A Weekend in St Louis: Gateway to Midwest Charm

Raising a family in the Midwest US, spending a weekend in  St. Louis was always a great low-cost getaway, and always seemed preferable option to Chicago or Indy. There are just so many things to do in St. Louis, that our 3 days in St. Louis were always jam-packed. We always found some exciting new attractions, but old favorites beckoned again and again. In fact, my son Adam and his lady Adrienne spent a weekend in St. Louis a couple weeks ago, and they emulated much of this very same St. Louis 3 day Itinerary.  We think it is about the best 3 days in St. Louis, and one of the best getaways in the Midwest.

With its central location the city is easily accessible as a destination from most of the US, and it makes a great stop on a Route 66 road trip, or a Great River Road trip.  For those who live in the Midwest or central southern states, is an easy drive, and perfect for a fun-filled and memorable 2 or 3 days in St. Louis getaway. Those coming from further prefer to stay longer, and there is more than enough to do, and enough incredible day trip options to fill a full vacation. 

This article will lay out all of the details, including where to eat and drink, for a fantastic weekend in St. Louis that’s fun for everyone, but especially for first timers. We will also layout some alternatives for those who are on a slightly altered wavelength from us, or for those who have been there and done that. 

And, if your budget is tight, no need to worry! There are more free things to do in St. Louis than any US city, except Washington DC. In fact, over half of the suggested attractions in this itinerary are free. We think you will be reserving a hotel for your St. Louis 3 day itinerary soon!

This St. Louis 3 Day Itinerary Includes:

But first, a little history.

St. Louis was founded by French fur traders in 1764, and was French ruled for nearly 40 years. It was a busy outpost for the trade, and much of the city’s early wealth and prominent citizens.  You’ll still find many French names, architecture and an area some refer to as Frenchtown.  

The size and integral role of the city in US growth bequeathed its role in many historic events, including the 1904 World’s Fair, otherwise known as the Louisiana Purchase Exhibit, and the 1904 Olympics.  Many of the buildings and structures built for these world events are still in use today, and you will experience some of them during your weekend in St. Louis.  

With the Louisiana Purchase it became part of the US.  As a primary Mississippi River crossing point, and the rush for westward expansion moving through, the city became known as the Gateway to the West.  By 1870 it was the 4th largest city in the entire US, a major shipping port and had the busiest train station in the world.

Today, St. Louis has become small in the realm of cities, with a population of less than 300,000.  But because with a strong focus on historic preservation by city officials and community volunteers and benefactors, it retains much of its former metropolitan inheritance.  That means there are a lot of great things to do, without the traffic or the prices as larger cities.  With a few exceptions, driving in downtown is easy, and there is very little stress finding your way around. 

So, let’s get through the how to get there and where to stay business, so we can move on to sharing ideas for your 3 days in St. Louis.  We think your family is going to love it.  

If you have a little more time in the area you may want to check out some of the other very unique locations in the area, such as Unesco World Heritage Site Cahokia Mounds, geologic wonders Elephant Rock State Park or Meramec Caverns, renowned literary city Hannibal, Missouri, or the Abraham Lincoln Home and other presidential sites at Springfield, Illinois.

Getting There for Your Weekend in St. Louis

St. Louis lies along a crook in the Mississippi River, which looks very esthetic on the map, but you’re probably not going to travel there by boat.  Since driving is the most likely way you’ll come to St. Louis, it also lies at the juncture of 5 US Interstates.  With all these highways, getting to St. Louis is pretty much a straight shot from 25 of the 50 states.

• Interstate 55 runs from Chicago to New Orleans.
• Interstate 44, combines with Interstate 40, and essentially runs parallel to Route 66, from St. Louis on to southern California.
• Interstate 70 runs from PIttsburgh to central Utah.
• Interstate 64 runs from Virginia Beach to St. Louis.  

St. Louis is also served by St. Louis Lambert International Airport.  Lambert has direct flights to 65 different US cities, as well as Cancun and Cabo, Mexico, Toronto, Canada, Frankfurt, Germany, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and Dominican Republic.  

Where to Stay for Your 3 Days in St. Louis – 5 Fabulous Hotels

I have stayed in several St. Louis hotels over the past few years, traveling for both business and pleasure, so I will recommend a few.  

