72 Hours in St. Louis, Missouri
Looking for the perfect weekend getaway from Kansas City? Whether you hop aboard the Amtrak Missouri River Runner (a scenic 5-hour train ride) or take the 3.5 to 4-hour drive east on I-70, St. Louis is a vibrant city packed with history, culture, sports, and unforgettable experiences.
From catching a St. Louis CITY SC match to cruising down the Mississippi River, this three-day itinerary is your go-to guide for making the most of a long weekend in the Gateway to the West.
Day One: Riverfront History & Mississippi Magic
Morning: Arrive in St. Louis
Get settled into your hotel downtown. I stayed at the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark and loved it! There are tons of great hotel options and staying near Gateway Arch National Park or Union Station puts you within walking distance of many key attractions.
Afternoon: Tour the Old Courthouse
Start your weekend with a deep dive into American history at the newly renovated Old Courthouse (open to the public on May 3, 2025). This site was the location of the of the famous Dred Scott case, which played a monumental role in the events leading up to the Civil War. The courthouse now features upgraded exhibits that focus on civil rights, westward expansion, and the city’s central role in 19th-century America.
Evening: Riverboat Dinner Cruise
Board a classic St. Louis Riverboat for an evening dinner cruise on the Mississippi. With live music, a full buffet, and unbeatable sunset views of the Gateway Arch, it’s a stunning way to kick off your trip. Be sure to bring a jacket—it can get breezy on the water!
Day Two: Arch Adventures & Game Day Energy
Morning: Gateway Arch Museum & Ride to the Top
Head to the Gateway Arch, arguably the most iconic structure in the Midwest. Begin your visit at the Museum of the Gateway Arch, which tells the story of westward expansion through engaging, interactive exhibits. Then catch the short documentary that shows how the 630-foot monument was constructed—it’s a fascinating (and nerve-wracking) engineering feat.
After the museum, ride one of the tram pods to the top of the Arch. The view from above stretches across the Mississippi River and far into both Missouri and Illinois. It’s truly breathtaking!
Lunch: Session Tacos
Make your way to Session Taco, one of the city’s best taco spots, in the historic Soulard neighborhood, . This restaurant was started by two local brothers and has grown into a must-visit restaurant with fresh, bold flavors and housemade tortillas. The margaritas are a must try!
Afternoon: Soldiers Memorial Military Museum + Ghost Army Exhibit
Walk off lunch with a visit to the Soldiers Memorial Military Museum. This beautiful building pays tribute to America’s service members. The rotating exhibits often include powerful features, and the current Ghost Army exhibit dives into the fascinating story of a World War II tactical unit that used visual and audio illusions to deceive the enemy. It is an unbelievable story that has been recently declassified!
Evening: St. Louis CITY SC Game at Energizer Park
Soccer fans or not, don’t miss a chance to experience a game at the new Energizer Park, home of St. Louis CITY SC. This state-of-the-art stadium is located in the heart of downtown and has become one of the loudest, most passionate environments in Major League Soccer.
CITYPARK Highlights:
Local food vendors like Sugarfire Smokehouse, Steve's Hot Dogs, and Balkan Treat Box (my favorite!)
Open-air design with incredible views of the city
Intimate seating that makes every spot feel close to the action
A dog suite area sponsored by Purina - AKA my favorite part of the stadium!
Whether you're in the supporter section or just vibing with the crowd, the energy here is electric!
Day Three: Parks, Museums & Peaceful Final Stops
Morning: Forest Park Adventures
Spend your final day exploring Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country. It’s home to some of the city’s best (and free!) museums.
Start at the Saint Louis Art Museum, currently showcasing the new exhibit, Roaring: Art, Fashion, and the Automobile in France, 1918–1939, a glamorous celebration of art, fashion, and culture from the 1920s. This is one of my favorite exhibits I’ve seen anywhere in the world - it is an absolute must see!
Then head to the Missouri History Museum to explore Collected, a captivating exhibit that highlights some of the museum’s most intriguing artifacts and the stories behind them. Collected will rotate annually ensuring that there is always more to see at the museum - no matter how many times you’ve visited. While you’re there, be sure to check out The 1904 World’s Fair exhibit. The 1904 World’s Fair happened in Forest Park and this exhibit is fascinating!
Lunch: Picnic in the Park
Grab food at The Boathouse, Panorama (the on-site restaurant at the Art Museum), or enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch surrounded by nature.
Afternoon: Bellefontaine Cemetery
Take a quiet but compelling turn with a visit to Bellefontaine Cemetery & Arboretum, one of the oldest and most beautiful cemeteries in the Midwest. It’s the final resting place of beer barons, Civil War generals, and influential civic leaders. Join a guided tour or simply wander on your own through the historic pathways. The cemetery also hosts events like birdwatching, photography walks, and seasonal tours. This cemetery is absolutely gorgeous - it is a level 3 arboretum (one of only 47 in the world)!
Optional Stop: Cardinals Game + Ballpark Village
If you’re extending your trip into Sunday evening, wrap up your weekend with a St. Louis Cardinals game at Busch Stadium. Ballpark Village surrounds the stadium and offers sports bars, live music, and dining options perfect for pre- or post-game fun.
Final Tips
Getting Around: Downtown is very walkable. Forest Park is best explored with a car or rideshare.
What to Pack: Comfy walking shoes, a light jacket for evenings, and sunscreen for outdoor exploring.
Reservations: Book CITY SC and Cardinals tickets early. Riverboat dinner cruises and Arch tram rides can sell out, especially on weekends.
St. Louis is the ultimate weekend destination from Kansas City. Whether you're diving into American history, cheering in the stadium, or enjoying world-class museums, there's something in the Gateway to the West for every kind of traveler!
