The Best Things to Do in - 1. St. Louis, MO: St. Louis is often called the “Gateway to the West,” but it’s also a gateway to a memorable, well-rounded travel experience. From world-class art and live entertainment to major league baseball and local culinary treasures, this Midwestern gem packs a punch. Whether you're here for a weekend or a longer stay, here are some of the top things to do in St. Louis that highlight the city's diverse appeal. 🌉 Start with a St. Louis Icon: The Gateway ArchNo matter how many times you visit, the Gateway Arch remains a must-see. Standing 630 feet tall on the Mississippi Riverfront, it’s the tallest monument in the U.S. and offers panoramic views of the city and beyond. Ride the tram to the top, then check out the Museum at the Gateway Arch below, which tells the story of America’s westward expansion and St. Louis's role in it. It’s the perfect place to begin your exploration. 🎭 Catch a Musical Under the Stars at The MunyLocated in beautiful Forest Park, The Muny is the nation’s oldest and largest outdoor musical theatre. Every summer, The Muny stages big, Broadway-style productions that rival anything you’d see in New York. Even better? There are 1,500 free seats available for every performance, making it one of the most accessible cultural experiences in the country. The atmosphere is electric, the performances top-notch, and there’s just something magical about watching live theater under the open sky. We got to see the opening night of the acclaimed Broadway hit Come from Away, starring Heidi Blickenstaff. It was an amazing experience! ⚾ Feel the Energy at a St. Louis Cardinals GameBaseball is a way of life in St. Louis, and catching a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium is a rite of passage. With a view of the Gateway Arch in the background and some of the most passionate fans in the league, the game-day experience is hard to beat. Before the game, we headed to Ballpark Village next door for drinks, dining, and fan-friendly fun. Even if you’re not a baseball diehard, the energy and tradition of Cardinals Nation is infectious. ♟️ Explore Strategy and Art at the World Chess Hall of FameNestled in the Central West End, the World Chess Hall of Fame is a unique cultural spot that’s both intellectually stimulating and surprisingly stylish. Exhibits rotate regularly and showcase everything from historic chess sets to artwork inspired by the game. Whether you're a lifelong chess fan or just curious, it’s a fascinating stop. Across the street, the Saint Louis Chess Club frequently hosts world-class tournaments that draw international talent. This was a delightful and unique stop during our time in St. Louis! 🌳 Wander Through Forest Park – A City TreasureIf you’re looking for green space, head to Forest Park—one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., and bigger than New York’s Central Park. It’s home to walking trails, picnic spots, paddleboats, and more. Best of all, many of the attractions inside the park are free. We rented scooters and rode all over the park, as well as downtown! It was a very fun way to see the most of the city, but especially Forest Park. 🖼️ The Saint Louis Art MuseumHoused in a stately building overlooking Art Hill in Forest Park, the Saint Louis Art Museum features an impressive collection that spans thousands of years—from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces. Admission to the museum’s main collection is free every day, making it easy to explore at your own pace. It’s a quiet, inspiring space that art lovers shouldn’t miss. 🦁 The Saint Louis ZooConsistently ranked among the best zoos in the country, the Saint Louis Zoo is a can't-miss experience for families and animal lovers alike. Located in Forest Park, the zoo features over 16,000 animals from around the world—from elephants and sea lions to penguins and polar bears. Admission is free, and the zoo’s naturalistic habitats and interactive exhibits make it one of the best family-friendly attractions in the Midwest. 🧪 The Saint Louis Science CenterAlso located in Forest Park, the Saint Louis Science Center is both educational and wildly fun. With over 700 hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and an OMNIMAX Theater, it’s a favorite for curious minds of all ages. You can walk through a giant model of a human heart, try flight simulators, or learn about the stars—all for free. It’s one of the few science museums in the country that doesn’t charge admission. 🏛️ The Missouri History MuseumWant to dig deeper into the story of St. Louis and the surrounding region? Head to the Missouri History Museum, yet another free gem in Forest Park. Exhibits cover everything from the 1904 World’s Fair to civil rights, local sports, and more. It’s a great way to get context on the city’s past and present, all housed in a beautiful historic building. 