The Nationally Registered Historic District in St. Charles is a well-preserved piece of past glory. Home to the legendary Main Street, the district was the hub of cultural activities in the 19th century and is a major tourist attraction today. The charming streets here are flanked by ancient buildings, which welcome tourists for dining, shopping and boundless entertainment. Taking a stroll along the district is a rewarding experience, riddled with gems such as fascinating museums, quirky boutiques and antique stores. For explorative gastronomes, the array of restaurants, bars and ice cream parlors promise delightful treats too.

Gracing the historic Main Street is a quaint family-run restaurant that assures delectable homely meals in a welcoming setting. Tony's on Main Street is a popular spot among locals and a must-visit culinary getaway for tourists. The spacious dining area downstairs routinely hosts rehearsal dinners, birthday parties and business gatherings, while the intimate deck upstairs hosts live entertainment. The assortment of homemade delicacies served here include hand-blended soups, burgers, sandwiches and more. The quintessential American casual dining experience is enhanced with a full bar that doles out one heady concoction after the other. When traversing the Historic District, a stop by Tony's on Main Street is a must.

The Foundry Art Centre aims to preserve cultural history and support artistic endeavors throughout the region of St. Louis. A sprawling exhibition space for the visual arts, a concert stage in the Grand Hall and glass-fronted artist studios are all located at the Foundry Art Centre complex, which was built from a renovated train car factory from the 1940s. Overlooking the Missouri River, this famed art gallery aims to promote community education and involvement by hosting engaging exhibitions and programs.

The Frenchtown Historic District of St. Charles is an artistic region comprising plenty of curious shops and cafes. Lined with well-preserved historic buildings, the district makes for an alluring destination for history buffs. Teeming with exemplary French Colonial and German architectural gems, the district is a haven for shoppers too. From antique furniture and collectibles to fascinating artwork and vintage clothing, the numerous stores here offer something for everyone. Coin and stamp collectors will also delight in the many wondrous stores here.

Teeming with plentiful recreational opportunities, the Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park is a delightful destination for a fun day out with family. Enjoy a day in nature’s lap with picnicking, fishing, boating and much more. The park features playgrounds, water trails, nature trails, tennis courts, archery and a disc golf course among an array of other amenities. The numerous shelters, such as Greensfelder, Tremayne and the Taco Bell Shelter, make for inviting spaces too. When in St. Louis, one must head to the Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park for a day well spent.

Located in Florissant, Missouri, the John B. Myers House and Barn occupies immense historic significance. Redefining the Classic Revival style of architecture, the grand home is renowned for its intricately detailed two-story portico and interior wall treatments. Constructed in 1878, the house also comprises a barn that was built in 1867. Listed on the National Register, the historic house and its expansive barn merit a spirited visit by history buffs and discerning tourists alike.

Enveloping the splendid Old St. Ferdinand Shrine is the eponymous historic site. Together, this holy spot serves as a prominent tourist magnet. Established in 1819, the church boasts Federal style of architecture. In addition to its rich history, the church and its environs are home to many curious features. A collection of miniature statues of nuns and a figurine of St. Valentine sleeping underneath the altar of the church are some of the unmissable highlights here. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, this fascinating destination must rank high on your list of delightfully peculiar spots to visit.

This award-winning branch of the Funny Bone Comedy Club was established in 1981, which makes it the first of the club's many locations across the country. The featured acts here promise to keep the audiences rolling with laughter, whilst contributing to charity. The spacious seating arrangement makes room for hundreds of patrons. One can enjoy the laugh riot on display with a selection of tasty appetizers such as hot wings, chicken fingers, nachos and the crowd favorite, mini burrito. The assortment of mixed drinks, beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages make for ideal accompaniments. A fun-filled evening, replete with top-notch comedic entertainment and delicious snacks, is guaranteed here at West Port Funny Bone.

Renowned amongst the neighborhood for its delectable French pastries, La Bonne Bouchee Patisserie & Café is a Parisian-inspired bakery in Creve Coeur. While the heavenly baked goods on offer attract long queues of eager patrons, the lunch and dinner fare is worth sampling too. Right from hearty sandwiches and flaky croissants to healthy salads and warm soups, the indulgent assortment of delicacies is simply unmissable. Allow the aroma of chocolate éclair to lure you into this next-door paradise of desserts and all things scrumptious.

The skillfully designed Saint Louis Abbey is a world-renowned architectural as well as spiritual haven. This historic landmark was established in 1955. A few monks from the Benedictine Ampleforth Abbey laid the foundation for this mammoth establishment. Affiliated to the Roman Catholic English Benedictine Congregation, the abbey is home to numerous monks, who lead a disciplined life of prayer and work. While the inspiring tales about the lives of these monks sure attract many a discerning traveler, the immaculate and captivating façade of the abbey has droves of curious wanderers flocking its grounds. The three-tiered structure houses European modern art as well as sculptures and relics from the 14th Century, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs too.

Completed in October 1965 the Gateway Arch was designed to last 1,000 years. The Arch was built to represent Thomas Jefferson's dream of a United States that stretched from the Pacific to the Atlantic Coast. At a spectacular 630 feet (192 meters), the monumental structure features a stainless steel facade that represents the city's legacy as the Gateway to the West. A tram zips to the top of the monument and one can see 360-degree views for 30 miles (48 kilometers) around the city. The Arch stands within the larger Jefferson National Expansion Memorial and is a testament to American engineering at its finest.

Anchored at Shaw Boulevard, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a sublime collection of gardens. This paradisiacal oasis boasts a plethora of themed lawns such as Japanese Garden, Chinese Garden and Children’s Garden. Spread across a sprawling expanse, the verdant haven offers a tranquil getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city center. Some of the alluring features of this majestic destination include Climatron, a geodesic dome conservatory; Linnean House, one of the oldest greenhouses of the premises; and Victorian District, a picturesque area comprising more gardens, the Sachs Museum and the Tower Grove House. Whether you’re looking to bring in a leisurely day amidst scenic beauty or learn more about plant science, there can be no better destination than the Missouri Botanical Garden.