Shopping | Attractions | Restaurants & Bars
Attractions
The Millennium Hotel St. Louis is located in the heart of downtown adjacent to the world-famous Gateway Arch and just two blocks from Busch Stadium.
Did you know that St. Louis boasts more free major visitor attractions than anywhere else in the United States? In nearby Forest Park, one of the largest city parks in the nation, you can visit St. Louis’ major museums like the Art Museum and the Missouri History Museum, as well as the Science Center and Planetarium and one of the finest and largest zoos in the world for free.
Laclede’s Landing, a vibrant entertainment district just north of the hotel, features preserved historic brick and iron façade buildings along cobblestone streets housing some of St. Louis’ best restaurants and nightclubs. Laclede’s Landing is also the site of the city’s only downtown casino. Nearby Union Station, once the largest and most beautiful railroad station in the country, now features more than 100 unique shops and restaurants.
For a complete list of attractions, visit the St. Louis Convention & Tourism Bureau website.
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Gateway Arch
1 block Northeast
The Gateway to the West or St. Louis Gateway Arch as it is sometimes known is an iconic landmark of St. Louis. Built on the banks of the Mississippi River this 630 foot tall stainless steel landmark was erected in honor of the Western Pioneers. The structure which was designed by Finnish architect Eero Saarinen is built in the shape of an inverted catenary, a peculiar mathematical shape that is considered extremely stable.
The way to the top is almost as interesting as the breathtaking view one enjoys at the top; a unique tram car system transports visitors to the top of the arch from the visitor’s center. At the top of the arch there is an observation area, the height of the arch as it towers the St. Louis skyline allows for an amazing panorama across the Mississippi as well as of the Downtown cityscape.
A visit to this attraction is not just about the view but there are many other activities that revolve around the Gateway Arch.
Tourists hark back to the days of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn with a delightful river cruise on a 19th century steamboat. The Museum of Westward Expansion is a must visit for those interested in the region’s history. It tells the story of Lewis and Clark and the land they explored, with artifacts such as Indian Peace Medals and native weaponry. The historic Old Courthouse which played an important role in the struggle for civil liberties is located inches away from the Arch. This 19th century structure has been painstakingly restored with regular exhibits on display.
Old Cathedral
1 block Northeast
Busch Stadium
1 block West
The Busch Stadium is home to St. Louis’s favorite baseball team, the St. Louis Cardinals. This brand new ball park opened in April 2006 and is the third stadium to carry the name of Busch Stadium.
Named after the team owner Gussie Busch the new Busch Stadium is a wonderfully designed construction that offers great views of the surrounding St. Louis skyline including famous landmarks inspired the architecture of the Busch, most notably the Gateway Arch. Several statues depicting famous Cardinals players such as Stan “The Man” Musial are located at the stadium’s entrances and along Clark and Eighth Streets.
The inside of the stadium tries to incorporate as many features of the old Busch Stadium giving it an unmistakably retro feel. The traditional green fences and the red seats have been recreated while the old score board has been preserved as a memorial.
Old Courthouse
1 block North
President Casino
3 blocks North
Laclede’s Landing
3 blocks North
Soulard
8 blocks South
Americas Center
8 blocks North
Edward Jones Dome
8 Blocks North
Scottrade Center
10 blocks West
City Museum
12 blocks Northwest
Experience a museum with a difference; the St. Louis City Museum is not about the silent halls and orderly corridors of a regular museum yet it stays true to the purpose of educating and enlightening its visitors. Built on a 600,000 square foot area that was once the site of a former International Shoe Company, this museum is a mix of a child’s playhouse, an artistic sculpture and an intellectual institution.
The material that was used in the construction of the museum was sourced from discarded material found in the city dumps. In fact the museum can boast of being able to recycle old chimneys, wrecked planes and even construction cranes. This bizarre source of construction material truly emphasizes the urban roots of the city museum.
Among some of the popular sections of the museum are the Enchanted Caves, built inside the conveyer tunnel of the shoe factory. This exhibit showcases artistic talents of a dozen sculptors as they try and recreate mysteries of a pre historic era.
The MonstroCity exhibit is perhaps the world’s most innovative children’s play area, built out of two light aircraft, a fire engine and other waste material this interactive sculpture welcomes visitors to climb and take in the impressive view it presents from the top. Many other enclosures that reflect this refreshing new concept of a museum can be seen at the St. Louis City Museum, including the World Aquarium, Toddler Town, Art City, Museum of Mirth, Mystery and Mayhem, Tiny Train Town Model Railroad and Circus Day.
Anheuser Busch Brewery
2 miles South
Forest Park
3 miles West
Forest Park in St. Louis is one of the finest public parks in the city that is widely used by the public for recreation activities such as walking, cycling and boating. Created in 1876 utilizing 1,300 acres of land in the west Downtown area, the park even contains a few historical landmarks.
