St. Louis, US

1. How far away is city center from the airport, and what's the easiest way to get there?

St. Louis is spread out with just under three million people and 79 neighborhoods. The city center, considered the downtown neighborhood, is about 17 minutes from St. Louis International Lambert Airport.

You can get there by taxi, Uber, Lyft, or MetroLink, which is a subway system. MetroLink is the cheapest option at $2.50 but takes about 52 minutes. Taxi fare can be around $35 to $45 excluding tip.

2. What are some good places to visit nearby?

For nearby cities, having a private vehicle is the best option. Some cities, such as Springfield, Illinois, and Kansas City, Missouri, can be reached by Amtrak.

There are several feasible day trips around St. Louis, especially if you have your own vehicle. Cahokia Mounds is located just across the Mississippi River in Illinois. The Great River Road offers a beautiful drive up the Mississippi River to Pier Marquette Park, which is a really nice area as well. Historic St. Charles is known for its historic buildings and as the starting point for Lewis and Clark’s expedition. Missouri wine country includes notable wine cities such as Augusta and Herman. Springfield, Illinois, is another nearby city, about an hour and a half away, known for its Abraham Lincoln history. These cities offer a mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and local charm, making them ideal for day trips from St. Louis.

3. What's the most affordable way for tourists to get around the city?

The cheapest way to get around within the city is by walking. MetroLink and Labyrinth Mobility, which offers free rides downtown, are also economical options. MetroLink costs $2.50 for one-way or $5 for an all-day pass.

4. Are there any travel passes or cards available for tourists to help save on transportation costs?

Yes, there is a one-day adventure pass for bus and rail that costs $5.

5. Can visitors rent a car easily, and do they need an international driving permit for St. Louis?

Yes, travelers can rent a car. In the downtown area, there are reliable car rental services like Enterprise and Avis.

6. What are some of the safest and cheapest ride sharing apps travelers can install on their phone?

Labyrinth Mobility and the MetroLink app are beneficial to download. Uber and Lyft are also commonly used.

1. What are some of the best local food to try in St. Louis?

Travelers should try toasted ravioli, which is fried ravioli with Parmesan cheese and marinara sauce. Emo’s Pizza is well-known for its toasted ravioli.

St. Louis barbecue, gooey butter cake, and the waffle cone are also local favorites. The Hill neighborhood offers some of the best Italian food outside of Italy and New York.

2. What are some of the best food markets and popular restuarants in the city?

Favorite places include Emo’s Pizza, known for its toasted ravioli, and the Fountain on Locust, which serves homemade soups and was voted best service in 2023 by Feast Magazine. Gooey Louis is recommended for gooey butter cake.

3. Are there any convenience stores in the city to buy snacks and essentials?

Yes, there are Walgreens, CVS, and Schnucks Culinaria grocery store downtown, along with a Dollar General Extreme (DGX).

4. Which food delivery apps are popular in St. Louis?

DoorDash and Uber Eats are the most popular food delivery apps.

5. Are vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free food easily available?

Yes, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free food is available. Rooster is a downtown restaurant that serves breakfast and lunch until two o'clock, offering Abergine BLTs and hipster tacos on gluten-free tortillas with beans, sweet potato, and avocado. Sentai Asian Bistro on Washington also has excellent gluten-free dishes.

6. Can you drink tap water in St. Louis?

Tap water is very important and safe to drink.

Here in St. Louis, we have one of the largest breweries in the world, Anheuser-Busch Brewery. We’ve always been a brewery town with caves beneath our downtown area, as Missouri is known as the cave state. Brewers used to store their beer in these caves to keep it cold. This has contributed to us having some of the best water in the country, essential for making great beer.

7. Are there any pet-friendly or kid-friendly restaurants in the city that you'd recommend?

Most restaurants in St. Louis cater to families and have kid-friendly options, including high chairs and children’s menus.

Certain bars don’t allow anyone under 21. However, a new place called The Armory has opened in downtown St. Louis. Historically an armory, it has been transformed into a large restaurant with great TVs, games, and a bar, but it’s for those over 21 only. There are still plenty of places that allow the under-21 crowd.

8. Do you also have a favorite restaurant in general apart from the ones you recommended for local food?

Favorite restaurants include Emo’s Pizza, the Fountain on Locust, Papis and Bogarts for barbecue, and Sugar Fire downtown. These restaurants are favored for their local specialties and good service. Sentai Asian Bistro and Abergine are recommended for their unique offerings and good service.

9. Should tourists make reservations in advance for popular restaurants in St. Louis? If so, how can you typically book a table?

