A St. Louis Explorer’s Bucket List

Have you been looking for some date night ideas or maybe even engagement photo locations in StL? If so, this guest post might pique your interest. Read on to discover what Pablo Alvarez of Redfin and St. Louis’ residents and businesses recommend to anyone living in or visiting the Gateway to the West!

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St. Louis, with its rich history and lively culture, is a city that warmly invites you to explore and enjoy. St. Louis has plenty to offer from mouthwatering food and fascinating museums to vibrant arts and unique local spots. As vegan restaurant Royally Baked states, “When visiting St. Louis, soak in and soak up the vivacious ambiance of the area & surrounding. Experience the city and all it has to engulf you in but do not limit yourself. Stop into a local eatery then go beyond city limits where there are wineries only accessible by scenic country winding roads, crystal clear springs to swim in, plus beautiful hiking, biking, and walking trails.” If you are planning a visit or are currently a resident, this article will help you create a fun and memorable St. Louis bucket list. 

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St Louis outdoor activities

As winter approaches, now is the perfect time to savor the pleasant weather outdoors. St. Louis offers plenty of outdoor activities that provide a refreshing escape to reconnect with nature. As Missouri photographer and videographer Brendan Luke Trogdon of Royal Photos puts it, “As a new resident myself, only living in Missouri for around a year and a half now, my first recommendation to new residents, or anyone that visits, is to get outside and explore all the parks. Whether city, county, or state-operated, the parks in the greater St Louis area are beautiful. Forest Park and Cuivre River State Park are probably two of my favorites!”

Photographer Heather Bennett of Bee Brook Photography agrees with Brendan as she recommends, “Take a stroll through Forest Park! There’s something for everyone–interesting architecture, rivers and lakes, tons of flora and fauna, and free attractions like the Art Museum. Some of my favorite areas to visit are Deer Lake Riffles and the pathway to the Victorian Footbridge.”

The admiration for Forest Park continues as registered dietitian nutritionist, Alexandra Caspero from Delish Knowledge shares, “Hands down, my favorite part about living in St. Louis is access to Forest Park. Located in the center of the city, it’s a 1,300-acre park and one of the largest urban parks in the United States. I love running around the paved six-mile outer trail, renting a paddle boat to paddle around the inner lake, or heading to the free Zoo, History, or Art museums located inside the park.”

Stephanie Reid from Amor et Vita states, “As an STL local, I cannot get enough of the Missouri Botanical Gardens! Nestled in the city, this little slice of nature provides a calming oasis for an early morning or afternoon stroll. Feed the fish in the Japanese garden or visit a tropical haven in the Climatron. Make sure to check out their events calendar to stay on top of all the offerings, from music festivals to their holiday light display.”

Stephanie and Peter Zettl from Zettl Phototography add, “Don’t forget to add Laumeier Sculpture Park to your list of must-visit spots in the Lou. This hidden gem boasts 105 acres of natural beauty and over 70 modern outdoor sculptures, all free to explore. I love to take photos here.  It’s the perfect place to enjoy art and nature on a peaceful, scenic walk — just keep an eye out for the crowd-favorite giant eyeball sculpture that seems to watch your every move.”

Upshot Coffee’s Conor shares an excellent way to enjoy the Katy Trail. He shares, “One of our region’s best outdoor activities is the Katy Trail. Fortunately, we have an awesome coffee shop in an old gas station a mile off of the trail.  I would suggest stopping at the Brake Shop location grabbing some espresso on the patio with the garage doors open and then hitting the trail for a hike or a ride along our beautiful riverfront. If you are cycling you can even ride it to our other shop in Cottleville to refuel on your way out to Defiance and Augusta if a couple of miles on the road doesn’t concern you too much!” 

If more hands-on interaction is your preference, then we got the perfect recommendation for you. STL Mommy Kim Julian shares, “A Saint Louis favorite family attraction is Grant’s Farm. The historic farm is free to the public and offers fun for the entire family with parakeet and goat feeding, camel and carousel rides, and two free drinks for those over 21. While you’re there you can also head over to the barn to see the World Renowned Budweiser Clydesdales.”

Augy Knickmeyer from Missouri Fly Life Guide Co. provides another excellent hands-on activity, suggesting, “I am based in the St. Louis area and specialize in guiding smallmouth bass, musky, and trout; all within two hours of downtown St. Louis. I recommend new residents check out the thriving fishing culture and opportunities in the area. We have two fly shops, several tackle shops, and active chapters of Trout Unlimited and Smallmouth Bass Alliance. Feel free to reach out about fishing with me, getting connected with local clubs, or about free info on where to fish on your own!” 

