St. Louis, Missouri, is a city with a rich history, cultural attractions, and exciting entertainment options. Located in the heart of the Midwest, St. Louis is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. From iconic landmarks to world-class museums, St. Louis has something to offer for every kind of traveler. In this article, we will explore the top tourist spots in St. Louis, Mo, and what makes them so special.
The Gateway Arch
The Gateway Arch is one of the most iconic landmarks in St. Louis, and it’s a must-visit attraction for any traveler. This 630-foot-tall stainless steel monument is a symbol of the westward expansion of the United States and offers stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top of the Arch for a panoramic view of the city, or explore the Museum of Westward Expansion, which is located at the base of the Arch.
History of the Gateway Arch
The idea of building a monument to commemorate the westward expansion of the United States dates back to the 1920s. However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that the project finally got underway. The Gateway Arch was designed by architect Eero Saarinen and took four years to complete. It was officially dedicated on May 25, 1965.
Fun Facts about the Gateway Arch
- The Gateway Arch is made up of 142 individual pieces of stainless steel.
- The Arch is designed to withstand strong winds and earthquakes.
- The tram ride to the top of the Arch takes just 4 minutes.
- The Arch is 630 feet tall, but the height of the monument is actually 630.5 feet, due to the height of the foundation.
City Museum
The City Museum is a one-of-a-kind attraction that is perfect for families and adventure-seekers. This 600,000-square-foot museum is made up of reclaimed materials, including old airplanes, school buses, and construction equipment. Visitors can explore the museum’s many exhibits, which include a 10-story slide, a Ferris wheel, and a maze of tunnels and rooms.
History of the City Museum
The City Museum was founded by artist Bob Cassilly in the 1990s. Cassilly, who was known for his unique and often whimsical approach to art, saw the potential in the old International Shoe building, which was slated for demolition. With the help of his wife, Gail, Cassilly transformed the building into a museum that would showcase his art and imagination. (See Also: Tourist Spots in Vijayawada – Must Visit Attractions)
Exhibits and Attractions at the City Museum
- The Enchanted Caves: A network of tunnels and rooms made up of reclaimed materials.
- The 10-Story Slide: A thrilling slide that takes visitors on a wild ride.
- The Ferris Wheel: A 40-foot-tall Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the city.
- The Maze: A challenging maze that visitors can navigate.
Forest Park
Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, covering over 1,300 acres of land. The park is home to several popular attractions, including the St. Louis Zoo, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the Muny, a famous outdoor amphitheater. Visitors can also explore the park’s many walking and biking trails, or rent a boat and enjoy a day on the lake.
History of Forest Park
Forest Park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same landscape architect who designed New York City’s Central Park. The park was built in the late 19th century and was intended to be a green oasis in the heart of the city. Over the years, the park has undergone several renovations and expansions, including the addition of several new attractions.
Things to Do in Forest Park
- Visit the St. Louis Zoo: Home to over 18,000 animals from around the world.
- Explore the Saint Louis Art Museum: A world-class museum with a collection of over 33,000 works of art.
- Attend a performance at the Muny: A famous outdoor amphitheater that hosts a variety of productions throughout the summer.
- Rent a boat and enjoy a day on the lake: Visitors can rent paddleboats, kayaks, or sailboats and enjoy a day on the park’s 100-acre lake.
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is the site of an ancient Native American city that was once the largest pre-Columbian city north of Mexico. The site is home to over 69 earthen mounds, including the famous Monks Mound, which is the largest prehistoric earthen pyramid north of Mexico. Visitors can take a guided tour of the site and learn about the history and culture of the Cahokia people.
History of the Cahokia Mounds
The Cahokia Mounds were built by the Cahokia people, a Native American tribe that lived in the region from the 7th to the 14th centuries. The mounds were used for a variety of purposes, including as burial sites, ceremonial centers, and homes. The site was abandoned in the 14th century, and it was forgotten until the 19th century, when it was rediscovered and excavated.
Things to See at the Cahokia Mounds
- Monks Mound: The largest prehistoric earthen pyramid north of Mexico.
- Woodhenge: A circular structure made up of 48 wooden posts.
- The Cahokia Mounds Museum: A museum that showcases the history and culture of the Cahokia people.
- The Earthlodge: A reconstructed earthlodge that demonstrates the construction techniques of the Cahokia people.
Recap
In conclusion, St. Louis, Mo, is a city with a rich history, cultural attractions, and exciting entertainment options. From the iconic Gateway Arch to the world-class museums and historic sites, there’s something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or adventure, St. Louis has something to offer. So come and explore this vibrant city and discover all that it has to offer. (See Also: Tourist Spots in Fukuoka – Hidden Gems Uncovered)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to get around St. Louis?
A: The best way to get around St. Louis is by car. The city has a well-developed highway system, and parking is generally easy to find. However, there are also public transportation options available, including buses and a light rail system.
Q: What are the best restaurants in St. Louis?
A: St. Louis is known for its barbecue, and there are many great barbecue joints throughout the city. Some popular options include Pappy’s Smokehouse, Salt + Smoke, and Bogart’s Smokehouse. However, the city also has a wide range of other cuisines, including Italian, Mexican, and Asian.
Q: What are the best neighborhoods to stay in St. Louis?
A: The best neighborhoods to stay in St. Louis depend on your interests and preferences. Some popular options include the Central West End, which is known for its upscale shops and restaurants; the Loop, which is a vibrant entertainment district; and Soulard, which is a historic neighborhood with a charming atmosphere.
Q: What are the best things to do with kids in St. Louis?
A: St. Louis has many great attractions for kids, including the St. Louis Zoo, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the City Museum. The city also has several amusement parks, including Six Flags St. Louis and City Museum’s own amusement park, which features a Ferris wheel and other rides. (See Also: Tourist Spots in Gothenburg Sweden? Unveiled)
Q: What are the best things to do in the winter in St. Louis?
A: St. Louis has many great winter activities, including ice skating, sledding, and skiing. The city also has several holiday markets and festivals, including the Christkindlmarkt and the St. Louis Winterfest. Additionally, many of the city’s museums and attractions offer special winter exhibits and events.