Category: Missouri

A- Overview:
St. Louis makes a stunning first visual impression. It has a look that is all its own, of red brick and cobblestone streets, terra cotta friezes and stained glass. The Mississippi River laps against a cobblestone levee. Reflected in the mighty river are towering office buildings, elegant shopping centers, hotels, and apartment complexes, all well maintained, marking the visible signs of the city’s success.

Founded by the French in 1764 as a fur-trading settlement on the west bank of the Mississippi River, St. Louis was destined for immediate success. Settlers came from New Orleans, followed by French-Canadian trappers. Next came the explorers, including the Lewis and Clark expedition. Families traveling to the mysterious western regions of the country passed through, and some settled in St. Louis. Railway workers arrived in the 1850’s, among them immigrants from Germany, Ireland, Italy, and other European countries. African-Americans settled there: some still slaves; others freed. Their combined skills and crafts enriched the city and helped to mold its character.

The construction of the 630 foot Gateway Arch in the 1960’s was intended to bring recognition to St. Louis as having been the “Gateway to the West” in those days of pioneer settlement. It accomplished far more than the original intent, however. The Arch helped spark the rebirth of downtown St. Louis, which until then had been abandoned in the rush for the suburbs. What followed was one of the country’s largest urban renewal projects and a billion dollar building boom, which resulted in the vital and energetic city that is St. Louis today.

The historic homes and businesses of St. Louis are beautiful reminders of the community’s commitment to restoration. From the old world Anheuser-Busch Brewery, to Federal row houses, Greek revival mansions and country villas, the styles are stately and their interiors are lovingly preserved.

St. Louis offers attractions of interest to the whole family at a nominal cost. Admission to many of the museums and historic sites is free! There is no charge, for example, to visit the St. Louis Zoo. The public transportation system whisks visitors around the city center easily and efficiently. For visits to the vast outlying areas, a car is preferable.

Visitors can ride a tram to the top of the Arch, and look out and watch the Mississippi River flow by the city below. Follow this with a visit to the museum under the Arch and the nearby Old Cathedral, the oldest church in St. Louis. Just across the street is the Old Courthouse, the site of the Dred Scott trial.

In spring and summer, there is always time to check out a Cardinals baseball game, and then visit the International Bowling Hall of Fame across from the stadium. After the game, take the family to one of the many excellent nearby restaurants for great Italian cuisine. If you prefer French food, that is readily available also. Not far away, the shopping is spectacular at St. Louis Centre, one of the country’s largest urban malls, and also at the completely restored Union Station.

In Forest Park, visit the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Zoo, the Muny Opera and the Science Center, with life-size animated dinosaurs, hands-on exhibits, and an Omnimax Theater. Nearby is the historic Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, which houses one of the world’s largest collections of mosaic art.

For a night on the town, take in Grand Center arts and entertainment. Enjoy a concert by the world class St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. Visit the “Fabulous Fox” Theatre and the St. Louis Black Repertory Company. Then head for one of St. Louis’ many pubs, microbreweries, or a riverboat casino.

Allow time in your schedule for a stroll through St. Louis’ historic neighborhoods of Laclede’s Landing, Soulard, The Hill, and Central West End. All of these are places for good shopping and fine food. Visit the historic Scott Joplin House to get a sense of ragtime music’s beginnings. Children will be delighted by Grant’s Farm, The Magic House, the City Museum and the Children’s Zoo.

Eureka, on I-44, is best known for Six Flags St. Louis, an immense family theme park and the accompanying Hurricane Harbor Water Park.

Father west on I-70 is the old French village of St. Charles with its Lewis & Clark Center, First Missouri State Capitol Building, restored riverfront historic district, an authentic showboat, and a casino. About 20 miles southwest of St. Charles on Highways 94 and F (near Defiance) is the Daniel Boone Home, where the Boone family settled in the late 1790s.

Highway 94 then winds west through the river hills to the German towns of Augusta, Dutzow and Berger, with their wonderful wineries.

Within a two-hour drive of downtown St. Louis, you can experience living history in restored towns and villages, visit Mark Twain’s boyhood home and Abraham Lincoln’s final resting place, explore enormous caves, canoe on clear rivers and sample Missouri’s finest wines. This is just a small sample of what makes St. Louis one of America’s greatest vacation destinations!

B- City Information:
Population: 396,700 in the city center; 2.56 million in the greater St. Louis area

Elevation: 585 feet

Area: 6,397 sq. miles (greater St. Louis area)

Location: St. Louis lies on the Mississippi River at the junction of I-70, I-55, and I-44, a 290 mile 5 hour drive southwest of Chicago

Time Zone: Central Standard Time (when it is noon in St. Louis, it is 1:00pm in New York City and 10:00am in California.) Missouri observes Daylight Saving Time from April-October.

