in areas like Maryland Heights or Kirkwood, which offer more affordable options while still providing easy access to the city’s attractions.

For dining, explore the city’s food trucks and markets. The Soulard Farmers Market is a great place to grab affordable, local eats. Many of St. Louis’s best barbecue joints are also reasonably priced.

Final Thoughts

While you can see St. Louis’s main attractions in 3 to 4 days, the city has enough depth to reward those who stay longer. From its world-class museums and beautiful parks to its unique cuisine and friendly Midwest charm, St. Louis offers a rich experience for visitors.

Remember, the key to a great trip is not just ticking off a list of sights, but also taking the time to soak in the atmosphere of the city. Leave some room in your itinerary for spontaneous discoveries – you might stumble upon a local festival, a hidden gem of a restaurant, or a beautiful neighborhood that becomes the highlight of your trip.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a sports fan, or a nature lover, St. Louis has something to offer. So pack your bags, bring your appetite for adventure (and toasted ravioli), and get ready to explore the Gateway to the West!