Downtown – The Magnolia

Adam and Adrienne stayed at the Magnolia Hotel on their recent spring trip for Cardinals season opening games.  The historic Magnolia features one of the few boutique experiences in downtown St. Louis, flowing with classic elegance, and claims that guest Cary Grant initiated the tradition of chocolates on the pillow at the hotel.  It boasts an ideal downtown location, down the block from the America’s Center.  Both valet and self park are $48 a night.

Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch

I appreciate the classic St. Louis architecture of the Drury Plaza Hotel, and rooms come with all the amenities you expect from Drury – free breakfast, happy hour, indoor pool, mini-fridges and microwaves in the rooms.  The location is almost perfect for a downtown stay, and there is an onsite restaurant. The parking does come at a location based cost – currently $25-30 per night.

Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza

The Royal Sonesta is probably my favorite St. Louis lodging, with its sophisticated color scheme, decor and rooms.  It is located in the Central West End, adjacent to Forest Park, and a few of the lesser known city attractions.  Rooms are very aesthetically pleasing, and equipped with mini-fridges.  There are 3 onsite restaurants, a pool, an onsite cinema, and even a barber shop for a last minute trim.

St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton

I have stayed at the Union Station Hotel many times on business.  The rooms are simple and comfortable but the common areas of the hotel are fabulous, built right into what was once one of the busiest train stations in the world.  You will particularly love the pool area and the Grand Hall dining room, and it is attached to all the attractions of today’s Union Station.  Self parking currently is $40 a night.

The Cheshire

The Cheshire is a fun place to stay, very different from all the other hotels on our list.  Looking like an English Manor from the outside, every one of its literary themed rooms is unique.  You will find an accompanying book in your room that matches its theme.  There are four onsite dining options, and a seasonal pool.  Located on the opposite side of Forest Park in the Hi-Pointe neighborhood, it is a little further from town than other options, but the atmosphere is worth it.  In addition, self parking is only $10.

What to Do – How to Spend Your Weekend in St. Louis

St. Louis is known for its many vibrant neighborhoods.  Although getting around in the city is not difficult, driving back and forth to get from one activity to the next can take up a lot of time.  We always plan our time in the city so that each day is centered around particular or adjacent neighborhoods to minimize the time spent moving around in a car or on public transport.  

With that said, the entirety of this St. Louis 3 day itinerary will only take you to a handful of the city neighborhoods, and a small number of the best things to do.  It will barely scratch the surface of all the great attractions.  If you want to adjust the itinerary, or you will be staying longer, be sure to see our Things to Do in St. Louis article, for a pretty comprehensive list.  And, if you have budget concerns, you’ll want to check out our Free Things to Do in St. Louis.  For now, let’s get on with what we believe is the best way to spend your 3 days in St. Louis.  

St. Louis 3 Day Itinerary – Day 1 – The Downtown Attractions

We will start our 3 days in St. Louis where all the biggest attractions are, in the downtown area.  There is enough to do in Downtown St. Louis that we can park our car, and be done with it until it is time to return to our lodgings for the evening. 

We have not included a breakfast suggestion for day 1, with the thought that you may be arriving in town that morning. If so, you may need to swing over before dinner and check into your hotel.  However, to make the most of your trip, arriving the night before would be best.  In that case, your hotel breakfast may be the best option that morning.

Visit the Gateway Arch National Park-  

For any first time visitor a weekend in St. Louis really should begin at Gateway Arch National Park.  It is the city’s most famous landmark. The Arch stands 630 feet and is the tallest man-made monument in the United States.  Children marvel at it, and try to catch both their reflections in its surface and its reflection in the surrounding ponds. 

No matter how many times one has visited, there is always some joy in walking the grounds and seeing the mighty Mississippi from its base.  Adam and Adrienne demonstrated this by stopping for some fun photos at the arch on their trip.

The Arch itself is only one piece of the National Park, which also includes the Old Courthouse, the grounds and gardens, the underground museum, and the Gateway Arch Riverboats.  Within these there are exhibit areas, gift shops, an indoor cafe and a seasonal outdoor cafe. 

Although we didn’t include a winter photo, the Arch is striking in every season.