To check on the time: 321-2522

Weather information: 321-2222

Temperatures:

Month
High
Low

January
40F
24F

February
43F
26F

March
54F
36F

April
65F
47F

May
75F
57F

June
84F
66F

July
88F
71F

August
87F
69F

September
80F
62F

October
68F
50F

November
54F
38F

December
43F
28F

When to Go

Each season in St. Louis has its special attraction for visitors. In the Spring the city blooms with color, and the St. Louis Cardinals get started once again. Summers are pleasantly warm, sometimes hot, and the many and varied events keep visitors coming back year after year. Fall brings clear, crisp days and nature paints the trees in glorious color. The Rams start their football season. Winter crowds are smaller, but there are many things to see and enjoy. Winter Wonderland thrills visitors to Tiles Park, as does Santa’s Magical Kingdom near Six Flags. The zoo features many indoor exhibits to be enjoyed.

National Holidays:

New Year’s Day Jan. 1

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day 3rd Mon. in Jan.

President’s Day 3rd Mon. in Feb.

Memorial Day last Mon. in May

Independence Day July 4

Labor Day 1st Mon. in Sept.

Thanksgiving Day 4th Thurs. in Nov.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Dec. 24 and 25

New Year’s Eve Dec. 31

Business Hours

Most banks are open from 10 – 4 Monday through Friday. Many are open for several hours on Saturday. Most businesses in St. Louis are open Monday through Saturday, from 9 or 10 AM to 6 or 9 PM. Many others, including shopping centers, are also open Sunday from noon to 5 or later.

Most museums in St. Louis are open Tuesday through Sunday. A few are also open on Monday. Major attractions are open daily.

Emergencies

Ambulance ( 911). Fire ( 911). Police ( 911).

Hospital Emergency Room:

Saint Louis University Health Sciences Center : 3635 Vista Ave., 577-8000

Electricity

The U.S. electrical standard is 110 volts60 cycles AC. Visitors from other countries, traveling with dual-voltage appliances will not need a converter, but they will need a plug adapter. The standard U.S. electrical outlet takes a plug of two flat pins set parallel to one another.

Telephones

The country code for the United States is 1. The area code for St. Louis is 314.

Tipping

At restaurants, a 15% tip is standard for waiters

Getting There

Flights arrive at Lambert St. Louis International Airport (tel. 314-426-8000), which is about 20 minutes northwest of downtown.

Some sample flying times are: from New York 21⁄2 hours, from London 81⁄2 hours.

By Train

Amtrak

550 S. 16th St.

314-331-3300 or 800-872-7245

provides daily train service between St. Louis and Kansas City and Chicago. The Texas Eagle, which runs between Chicago, Dallas, and San Antonio with connecting service to Los Angeles, stops in St. Louis.

The MetroLink (tel. 314-231-2345) travels between the airport and the downtown riverfront, with stops at Laclede’s Landing, downtown (at 8th and Pine), Busch Stadium, Union Station, Central West End, Forest Park (where visitors transfer to a shuttle bus for park attractions), and other neighborhoods. One way tickets, round trip and day passes are available. Travel is free on weekdays from 11:30am to 1:30pm between Union Station and Laclede’s Landing.

By Car

St. Louis lies on the Mississippi River at the junction of I-70, I-55, and I-44, a 290-mile 5-hour drive southwest of Chicago. From I-70, I-55, and I-44 follow the exits for downtown St. Louis. From U.S. 40 I-64, exit at Broadway.

Getting Around

Explore the downtown sights on foot; a car is needed elsewhere.

By Bus

Call the St. Louis Transit Information Line at 314-231-2345 or 618-271-2345 for schedules.

By Car

Broadway and Jefferson Avenue are major north-south streets running through downtown. Washington Avenue runs east-west leading to the Eads Bridge. Wharf Line runs along the riverfront.

MetroLink ( 314-231-2345), the city’s light-rail system, has a single line running between the airport, downtown, and East St. Louis. It stops near major attractions downtown, including Union Station, Busch Stadium, and the Kiel Center. Rides are free between Laclede’s Landing and Union Station weekdays from 11:30-1:30.

Neighborhoods

The Hill

From Downtown St. Louis,

take I-64 west to Kings highway south and turn west on Shaw.

This is the neighborhood where Yogi Berra and Joe Garagiola grew up. The area was settled in the early 1900s by Italian immigrants who brought their traditions, foods and sense of community to St. Louis.

Soulard & Benton Park

From downtown St. Louis, take Broadway south;

continue south on Seventh Street to Lafayette.

Known for blues music, the lively Soulard neighborhood was named

for Antoine Soulard, a native of France who surveyed colonial St. Louis for

the King of Spain. Many of the neighborhood music clubs, pubs and

restaurants have courtyards paved with St. Louis brick.

Soulard Farmers Market, open continuously since 1779, is open

Wednesday – Saturday offering fresh produce, baked goods, and a variety of spices.

Central West End

647-6222

Lined with beautiful turn-of-the-century homes on tree lined streets (called Private

Places), the neighborhood is filled with trendy boutiques, imaginative

restaurants, sidewalk cafés and cozy neighborhood pubs. Specialty shops, the

boyhood apartment home of playwright Tennessee Williams, and a collection of

art and antique galleries also dot the stately streets.

