Exploring the city of St. Louis, Missouri, also known as the Gateway to the West, is more encompassing than one might imagine. This friendly city wears many hats and will delight the history buff, budget-conscious family man (and woman), sports aficionado, adventurer, arts critic, foodie, and beer lover.
Stay in a Historic Landmark
Image via Flickr by Ron Reiring
The Doubletree by Hilton St. Louis Union Station (commonly known as the Union Station Hotel) will delight any history buff or design student. This former train station retains the exquisite detail and openness of its original use but marries it with modern amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness center, and several dining options. It’s only a short metro ride away from Busch Stadium, the Gateway Arch, and the City Museum.
On the southern side of town, the Patch neighborhood also offers some stunning turn-of-the century architecture.
Take in the Outdoor Art
It’s no surprise with the Union Station Hotel and the world-renowned Gateway Arch that St. Louis is known for its architecture, but it’s also a bastion of unique landscape architecture and sculpture gardens. Visitors can enjoy the Citygarden, a delightful mix of sculpture and landscape architecture or stroll through the stunning Laumeier Sculpture Park.
Forest Park was the home to the 1904 World’s Fair and is one of the largest urban parks in America. It attracts 12 million visitors a year. In addition to walking and biking trails, the park houses the Jewel Box, an eye-catching greenhouse, filled with spectacular floral displays. Guests can also pay a visit to the World’s Fair Pavilion.
No Shortage of Modern Thrills
St. Louis is not all about history. Visitors can enjoy the thrill rides and shows at Six Flags St. Louis, play in the all-ages playground at the City Museum, or just enjoy one of the best attraction names of all times – the Museum of Mirth, Mystery and Mayhem (part of the City Museum).
For visitors who prefer their thrills come in the form of watching a favorite sports team win, the St. Louis Cardinals or Rams would be happy to accommodate them. Score Big can help visitors save on tickets.
Check out Hipmunk for St. Louis hotels close to these attractions.
Experience the Cuisine
Travelers to St. Louis will want to dine on the Hill, a quaint neighborhood known for delicious Italian eats. Try the St. Louis thin crust pizza with Provel cheese but leave room for desert. Ted Drewes serves up frozen custard to long lines every night. The Delmar Loop is a six-block area of unique shops and restaurants. Dine at one of the many multi-ethnic choices in outdoor cafes. After dinner, visit the Hollywood-inspired walk of fame featuring St. Louis celebrities.
St. Louis is a decidedly cosmopolitan town that pays homage to its roots as a gateway to the frontier – a last stop before the Wild West. After visiting, you may enjoy it so much you’ll decide it’s the last stop for you as well.
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Christina R. Green is a freelance travel writer for Hipmunk who loves learning the stories behind the places. She adores kitschy tourist attractions and literary haunts. If she could figure out a way to drive something the size of an RV, she’d take off and write from the road.