Andy McEwen of LouFly Guide Service adds another recommendation for fly fishing. Andy states, “Try something new and get a taste of western-style guided fly fishing trips all within a max of two hours from Downtown St. Louis. Guided river fly fishing float trips for trout and smallmouth bass.

Culinary delights and local favorites

Iconic local dishes and amazing dining experiences highlight the flavors and eateries that define St. Louis food culture. When visiting, it’s best to be open-minded and willing to explore numerous food spots. 

Our first food recommendation is to stop by Lonas Lil Eats. Pierce and Lona of Lonas Lil Eats say that “Lona’s Lil Eats is owned and operated by Lona with the irreplaceable support of an amazing team of hard-working chefs and foodies. It serves cuisine of her own creation inspired by her native Asian ethnic-minority hill tribe flavors, one of which is the original giant rice paper wrap. She has received three James Beard award nominations and enjoys a cult following in the Saint Louis area. Leading Saint Louis food critic, Ian Froeb, has described it as “the future of American dining”. 

Jessica Silva from Lemon Cleaning Service gives her top pick stating, “Peacemaker Lobster and Crab is a must-go to restaurant! It has two locations and is owned by an award-winning chef who really knows how to season the food to perfection. The seafood is flown in daily to ensure its freshness! Highly recommended!”

Whether you are looking for a caffeine boost or a delicious treat, cafes are the perfect place to stop by. Local spot Good Press Cafe recommends stopping by, “As a welcoming neighborhood coffee house in the heart of downtown, we offer more than just great coffee and simple, delicious food. We’re proud to be a communal hub where locals and visitors alike can gather, relax, and soak in the vibrant energy of the city. Whether you’re fueling up for the day ahead or settling in for a leisurely afternoon, Good Press is where St. Louis’s community spirit shines.”

Raquita Henderson of Pinxit Photo shares, “St. Louis is a foodie’s paradise, and honestly there are so many fabulous places to eat that will have you dreaming of coming back. My favorite place for seafood/sushi is Indo STL/SadoSTL. Indo creates the most amazing flavor combinations ever. The food is so bright and luscious, and as a photographer, the beauty of the plating isn’t lost on me. My favorite spot for a special occasion is Rated Test Kitchen – the menu rotates every month so it’s always something new and amazing and the space is so small and intimate it is the perfect place to remind someone how special they are to you while sharing an amazing dining experience.” 

For sweet treats, Raquita shares, “I am also really fond of La Patisserie Choquette for a sweet bite as a reward for having a great day. I love to get the bourbon pecan roll or a few beautiful French macaroons.” 

Wedding Wonderland chimes in for deserts stating, “ Temptations by Wedding Wonderland is a must-visit spot in St. Louis for anyone with a sweet tooth. Their exquisite cakes and pastries are not only beautifully crafted but also bursting with flavor, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. The shop’s inviting atmosphere and exceptional customer service add to the overall charm, ensuring a memorable experience every time you stop by. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a personal treat, Temptations is a local gem that’s well worth a visit.”

The sweet train doesn’t stop there: Travel blogger Raqhelle Millbrooks of RaqhTheWorld recommends, “If you’re looking for a sweet and scrumptious stop with welcoming and relaxing decor, make sure to visit Bailey’s Chocolate Bar! It was the perfect experience to indulge in chocolate-infused cocktails and desserts. My favorite was the raspberry drizzle paired with the cinnamon ice cream!”

In addition to restaurants, St. Louis also offers other options to add to your culinary-themed St. Louis bucket list. Jamie from Spotless STL, a residential and commercial cleaning service shares, “My husband and I love going to the local Farmers Markets whether it be Soulard, Kirkwood, St. Charles, or Lake St. Louis. Each one offers something a little bit different so it depends on what we are in the mood for that day. We love the local gluten-free bakers, food trucks, unique art, plants, huge variety of different flavored teas and of course, the local produce.” 

Exploring St. Louis’ vibrant creative community

St. Louis is a bright canvas of creativity, showcasing a diverse art scene that reflects its cultural influence. Whether you’re exploring renowned institutions like the St. Louis Art Museum or discovering hidden gems in local studios, St. Louis offers an array of artistic experiences that cater to every taste.

Local photographer Henry David gives an excellent St. Louis bucket list recommendation when he says, “St. Louis is known for its vibrant arts community, and Project String Quartet is a standout. Their upcoming event, ‘Stardust: A String Quartet Tribute to David Bowie,’ at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center is a must-see. Watch them bring Bowie’s classics to life in a unique and memorable way.