The beautiful Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, covered inside with the

world’s largest collection of mosaic art, is one of the anchors of this district.

Lafayette Park

Lafayette Square

From downtown St. Louis take Market Street west to Jefferson Avenue south and turn east on Park

Known as the “Victorian Heart of St. Louis,” the park was

established in 1836 as the first public park west of the Mississippi River. A

drive around the park is the best way to sample the architecture of the

French Second Empire townhouses and sandstone row houses, some of which

house elegant bed and breakfast inns.

Grand South Grand & Tower Grove Park

From downtown St. Louis,

take I-64 west to the Grand exit and continue south on Grand. This neighborhood is noted for its restaurants, many of which reflect the cultures of Vietnam, Thailand, and China.

Tower Grove Park is filled with ornate band strands and whimsical gazebos. Opened in 1868, the Victorian-walking park is one of only four urban parks in the country designated as a National Historic Landmark. Next to the park, the acclaimed Missouri Botanical Garden welcomes visitors and researchers from around the world throughout the year.

The Ville

From downtown St. Louis, take 12th Street (Tucker) north, continue north on

Natural Bridge, turn south on Grand the west on St. Louis Avenue.

St. Louis’ most historically significant African-American neighborhood,

is home to Sumner High School, the first school west of the Mississippi to provide secondary education for black students.

Clayton

From downtown St. Louis, take I-64 west to Hanley Road north, or from the

Forest Park MetroLink station, take the yellow and black Shuttle Bee bus

into Clayton and the nearby Galleria Shopping mall. For more information,

call 746-0473. Fascinating shops, a diverse selection of fine art galleries, dozens of

restaurants, fine hotels and special events have all found a home in the

heart of the Clayton’s Central Business District. Dining in Clayton

with purveyors of gourmet cuisine nestled among tall office buildings, elegant specialty retailers and rows of charming antique shops.

Gallery Night receptions are held six times a year in the area’s 15 art galleries

Laclede’s Landing

The Landing, located just north of the Gateway Arch, is an easy walk from all points in

downtown St. Louis. MetroLink Light rail stops at the Laclede Landing

station. In downtown St. Louis, drivers can take Memorial Drive north to

Washington Avenue east to Landing and Arch parking. For more information,

call 241-5875. A brief stroll from the America’s Center convention complex or the

Gateway Arch, the Laclede Landing entertainment district transports visitors

back to St. Louis’ river city past. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through

cobblestone streets, visit a riverboat casino, or enjoy a sumptuous dinner

in the district named for St. Louis’ French founder, Pierre Laclede. Ornate

brick warehouses that once stored tobacco and cotton from the holds of

steamboats now contain a variety of restaurants and music clubs.

Kirkwood

From downtown St. Louis, take I-44 west to

Lindbergh north for downtown Kirkwood and the Magic House, or south for

Laumeier Sculpture Park and Powder Valley. For more information, call (800–)

231-4331.

Lovely restaurants, a National Historic Landmark train station, and a

downtown shopping district with an authentic small town flavor are

just a start for visitors to Kirkwood. The community, which was the first

planned suburb west of the Mississippi, also holds the popular Magic

House children’s museum and the Museum of Transportation where visitors can

see restored trains, street cars, automobiles and trolley cars.

The Loop

The Loop is home to dozens of stores, ethnic and

American restaurants, and the Tivoli, a restored movie theatre specializing

in international and limited release films.

Webster Groves

From downtown St. Louis, take I-44 west to Elm north. For more

information, call 962-4142.

Just 15 minutes from downtown St. Louis, this historic community is

filled with shops, specialty restaurants and century old homes.

Webster Groves is also home to Webster University and the

Loretto-Hilton Theatre, where productions by the Repertory Theatre of St.

Louis and Opera Theatre of Saint Louis are staged each year.

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tours

314-577-2626.

Admission Free.

Mon.-Sat. 9-4, Sun. 11:30-4.

Tours include the recently renovated Brewhouse, Clydesdale stables, lager cellar, packaging plant, hospitality room.

Anheuser-Busch – St. Louis Conference and Sports Center

1 Soccer Park Rd., Fenton, 343-5347

A 32-acre, multi-use facility; conferences, banquets, sports. Site of youth, collegiate and World Class Soccer events. Daily, 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Busch Stadium. South of the Old Courthouse is Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals. On the northeast side of the stadium is the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame, with sports memorabilia and audio and video highlights of the history of St. Louis baseball. 111 Stadium Plaza, 314-421-3060; 314-421-2400 tickets; 314-231-6340 museum. Apr.-Oct., daily 9-5; Nov.-Mar., daily 11-4.

America’s Center

701 Convention Plaza

(314) 342-5036

St. Louis’ state-of-the-art convention complex. Group tours of the 70,000 seat Trans World Dome SM at America’s Center by reservation only, Mon. – Fri.. Admission fee.

Black Madonna Shrine

St. Joseph’s Hill

(636) 938-5361

Apr. – Oct., 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Nov. and Mar., 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Dec. – Feb., 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Free Admission.