The St. Louis Art Museum is located in the western half of the park and is actually housed in a building that was built for the 1904 Louisiana Exposition Fair. Also located in Forest Park is the Missouri History Museum, which is a great place to research the history of the region. Guests can even enjoy a wholesome meal at the Merriweather’s Restaurant located inside the museum which presents a view overlooking the park.
Another important landmark in the park is the natural amphitheatre located near Art Hill; this was later developed as the “Muny” and today sees a number of classical drama productions as well as open air concerts.
By far the most beautiful part of the park is the Art Deco style floral conservatory, which is known as the Jewel Box for its peculiar shape. The area around the conservatory is surrounded by beautiful rose gardens, lily ponds and elegant sculptures that make it an enticing and popular wedding location.
The 12 million visitors that come to Forest Park come to learn of its history, enjoy its scenic beauty and to experience a part of St. Louis life.
St. Louis Zoo
3 miles West
Located in Forest Park, the St. Louis Zoo is considered to be the leader in the field of animal management, conservation, education and research. The birth of the zoo can be traced back to the St. Louis World Fair held in 1904, where a walk through bird exhibit was put on display by the Smithsonian Institute. Following the conclusion of the fair, the citizens of St. Louis decided to buy the exhibit rather than return it to the Smithsonian heralding the formation of the city’s zoo.
In subsequent years the zoo has grown in size and also in the variety of specimens it house. Today it is home to thousands of species over its 77 acres. Upon entering the zoo you will see the River Edge exhibit, this enclosure is divided according to the different geographical locations the animals originated from. You’ll find exotic and rare animals from South America, the African Savannah, the Nile Delta, Asia and North America.
The Children’s Zoo is a great favorite among visitors; see the look of wonder on the faces of children as they marvel at Mole rats and pet bunnies. This educational and interactive exhibit is designed to help children understand the value of nature. Among animals that can be seen up close in this section are various types of amphibians, meerkats, Fennec foxes, tree kangaroos and otters.
The St. Louis Zoo also preserves a part of its own heritage at the Historic Hill enclosure. Visitors can stroll through the oldest parts of the zoo built in the 1920’s and even see the original walk in bird cage of 1904. Some modern exhibits here are the Bird House, Primate House and the Herpetarium. The Sea Lion Arena where these magnificent marine animals show off their skills is located in this area; daily shows are conducted here during the summer months.
St. Louis Science Center
3 miles West
Metrolink
3 blocks West
Lambert International Airport
15 miles Northwest
Shopping
Shopping in St. Louis is an eclectic mix of large shopping malls with designer labels and small independent shops run by local retailers. Whether you are on the lookout for designer clothing or antiques almost anything can be found in St. Louis.
The University Loop or the U-City as it is sometimes known is one of the most vibrant and diverse districts when it comes to St. Louis shopping. Particularly famous for its great entertainment establishments, the U-City Loop also has a large number of shops selling everything from second hand books to handicrafts.
If you are an avid shopper then Washington Avenue in Downtown St. Louis is the place to head to. Distinctly chic this area has a number of designer boutiques, elegant art galleries and furniture stores.
St. Louis’ Italian neighborhood known as The Hill is the place to head to pick up a few memorable souvenirs. Girasole Gifts and imports located here, offers a whole host of options when it comes to Italian products such a handbags, jewelry, ceramics and cosmetics.
For a complete list of shopping, visit the St. Louis Convention & Tourism Bureau website.
Restaurants & Bars
On-Site
Top of the Riverfront
Twenty-eight stories above the cityscape, the Top of the Riverfront revolves 360 degrees, providing spectacular, panoramic views of St. Louis. Impeccable service and innovative American cuisine make a night at the Top one to remember. The Top also features an incredible Sunday Brunch with over 100 items.
Fourth Street Grill
Located just below the Grand Lobby on the Mezzanine Level, Fourth Street Grill, with its sleek black and terracotta decor, is perfect for a casual and relaxing meal. Distinctive and contemporary dishes highlight the breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus.
Martini's Lounge
With magnificent views of the Gateway Arch to set the mood, Martini’s Bar is an ideal setting to lounge after seeing the sights, meet friends before the big game or business associates after work. Menu highlights include over two-dozen signature martinis and light fare.
Palm Court Cafe
Proudly brewing Starbuck’s Coffee, the Palm Court Café is located in the Palm Court Lobby and open mornings for fresh coffee, assorted beverages, and pastries.
In St. Louis
Downtown St. Louis features a multitude of restaurants and bars. For a complete list, visit the St. Louis Convention & Tourism Bureau website.
