Free Things to do in St Louis Missouri
Saint Louis offers a wide range of free activities for locals and travelers. One of the best things about this city is its many free attractions, making it affordable.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or just looking for a fun way to spend your day, Saint Louis has something for everyone. Check out our list of Free things to Do in Saint Louis, MO.
St Charles Chocolate Tour
Attention all chocolate lovers! If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity, why not consider taking a tour of a chocolate factory?
The Saint Charles Chocolate Chocolate Company is the perfect destination for anyone interested in how chocolate is made. Best of all, the tour is entirely free!
During the tour, you’ll witness the chocolate-making process up close and personal. You’ll see everything from the factory floor to the candy kitchen and chocolate enrobers. It’s a fascinating experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for this delicious treat.
So what are you waiting for? Book your tour today and satisfy your chocolate cravings!
Important Information: Tours run Monday through Saturday. Reservations are required. Call 314-338-3501 to make a reservation. You must wear closed-toe shoes. Due to factory maintenance, tours are not offered from June 28 – July 7.
Gateway Arch
If you’re visiting Saint Louis, one attraction you absolutely can’t miss is the Gateway Arch. This iconic symbol of the city is beautiful to look at and offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Visiting the Gateway Arch and hanging out on the grounds is free. However, other attractions on the premises, including going to the top of the Arch, cost money.
One cool attraction free at the Arch is the New Museum, dedicated to teaching visitors about the history of Saint Louis and the westward expansion of the United States.
With multiple exhibits and interactive galleries, the museum is a fun and fascinating way to learn about this critical period in American history.
Of course, plenty of other activities to enjoy at the Gateway Arch cost extra. Below is more information on these activities.
For a truly breathtaking experience, take the tram to the top of the Arch and look out the observation deck. From there, you can look at the stunning views from 16 windows on each side of the Arch. It’s an experience you will remember!
Another attraction at the Gateway Arch is a 35-minute documentary, “Monument to the Dream Film,” which explores its history and construction.
If you want to see more of Saint Louis, consider taking a Riverfront Cruise. Tickets are sold at the Gateway Arch. This one-hour narrated cruise is a great way to see the city’s past and present landmarks from a new perspective.
While the tram ride to the top of the Arch, the documentary, and the riverboat cruise are not free, you can find the complete pricing information on Gateway Arch National Park’s website, GatewayArch.com.
If you’re eligible for the America the Beautiful Pass Discount, take advantage of it. You can also save by bundling two or more of the attractions together.
Important Information: Riding the tram to the top of the Arch is not free. Entering the Arch has screening processes similar to those of airport security. Pepper spray, mace, guns, brass knucks, knives, etc., are prohibited inside the Arch. Screening can take 30-45 minutes. The last tram leaves one hour before closing.
Hiking
If you want to spend a day in the great outdoors, then Saint Louis is definitely the place for you. With so many hiking trails, you will find one that suits your interests and fitness level.
One of the most popular state parks in the area is Castlewood State Park.
There are seven different trails, each with unique features and views. However, the most popular trails are the River Scene Trail Loop, the Grotpeter Trail, and the Lone Wolf Trail.
The River Scene Trail Loop is about 3.4 miles long and is a moderate hike. It takes you through the park’s most beautiful scenery, including the Meramec River and the bluffs surrounding it. You’ll also see some of the park’s historic ruins, including the Castlewood Dam and the Kratzinger Hollow Shelter.
The scenic Grotpeter Trail is a 4.5-mile loop within Castlewood State Park worth exploring. It’s estimated to take around 2 hours to complete, but remember that it’s quite popular among mountain bikers, so you may encounter some on the trail.
On the other hand, the Lone Wolf Trail is shorter at only 1.7 miles. But don’t let its length fool you – it’s still a moderate hike with plenty of stunning views.
This trail is named after the famous Lone Wolf Mine, which was once in the area. Along the way, you may see a variety of trees and wildlife, including deer and foxes.