Hwy. 44 west to Eureka exit, left on Hwy. W, right onto Hwy. FF, left onto Hwy. F to

St. Joseph’s Hill Rd. A collection of magnificent multi-colored rock grottos.

The Black World History Museum

2505 St. Louis Ave.

(314) 241-7057

Wed. – Sat., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sun., Memorial Day through Labor Day, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. $4.50 adults; $3.50 youth, 13-18; $3.00 seniors; $2 children, 12 and under.

Life-size likenesses of famous African-American Missourians including George Washington Carver, Dred and Harriett Scott, and Clark Terry.

Historic Daniel Boone Home &

Boonesfield Village

1868 Hwy. F – Defiance

(636) 798-2005

1810 home where Daniel Boone lived and died; 19th century history village including one-room school, chapel, general store, woodworkers shop, milliners, and potter’s shop.

Calvary Cemetery

5239 W. Florissant Ave.

(314) 381-1313

Admission Free.

Grave sites of playwright Tennessee Williams, General William Tecumseh Sherman, Dred Scott. Many architecturally significant tombs and memorials. Historic tour guides available at the office.

Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis

(New Cathedral)

Lindell Blvd. at Newstead Ave.

(314) 533-0544 l

Open daily. Tours, Mon. – Fri., 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Sun.,

1 p.m. tour after Mass.

Tour is free. Mosaic museum. Donation.

Extensive collection of mosaic art; museum.

City Museum

701 N. 15th

(314) 231-2489

Wed. – Fri., 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sat. and Sun., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Admission charged.

Explore the unexpected at this exciting museum for children and adults. Art, science, history and fun weave together in this one-of-a-kind downtown attraction.

Samuel Cupples House

Saint Louis University West Pine Mall

between Grand & Spring

(314) 977-3025

Tue. – Sat., 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Admission charged.

1888 Gilded Age historic home with opulent interior and Tiffany windows. Fine and decorative art, 1,000-piece antique glass collection.

DeMenil Mansion and Museum

3352 DeMenil Pl.

(314) 771-5828

Tue. – Sat., 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Last tour at 3:15 p.m.

Admission charged.

Restaurant on site.

An excellent example of Greek Revival architecture and beautiful period furnishings.

Dental Health Theatre

27 N. First St., Ste. 103

(314) 241-7391

Reservations required.

Admission Free.

The only attraction of its kind in the world, with 16 three-foot-high fiberglass teeth, films, and marionettes

Earthways Home

3617 Grandel Square

(314) 531-1996

Tours by appointment only.

Promotes environmental awareness in the home and garden.

Faust Park

15185 Olive Blvd.

(636) 532-7298

Thornhill tours by appointment.

Admission charged

1820s estate of Missouri’s 2nd Govenor, Faust Historical Village, restored 1920s Dentzel carousel, the Butterfly House and St. Louis Symphony School. Village interprets history of 1840s-1880s. Historical re-enactments, spring through fall.

First Missouri State Capitol

State Historic Site

200-216 S. Main St. – St. Charles

(636) 940-3322

Mon. – Sat., 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Admission charged.

State Capitol from 1821 to 1826. Fully restored legislative chambers and interpretive center.

Forest Park

Bounded by I-64, Kingshighway

Lindell & Skinker

(314) 289-5300

Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States. At 1,370 acres, it is approximately 500 acres larger than Central Park in New York City. Contains Art Museum, Science Center, Zoo, Jewel Box greenhouse, History Museum and The Muny theatre, connected by the Shuttle Bug from the Forest Park MetroLink Station. 7.5-mile biking, jogging and skating path, ice skating rink, lakes.

Gateway Arch Jefferson National

Expansion Memorial

St. Louis Riverfront

(877) 982-1410 (toll free)

Open daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Buy tickets on-line. Winter hours:

9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Summer hours: 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.

At 630 feet, our nation’s tallest manmade monument has plenty of exciting activities. Visit the Arch and see a giant screen movie, a documentary film on the building of the Arch, a museum, shopping and “Journey To The Top” -the tram experience that blasts you to the past before you take the ride to the top.

Golden Eagle River Museum

Bee Tree Park

(314) 846-9073 or (314) 725-9467

May – Labor Day, Wed. – Sun., 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.; Labor Day – Oct., Sat. and Sun. only. Free Admission.

The history and lore of America’s rivers and boats

Grant’s Farm

10501 Gravois

(314) 843-1700

Apr. – Oct. No reservations required. Free admission. Nominal parking fee.

Compliments of Anheuser-Busch, Inc., this Busch family estate was once owned by Ulysses S. Grant. Animal shows, petting area and a tram ride through the wildlife preserve

Historic Hanley House

7600 Westmoreland

(314) 290-8500

Sat., 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Small admission charge.

Grounds typify Missouri farms of 1855-1894 restoration period. The building is Greek Revival and furnishings are from 1820-1890

Holocaust Museum &

Learning Center

12 Millstone Campus Dr.

(314) 432-0020, ext. 3711

Mon. – Thu., 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; Fri. 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Admission Free.

