When it comes to planning a trip, one of the most crucial decisions is choosing the right destination. St. Louis, Missouri, is an excellent choice, offering a mix of history, culture, and entertainment. However, its surrounding areas are equally fascinating, with plenty of hidden gems waiting to be explored. In this article, we’ll delve into the top places to visit near St. Louis, providing you with a comprehensive guide to make the most of your trip.
Why Visit Places Near St. Louis?
St. Louis is a fantastic city, but its neighboring towns and attractions offer a unique charm that’s worth experiencing. From scenic parks and historic sites to quaint towns and exciting amusement parks, the areas surrounding St. Louis provide a diverse range of activities and sights that cater to different interests and ages. By exploring these nearby destinations, you can add depth and variety to your trip, making it an unforgettable experience.
Get Ready to Discover the Hidden Gems of the Midwest!
In the following sections, we’ll take you on a journey through the top places to visit near St. Louis. From the iconic Gateway Arch to the picturesque towns of Missouri and Illinois, we’ll cover the must-visit attractions, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences that will make your trip an absolute delight. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the hidden gems of the Midwest!
Places to Visit Near St. Louis
St. Louis, Missouri, is a vibrant city with a rich history, cultural attractions, and exciting outdoor activities. However, there are also plenty of amazing places to visit near St. Louis that offer a unique experience. From historic sites to natural wonders, here are some of the top places to visit near St. Louis:
Hannibal, Missouri
Hannibal, Missouri, is a charming town located about 120 miles northwest of St. Louis. This town is famous for being the childhood home of Mark Twain, the author of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. Visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum to see the house where Twain grew up and learn about his life and works.
In addition to its literary significance, Hannibal is also known for its scenic beauty, with rolling hills and the Mississippi River running through it. Take a stroll along the riverfront, visit the Hannibal Riverboat Cruises, or explore the many parks and trails in the area.
Alton, Illinois
Alton, Illinois, is a historic town located about 15 miles north of St. Louis. This town is famous for its role in the Underground Railroad, with many abolitionists and free black communities helping escaped slaves make their way to freedom in the 19th century.
Visit the Elijah Lovejoy Monument, which commemorates the life of a prominent abolitionist who was killed in 1837. You can also explore the Alton Museum of History and Art, which features exhibits on the town’s history, art, and culture. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Krakow)
Carbondale, Illinois
Carbondale, Illinois, is a vibrant college town located about 100 miles southeast of St. Louis. This town is home to Southern Illinois University and has a thriving arts and cultural scene.
Visit the Southern Illinois University Museum, which features a diverse collection of art and artifacts from around the world. You can also explore the Carbondale Community Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce, crafts, and live music.
Ste. Genevieve, Missouri
Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, is a historic town located about 60 miles south of St. Louis. This town is famous for its French colonial architecture and charming downtown area.
Visit the Ste. Genevieve Historic District, which features many historic buildings, including the Old Louisiana Academy and the Ste. Genevieve Catholic Church. You can also explore the many shops, restaurants, and wineries in the area.
Natural Wonders
In addition to its historic towns, the area around St. Louis is also home to many natural wonders. Here are a few of the top natural attractions to visit:
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site | The Cahokia Mounds are the remains of an ancient Native American city, with over 69 mounds built between 700 and 1400 AD. |
| Hawn State Park | This park features unique rock formations, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks. |
| Taum Sauk Mountain State Park | This park features the highest point in Missouri, with scenic views and hiking trails. |
Wineries and Vineyards
The area around St. Louis is also home to many wineries and vineyards. Here are a few of the top ones to visit: (See Also: Places To Visit Near Devon)
- Augusta Winery: Located in Augusta, Missouri, this winery offers wine tastings and tours.
- Montelle Winery: Located in Augusta, Missouri, this winery offers wine tastings, tours, and a restaurant.
- Alto Vineyards: Located in Alto Pass, Illinois, this winery offers wine tastings, tours, and a picnic area.
These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit near St. Louis. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant region.
Conclusion
St. Louis, Missouri, is a city surrounded by a plethora of exciting destinations that offer a mix of history, culture, outdoor adventure, and entertainment. In this article, we explored some of the best places to visit near St. Louis, each with its unique charm and attractions.
From the iconic Gateway Arch to the scenic beauty of the Ozark Mountains, we discovered a range of options that cater to different interests and age groups. We visited the historic town of Hannibal, famous for its Mark Twain connections, and the vibrant city of Springfield, Illinois, with its rich cultural heritage.
We also delved into the great outdoors, exploring the stunning natural wonders of Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, the scenic hiking trails of Castlewood State Park, and the picturesque Lake of the Ozarks. Additionally, we touched upon the family-friendly attractions of City Museum and Grant’s Farm, as well as the historic significance of Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site.
In conclusion, St. Louis is a fantastic base for exploring the Midwest, with its proximity to a diverse range of attractions and activities. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, culture, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone near this vibrant city. So, start planning your trip to St. Louis and discover the many wonders that await you just beyond the city limits!
Frequently Asked Questions: Places To Visit Near St. Louis
What are some popular day trip destinations near St. Louis?
There are several popular day trip destinations near St. Louis, including Hannibal, Missouri, which is about a two-hour drive and features Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum. Another option is Hermann, Missouri, a charming German-influenced town with wineries and scenic views, about an hour and a half drive from St. Louis. You can also visit Springfield, Illinois, which is about a two-hour drive and features the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
Are there any outdoor recreation areas near St. Louis?
Yes, there are several outdoor recreation areas near St. Louis. One popular option is Castlewood State Park, which is about 30 minutes southwest of St. Louis and features hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing and boating. Another option is Pere Marquette State Park, which is about an hour and a half north of St. Louis and features hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic views of the Illinois River. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Guangzhou)
What are some family-friendly attractions near St. Louis?
There are several family-friendly attractions near St. Louis, including the City Museum in St. Louis, which features interactive exhibits and play areas made from reclaimed materials. Another option is the Grant’s Farm animal reserve, which was once owned by Ulysses S. Grant and features animal shows and a petting zoo. You can also visit the Six Flags St. Louis amusement park, which is about 30 minutes east of St. Louis and features roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions.
Are there any historic sites near St. Louis?
Yes, there are several historic sites near St. Louis, including the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, which is about 15 minutes east of St. Louis and features the ancient earthen mounds built by the Cahokia Indians. Another option is the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site, which is about 30 minutes south of St. Louis and features Grant’s former home and a museum. You can also visit the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site, which is about an hour north of St. Louis and features a museum and a replica of the keelboat used by the famous explorers.
What are some romantic getaways near St. Louis?
There are several romantic getaways near St. Louis, including the charming town of Augusta, Missouri, which is about an hour west of St. Louis and features wineries, bed and breakfast inns, and scenic views of the Missouri River. Another option is the Lake of the Ozarks, which is about two and a half hours southwest of St. Louis and features boating, fishing, and scenic views. You can also visit the romantic town of Galena, Illinois, which is about three and a half hours north of St. Louis and features historic architecture, wineries, and scenic views.