There are also four film experiences including construction of the Arch; the landmark Dredd Scott trial, which took place at the Old Courthouse; the westward expansion film about the onset of the Lewis and Clark expedition; and the brand new 3D virtual theater experience of the St. Louis riverfront in the 1870s, Cobblestones & Courage.  There is also a Junior Ranger Program for children aged 3 to 12, and National Park Rangers are onsite throughout the day, often giving educational demonstrations and narrations.  

Views from the top of the Arch.

The National Park grounds open at 05:00, and the museum opens at 09:00.  Unfortunately, in 2024, the Old Courthouse is closed for renovations.  Personally, I suggest arring early to explore the grounds and gardens surrounding the Arch and scheduling a 10:00 tram ride to the top.  This will leave an hour to explore the museum and see the films.  The tram to the top of the Arch allows views out over the city and the Mississippi River, and is quite an experience. 

I would schedule a ride on the historic riverboat for 4:30, after your other afternoon activities .  Purchase scheduled tickets online at Gateway Arch, to avoid waiting during busier seasons.  

As an added bonus, the Basilica of St. Louis, King, also known as the old cathedral, is located in the park just to the south of the Arch.  Historically, it is the first official cathedral on the west of the Mississippi River.   Mass and special events are still held regularly, but visitors can explore the interior when services are not being held. 

Lunch at the Arch Cafe

Since we are primarily on foot today, and have a busy schedule, eating right at the Arch is the best option.  You can grab a quick St. Louis specialty, fried ravioli, or a panini at the Arch Cafe, a local farm to table option at the base of the Arch.  Or, during warmer months, you can try a sandwich, wrap or salad at the Paddlewheel Cafe, located at the riverboat dock.  

Busch Stadium and Ballpark Village

If you are sports-minded or just a baseball fan, you may enjoy the Busch Stadium and Ballpark Village experience.  St. Louis loves its home teams, and a home game is an awesome experience, which is what Adam and Adrienne did. But it does take most of the day.   To have a shorter in depth baseball immersion, a stadium tour is probably just right.  For international visitors, this is an opportunity to get a feeling for the US national sport.  

Busch Stadium tours are offered all year round, and include stops in the UMB Champions Club, the Redbird Clubhouse, the broadcast booth, the dugout, and the Cardinals Museum.  Tours are offered at 11:00, 12:30 and 2:00, but schedules do fluctuate on home game days.  You can be sure you schedule your 3 days in St. Louis appropriately by buying your tickets online in advance, and I would opt for the 12:30 tour.

Behind the stadium is Ballpark Village, which includes the Hall of Fame Museum.  Various displays and exhibits include scale models of historic stadiums, a chance to announce historic moments from the broadcast booth, and an opportunity to handle authentic Cardinals bats.  The highlight is the Championship Gallery, showcasing the teams 11 World Series titles.  It is quite an experience for baseball fans. 

The National Blues Museum

There may still be arguments as to “the home of the blues.” with both Memphis and Chicago claiming the moniker.  But there is no doubt that Scott Joplin brough Ragtime to fame from St. Louis, and W.C. Handy’s recording of St. Louis Blues would become the first blues “hit” and one of the most recorded songs of the 20th century.  Even beyond that, the city has a legendary musical history.  Icons like Chuck Berry, Ike and Tina Turner, Nelly, T. Bone Burnett, Miles Davis and Michael McDonald, all hail from St. Louis, but the city’s music legacy began long before. 

Home or not, St. Louis has a rich blues heritage and the National Blues Museum pays it homage, with the premise that the Blues is the base of all modern American music.  What we know as the Blues stemmed from the African traditions coupled with the harsh realities of their lives, becoming a named musical form in the late 19th century.  That music has grown and evolved into many forms, from Rock and Roll, Pop and Hip Hop, while the basic classic Blues still live on as well.  

The museum takes us through that evolution with hands-on exhibits, including an opportunity to record your own song.  There are also detailed histories and cool artifacts including instruments and stage clothes of some favorite artists, as well as weekly live performances.  Located at 615 Washington Avenue, the museum is open from 10:00-4:00 daily.  You should have time to spend about 1.5 hours soaking it in between your stadium tour and riverboat ride.

Dinner at Broadway Oyster Bar

Our favorite place for dinner in St, Louis is Broadway Oyster Bar, and it is just a short walk from the Riverboat landing.  As the name suggests, they offer oysters 10 different ways, a whole menu of pretty authentic cajun taste sensations, and a bit of a Mexican fusion.  They also have a full list of New Orleans inspired specialty cocktails at St. Louis prices. My brother Rusty says no trip to the city is complete without having dinner here.

