St. Louis on a Shoestring: America's Most Underrated Budget City

A free behind-the-scenes tour of the historic Anheuser-Busch brewery, including tastings of fresh beer.

A quirky, stylish boutique hotel in the Delmar Loop neighborhood offering competitive rates and a rooftop bar.

One of the country's best zoos with over 14,000 animals and completely free general admission, located in Forest Park.

An endlessly creative, multi-level urban playground built from architectural salvage that's fun for all ages at a reasonable price.

Free grounds and museum surrounding America's tallest monument, with optional tram rides to the top for a small fee.

The Saint Louis Zoo is free every day and genuinely world-class — arrive early to see animals active in the morning before midday crowds and heat build up.
Ride the tram to the top of the Gateway Arch for a modest fee and incredible views — book tickets online in advance at recreation.gov to guarantee your preferred time slot.
Spend a full day in Forest Park, which is free — visit the Art Museum, History Museum, and Science Center, then walk the grounds or rent a paddleboat on the lake for a couple of dollars.
Soulard Market (one of the oldest farmers' markets in the US) is open Friday and Saturday and is a fantastic, affordable stop for local food, produce, and atmosphere.
Eat in the Soulard or Cherokee Street neighborhoods for excellent, inexpensive food — both areas have a strong local restaurant scene at prices far below what you'd pay near the touristy Arch area.

St. Louis, MO Travel Recommendations