Photographs, artifacts and audio-visual displays. Resource library and Oral History Archives.

Laclede’s Landing Wax Museum

720 N. St.

(314) 241-1155

More than 180 authentically costumed wax figures from London.

Open Fri., Sat., Sun.,

11 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Nov. and Dec., weekends only. $5 adults, $1 children.

Laumeier Sculpture Park

& Museum

12580 Rott Rd. at Geyer Rd.

(314) 821-1209

Open daily, 7 a.m. to one-half hour past sunset.

Museum hours, Tue. – Sat., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sun., noon – 5 p.m.

Free Admission.

One of the major sculpture parks in the U.S. Special events throughout the year

Lewis & Clark Center

701 Riverside Dr. l St. Charles

(636) 947-3199

Open daily 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Admission charged.

The Lewis & Clark Center interprets the Expedition through excellent exhibits, literature and educational programs.

Missouri Botanical Garden

4344 Shaw Blvd.

(314) 577-9400

Daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed Christmas Day.

Admission charged.

See the world at the largest traditional Japanese garden in North America, the Kemper Center for Home Gardening, the Climatron rain forest and more

Missouri History Museum

(Missouri Historical Society)

Forest Park

(314) 746-4599

Watch for special events and traveling exhibitions. Open daily, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Tue., 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Free Admission.

Tour “Seeking St. Louis”, a new permanent exhibition spanning three exciting and interactive galleries.

Museum of Contemporary

Religious Art

3700 West Pine Pedestrian Mall

(314) 977-7170

Tue. – Sun., 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Admission Free.

World’s first museum of interfaith contemporary art, housed in a spacious former chapel. Permanent collection and changing exhibitions.

Museum of Transportation

3015 Barrett Station Rd.

(314) 965-7998

Daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

More than 300 pieces including locomotives, passenger cars, automobiles, streetcars, buses and aircraft

Old Cathedral (Basilica of

Saint Louis, King of France)

209 Walnut St.

(314) 231-3250

Daily mass; Sat. mass, 5:30 p.m.; Sun. masses, 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m., noon and 5 p.m. No admission charge.

St. Louis’ earliest church. The present structure is 166 years old and is a national monument. Museum contains countless religious artifacts.

Old Courthouse

11 N. 4th St.

(314) 655-1600

Daily, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Admission Free.

The scene of the Dred Scott trial. Galleries depict the history of St. Louis from its French and Spanish roots to its role in westward expansion. Trial reenactments, ranger tours.

The Saint Louis Art Museum

Forest Park

(314) 721-0072

Tue., 1:30 – 8:30 p.m.; Wed. – Sun., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Free Admission

The Fine Arts Palace of the 1904 World’s Fair; among the leading art museums in the country. Collections from ancient to contemporary. Special exhibitions throughout the year

St. Louis Children’s Aquarium

416 Hanley Industrial Ct.

(314) 647-9594

Open daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m

Admission charged.

Pet a shark and more at this special living museum. Learn about the Mississippi and Amazon Rivers, and the oceans that connect them.

St. Louis Science Center

5050 Oakland Ave.

(800) 456-7572

Sat. – Thur., 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Fri., 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Closed Christmas; extended summer hours.

Admission Free.

Explore more than 700 free exhibits on environment, aviation, technology and more, life-size dinosaurs, and new space sciences center. Omnimax theatre and traveling exhibitons for nominal fee. Full-size animated dinosaurs and more.

St. Louis Union Station

Market St. between 18th & 20th Sts.

(314) 421-6655

Once the world’s largest train station, this National Historic Landmark of unsurpassed beauty is now a shopping, dining, and entertainment complex.

Saint Louis University

221 N. Grand Blvd.

(314) 977-8886

The first institution of higher learning west of the Mississippi. Attractions include the historic Cupples House, Museum of Contemporary Religious Art, MacLennan Gallery of Asian Art and Pére Marquette Gallery.

Saint Louis Zoo

Forest Park

(314) 781-0900

Daily except Christmas and New Years Day, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; until 8 p.m. on Tue. in summer.

Admission Free.

World-class zoo with more than 6,000 animals. Recent openings include The River’s Edge and the Monsanto Insectarium. Natural habitat areas include Big Cat Country, Jungle of the Apes and the Children’s Zoo.

Savvis Center

1401 Clark Ave.

(314) 622-5400

A 20,000- seat arena, home to St. Louis Blues Hockey, Saint Louis University Billikens Basketball, concerts, sporting events and family shows. Hosts 200 events and two million guests each year.

Six Flags St. Louis

I-44 SW of St. Louis, Exit 261

(636) 938-4800

“The Boss”, a world-class wooden coaster is always popular at Six Flags. Guests also enjoy the 12-acre water park, Hurricane Harbor, free with theme park admission.

Soldiers Memorial Military Museum

1315 Chestnut

(314) 622-4550

Daily, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Free Admission

Dedicated in 1936 to St. Louis’ veterans and war dead. Exhibits include uniforms, photographs, weaponry, war souvenirs and regalia.