Most places allow walk-ins, but reservations are recommended for parties of 10 or more. Reservations can typically be made through OpenTable, Resy, or by calling the restaurant.

1. What healthcare facilities are available for tourists/foreigners in St. Louis?

St. Louis has excellent medical facilities, including the Washington University Medical Campus (Barnes-Jewish Christian system), Shriners Hospital, St. Louis Children’s Hospital, and St. Louis University Hospital system.

Urgent care facilities are available but usually close by 10 p.m., so emergency rooms might be necessary for late-night emergencies.

The primary emergency contact number is 911.

2. Are simple painkillers and flu medicines available without a prescription?

Over-the-counter medicines are easily accessible at Walgreens, CVS, and Schnucks Culinaria.

1. Should travelers consider getting a local SIM card? If so, would it be cheaper to grab one at the airport upon arrival or wait and buy one at a local shop in the city?

A local SIM card is not considered necessary, as Wi-Fi is widely available. If needed, SIM cards can be purchased at the airport or local stores like Walgreens or CVS without significant price differences. There is a store at Terminal 1 of the airport.

2. Do most public areas, restaurants, and accommodations offer Wi-Fi access in St. Louis?

Yes, Wi-Fi is widely available in public areas, restaurants, and accommodations. Almost every place has Wi-Fi, including cafes like Cafe de Blair on 4th Street downtown and Gateway Arch National Park.

1. Where can you usually find the best exchange rate in the city?

The most convenient place downtown for currency exchange is Aleve Street Currency Exchange.

2. What works better for local transactions - cash or credit cards?

Credit cards are widely accepted, and many establishments are moving to credit card-only transactions. However, cash is recommended for tipping and certain situations.

1. Are there any medications or items travelers should avoid bringing into the country?

It is advised to check the USA’s Transport Security Administration (TSA) website for any restrictions on medications or items. Tourists can refer to this link for the most updated list of prohibited items: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all?page=0

2. What are some common scams tourists should be aware of in St. Louis?

Tourists should ensure not to leave valuables in visible areas in their cars to avoid break-ins, especially in downtown. There has been a history of vehicle break-ins in the downtown area.

3. Is the city safe for solo and female travelers?

St. Louis is relatively safe, but like any big city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings, avoid traveling alone at night, and secure your belongings.

4. Do some attractions or transportation options recommend buying passes in advance?

It is not necessary to buy transportation or activity passes in advance, though it is an option for those who prefer to be prepared.

1. Are there any dress codes to follow when visiting religious sites or monuments in St. Louis?

While there isn’t a strict dress code, it’s important to dress comfortably in certain places. For example, the museum can be very cold due to the electronics, so on a hot summer day, people often come in shorts and t-shirts and find themselves too cold. It’s wise to dress in layers or bring a sweater or jacket, even if the weather outside is warm. Remember that air conditioning can be strong in many indoor places.

If you’re taking a tour at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, there are specific dress restrictions: you must wear closed-toed shoes (no sandals allowed) and no backpacks or backpack-style purses are permitted. Always check for any specific dress requirements when planning a tour.

2. What are some places that both tourists and locals love to visit?

Number one is the Gateway Arch. Everybody loves to visit the Arch, a remarkable feat of engineering, and locals often take visitors there. Another highlight is the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. There is also a brand new aquarium, which opened five years ago, featuring many hands-on activities and has been very popular.

In Forest Park, there are five cultural institutions that are free: the St. Louis Zoo, the Art Museum, the History Museum, the Science Center, and the Planetarium. Forest Park sees about 12 million visitors a year, many of whom are locals. Other notable places include the Magic House, City Museum, and the Missouri Botanical Garden. Locals often consider the Missouri Botanical Garden their own personal garden; it opened in 1859 and is a beautiful and cherished site.

The City Museum stands out as an incredible space built to demonstrate that everything has an infinite lifespan. It houses architectural remnants from across St. Louis, creating a unique and historic collection. The City Museum features slides, mosaics, an aquarium, various animals, and even a circus inside the building. It’s a fantastic place to visit and a favorite spot to showcase.

3. What hidden gems in St. Louis do you recommend outside of the usual tourist spots?

One of the most confusing situations in St. Louis is that there are two Cathedral Basilicas, both Catholic churches and very historical. One contains the largest collection of mosaics in the Western Hemisphere. The two churches are the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis and the Basilica Cathedral of St. Louis King of France, often causing confusion. Both are worth visiting as they are hidden gems within the city, with one located downtown and the other in the Central West End neighborhood.

