Kiener Plaza with the Old Courthouse and Gateway Arch in the background in downtown St. Louis.

24 Hours in St. Louis

If you only have 24 hours in St. Louis to explore, here are a few can’t miss ideas. St. Louis is a place where history and imagination collide, and the result is a destination like no other. From taking in the stunning view from the Gateway Arch to visiting the one-of-kind City Museum, you’re sure to have a great time.

1. Gateway Arch National Park

Standing 630 feet tall, our nation’s tallest man-made monument anchors Gateway Arch National Park. It stands as the iconic symbol of the westward expansion of the United States. The Gateway Arch experience includes the all-new Museum at the Gateway Arch (free admission), the Tram Ride to the Top, the Monument to the Dream documentary movie, shopping at the Arch Store, the Arch café, and cruises abroad the Gateway Arch Riverboats.

Blues at the Arch invites people to listen to live blues music in Gateway Arch National Park.

2. Old Cathedral

The Old Cathedral is one of the most historic buildings in St. Louis. Its roots dating back to 1764 when St. Louis was founded. The present building is the fourth church to be erected on the site. (FREE)

The Old Cathedral known officially as the Basilica of St. Louis the King

3. Citygarden

A vibrant and serene blending of lush plantings and internationally renowned sculptures with delights of water, stone, architecture and design. Citygarden is open and accessible year-round. Located within walking distance of the Gateway Arch. Perfect for an after-dinner walk. (FREE)

Lunch SuggestionBallpark Village is the premiere dining and entertainment district in downtown. Located in the heart of St. Louis’ central business district and adjacent to Busch Stadium, Ballpark Village is the first-ever, sports-anchored, multi-phased/mixed-use development.

Kids play in the dancing fountains at Citygarden.

4. National Blues Museum

The National Blues Museum gives visitors an in-depth lesson on the history of the Blues, the foundation of American music.  The facility will educate guests in an entertaining environment that includes high impact technology driven experiences, a 100-seat theater, artifact-driven exhibits and robust public programming. The National Blues Museum hosts a number of programs, including Blues on the Block, Thursday Night Blues Jam, Lunchtime Live, and more.

National Blues Museum is a wonderful place to connect with Black culture in St. Louis.

5. City Museum

City Museum is an eclectic mixture of playground, fun house, surrealistic pavilion and architectural marvel made from unique, found objects. City Museum boasts features such as old chimneys, salvaged bridges, construction cranes, miles of tile and even two abandoned planes!

Dinner Suggestion – St. Louis Union Station or The Hill