St. Louis holds one of the most unique museums, the City Museum. Joel Heckaman from the City Museum describes it as, “Housed in an old shoe factory in Downtown St. Louis, City Museum is an ever-evolving, always-thrilling, artist-built playground full of weirdly wonderful spaces to explore. From a passion project to an indoor, outdoor, underground playground that welcomes adventurous visitors from all over, we had no idea what City Museum would become when we first opened our doors.” 

Photographer Jaimie Nicole Krause supports Joel’s recommendation by saying, “You’d be amiss to visit St. Louis and not check out City Museum, which is only one part museum and two parts playground on steroids. There’s a rooftop Ferris wheel, more slides than I can count, a school bus hanging off the side of the roof, and an actual airplane jungle gym. It’s open late on weekends and has multiple bars on-site.” 

Explore more of St Louis

When visiting a new city it can be easy to stay in one area or neighborhood and not venture out. However, it is important to explore what the city has to offer as lots of unique finds and bucket-list items are positioned away from the main tourist attractions. 

Ericka Frank, owner of The Cup suggests, “A must-see while in St. Louis is the historic Central West End neighborhood, located on the east edge of Forest Park and north of Highway 44. This incredible area is brimming with charm, from its beautiful architecture to its vibrant restaurants and retail shops. At The Cup, we’re proud to be a key destination in the Central West End, offering our award-winning cupcakes and the iconic St. Louis gooey butter cake — a treat you simply must try while visiting St. Louis.”

Nick Findley from Dutchtown recommends stopping by and exploring. “St. Louis’ Dutchtown neighborhood is one of the city’s most diverse and dense neighborhoods. Through the grassroots efforts of dedicated neighbors and local business owners, Dutchtown is reawakening as a vibrant, community-focused neighborhood that welcomes everyone. Dutchtown is home to stunning examples of St. Louis’ historic brick architecture, including everything from working-class flats and bungalows to Bavarian-inspired landmarks built for the brewers of Budweiser. And as ‘The South Side’s Sweet Tooth, ’Dutchtown is home to a triumvirate of St. Louis’ favorite treats: Merb’s Candies, Dad’s Cookie Company, and  Ted Drewes Frozen Custard. Longer Form Pick and choose what you like.”

Wedding and portrait photographer Elizabeth Miller from Truly Moments shares her favorite St. Louis destination. “Old Webster is the perfect mix of small-town and trendy. You can browse vinyl records, pick out new plants, and then grab a coffee or a brew bite at one of several trendy spots to eat. It’s a great place to hang out, enjoy an eclectic afternoon, and support locally owned businesses.“ 

As Halloween approaches, what better way to begin the spooky season than a visit to the Lemp Mansion? Rob Haller from St Louis Business Portraits reveals, “The Lemp Mansion in St. Louis is a historic and famously haunted house that was once home to the wealthy Lemp family, who were prominent brewers in the 19th century. The mansion’s rich history is marred by tragedy, with multiple members of the Lemp family meeting untimely and mysterious deaths within its walls. 

Today, the Lemp Mansion operates as a unique attraction offering dining, overnight accommodations, and popular ghost tours that delve into its eerie past. Guests can also enjoy interactive murder mystery dinners, adding an element of entertainment to their visit. The mansion’s timeless architecture and preserved interior provide a glimpse into St. Louis’ opulent past, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and paranormal seekers alike.” 

Where to drink like a local

As a craft beer enthusiast, cocktail connoisseur, or simple classic pub enjoyer, Gateway City offers a diverse array of bars, breweries, and distilleries to add to your St. Louis bucket list.

Jesse Stansberry of BrewHop STL which offers St. Louis brewery tours, recommends visitors “Visit the local breweries! Each is a unique microcosm of the character, culture, taste, and awesomeness of the region. The bartenders will know the best local food places, are always willing to talk, and will genuinely welcome in new transplants and visitors.”

Trust asks us to put their trust in them when they state, “Experience the rich history of St. Louis with a modern twist at Trust, our craft cocktail bar located in the stunningly restored Mississippi Valley Trust Company building. New residents should make Trust their go-to spot for expertly crafted cocktails, cozy ambiance, and a true taste of the city’s past and present, all under one roof.” 

For live music or sporting events, Billy’s On Broadway is a perfect place to visit. Lauren Brooks from Billy’s declares, “Opened in June 2023, Billy’s on Broadway is a downtown St. Louis destination for sports fans and music lovers. Enjoy local favorites alongside a vast selection of craft beers and inventive cocktails. Multiple bars and TVs ensure you never miss a game or a beat.” 

If during your visit you find a date, Laura Leister Co-Owner of St. Louis Board Game Bar and Cafe suggests stopping by. “The St. Louis Board Game Bar and Restaurant in Soulard is one of the most popular options in the city. There’s no better way to get to know someone than to grab a drink (or a creative mocktail) at this casual spot and play a light icebreaker game. Pieces is full of easy two-player games that can be taught to couples by a very knowledgeable and welcoming staff. And, who knows? You might be one of the many dozens of customers who come back for engagement shoots or proposals to honor where they had their very first date!”

