Creve Coeur Airport

Gateway to the West, where history and culture collide.

St. Louis sits on the western bank of the Mississippi River in Missouri, best known for the iconic Gateway Arch, which soars 630 feet and commemorates America's westward expansion. The city blends a proud industrial heritage with a vibrant arts scene, world-class museums, and a passionate sports culture centered on the Cardinals baseball team.

Neighborhoods like the Grove, Soulard, and Lafayette Square offer diverse dining, nightlife, and architectural charm. St. Louis is also remarkably visitor-friendly, with many top attractions — including the art museum and zoo — completely free to enter.

• •Gateway Arch National Park — iconic monument with tram rides to the top and riverside views
• •St. Louis Zoo — one of the nation's best free zoos in Forest Park
• •St. Louis Art Museum — world-class collection housed in a beautiful Beaux-Arts building, free admission
• •Anheuser-Busch Brewery — historic brewery tours with tastings in the heart of Soulard
• •City Museum — wildly creative playground and architectural wonder built from salvaged materials
• •Soulard Market — one of the oldest farmers markets in the US, buzzing with local life

Getting around: The Metro light rail system (MetroLink) connects major areas including the airport, downtown, and Clayton. Bus service covers broader neighborhoods, while rideshares like Uber and Lyft are widely available and affordable. Taxis exist but are less common. Many central attractions are walkable or reachable by bike via the city's rental network.

Best time: Late spring (April–May) and early fall (September–October) offer the most pleasant weather for sightseeing, with mild temperatures and lower humidity.

Local food: Don't miss toasted ravioli, St. Louis-style thin-crust pizza, gooey butter cake, and a cold Budweiser at a classic Soulard tavern.

This guide is provided for general information only. Verify details locally before making travel decisions.