Evening Entertainment – Live Music Downtown

If you aren’t quite ready to call this long day a wrap after dinner, Broadway offers live music several times a week.  If you don’t happen to be there on the right night, just across the tracks you’ll find BB’s Jazz, Blues & Soups, which has live music almost every other night of the week.  If country music is more your style, The Honky Tonk STL features live country bands on weekend nights.

St. Louis 3 Day Itinerary – Day 2 – Midtown Attractions

On day 2 of our 3 days in St. Louis, it is time to head out of downtown and check out some of the neighborhoods and attractions in the mid-city.  Specifically, we will spend some time in MidTown the Central West End, Forest Park and the West End.  

Breakfast at First Watch

Start your day bright and early with a 7:00 breakfast at First Watch on Euclid Avenue.  You can fill up on classics such as omelets, French toast, or waffles, or if a lighter breakfast suits you, options include avocado toast, steel cut oatmeal and superfood bowls.  We recommend embracing the adventure and trying something new such as the Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, the Smoked Salmon Benedict, or Frittata Rustica.  

Forest Park

No weekend in St. Louis can be complete without spending some time in Forest Park.  One of the largest city parks in the US, and one of the top 5 most visited, Forest Park is a jewel in the crown for St. Louis.  Originally created for the 1904 World’s Fair, there are 1370 wooded and green acres, in the middle of the city.  Not only is the park a green oasis in the city, almost everything in Forest Park is free. 

Work off that big breakfast with exercise and fresh air on one of the numerous trails, various sporting fields, golf courses, the outdoor skating rink, or one of the several playgrounds.  We particularly enjoy walking through the tropical gardens inside the Jewel Box greenhouse, and around the stunning lily pad pond.  Or you can go waterside along the Taylor Kindle River, one of the many lakes and ponds.  If you prefer to be off your feet, you can rent a bike for the trails, and paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards for the Post- Dispatch Lake, at the Boathouse.

If you have children, check out the St. Louis Zoo, home to over 16,000 animals from all continents of the world.  It is one of the few world class zoos with free admission, although special exhibits do have a fee, but they are quite reasonable.  Kids of all ages will find some animal they love here.  My children loved the gorillas and orangutans and my grandchildren adore the Humboldt penguins.   (9-5 daily.)

If it happens to be a rainy day, or you just fancy something cultural, Forest Park has awesome inside options too.  The St. Louis Art Museum holds a collection of over 36,000 works, from sketches to oils, textiles to sculpture, spanning every era from ancient art to modern. (10-5, Tue-Sun.) The St. Louis History Museum celebrates the history of the city, which has often had a national and worldwide impact, with both standing and temporary exhibits.  (10-5, Tue-Sun.)

The St. Louis Science Center offers a hands-on science discovery environment for all things science.  The myriad of topics range from archaeology to zoology, Earth science to space exploration, and there are both planetarium and Omnimax theater experiences.  (9:30-4:30 Thu-Mon.)

Lunch on the Delmar Loop

You could have lunch at one of the cafes right in Forest Park, but we like to break things up with the lively atmosphere on the Delmar Loop.  Back in the day this was not an area that you would send visitors to on their weekend in St. Louis.  But thanks to some dedicated local business owners who were determined to turn that around, anyone from a teen to a Gen Xer will find the area inviting.  

The loop is filled with hip restaurants and businesses.  There is a comic shop, a large vinyl record shop, vintage clothing boutiques, art galleries, indoor mini-golf, a bowling alley, a Saturday farmer’s market, and a plethora of restaurants.  You’ll find every kind of Asian food you can imagine, Mid-Eastern, and standard American food, with the St. Louis Walk of Fame connecting them all.  Every business, from bar to hotel, shop to cafe, has its own unique and funky vibe, many with inhouse “museums” showcasing their themes, including anime, retro 50s to 70s, and even a bit of steampunk thrown in.  

We normally choose Blueberry Hill for lunch.  This is the business that started it all, home to monthly concerts by the father of Rock and Roll himself, Chuck Berry, for over thirty years. The food is typical lunch counter options, from burgers and sandwiches, to soups and salads, with a handful of vegan choices.  It is the decor which calls my family back again and again, with its pop culture museum going back to Elvis, to 70s rock stars, to 80s and 90s action figures and tons more.  You don’t sit and wait for your food here, you walk around and absorb all the nostalgic eye candy.