As seen on TV, Crafted is another great spot to check out. Crafted’s Dani Davis says “Discover Crafted in the Tower Grove East neighborhood of St. Louis, where handcrafted cocktails and upscale bar food come together in perfect harmony. Indulge in unique experiences like “pressed” cocktails, espresso martini and old-fashioned flights, all while enjoying a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. Conveniently located near downtown, Crafted is the only bar in the area featured on “Bar Rescue” that continues to thrive and impress. Come see why we’re the talk of the town!”

If looking to join others on a bar crawl then PubCrawls has the perfect plan for you. “Our crawl kicks off at Rockwell Beer, a local gem known for its incredible brews and laid-back vibe. From there, participants will embark on an adventure through some of the iconic venues in St. Louis. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this crawl is a perfect way to explore the city’s nightlife. With exclusive drink specials, and the chance to meet new people, it’s more than just a night out — it’s a Halloween celebration of everything that makes St. Louis great.

We pride ourselves on creating events that are not only fun but also provide a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. This crawl is perfect for groups of friends looking for a fun night, or even solo adventurers eager to meet new people. It’s a lively way to experience the best of St. Louis, one bar at a time!” Fortunately, as a special treat for our readers, they are offering an exclusive 50% discount code: REDFIN50. 

Essential Workspaces in St. Louis

As a visitor, you may need to get some work done during your trip. With remote work becoming increasingly common, it’s not unusual to blend work with travel, or perhaps you have personal projects you’d like to focus on. Fortunately, St. Louis offers a variety of welcoming spaces for both professional needs and creative projects. 

For photography work Ellie from 20th Street Studios suggests stopping by. She says, “If you’re new to St. Louis and looking for a unique venue or photography studio space, 20th Street Studios should be on your radar. Nestled in a beautifully renovated historic firehouse, our studio offers two distinct, neutral, light-filled spaces perfect for everything from photoshoots to small events and parties. With flexible hourly and daily rentals, you can make the most of your time in this dynamic downtown location. Come see why we’ve been called the hottest new studio & small event space in St. Louis!  

For collaborative work, Alex of TechArtista suggests, “New residents of St. Louis should immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant entrepreneurial scene by visiting TechArtista, a community-driven coworking space in the heart of St. Louis. With a focus on collaboration and creativity, TechArtista offers a unique environment where you can work, network, and connect with the local business community—all while enjoying the historic charm of our beautifully restored spaces.” 

St. Louis community services

Nothing shows what a city is than its dedication to its community. To see how St. Louis takes care of its own we recommend the following places: 

Bridge Bread Bakery shares, “St. Louis’ only non-profit social enterprise that empowers individuals experiencing homelessness by providing meaningful work and marketable baking skills. We believe everyone deserves a chance to build a dignified life. Through our supportive employment and unique Housing Incentive Program, we equip our bakers with the tools and resources they need to achieve self-sufficiency and become contributing members of our community again. Bridge Bread is more than just a bakery – it’s a doorway to a hopeful and brighter future. Please help our bakers by ordering products from Home | Bridge Bread Bakery (square.site), or visiting our stall at Soulard Farmers Market inside the Grand Hall every Wednesday through Saturday.” 

A large community service is brought by St. Louis ArtWorks. They claim it is a “must-see St. Louis attraction that should be added to everyone’s “bucket list”. We have been referred to as one of St. Louis’ best-kept secrets, and we shouldn’t be, because, in 2025, we will be celebrating 30 years of providing opportunities to hundreds of youth in the St. Louis region.  But not many people, visitors, or homegrown residents know exactly what goes on in this brightly illuminated building that is shrouded in art and nestled centrally in the heart of The Delmar Loop. We are a non-profit art apprenticeship and job training program for 14- to 19-year-olds, and our mission is to enrich the lives of youth through art education, essential job skill training, and exposure to career opportunities through our paid apprenticeship program. – So stop in and see the creativity and talent of our young people and discover ways that you can get involved and support our efforts.” 

Take a new hobby with you from St. Louis

What better way to get involved than interactive activities? St. Louis has numerous offerings to get involved in a new experience or hobby. 

“Torch hot glass, dig your hands into some clay, or hand-forge metal by taking a class at Craft Alliance! Whether you’re a beginner or a more experienced artist, we have a class for you. We have adult and youth options available in our blacksmithing, clay, fibers, glass, metals, print & paper, and wood studios.” shares Craft Alliance.