Unveiling St. Louis, Missouri - The Western Gateway

Unveiling St. Louis, Missouri - The Western Gateway

On a winter vacation, I embarked on a journey to St. Louis, Missouri, to meet a college friend who lives there. Years of her insistence finally paid off, and the city turned out to be a pleasant surprise! From the historic St. Louis Arch, the symbolic gateway to the West, to a thrilling ride down a ten-story slide in a unique museum set in an old shoe factory, St. Louis effortlessly claims a place on your must-visit travel list.

Out & About:

Begin your journey with the City Museum, a testament to St. Louis' artistic ingenuity. Once a 100-year-old warehouse, it's now an unparalleled art installation, captivating attraction, bar, and aquarium. The museum was founded by artist Bob Cassilly and his crew in 1997. It has since evolved into a labyrinth of man-made caves, a ten-story slide, and a collection of salvaged architectural and industrial objects, including two aircraft suspended in the open air. Its urban reclamation ethos has made it a cherished feature of the city's landscape.

Next on the list is the Enterprise Center, home to the city's beloved hockey team, the St. Louis Blues. Established in 1967 as one of the six teams during the National Hockey League's original expansion, the Blues bring a thrilling energy to every match. While there, savor the stadium's renowned chicken fingers, a treat for all food enthusiasts.

The Gateway Arch National Park, celebrating the diverse individuals who shaped the region and the nation, is an essential part of your visit. The Arch, standing at 630 feet, was completed in 1965 as a symbol of America's westward expansion. Embark on a tram ride to its top for a panoramic view of the city and explore the rich local history at the underground museum.

Visit the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, St. Louis' flagship brewery since the 1850s. Anheuser-Busch, one of the largest beer producers globally, offers an immersive experience into the brewing process and the chance to meet their iconic Clydesdales, a hallmark of the company since the end of Prohibition in 1933.

Take a moment to enjoy the melodic notes of the St. Louis Symphony at Powell Hall. This beautiful structure, built in 1925, originally served as a venue for vaudeville performances and motion pictures. Now, as the permanent home of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra since 1968, it resonates with the echoes of classical music's greatest composers.

Known as the Fox Theatre, The Fabulous Fox is a 1929 movie palace-turned-performing arts center. Its ornate design is a testament to the architectural grandeur of the late 1920s and continues to host a variety of performances today, from Broadway shows to concerts.

Founded in 1910, the Saint Louis Zoo was credited with a significant boost in popularity after the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair. With over 14,000 animals, many of them endangered, the Zoo offers a unique opportunity to connect with wildlife. Admission to the Zoo is free, making it a must-visit for families.

Take a short 25-minute drive out of the city to the charming town of Belleville, Illinois. Known for its annual Art on the Square festival and the beautiful National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, Belleville is a quaint, historic town that adds a charming touch to your St. Louis adventure.

‍Eat:

St. Louis Foundry, one of the freshest additions to the city's vibrant dining scene. This modern food hall offers a tapestry of tastes from around the world, all under one roof. A collaborative venture between multiple local restaurateurs, it captures the city's melting pot essence while maintaining an inviting and relaxed atmosphere.

Nestled within the St. Louis Foundry is the Kalbi Taco Shack. A hidden gem where two diverse cuisines - Asian and Mexican - meet and meld, creating an explosion of flavors in every bite. What started as a food truck, Kalbi Taco Shack has quickly become a St. Louis favorite thanks to its bold fusion dishes.

Craving some Southern comfort in the heartland of America? Salt + Smoke has got you covered. Established in 2014, this barbecue restaurant has made a name for itself with its handcrafted BBQ offerings and a thoughtful selection of bourbon and craft beers. Their pimento cheese toasted ravioli and white cheddar cracker mac are dishes that shouldn't be missed.

Travel a bit further afield to Belleville, Illinois, and you'll stumble upon Joe & Onie's. This charming local coffee shop offers more than just a caffeine fix - their delicious homemade quiches are worth the detour. Joe & Onie's, named after the owner's grandparents, is a celebration of family and community in a cozy, welcoming setting.

Also situated in Belleville is Abe's Gourmet Popcorn, a family-owned business that has been delighting popcorn enthusiasts since 2008. A visit to Belleville wouldn't be complete without grabbing a bag of their gourmet popcorn. With a vast array of flavors, from traditional to unique, there's something for everyone.

Last but not least, no food journey in St. Louis would be complete without sampling the city's signature dish - Toasted Fried Ravioli. This St. Louis original is a delightful twist on the Italian classic, where the ravioli are breaded, deep-fried, and typically served with marinara sauce. Whether it's at a fine dining restaurant or a street food stall, you'll find this beloved dish served with pride across the city.

Drink:

Start your libation exploration at Beatnik Bob's, nestled inside the unique City Museum. This eclectic café is a quirky homage to the Beat Generation of the 1950s, boasting an array of artifacts from the carnival midway and other nostalgic curiosities. Beatnik Bob's offers a distinctive environment to enjoy a coffee or a soft drink while you take a break from your museum adventure.

Step back in time at Up-Down, a retro arcade bar that'll spark your inner gamer. With classic pinball machines, skee ball alleys, and an extensive array of '80s and '90s arcade games, Up-Down gives a nod to nostalgia. And remember, if you pop in on a Thursday, game tokens are just 10 cents apiece!

Perched atop the City Museum is the Rooftop Café. This whimsical establishment offers stunning panoramic views of St. Louis, making it a perfect spot to unwind after exploring the museum's wonders. What sets this cafe apart is the school bus hanging precariously over the edge of the building - a surreal setting where you can enjoy your drink.

Bask in the tradition of one of America's oldest and largest breweries at the Anheuser-Busch Biergarten. Situated on the grounds of the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery, this beer garden serves an array of Anheuser-Busch's finest brews, some of which are created just a few feet away. Experience beer-drinking at its finest in this community-focused venue.

The Corner Chill & Grill, located in Belleville, Illinois. This classic neighborhood dive bar is known for its friendly atmosphere and exceptional beer selection, including their must-try mini beers, which have a surprisingly delightful vanilla frosty taste. Despite its unpretentious exterior, The Corner Chill & Grill is a treasure trove of good times and great drinks.

Visited last in November 2022