Soulard Farmers Market

Seventh & Lafayette Sts.

(314) 622-4180

Wed. – Fri., 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; Sat., 6 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Open year around.

Free Admission.

Founded around 1779; 148 stalls with farm-fresh and imported produce, meats, fish, herbs, and more

Stone Hill Winery &

Vintage Restaurant

1110 Stone Hill Highway – Hermann

(573) 486-2221

Missouri’s largest winery dates from 1847. Tour underground cellars; taste award-winning wines. Enjoy the picturesque view and a meal at the Vintage Restaurant.

Tower Grove Park

4255 Arsenal St.

(314) 771-2679

Open daily. Tour buses welcome.

Admission Free

Rare Victorian walking park filled with ornate gazebos and statuary. Created by Missouri Botanical Garden founder Henry Shaw in 1868 and now a National Historic Landmark.

Vaughn Cultural Ctr./

Urban League

3701 Grandel Square

(314) 615-3600

Mon. – Fri., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission Free

Promotes awareness of African-American history and culture through exhibits, storytelling and special programs. Located within the Urban League of Met

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Black World History Wax Museum

2505 St. Louis Avenue

241-7057

Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sun 1-4 p.m.

Admission charged..

Wax figures of famous African-American Missourians including George Washington Carver and Dred and Harriett Scott.

Historic Daniel Boone Home & Boonesfield Village

1868 Hwy. F, Defiance, MO

798-2005

9 a.m. – 6 p.m., March 1st thru last Wed. in Nov. Special Christmas tours first two weekends in Dec.

Admission charged.

Four-story Georgian-style home where Boone spent the last years of his life, along with an early 1800-‘s living history village

The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum

516 S. Kirkwood Rd.

822-8900

School year: Tue. – Thu., 12 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.; Fri., 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.; Sat., 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; Sun., 11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Admission charged.

Call for summer hours.

Explore the new Children’s Village, Fitness Center, Math Path, and infant toddler area. Take a trip down a three-story slide and discover the magic of our world.

Maryland Heights Family Aquatic Center

2344 McKelvey Rd.

291-6550

Open Memorial Day – Labor Day. Mon. – Fri., 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sun., 12 p.m. – 8 p.m

Admission charged.

Rapid ride, lazy river, zero-entry pool, lap lanes, kiddie pool, racer slides..

Mastadon State Historic Site

1050 Museum Dr., Imperial, MO

314-464-3079

Mon. – Sat.; 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; Sun. noon – 4:30 p.m.

Small admission charge.

Museum of Missouri’s Ice Age animals and the Native Americans who hunted them more than 10,000 years ago.

Meramec Caverns

Stanton, MO

one hour west of St. Louis on I-44, exit 230

1-800-676-6105

Daily, 8:30 a.m. – 4 or 7:30 p.m. as season dictates.

Admission charged.

Guided tours of natural wonders. Gift shop, restaurant, boat rides, canoe rentals..

Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center

11715 Cragwold Rd.

821-8427

Tue. – Sun., 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.; April 1 to Oct. 31, trails open till 8 p.m.

Free.

112 acres. Nature Center with exhibits and wildlife viewing area. Three nature trails.

Purina Farms

Gray Summit, MO

I-44 to Gray Summit exit, Hwy. 100 to County Rd. MM

982-3232

Free admission.

Reservations required. Mid-March to mid-November.

Petting zoo, displays, hands-on activities, and animal demonstrations

Raging Rivers Waterpark

1-800-548-7573

Forty minutes from St. Louis on the Great River Road (Rt. 100) in Grafton, Illinois.

Swirlpool, giant wave pool, body flumes, trickle creek,

Tree House Harbor, a family interactive play area.

Rockwoods Reservation

2751 Glencoe Road

458-2236

open daily: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

1,898 acres of rugged forest with springs, and streams. Seven trails, cave crawl, picnic areas, Education Center. Visitor Center

Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House and Education Center

Faust Park

361-3365

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (summer); 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (fall); closed Mon.

Admission charged.

The Butterfly House is a cultural and educational attraction. Visitors will see thousands of butterflies in free flight and actually witness the mystery of metamorphosis.

National Video Game & Coin-Op Museum

801 N. 2nd St., Laclede’s Landing

621-2900

Mon. – Sat., 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Sun., noon – 5 p.m.

Call for winter hours.

Replay 75 classic video games, including Pong, Pac-Man and Donkey Kong.

St. Louis Zoo

Forest Park

781-0900

Daily (except 12/25 and 1/1), 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; until 8 p.m. on Tue. in summer.

Free Admission

World-class zoo with over 6,000 animals. Natural habitat areas include Big Cat Country, Jungle of the Apes and the new Bird Garden.

Santa’s Magical Kingdom

Daily, 5:30 – 10:30 p.m. (Fri. & Sat. 11 p.m.)

Admission charge.

A magical Christmas Fantasyland with over two million lights, electrifying special effects and animation!

Six Flags St. Louis

I-44 SW of St. Louis, Exit 261

938-4800

Call 938-4800- for operating hours and more information.

