Exploring St. Louis, MO – What to See and Do
The Best Places To Visit In St. Louis Missouri
St. Louis, Missouri is a sensational destination for families, couples and individuals. The Gateway Arch beckons travelers to explore the lush parks, vibrant gardens and exceptional museums. The unique shops, delicious restaurants and numerous attractions combine to make this one city nobody should miss.
The Gateway Arch
The heart of St. Louis is the Gateway Arch. The arch spans an area of 630 feet, reaches 630 feet in height and is a spectacular site. Travelers can pay a small fee to ride to the top of the arch and rejoice in the magnificient aerial views. The arch is located in Gateway Arch National Park and was constructed during the 19th century. An interactive museum sits just below the arch and is definitely worth a visit.
The Saint Louis Zoo
The Saint Lois Zoo has been voted the Top Free Attraction in America. Every year, three million people come to see more than 16,000 animals. River’s Edge is a fascinating journey through the waterway that encompasses four continents. Visitors will experience the giant anteaters, bush dogs and Andean bears of South America. The natural environment showcases the black rhinos, red river hogs and painted dogs of the African Savannah. This is the opportunity to see the African Nile, Asia and North America. Local financial resources enable shopping and delicious foods at the River Camp Cafe or Hippo Hideaway.
The Wild encompasses everything from tropical rainforests to the sub-Antarctic. Visitors will be captivated by the penguins and polar bears in their charming habitats. The forests and jungles are filled with gorillas, chimpanzees and orangutans. The children will be delighted by the carousel with 64 animals hand carved in beautiful colors. The 4-D Theatre, train station and Carousel Cafe provide everything needed for an exceptional afternoon.
The Saint Louis Cathedral
The Saint Louis Cathedral is also called the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis. This spectacular cathedral was completed in 1914 for the Roman Catholic Church. There are in excess of 41.5 mosaics in over 7,000 colors gracing the interior. This collection is second only to Russia. The crypts in the basement are enthralling and many former leaders of the Archdiocese have dedications in the chapel. This includes Cardinals John J. Glennon, John Carberry and Joseph Ritter.
The Angel of Harmony is a steel sculpture fourteen feet tall. Three children with European, Asian and Hispanic features stand behind this exquisite winged angel as they play their instruments. There are inspirational quotes from the New Testament inscribed upon the base. The pipe organ is an original Kilgen. The organ was constructed in 1915 by Geo. Kilgen and Son, Inc. There were originally four manual organ consoles and 77 ranks of pipes. The original console is now available for viewing in the basement museum.
Forest Park
Forest Park encompasses 1,371 acres in western St. Louis. This civic center was established in 1904 was the host for the Summer Olympics the same year. The park offers numerous attractions including the Saint Louis Art Museum, the St. Louis Science Center, the Missouri History Museum and the Saint Louis Zoo. The restoration since 2000 has been extensive and dedicated to improving the habitats and landscaping. This is an extraordinary place to enjoy trees, meadows, manmade lakes, ponds and freshwater streams.
Great place to visit!
It has been several years since I have been to St. Louis. Saw the Arch and walked around Forest Park. I really enjoyed the food too.