If you found a good parking spot in Forest Park, and don’t want to lose it, you can use the free STL Loop Trolley that runs between the St. Louis History Museum in the park, to the University City Library at the end of the Delmar Loop.  The trolley runs hourly from April through October.

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis

We assume you will be heading back to Forest Park after lunch, and we would too.  But if you can squeeze it in afterwards, you will not regret a visit to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis.  The groundbreaking was in 1907 and the first mass in 1914, but the total construction took over 80 years.  In particular, the laying of the mosaics was a process of several decades, resulting in what is now known as one of the largest mosaic collections in the world, and it is exquisite.  

Pope John Paul II designated the basilica as a Cathedral in 1997, and visited in 1999 during his historic tour of the US.  The lower level of the Cathedral Basilica contains the mosaic museum and includes the original Kilgan organ and the throne used by the Pope during his visit, as well as many other historically significant pieces.  The museum is open from 10-4:00, while daily mass is celebrated at 7, 8, and 12:05.  Visitors who are not participating in mass are requested to delay their tour until the completion of the mass.  

Dinner at Pappy’s Smokehouse

We would be remiss if we did not suggest trying Pappy’s Smokehouse at least once in our St. Louis  3 day itinerary.  Pappy’’s has been called the best barbecue in Missouri by Southern Living, and said to have the best ribs in the country by Food Network.  Pappy’s meats are technically Memphis style BBQ, dry rubbed and slow smoked.  With that said, you can expect a line, but it moves quickly, and the food is worth every minute.

Evening Entertainment 

If you can plan your weekend in St. Louis to coordinate with the Fox Theater events schedule, it will add an element of class and culture to your experience.  Founded by William Fox whose legacy includes the Fox Media we know today, it was built in 1929 for the growing movie business, as the “talkies” had become possible.  

The Fox was the largest theater in the country outside of NYC at the time of construction, and with its over-the-top extravagance, it cost nearly $5 million, in the 1920s.  Today it has been painstakingly refurbished to almost match its original state.  It is quite literally the most beautiful theater I have ever personally seen.

The Fox hosts a variety of concerts, comedy and plays, as well as occasional ballet and Cirque du Soleil presentations. It also has its own Broadway Series, featuring several off Broadway shows each season.  You can enjoy a show for a huge discount compared to many other cities across the US.    

If your schedule does not work in with that of the Fox, during the summer months you may enjoy a performance at The Muny, back in Forest Park.  The US oldest and largest outdoor theater, The Muny performs classics like Fiddler on the Roof and Show Girls, with a new show every week from June through August.

If you really don’t like live theater, perhaps a cocktail and a classic movie is more up your alley.  St. Louis has its own branch of the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, one of the new trendy film venues that take movie watching up a notch.  It’s sort of a cross between the traditional movie experience and watching Netflix at home.  You get the big screen and sound, but you also get a more comfortable place to sit with a drink, and a real meal if you want it.  

Nightcap on the Rooftop

If this long day hasn’t worn you out, perhaps a craft cocktail to wind down is in order.  We suggest one on the roof, and St. Louis has two fantastic rooftop bars with lovely views of the city skyline in the neighborhoods we have spent this day in. 

The Art Bar, located one block away from the Fox Theater has a good list of beer, wine, and specialty cocktails, including the zero proof.  As the name suggests, the venue is known for its art exhibits and atmosphere.  

The Moonrise Rooftop Terrace Bar is located back on the Delmar Loop, and is known for its spaceage vibe, including a full moon on top.  They have a variety of wines from around the world, 8 distinct local craft brews on tap, and a full menu of sci-fi themed specialty cocktails.

PS – Both of these popular rooftop bars are on top of equally trendy hotels. We haven’t stayed there yet, but they look super cool. You can check out the Angard Art Hotel, or Moonrise Hotel.

St. Louis 3 Day Itinerary – Day 3 – Southside Neighborhoods and Suburbs

Today we will move on to a couple other neighborhoods.  We will finally head out into one of the suburbs after breakfast.  Then we will come back into town to the Soulard/Benton Park neighborhood for lunch, over to the Southwest Garden area for a bit, then back over to Soulard mid-afternoon.  Finally we will wrap the day up, and in fact our weekend in St. Louis, back in Mid Town.  