State-of-the-art rides, Hollywood Themed Stunt Shows, Warner Bros. Backlot, DC Comics themed area, Miss Kitty’s Dinner Theater, and much more

Turtle Playground

Oakland and Tamm Avenues, Forest Park

535-1503

Giant turtle sculptures overlook Forest Park and Interstate 64.

Worldways Children’s Museum

West County Center

909-0497

Adventure and fun await children as they “travel” to different countries. Children can explore Mexico and China through hands-on activities, crafts, dress-up, and role playing.

E- Events & Entertainment:
Golf & Recreation

Annbriar Golf Course

1524 Birdie Lane – Waterloo, IL

(618) 939-4653 or (888) 939-5191

Come and play the majestic Annbriar Golf Course, which features a unique blend of open, links-style terrain on the scenic front nine and wooded rolling terrain on the back nine.

The Aquatic Center

670 Whitelaw Ave. – Wood River, IL

(618) 251-3110

Open Memorial Day to Labor Day, The Aquatic Center water park has twin four story water slides, 50 meter pool, diving well with 1 and 3 meter boards, tot pool, observation deck and concessions.

Belk Park Golf Course

Wood River Parks and Recreation

633 Wood River Avenue – Wood River, IL

(618) 251-3130

Belk Park Golf Course is a championship 18-hole public facility located only 20 minutes from downtown St. Louis. Pro Shop, banquet facilities, new senior and ladies tees. Call (314) 355-1100 from Missouri.

Columbia Bottom Conservation Area

Columbia Bottom Road

(314) 441-4554

North of I-270 and Riverview Drive. 4,300-acre conservation area at the confluence of America’s great rivers, the Missouri and Mississippi. Hunting, fishing, hiking, biking. Open 6 am – 10 pm daily in summer; site closes at 7 pm in the fall and winter.

Missouri State Parks

(573) 751-2479

State parks and historic sites provide outstanding opportunities to camp, hike, picnic, swim, fish and relive Missouri history.

Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center

11715 Cragwold Rd.

(314) 301-1500

open 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.; during daylight saving time; 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Central Standard Time.

Free Admission.

112 acres. Nature Center with exhibits and wildlife viewing area, Three nature trails

Trailnet, Inc.

3900 Reavis Barracks Rd.

(314) 416-9930

Call for information on biking and hiking trails and greenways in the St. Louis area, including the Riverfront Trail, Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, and Grant’s Trail.

Riverboat Gaming

Alton

Belle Casino

219 Piasa, Alton, IL800–336-7568

Ultra-modern gambling casino 20 miles north of the Arch and airport. Cruise every two hours from 7 a.m. – 3 a.m. Sun. – Thu.; until 5 a.m. Fri. & Sat. No loss limits. Free admission.

Casino Queen

200 S. Front St., E. St. Louis, IL618-874-5000 or 800-777-0777

Across from the Arch, with slots, video poker, keno, blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat and fine dining. 11 cruises daily from 9 a.m. – 7 a.m. $2 admission.

Harrah’s Casino at Riverport Casino Center

777 Casino Center Drive, Maryland Heights770-8100 or 800-HARRAHS for hotel reservations

Hottest action in two elaborate casinos.

Players Island Casino at Riverport Casino Center

Riverport Casino Center, Maryland Heights 209-0777 or 800-599-6378

Opened in early 1997 with four casinos.

The President Casino on the Admiral

St. Louis Levee, below Gateway Arch622-3000 or 800-772-3647

Dockside casino with slots, blackjack, craps, roulette, live poker, restaurants. Free downtown shuttle, parking. Daily, 8 a.m. – 4 a.m. $2 admission.

Station Casino St. Charles

I-70 at the Missouri River 949-7777 or 800-325-7777

Slots, video poker, craps, blackjack, roulette, live poker, video keno and dining. Free parking and admission all day, every day.

Arts and Entertainment

The American Theater

416 N. Ninth St. at St. Charles St.

962-4000

The American offers an intimate nightclub atmosphere with top-name entertainment.

Edison Theatre

Skinker & Forsyth

(314) 935-6543

Presents dance, theatre and music. On the campus of Washington University.

Florissant Civic Center Theater

#1 Civic Center Dr., Florissant, MO921-5678

A wide variety of professionally staged productions including the St. Louis Family Theater Series, Florissant Fine Arts Council events, and concerts.

The Fox Theater

527 N. Grand Blvd.

Ticket Information: 534-1111

Tours Tue., Thu. & Sat., 10:30 a.m.

Opened in 1929 and today presents live entertainment with superstars, Broadway shows, family shows and concerts.

Grand Center Arts and Entertainment District

533-1884

Tours by appointment.

Home to the Symphony, Sheldon Concert Hall, Forum for Contemporary Art, Black Rep, Circus Flora, Dance St. Louis, The New Theater, Portfolio Gallery, The Fox, Vaughn Cultural Center, and the Grandel Theater.

