Things to Do in St. Louis (2025)

Part sculpture park, part playground, all St. Louis—this repurposed shoe factory overflows with slides, tunnels, and rooftop rides. Praised by The New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, it’s the city’s most talked‑about, hands‑on art adventure.

America’s oldest major botanical garden blends serious science with serene strolls. Wander the rainforest inside the Climatron and Seiwa‑en, one of North America’s largest Japanese gardens. Featured by national travel editors and adored by locals year‑round.

A community‑rooted museum telling Black history through lifelike figures, artifacts, and timely exhibitions. Recognized as a key hub during the Counterpublic citywide art triennial and praised by local cultural writers for its impact and independence.

Operating since 1779, this city‑run market is most alive on Saturdays: produce, butchers, spices, bakeries, plants, and ready‑to‑eat favorites. Frequently recommended in local guides as a true slice of St. Louis life.

See the Gateway City from the Mississippi in 29‑foot voyageur canoes. No experience needed—guides handle safety and storytelling. Trips run seasonally and end with unforgettable Arch views. Endorsed by regional travel editors for its sense of place.

An anchor of the Delmar Loop’s music scene—known for deep bins, in‑store performances, and knowledgeable staff. Named among the nation’s standout record stores by national outlets and celebrated by local critics for decades.

A cocktail landmark that nods to St. Louis bar history while pushing technique forward. Frequently cited by national magazines and selected by Sauce Magazine as an essential stop; the drinks and food both reward lingering.

Artist‑run and deeply community‑minded, this contemporary art space hosts exhibitions, talks, and residencies. A launching pad for the Counterpublic triennial, it’s often highlighted by arts media for expanding the city’s creative conversation.

A free, 105‑acre outdoor museum with 70‑plus large‑scale works, including The Way by Alexander Liberman. Open daily from early morning to sunset and frequently featured by regional editors for art‑and‑nature exploring.

Since 1918, this neighborhood favorite has served its signature Hot Salami sandwich. Awarded a James Beard Foundation America’s Classics honor, it remains a lunch ritual recommended by national and local food writers.

A fourth‑generation soda fountain (since 1913) in Old North. Known for hand‑dipped malts and the over‑the‑top BLT, it’s been featured by Food Network and beloved by local critics for its living slice of St. Louis nostalgia.

A rollicking Cajun‑Creole spot with live music most nights and a fiercely loyal local following. Frequently praised by regional publications for keeping downtown’s music culture vibrant well past dinner.

Free to visit, this Tadao Ando‑designed jewel presents thoughtful exhibitions and site‑specific works by artists like Richard Serra and Ellsworth Kelly. Regularly cited by architecture and arts writers for its serene spaces and ambitious programming.