St. Louis is buzzing with springtime energy this week! The weather is perfect for exploring the city's awesome parks and gardens. Get ready for a mix of outdoor fun, delicious eats, and cultural experiences that'll make you fall in love with STL all over again.
With over 1,300 acres, Forest Park offers something for everyone. Rent a paddleboat on the Grand Basin, visit the free Saint Louis Zoo, or simply relax by the Jewel Box, a stunning greenhouse filled with seasonal floral displays. Don't miss the 17-acre Ann O'C. Albrecht Experiential Play Space for kids.
Tip: Pack a picnic and find a spot near the Cascades for a relaxing afternoon.
Wander through this 105-acre open-air museum and sculpture park, home to over 60 large-scale sculptures. It's a great place to get some fresh air and spark your imagination. Some sculptures are even climbable!
Tip: Bring a sketchbook and challenge yourself to draw your favorite sculpture from a unique angle.
For a unique St. Louis experience, try crawdad fishing in the pond at Tower Grove Park. All you need is a stick, some string, and a chicken bone to lure these little crustaceans. The park itself, part of Henry Shaw's original estate, is beautiful for walking and relaxing.
Tip: Check out the farmers' market on Saturday mornings for local produce and artisan goods.
Enjoy scenic views of the Mississippi River and the Gateway Arch on the St. Louis Riverfront Trail. This 12-mile trail is perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a brisk walk. Take in the history of the river and learn about the Lewis & Clark expedition.
Tip: Start your ride near the Arch and head north for the best views of the city skyline.
Experience the delicious flavors of Bosnian cuisine at Balkan Treat Box. Try the *lahmacun* (Turkish pizza) or the *cevapi* (grilled sausages) for a truly authentic meal. Be sure to check their hours, as they can be a bit unusual.
Tip: Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations – the staff is super friendly and knowledgeable.
With multiple locations, Katie's is a local favorite for Italian food. Their creative pizzas and handmade pastas are always a hit. The Ballpark Village location is perfect after a Cardinals game.
Tip: Check out their monthly rotating pizza and pasta special – it's always something unique and delicious.
For perfect pizza, bread, and salad, Union Loafers always nails it. Sit at the bar with a martini and enjoy the full experience, including the meatballs.
Tip: Try to go during off-peak hours, as it can get crowded during lunch and dinner.
Enjoy the sushi and small plates at Sado, which is considered one of the best restaurants in St. Louis. The Pavilion, located within Sado, is a must-try.
Tip: Sado is great for a date night or a girls' night out.
Catch live music every weekend at Tin Roof, featuring bands from St Louis, Nashville, and beyond. Thursday Cup Nights offer $5 souvenir cups with $1 well refills. Sunday brunch includes $10 bottled mimosas.
Tip: Check their website for the weekly schedule of bands and DJs.
This premier live music and art venue features live performances and rotating photography exhibits that celebrate the sights and sounds of St. Louis. Wednesday Night Jazz Jam is a free, family-friendly event.
Tip: The gallery is open to the public 6pm-10pm Wednesdays, no appointment necessary.
If you like country music, you'll love The Honky Tonk in downtown St. Louis. The Nashville-style venue hosts local and regional bands from Thursday through Sunday.
Tip: Even if you don't love country music, the people-watching is great.
Check out The Factory for a variety of live entertainment, including concerts and comedy shows.
Tip: See NXT Stand & Deliver on April 4.
Explore over 34,000 works of art at the Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park. Admission is always free, and they offer free family Sunday programs and daily tours.
Tip: Don't miss the armory room, and combine your visit with outdoor time on Art Hill.
Engage with today's most relevant and innovative art at CAM. With no permanent collection, the museum adapts and responds to the global art world and the local community. Admission is free.
Tip: Attend an artist talk or a publication launch party for a deeper dive into the exhibits.
This unique museum is a must-see, with caves, treehouses, and a rooftop area to explore. Knee pads are recommended! It's fun for all ages.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to climb, crawl, and slide.
Visit the St. Louis Artists' Guild to see upcoming exhibitions. Opening Reception for Therianthrope by Mel Tychonievich is April 17, 2026.
Tip: Gallery Hours are Free and Open to the Public Tuesday - Friday : 10am–6pm, Saturday : 10am–4pm. Closed Sundays, Mondays & Holidays.
Consistently rated one of the best zoos in the world, the Saint Louis Zoo offers free admission. See over 600 animal species and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Forest Park.
Tip: Arrive early to find free street parking or take public transportation.
Explore the storied history of St. Louis, from its founding to the 1904 World's Fair, at the Missouri History Museum. Admission is free, and they offer activities for families and kids of all ages.
Tip: Check out the History Clubhouse, a play area for younger children.
Learn about the history of St. Louis and the construction of the Arch at the Museum at the Gateway Arch. Admission to the museum is free, and you can walk around the Gateway Arch National Park.
Tip: Return at various times of day to see how the light changes on the Arch.
Enjoy a free light show in the Grand Hall of Union Station. The 3D light show captivates audiences with underwater scenes and Queen hits.
Tip: The light show is about 10 minutes long and recurs every hour, on the hour, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
Visit Grant's Farm, home to the famous Clydesdale horses. Enjoy animal encounters, free beer samples for adults, and a carousel ride. Note that some activities have a fee.
Tip: Go early in the day to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
This is worth repeating: The City Museum is unlike anything you've ever experienced! There are so many spaces to explore, ranging from caves to treehouses, and even a rooftop area. It truly is a unique experience and fun for all ages!
Tip: Knee pads are recommended!
This is a great place for family-friendly activity! There's a classic carousel, a mirror maze, a miniature golf course, a ropes course, and even a Build-A-Bear Workshop.
Tip: Watch the fire and light show dazzles viewers on the lake in front of the main entrance.
Attend the Monster Energy AMA Supercross at The Dome at America's Center on April 4.
Tip: Tickets start at $38.