Landmark’s Tivoli Theatre

6350 Delmar

(314) 862-1100

Magnificently restored to its 1924 splendor. Elegant display cases are filled with movie memorabilia, golden-age movie posters and more. Three screens feature the best new independent films plus a classic cinema series.

Opera Theatre of Saint Louis

Loretto-Hilton Center at Webster University

Big Bend & Edgar Rd.

(314) 961-0644

“One of the country’s most respected opera companies.” Productions rotate in May and June.

Riverport Amphitheatre

14141 Riverport Dr.

(314) 298-9944

One mile west of Interstates 70 & 270. The state-of-the-art sound system and six video screens allow concert-goers to experience a front-row view. May – Sept.

St. Louis Black Repertory Company

Grandel Theatre in Grand Center

(314) 534-3810

Contemporary works by African-American playwrights. Jan. – June performances, Thu. – Sun., at the Grandel Theatre; showtimes vary.

Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra

Powell Symphony Hall

718 North Grand Blvd.

(314) 534-1700

The Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 121st season as the nation’s second oldest orchestra. From Sept. – May it presents “Music for Everyone” including classical, pops, jazz, family and chamber orchestra concerts. Box office, Mon. – Sat., 9 am – 5 pm.

The Sheldon Concert Hall & Ballroom

3648 Washington Blvd.

533-9900

Office Mon. – Fri., 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Built in 1912, the Sheldon hosts a wide variety of concerts. The 728-seat concert hall is renowned for perfect acoustics

Unity Theatre Ensemble

Greeley’s 23rd Street Theatre

2240 St. Louis Ave.

(314) 355-3586

Presenting plays, musicals, and original works that express the African-American experience, examine issues and celebrate achievements.

Events

January

St. Louis Ambush Soccer team begins season.

St. Louis Flower Show

February

The Soulard Mardi Gras ( 314-773-6767) is a street celebration in the Soulard neighborhood.

Chinese New Year celebration. For more information call 772-4640

Greater St. Louis Auto Show

Annual Orchid Show at the Missouri Botanical Garden

Missouri Winefest

Working Women’s Survival Show

March

Missouri Valley Post Season Basketball Tournament

Greater St. Louis Home and Garden Show

Mid-American Jazz Festival

St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Run

April

St. Louis Cardinals begin season

Missouri Spring Festival of Art

St. Louis Film Festival Spring Sampler

Greater St. Louis Kite Festival

Forest Park

314-997-0101

May

St. Louis Storytelling Festival

Annie Malone Parade sponsored by The Annie Malone Children’s Home, founded by one of the first African-American millionaires in the nation, brings the community together each May to remember the founder’s legacy and to celebrate neighborhood

spirit with a parade and a series of social events. For more information, call 534-8015

St. Louis Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony

Gypsy Caravan

June

University City Fair in the Square

Lafayette Square House and Garden Tour

For more information, call 772-5724.

The annual House & Garden

Tour and a Victorian Art Festival are held in June

Taste of Clayton food festival For more information, call 746-0473.

African Arts Festival

July:

Fair Saint Louis

314-434-3434

attracts 1 million people to the riverfront for air shows, entertainment, educational exhibits, fireworks, and food and crafts booths.

Soulard Bastille Day Celebration

An annual Bastille Day celebration. 773-6767

Missouri Black Expo

Summer Flower Show begins at the Jewel Box

August

St. Louis Strassenfest

Hispanic Festival

St. Louis Blues Heritage Festival

St. Louis County Air & Fair Show

Moonlight Ramble

Greek Festival

Missouri Botanical Gardens Japanese Festival

Art Happening

Grand Festival of Nations For more information call 772-4640

Fall

September

The Saint Louis Art Fair is held each September on the streets of Clayton, MO , one of the nation’s most affluent and prestigious business and residential communities. At the 2000 Art Fair, more than 130,000 art enthusiasts purchased more than $2 million worth of art.

Saint Louis Art Fair

7818 Forsyth, Suite 210

Saint Louis, MO 63105

or call 314-863-0278

Great Forest Park Balloon Race

314-993-2468

includes a Frisbee exhibition and sky diving.

Big Muddy Blues Festival held annually on Labor Day weekend. For more information,

call 241-5875.

St. Louis Rams begin Football season

Labor Day Parade

St. Louis Jazz Festival

Bevo Day

Heritage America at Cahokia Mounds

October

St. Louis Blues season begins

Columbus Day Parade: For information call 647-6222

Fright Fest at Six Flags

Historic Shaw Art Fair

St. Louis Marathon

International Folk Fest

November

St. Louis Film Festival

St. Louis Jewish Book Festival

Veterans Day parade

Holiday Champagne Stroll in November.

For more information, call 746-0473.

Mid-America Holiday Parade

314-286-4086

The parade route runs along Broadway and Spruce to Union Station on Thanksgiving Day. It is the Midwest’s largest holiday parade.

December

Kwaanza Holiday Expo

Cherokee Street Antique District Annual Cookie Walk

First Night St. Louis

Parlor tours of homes in the Lafayette park neighborhood.

Destination Guide City List