Fun Activities for a Day Out in St. Louis, Missouri
When visiting St. Louis, you will find numerous activities in this riverfront city that are perfect for a day out. From the adventurous to the easygoing, the Gateway City has something for everyone, be you a sports fan, outdoor enthusiast, or lover of thrills and chills.
Ride to the Top of the Gateway Arch
It doesn’t matter if you’re a St. Louis native or simply visiting this striking city, traveling to the top of the Gateway Arch makes for a day unlike any other. This awe-inspiring attraction involves taking a tram from the base of this St. Louis landmark up 63 stories to an observation deck before making a return trip down.
Along the cozy ride, you will journey through 43,000 tons of steel and concrete, viewing the inside of the arch through a set of glass doors. Once you’re at the top, you’ll be able to view 30 miles in every direction, taking in this stunning city from 630 feet in the air.
Get a Bird’s Eye View From a Hot Air Balloon
Hot air balloons – Public domain
Looking for fun activities with a little more fresh air? Consider a hot air balloon ride in the St. Louis area. This uplifting adventure places you a few thousand feet above the ground while a pilot helms the journey.
Despite what you may think, the experience isn’t windy. Hot air balloons drift with the wind, so the experience is pleasantly smooth.
Looking for a one-of-a-kind activity in September? Try to catch The Great Forest Park Balloon Race for a free affair that occurs only once a year. This show-stopping event involves a colorful parade of balloons racing across the St. Louis sky, along with fun-filled activities on the ground for onlookers.
Take a Thrilling Ghost Tour
A ghost tour – Copyright US Ghost Adventures
Prefer your feet planted firmly on the ground? Consider a thrilling experience right here on terra firma, as you embark on a bone-chilling ghost tour of St. Louis.
Uncover the dark past of this historic city as you learn about some of its most haunting locations, like the Stifel Theatre, St. Louis’ very own haunted Opera House.
Hear about ghostly Union soldiers and strange beings that prowl this moonlit city after dark, as you encounter an otherworldly side of St. Louis.
Use code CANNA10 to get 10% off your St. Louis ghost tour!
Get Some Signature St. Louis Eats
Don’t just pick any restaurant in St. Louis. Choose an eatery that is representative of St. Louis’ fabulous cuisine. For something with a retro vibe, head over to Crown Candy Kitchen. Known as St. Louis’ oldest soda fountain, this historic diner has been around since 1913, offering comforting eats, sundaes, and candy.
Love a good pizza? Head over to Press for some of St. Louis’ best stuffed pizza and pasta offerings. For something a little swankier, visit Polite Society, a restaurant and bar in the historic Lafayette Square neighborhood. Its striking interior is filled with books, old brick, and vintage mood lighting that provides the perfect ambiance.
Experience Art and Culture at a St. Louis Museum
The St. Louis Art Museum – Public Domain
Searching for memorable daytime activities? St. Louis offers a bounty of stunning museums that celebrate everything from art to sports and music. Consider a visit to the National Blues Museum to honor some of St. Louis’ most soulful music. This remarkable museum offers an array of exhibits and artifacts that truly bring this musical genre to life.
For lovers of the visual arts, try the contemporary St. Louis Art Museum for interactive exhibits and truly phenomenal pieces of artwork. The palatial St. Louis Art Museum is also a sensational spot for breathtaking artworks and sculptures, and remains completely free to the public (although donations are appreciated).
More of a sports fan than an art fan? Head to the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum and behold this haven for Cardinal fans. It holds one of the largest collections of team-specific collectibles across the globe, making it a winning destination for any member of the Cardinal Nation.
Go For a Hike and a Picnic at a Nearby State Park
The view from Castlewood State Park – Public domain
Ready to breathe in the beauty of Missouri’s wilderness? The St. Louis area is jam-packed with spectacular hiking trails and stunning vistas for a hike and a picnic.
About 30 minutes from St. Louis, you’ll find Castlewood State Park. Within its lush boundaries, you can explore the Meramec River, gorgeous meadows, and verdant valleys via a variety of hiking trails. Mountain biking is also a favorite activity in this invigorating park, with bike trails spanning from beginner-friendly routes to those favored by experts.
Looking for a more challenging trek? Grab your best hiking boots and tackle the Whispering Pines Trail at Hawn State Park for an unforgettable excursion into nature. Breathe in the fresh air and astonishing sights as you walk amidst majestic trees and flora at this park, which is just an hour outside of St. Louis.
Cool Down at Six Flags St. Louis
Six Flags St. Louis – Public domain
Those who favor exhilarating experiences will heartily enjoy Six Flags St. Louis. Here, you can experience a range of thrills, from rollercoasters to white water rapids. The St. Louis park holds three wood roller coasters and seven steel ones, making for a gripping total of 10 roller coasters for a truly heart-pounding date.
Hurricane Harbor, located inside this park, also allows for a refreshing cooldown during the sweltering summer months in this hot-summered city. In addition to rides and slides, you’ll also find a wave pool and a relaxing lazy river for lounging in.
Conclusion
These are just some of the many extraordinary options at your fingertips for an unforgettable day in the Gateway City. St. Louis is a place rich with energy, welcoming people, and remarkable attractions and tours. You’ll find a wealth of hiking opportunities and walking tours for those who love fresh air, fantastic eateries for foodies, and riveting attractions for adrenaline junkies.
St. Louis is an exceptional town, whether you live here or are simply sneaking away for a weekend getaway. Captivating daytime ventures and evening excursions await you in this Midwestern heartland. All you need to do is choose your adventure and let the magic happen!