Top Rated Attractions in St. Louis

The Saint Louis Art Museum is the perfect place for discerning travelers looking to witness superlative artistic creations. Peruse the largest collection of artwork that the city has to offer and flit from exhibit to exhibit viewing exemplary sculptures and skillful paintings. From Impressionistic to Modern art, this museum boasts styles of artwork from all around the world. Art connoisseurs are sure to be delighted with the exhaustive range here, spanning several centuries and more. When in the city, the Saint Louis Art Museum is a must-visit spot for art aficionados.

Seating up to 4500, this venue is a historical landmark as well as an events hall. Originally one of the most extravagant of William Fox's theaters, this facility was privately restored in 1981. Past productions have included Les Misérables, Parsons Dance Company, and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. View the wall of famous signatures, the 5,000-pound chandelier in the auditorium and the gilded throne chairs in the lobby. Tours are also available of this magnificent cultural space on select days.

The exhibits at the Old Courthouse, most of which are actual models or historic items rather than mere text or photographs, date back to 1764, at which time the St. Louis region was a French fur trading port. Other exhibits come from eras ranging from colonial times on up to the 20th century. The Old Courthouse served as an actual courthouse from the mid-19th century up until 1930.

Located in a former shoe-manufacturing warehouse, this eccentric museum and adventure park has something for both the young and the young-at-heart. With multiple floors of fascinating, educational and fun-filled rooms, it is one of the best downtown attractions. The museum is run by a group of artists and professionals who have done a splendid job of curating an awe-inspiring array of exhibits. Using repurposed pieces of old cities, the makers have built exhilarating slides and grand castles. Feel the authenticity of the multilevel enchanted caves, the architectural museum, a giant aquarium and so much more at the unique City Museum.

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.