🍝 Eat Like a Local at Anthonino’s TavernaAfter a day of sightseeing, head to Anthonino’s Taverna on The Hill, St. Louis’s iconic Italian neighborhood. This family-owned spot serves up a unique blend of Italian and Greek cuisine in a warm, welcoming setting. The toasted ravioli—a St. Louis staple—is a must-try, and their pizzas, gyros, and pasta dishes consistently get rave reviews. The restaurant has even been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, and it lives up to the hype! We had a lovely time and were delighted by the generous staff (shoutout to Katelynn, Anthony, Angelina, and Bri for all their help!), and enjoyed a few particularly delicious entrees (including the toasted ravioli!) - artichoke hearts, shrimp scampi, and Braciole, and the especially delicious loukoumades with a dollop of ice cream! Anthonino’s Taverna - https://anthoninos.com St. Louis is a city that blends historic landmarks, thriving arts and culture, beloved sports traditions, and one of the most underrated food scenes in the country. Whether you're gazing out from the top of the Arch, enjoying a show at The Muny, cheering for the Cardinals, or digging into a plate of toasted ravioli, you’re guaranteed to come away with a deeper appreciation for this vibrant city. Come for the Arch, stay for the rest—you’ll be glad you did. 2. Kansas City, MO: Kansas City might be best known for its legendary barbecue, but there's so much more to this Midwestern gem than smoked meats and jazz. From world-class museums to dynamic entertainment districts and iconic landmarks, KC blends culture, charm, and a laid-back vibe that makes it ideal for both quick getaways and extended stays. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover the city, here’s your guide to some of the best things to do in and around Kansas City, Missouri. 🎡 Ride High on the KC WheelOne of the city’s newest attractions, the KC Wheel offers breathtaking views from 150 feet in the air. Located at Pennway Point, this modern observation wheel is a must-do for first-time visitors and couples looking for a fun date-night experience. We rode shortly after sunset and the views of the downtown skyline and surrounding neighborhoods were stunning. You can also play a game of putt putt! We did both and thoroughly enjoyed it. 🏛️ Explore Kansas City’s Incredible Art MuseumsKC is a city that takes its arts seriously. Two standout museums are worth carving out time for: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Known for its impressive neoclassical architecture and giant shuttlecock sculptures on the lawn, this museum houses everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary works—and admission is free.The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art: Just around the corner from the Nelson-Atkins, this museum showcases modern and contemporary pieces from local and international artists. It’s small, smart, and often surprising.🚉 Step Into the Past at Union StationUnion Station is a Kansas City icon—a grand, historic train station turned modern cultural hub. Inside, you’ll find interactive science exhibits, planetarium shows, rotating traveling exhibits, and the awe-inspiring Grand Hall with its 95-foot ceilings. Grab a coffee and soak up the architecture or spend a few hours at Science City, a hands-on museum for kids and curious adults alike. 🪖 Dive into History at the National WWI Museum and MemorialJust across from Union Station sits the National World War I Museum and Memorial, the country’s leading institution dedicated to WWI history. The exhibits are moving and immersive, featuring life-sized trenches, original artifacts, and multimedia storytelling. Don’t skip the elevator ride to the top of the Liberty Memorial for panoramic city views. 📚 Discover the Community Bookshelf and KC Public LibraryOne of the most Instagrammable spots in KC, the Community Bookshelf is the exterior of the Kansas City Public Library’s Central Branch parking garage—designed to look like a giant bookshelf with 22-foot-tall book spines featuring literary classics. Inside, the library itself is a beautiful space with a vintage bank vault, cozy reading nooks, and community events. It’s a perfect quick stop for book lovers and architecture buffs. 💡 Experience Nightlife in the Power & Light DistrictWhen the sun goes down, head to the Power & Light District, KC’s downtown entertainment hub. Whether you're in the mood for live music, rooftop bars, high-energy clubs, or craft cocktails, there's something for every vibe. The KC Live! block frequently hosts concerts, watch parties, and events in a high-energy, open-air setting. 🌳 Venture to Overland ParkJust a short drive south of KC (in Kansas, actually!), Overland Park offers a change of pace with its family-friendly attractions and natural beauty. Check out the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens for a peaceful outdoor escape or take the kids to Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. With farmers markets, art fairs, an