Breakfast at Hatch’d

Stop for breakfast today at Hatch’d, known as one of the best brunch spots in St. Louis.  The menu includes classic eggs, sausage, bacon, and waffles, but it also features a variety of creative breakfast sandwiches and burritos.  In addition, there are numerous omelet versions, from traditional, to those jazzed up with anything from pastrami to smoked turkey, chorizo to smoked salmon.  Hatch’d is also known for their breakfast cocktails, for those who are still a little rough from the day 2 nightcap.

Ulysses S Grant National Historic Site

If you have read many of our stories, you may know that I believe that some things should never be bypassed, and among them are National Parks and Presidential homes and museums.  And while the Ulysses S Grant National Historic Site is only a National Historic Site, rather than Park, it is close enough, and should not be missed during a weekend in St. Louis. Ulysses Grant is believed by many to be one of the top 5 generals in US history, a master of leadership and military tactics that ultimately led to the defeat of the Confederacy in the Civil War.  

A contemporary of Abraham Lincoln, Grant is often overshadowed due to the sheer goodness and genius of Lincoln, and a circle of corruption at the White House during his own presidency.  Yet, it is well known that Grant himself was not involved in the shady politics of the day, and that he fought tirelessly for civil rights for Black Americans, Native Americans, and was praised for his international relations. My favorite fun fact about this giant man of character and accomplishment- he was only 5’8″ tall, tiny in stature!

Brief historical notes of a few of Grant’s many Presidential accomplishments include his push for the ratification of the 15th amendment which enabled Black-American men to serve in Congress, and appointment of an Attorney General who avidly pursued and prosecuted the Ku Klux Klan. He selected a Seneca Tribe member as the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, appointed African and Jewish American’s to prominent federal positions, and met and negotiated a free trade with the King of the Hawaiian Islands.

Grant lived in St. Louis at the location of the historic site for 5 years, before the civil war. During this time he tried his hand at farming, met his future-wife Julia Dent, married, and hand built a cabin for his young family.  At the National Historic Site, be sure to go to the visitors center to watch the short film about the Grant’s life and accomplishments, take a tour of the preserved family home Whitehaven, and see the other outbuildings that have been preserved on the property.  

The Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site is not to be confused with Grant’s Farm, which was purchased form Grant’s family by the Anhueser family, who we will learn about shortly. The farm is a recreation and amusement attraction geared toward families, with a petting farm, playground, historic carriage collection, Clydesdales, and a biergarten.  If you are traveling with youngsters, you may want to add some time there as well.  

Missouri Botanical Gardens

Adam and Adrienne spent a few hours at our next recommended stop, the Missouri Botanical Gardens, which was founded in 1859, and has been in continuous operation since.  Built by business man Henry Shaw after his retirement, whose goal was to give the city a garden as great as those he experienced on his travels in Europe.  He spent 35 years after his retirement overseeing the garden and the pleasure it brought to the community.  His research and preservation began a legacy which continues today.  

Hopefully you haven’t grown tired of the beautiful outdoors yet, because a spending some time at the Missouri Botanical Garden should be a part of your 3 days in St. Louis.  Named by the Travel Channel, Fodors and Garden Design as one of the top botanical gardens in the US, Missouri Botanical is literally the perfect place to stop and smell the flowers.  

Specifically, you may want to smell the orchids, as the garden has one of the biggest collections of rare orchids in the world.  Other favorites are the Climatron, a geodesic dome built in the fashion of R. Buckminster Fuller, the Victorian Garden and the zenful atmosphere of the Japanese Garden. How your day is timing out may determine whether you go before or after lunch, but if you are worn from all the walking, you can also ride the tram through all of the outdoor attractions.  

Lunch

St. Louis is known for its outstanding Mexican restaurants, especially in the Soulard neighborhood.  While you can drive into Soulard and take your pick, if it is a weekend day our recommendation is to stop at neighboring Benton Park for lunch at Arzola’s Fajitas + Margaritas.  A family run restaurant for over 30 years now, Arzolas has the expected tacos, burritos and quesadillas, but as the name suggests, they are known for their signature fajitas.  You can try the expected steak or chicken, or if you’re feeling adventurous, go for the sweet potato or mojo shrimp.  Obviously, the margaritas are also a specialty, coming in a variety of styles and flavors, including the zero proof.

