St. Louis, Missouri. You know it as the home of that big shiny arch on the river. But scratch the surface of this Midwestern metropolis, and you’ll be amazed at the stories it tells and the hidden treasures it holds.
A City of Firsts and Milestones
St. Louis wasn’t just a stop on the westward expansion trail – it helped propel it! The Gateway Arch is a stunning monument to Lewis and Clark’s famous expedition that began near St. Louis. But the innovation didn’t stop there:
- 1904 World’s Fair: It seems like forever ago, but this event in St. Louis introduced ice cream cones, iced tea, and even the first glimpses of X-ray technology to a fascinated world.
- Aviation History: Did you know Charles Lindbergh’s iconic “Spirit of St. Louis” plane that crossed the Atlantic was backed by St. Louis businessmen? The city has a deep connection to aerospace.
- Civil Rights Landmarks: The Dred Scott case, one of the most important Supreme Court decisions surrounding slavery, played out in the city’s Old Courthouse.
Beyond the Arch: Neighborhoods and Flavor
St. Louis is a patchwork of neighborhoods, each with a character all their own:
- The Hill: You’ll think you wandered into Italy! The Hill is crammed with old-school Italian eateries serving amazing toasted ravioli and St. Louis-style pizza (yes, it’s a thing!).
- Soulard: This historic district is home to a vibrant farmer’s market, one of the oldest in the country, and buzzing blues clubs keeping the spirit of this classic American music genre alive.
- Forest Park: Larger than New York’s Central Park, it’s filled with gems – a world-class (and free!) zoo, an acclaimed art museum, and a science museum sure to delight kids and adults.
Did You Know? Fun St. Louis Facts
- St. Louis University has the largest collection of medieval illuminated manuscripts in the Western Hemisphere. Who knew?
- Peanut butter (arguably the best food invention ever) was introduced to the world at the 1904 Fair. You’re welcome!
- The city is obsessed with gooey butter cake – a sweet, rich, local specialty that you simply must try.
Gateway to Adventure (and Good Times)
St. Louis is more than its impressive history. It’s a city for today, with cool breweries, quirky attractions like the City Museum (a giant playground made of salvaged materials), and a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere you won’t find in many big cities. And don’t forget those St. Louis Cardinals – watching a game at Busch Stadium is an all-American experience!
The next time you find yourself in St. Louis, take a detour from that Arch (though it is incredible!). The city will surprise you with its unique blend of history, grit, and unexpected pleasures.