Perina Farms, about 40 minutes outside of St. Louis, offers pet shows, barns, and opportunities for children to see animals, making it a great family destination. Another hidden gem is Shaw Nature Reserve, part of the Missouri Botanical Garden, also about 40 minutes outside of St. Louis. It features 14 miles of hiking trails, wetlands, and a wildflower garden, providing a beautiful outdoor experience.

Lone Elk Park is a unique location where visitors can see the wild bird sanctuary and bison. It’s a popular spot for those curious about bison in the Midwest. Additionally, St. Louis has several Route 66 locations, as the historic highway goes from Chicago to Santa Monica, California. The Gateway Arch is one of the key Route 66 landmarks in the city. These places are considered hidden gems in St. Louis.

4. What activities or attractions would be perfect for families with young kids in St. Louis?

For families traveling with kids, St. Louis offers a variety of engaging and fun activities. The Gateway Arch is a must-visit, with its tram ride to the top and the museum at the base providing a memorable experience for children. The City Museum is a unique and interactive museum that kids will love, featuring slides, tunnels, and creative exhibits where they can explore and play all day. Just about 30 minutes west of the city is Six Flags St. Louis, an amusement park with a large water park, perfect for a full day of fun. The Magic House, a fantastic children’s museum in the Kirkwood neighborhood, serves children from birth to around 10-12 years old with interactive and educational exhibits. Forest Park is another great destination with the St. Louis Zoo and the Science Center, both offering numerous activities for kids. Additionally, events like the Forest Park hot air balloon race can provide unique and exciting experiences for the whole family. St. Louis is filled with numerous options to keep kids engaged and entertained.

5. What are some of the adventurous things to do for thrill-seekers?

When it comes to outdoor adventure in St. Louis, the Mississippi River offers some of the best experiences. Big Muddy Adventures provides large canoe trips down the river, which is an incredible way to explore the mighty Mississippi. For those seeking a thrilling experience, riverboat cruises and ziplining are also available. The Great River Road in Grafton, Illinois, offers ziplining opportunities as well. For cycling enthusiasts, Trek St. Louis offers various bicycle tours with different types of bikes to suit any adventure.

St. Louis also boasts numerous parks and trails perfect for hiking and biking. The Gateway Arch National Park is a highlight, with its stunning views and rich history. Exploring these outdoor activities can provide a unique and exciting way to experience the natural beauty and adventure that St. Louis has to offer.

1. Where are the best places to find souvenirs in St. Louis?

Tourists in St. Louis looking for souvenirs have several great options. Soulard Farmers Market, the oldest outdoor market west of the Mississippi River, has been open since 1779 and operates every weekend on Fridays and Saturdays. Located downtown, it’s a fantastic place to find unique St. Louis souvenirs. Another excellent spot is the Kirkwood Farmers Market, which offers a variety of local goods.

For more traditional souvenir shopping, Missouri Threads on 4th Street and Washington Avenue downtown is a great place to find St. Louis-themed items. The Arch Store at the Gateway Arch National Park also offers a wide range of souvenirs, from clothing to memorabilia. The gift shop at the Missouri Botanical Garden is another lovely option, with a selection of St. Louis and garden-related souvenirs. These locations provide a variety of options for tourists to bring back a piece of St. Louis.

2. What are some unique or must-have souvenirs to buy in St. Louis?

Replicas of the Arch are very popular souvenirs, including puzzles and other items related to the Arch. St. Louis Cardinals gear, St. Louis BattleHawks gear, and St. Louis Blues gear are also very popular. These items, such as hats, t-shirts, and other sports memorabilia, make great souvenirs. Jewelry featuring St. Louis symbols, like the Fleur-de-lis, is another popular choice. These items are widely available at various shops and markets throughout the city.

3. Is bargaining common in the local markets? Any tips for tourists who want to try it?

When buying souvenirs from local markets in St. Louis, bargaining isn’t very common as most places have set prices. The markets mentioned earlier, such as Soulard Farmers Market and Kirkwood Farmers Market, primarily focus on vegetables, produce, and food items. When it comes to souvenir shopping, the prices are usually fixed.

4. What are the best shopping malls or outlet malls in St. Louis for brand lovers?

For those looking for outlet shopping, there is the St. Louis Premium Outlet Mall located in Chesterfield, Missouri. This mall is about 20 minutes west of downtown St. Louis and offers a variety of discounted items from numerous brands, making it a great place for bargain hunters.

