Having trouble deciding between a city tour or a nature getaway for your next trip? Why choose when you can have both in St. Louis, Illinois?
The region surrounding St. Louis, Illinois, offers a surprising mix of vibrant city sights and scenic outdoor destinations. You could sightsee various fun attractions in St. Louis' urban area and have a peaceful nature escape just an hour later. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or traveling with kids, there's something nearby to suit every explorer.
Thanks to a variety of RV parks near St Louis, visitors can enjoy a convenient home base with easy access to both indoor attractions and outdoor adventures, making it easier than ever to experience the best of both worlds.
Top Attractions Around St. Louis
Here are 10 top attractions around St. Louis that combine culture, history, and nature in unforgettable ways:
1. The Gateway Arch
No trip to St. Louis is complete without visiting the city's iconic monument. The Gateway Arch stands 630 feet tall and offers unbeatable views of the Mississippi River and downtown skyline. Take a tram ride to the top, explore the museum below, and stroll through the riverside park. It's one of the top St. Louis free attractions (museum and grounds), with small fees for the tram ride.
2. Forest Park
Bigger than New York's Central Park, Forest Park is a city treasure. It's home to some of the most beloved free tourist attractions in St. Louis, including the St. Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, The Muny (America's oldest outdoor musical theatre), and the St. Louis Zoo. You'll also find bike paths, lakes, and scenic picnic areas throughout the park.
3. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
Just a short drive from downtown, the Cahokia Mounds is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the remnants of one of North America's most advanced prehistoric civilizations. Walk among massive earthen mounds, climb Monks Mound for panoramic views, and explore the on-site interpretive center. It's educational and serene, and among the top outdoor attractions St. Louis visitors often overlook.
4. Missouri Botanical Garden
If you enjoy nature but prefer a cultivated version, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a breathtaking destination. Founded in 1859, it's one of the oldest botanical gardens in the U.S. Stroll through themed gardens like the Japanese Garden, tropical greenhouse domes, and the children's garden. It's a wonderful indoor/outdoor experience for photographers and plant lovers.
5. The City Museum
The City Museum is a wildly creative, interactive museum built from reclaimed architectural and industrial materials. Featuring tunnels, slides, and even an old airplane, it's as much a playground for adults as it is for kids. Expect the unexpected here!
6. Castlewood State Park
Located along the Meramec River, Castlewood State Park is a haven for hikers, mountain bikers, and birdwatchers. Climb the bluffs for incredible river views or enjoy a quiet picnic along the forested trails. This is a great option for anyone seeking outdoor attractions in St. Louis without a long drive.
7. The National Blues Museum
For music lovers, the National Blues Museum is a must-visit. Celebrate the deep roots and enduring legacy of blues music through interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and live performances. It's a downtown gem for fans of culture and history.
8. Laumeier Sculpture Park
This 105-acre open-air museum blends art and nature, with over 70 large-scale sculptures fixed along walking paths. It's free for the public and dog-friendly, too. Ideal for a low-key afternoon walk or a picnic, it's one of the lesser-known but highly rewarding tourist attractions in St. Louis.
9. Grant's Farm
Owned by the Busch family (of Anheuser-Busch fame), Grant's Farm combines animal encounters with history. Ride the tram through a wildlife preserve, feed goats and parakeets, and see the historic cabin built by Ulysses S. Grant. This family-friendly destination is free to enter, with optional paid activities for kids and adults.
10. Horseshoe Lake State Park
A peaceful retreat across the river in Illinois, Horseshoe Lake State Park is perfect for kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, and hiking. It's one of the most accessible outdoor attractions St. Louis visitors can enjoy when they want to slow down and soak in nature away from the city crowds.
Runners-Up: Worth the Side Trip
If you have extra time, these destinations also deliver great experiences:
- Tower Grove Park – A lovely Victorian-era park with pavilions, gardens, and a popular farmer's market.
- World Chess Hall of Fame – For something offbeat and quirky, this museum in the Central West End celebrates the game's history and strategy.
- The Magic House – A hit with young kids, this hands-on museum in Kirkwood encourages learning through play.
A Perfect Blend of Urban Energy & Natural Serenity
What makes this region so special is how easy it is to switch between city energy and quiet green spaces. One day you might be climbing the Gateway Arch, and the next, you're kayaking on a quiet lake or hiking wooded trails. With plenty of RV resorts in the area, travelers can find restful accommodations that keep them close to the best attractions around St. Louis, from downtown museums to serene natural escapes.
So whether you're planning a weekend trip, a family vacation, or just passing through on your way across the Midwest, St. Louis, IL, and its surrounding destinations offer fun, education, adventure, and relaxation.
Get out there and explore the best of St. Louis city sights and nature escapes—your next adventure is closer than you think!