Budweiser 

If you are a beer drinker, you can’t go wrong with a Budweiser Brewery Tour.  Even if you are not a drinker at all, learning the brewing process is fascinating.  I personally am not a beer drinker, but I have enjoyed several brewery tours around the worlfd.

Budweiser was born in St. Louis in 1876, and the Anheuser-Busch Company collection now includes 27 different brands, and over 50 breweries around the world. It has grown into the leading beer company worldwide, with 30% more sales than the next competitor.  The company’s flagship brewery is still right at home in the city of its birth.  

Named for founders Eberhard Anheuser and Adolphus Busch, the company has been a pioneer in the brewing process.  They were the first to use pasteurization for a lager product, the first to use refrigeration and refrigerated transport, and the first to can a beverage.  Through all of this, they took what was once a locally brewed and consumed product to a one that could be transported and stored, and later consumed great distances from its point of creation.  

You can learn the brewing process, “from seed to sip,” as Anheuser-Busch states, through one of the three different types of brewery tours that are offered daily, or have an up close Clydesdale experience, with the gorgeous horses that have become iconic and beloved mascots.  Tours range from 1 to 2 hours, with the earliest start times at 11 and the last at 4.  

Union Station and Dinner

My Grandson Cash enjoys the photo ops at the aquarium.

Opening in September, 1894, St. Louis Union Station was at one time one of the largest and busiest train stations in the world, with over 100,000 travelers passing through.  With the heyday of train travel long past, the station went through steady years of decline, and a series of repurposings.  

Today the station is one of the city’s premier family entertainment destinations.  The centerpiece is the St. Louis Aquarium, with 6 indoor galleries, 3 which focus on River wildlife and marine life, and a variety of up close and hands-on encounters.  Other options for the young at heart include mini-golf, a mirror maze, a ropes course, and the Selfie Express, open through the day until 5.  You’ll also find a classic Carousel, an hourly fire and light show on the small lake, and the 200 foot gondola seated St. Louis Wheel, all open until 9.

Union Station is also now a popular dining destination with a variety of choices.  There is a sports club and bar, a soda shop, two themed cafes, a bakery, and two container food and drink “trucks.”  There are also two sit down dinner options, Landry’s Seafood House, and the Station Grille.  There is also an upscale lounge with finger foods in the Grand Hall, the fabulous showpiece of the station during its glory days.  

We recommend sitting down to a fine meal after exploring any of the entertainment options that interest you at Union Station.  We have eaten at both restaurants more than once, and been pleased each time.  Afterwards, walk over to the Grand Hall for a night cap, and to experience anintricate and beautiful 3D light show created by Technomedia.  It is a glorious way to wind down for the day, and to bring your weekend in St. Louis to an end.

Are You Ready for Your Weekend in St. Louis?

As we wrap up our immersive journey with through St. Louis over three vibrant days, we’ve explored the heart of the city, delved into its rich history, savored its culinary delights, and reveled in its cultural offerings. From the iconic Gateway Arch to the tranquil Missouri Botanical Garden, from the bustling Delmar Loop to the historic Union Station, each day has been a tapestry of experiences waiting to be unraveled.

We’ve followed Adam and Adrienne through neighborhoods, sampled local flavors, marveled at architectural marvels, and dived into the city’s past and present. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, St. Louis has something to offer for everyone. If you need more information, don’t forget to check out our other articles on things to do in St. Louis, free attractions, and an in-depth on Gateway Arch National Park. Each piece complements this St. Louis 3 day itinerary, providing a comprehensive guide to make your St. Louis experience truly unforgettable.

With each adventure, St. Louis reveals more layers of its charm, inviting you to explore, discover, and immerse yourself in its unique spirit. We hope your weekend in St. Louis leaves you with cherished moments and a desire to return for more.

And don’t forget, if you wish to extend your adventure, there are many other incredible places to explore. You’ll find Unesco World Heritage Site Cahokia Mounds, geologic wonders Elephant Rock State Park or Meramec Caverns, and Six Flags St. Louis, all less than 1 hour away, and the Mark Twain literary city Hannibal, Missouri, or the Abraham Lincoln Home and presidential sites at Springfield, Illinois within 2 hours drive.

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