5. What are the best shopping malls or outlet malls in St. Louis for brand lovers?

For those looking for outlet shopping, there is the St. Louis Premium Outlet Mall located in Chesterfield, Missouri. This mall is about 20 minutes west of downtown St. Louis and offers a variety of discounted items from numerous brands, making it a great place for bargain hunters.

1. What's the best time to travel to St. Louis weather-wise? Are there any seasons to avoid?

St. Louis experiences all four seasons, each offering a unique experience. Winter can be very cold, icy, and rainy, while spring is often windy and rainy. Summer is hot and humid, and fall is lovely with beautiful foliage and pleasant weather.

The best time for families to visit is during the summer months of June, July, and August. However, for those traveling without children or wanting to avoid school groups on field trips, April and September are ideal. Visiting in September, after schools are back in session, can offer a more relaxed experience at major attractions like the Gateway Arch.

January and February are typically the downtime for tourism in St. Louis due to the cold weather. Many businesses may be closed for vacations or renovations during this period, so it’s essential to check in advance before planning a trip.

2. How long is the ideal duration for travelers to spend in St. Louis ?

The minimum number of days to spend in St. Louis to cover the basics would be around four days. This allows enough time to visit major highlights such as the Gateway Arch, the City Museum, Forest Park, and its cultural institutions like the St. Louis Zoo, the Art Museum, and the Science Center.

For a more comprehensive experience, a week-long vacation is ideal, giving visitors the opportunity to explore more of the 79 neighborhoods, enjoy various activities, and get a real feel for the city. Two weeks would provide an even more relaxed and thorough exploration of all St. Louis has to offer.

3. What are some essential items travelers should pack?

When visiting St. Louis, regardless of the time of year, it’s essential to pack rain gear, such as an umbrella or a light rain jacket. Additionally, always bring a light jacket or sweater because indoor air conditioning can be very cold, even during hot weather.

If you forget to pack these items, you can easily buy long-sleeve shirts, sweatshirts, umbrellas, or jackets at most stores in the city. Renting such items is not common, so purchasing them if needed is the best option.

1. Which neighborhoods in St. Louis have the best nightlife scene and events?

St. Louis offers a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene, particularly strong in the arts. One of the top places for evening entertainment is the Muni in Forest Park, the largest and oldest outdoor theater in St. Louis. It showcases Broadway shows throughout the summer, with performances starting at 8:15 PM. The outdoor setting with big fans provides a cool and pleasant experience.

Another great area for nightlife is the Loop, named for the historic trolley line. The Loop features venues like the Pageant, a popular concert hall. Downtown St. Louis also has several concert venues such as the Dome, the Sheldon, and the Enterprise Center, all of which host various performances and events.

These spots, along with numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs throughout the city, make St. Louis a great place for nighttime entertainment.

2. Which neighborhoods offer the best shopping spots in the city?

The Loop is a fantastic neighborhood for nightlife and entertainment, featuring many shops and boutiques along Delmar Boulevard, which was named one of the top 10 American streets. The Loop is also home to the St. Louis Walk of Fame, which has 150 bronze stars honoring people important to St. Louis in various ways.

Other notable neighborhoods for shopping and entertainment include Brentwood, Kirkwood, and Soulard, each offering a variety of stores and dining options. Cherokee Street, known as Antique Row, is a great place for those interested in antique shopping.

These areas, along with the concert venues and theaters mentioned earlier, make St. Louis a great city for both nightlife and shopping.

3. Which neighborhoods have the best views or scenery? Can you recommend a beautiful place to stay with a view?

Downtown St. Louis offers the best views of the Gateway Arch and the Mississippi River. Various pockets of neighborhoods around St. Louis also provide good views of the bluffs and the multiple rivers that flow through the city. For the most scenic places, downtown remains the prime spot for breathtaking views of the Arch and the river.

Other scenic areas include Pier Marquette, Grafton, Illinois, and Alton, Illinois. These locations, especially along the rivers and on top of the bluffs, offer beautiful vistas. Scenic spots like these provide excellent opportunities for enjoying the natural beauty surrounding St. Louis.

4. Which neighborhoods offer the best food spots in St. Louis?

St. Louis has several hot spots for cafes and restaurants. Washington Avenue, formerly the old garment district where shoes and hats were once warehoused and sold, has been transformed into a vibrant area filled with restaurants. It’s also home to the National Blues Museum, a movie theater, and is near the America Center and the dome where the St. Louis Battlehawks football team plays.

The Grand Arts Center and the Grove are other notable neighborhoods with great dining options. The Grove, in particular, features local breweries like Urban Chestnut, which also has a nice restaurant.

Another prominent area is the Hill, known for its Italian cuisine, offering numerous excellent Italian restaurants. These neighborhoods provide a variety of dining experiences, making them must-visit spots for food enthusiasts in St. Louis.

5. What area would be the best place to stay for families, solo travelers, or couples?

For larger groups of friends, the Washington Avenue District is an excellent choice. This area, with its vibrant nightlife and dining options, is perfect for social and energetic gatherings. The Grove is another great spot, known for its local breweries like Urban Chestnut, providing a lively and welcoming environment for groups.

For families, neighborhoods like Kirkwood and Brentwood are more suitable. These suburban areas offer many family-friendly restaurants, creating a more relaxed and accommodating atmosphere for parents and children. The Hill, with its numerous Italian restaurants, is also a wonderful choice for families looking to enjoy a hearty meal together.

Solo travelers might prefer quieter and more intimate settings. The Grand Arts Center offers a range of dining options that cater to individuals exploring the arts scene. The Central West End, with its charming cafes and small restaurants, is another great spot for solo diners looking to enjoy a meal in a more peaceful environment.

Washington Avenue District is also a good fit for couples seeking a romantic dinner or a night out. The area’s restaurants and nightlife venues provide a perfect backdrop for date nights or business lunches.

6. Which neighbourhoods offer some of the cheapest place to stay?

For budget travelers, the Forest Park area is a great choice. Forest Park offers many free attractions and activities, making it ideal for those looking to save money. The park itself is home to several free institutions, such as the St. Louis Zoo, the Art Museum, the History Museum, and the Science Center.

In September, the Great Forest Park Balloon Race is a fantastic family-friendly event. It includes a balloon glow at night and a hot air balloon race the next day, and it’s all free. Additionally, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra gives a free concert to open the fall season.

From late May to late June, the Shakespeare Festival in Forest Park offers free plays. The Muny, the oldest and largest outdoor theater in the U.S., provides 500 free seats for each performance during the summer season.

Every neighborhood in St. Louis has its charm, but Forest Park offers the best value for budget-conscious travelers, providing numerous free and low-cost activities and events.

7. What's your favorite place to stay in St. Louis, and why do you recommend it?

When recommending accommodations in St. Louis, Drury Hotels is a top pick. Although they might not be widely known outside the Midwest, they have several locations downtown, known for their quality and service.

A newer option is the 21C Museum Hotel, located in an old YMCA building in downtown St. Louis. This unique hotel doubles as an art museum, offering guests the chance to tour various galleries. The building retains its original early 1900s pool, complemented by a new hot tub designed in the same vintage style. The combination of historical charm and artistic ambiance makes it a fantastic recommendation, especially for history buffs and art lovers.

1. Are there any annual festivals or special events in St. Louis or nearby cities that tourists shouldn't miss?

St. Louis hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, reflecting the Midwest’s vibrant festival culture. The Forest Park Balloon Race, St. Louis Symphony Opener, and Shakespeare Festival are notable annual events. In Kirkwood, the Green Tree Festival is a major event, and the area also features the Kirkwood Farmers Market and Laumeier Sculpture Park, making it a great day-trip destination.

The Missouri Botanical Garden is a hub for festivals, including the Japanese Festival on Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, Chinese Culture Days, and the Best of Missouri market in October. St. Louis also hosts one of the largest Mardi Gras Festivals in the world, typically held in February or March, featuring a large parade.

June’s Pride Month is celebrated with a vibrant parade and festival. The Festival of Nations in Tower Grove Park showcases diverse cultures. The Whitaker Music Festival at the Missouri Botanical Garden offers free concerts every Wednesday in the summer, where visitors can enjoy picnics while listening to live music. Free concerts are also common in the summer at the History Museum and other venues, providing ample opportunities to enjoy outdoor music.

1. Is tipping a common norm? If so, what's the usual tipping amount?

In St. Louis, as in the rest of the United States, tipping is very common and often expected. It is customary to tip for any service provided, such as assistance with carrying bags at the airport, guided tours, or transportation services. The standard tipping rate is usually 15%, though higher tips are always appreciated. Just remember that tipping is a way to acknowledge and appreciate good service.

2. Other information

St. Louis is known for having some of the most passionate sports fans in the world. Culturally, the city is all about sports, and attending a game is a great way to experience this aspect of St. Louis. Whether it’s a baseball game with the St. Louis Cardinals, a hockey game with the St. Louis Blues, or a football game with the St. Louis Battlehawks, attending a live sports event will give you a true sense of the city’s love for its teams and the vibrant sports culture that thrives here.