Castlewood State Park’s natural beauty will impress you no matter which trails you choose. So lace up your hiking boots, pack snacks and water, and prepare for an adventure you won’t forget!
All seven trails at Castlewood Park are as follows:
- Lone Wolf Trail
- Riverscene Trail Loop
- Al Foster Trail
- Castlewood Trail
- Cedar Bluff
- Chubb Trail
- Stinging Nettle Trail
Saint Louis Science Center
The Saint Louis Science Center is an incredible destination that should be on your must-visit list when you are in Saint Louis.
The Science Center is a unique attraction that offers something for everyone and provides free and paid exhibits, so you can choose the ones that fit your budget.
You can visit its website or inquire at the Science Center for a complete list of all the exhibits.
Important Information: Please note that some exhibits may cost, and food and drink may be prohibited in some areas.
Grant's Farm
Grant’s Farm is a popular attraction in St. Louis, Missouri, and it is definitely worth visiting. It is a beautiful park that offers visitors a unique experience, and the best part is that it is free to enter.
However, parking on the street is limited; once parking is filled, you must pay for parking. Parking does cost, and if you live in the region, seasonal parking passes are available at an affordable price.
The Farm is home to over 900 animals, allowing visitors to experience wildlife at its best. One of the most popular attractions at Grant’s Farm is the free tram ride that takes visitors on a tour of the different animal habitats.
Visitors can also visit the Clydesdales Stables to see the majestic horses up close. Furthermore, free animal shows are available.
The Bauernhof is a great place to satisfy your hunger, with its unique outdoor German-style courtyard that gives you the feel of being in Germany.
Anheuser-Bush products are available for complimentary samples in their hospitality room for visitors over 21.
However, not all attractions at Grant’s Farm are free. Carousel rides, camel rides, and feedings will cost a little extra. Visitors can also go on a behind-the-scenes tour with the Clydesdales, Deer Park Safari Private Tour, or visit the Grant’s Farm Estate Tour, which will cost extra.
Overall, Grant’s Farm is a must-visit attraction in St. Louis that offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
Important Information: Free beer samples (individuals 21 or older) are provided in the Bauernhof’s hospitality room. Parking is expensive if you need help finding parking on one of the side streets. Outside food and drinks may not be brought into Grant’s Farm. Only service dogs are welcome in the park. Bring lots of quarters to feed the animals!
Saint Louis Art Museum
The Saint Louis Art Museum is a must-visit attraction for art lovers.
The museum features an impressive collection of sculptures, art pieces, and ancient artifacts from all around the world, making it a great educational experience for your entire family. With more than 34,000 paintings, sculptures, and artifacts, the museum is a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces.
The exhibits at the Saint Louis Art Museum include, but are not limited to, Egyptian, American, African, Asian, and Islamic art, among others, showcasing the diversity of art styles worldwide.
The museum has three floors packed with various collections to entertain you for hours. Visitors can download the entire facility’s online floor plan to help plan their visit and see the different styles of art they are interested in.
Alternatively, the museum offers daily guided tours from Tuesday to Sunday, and daily free one-hour tours are also available to the public on Tuesday through Friday.
No reservations are required for the tour, so visitors can take advantage of this opportunity to explore the museum with a knowledgeable guide.
The Saint Louis Art Museum also has a Panorama Restaurant, which offers a modern dining experience and an excellent view of Forest Park. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes from the restaurant’s menu while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
In conclusion, the Saint Louis Art Museum is a fantastic destination for art lovers, with its vast collection of art and artifacts worldwide.
Important Information: St Louis Art Museum is closed on Mondays. Strollers are welcome, although they may be restricted in certain parts of the building. The last entry to the building is one hour before closing. Lastly, free parking is available across the Art Museum and is limited. The parking garage allows additional parking for $15 for non-members and $5 daily for members. Please note that the exhibits are constantly changing, and not all are free.
Missouri History Museum
The Missouri History Museum is a fascinating destination that offers an outstanding educational experience for visitors.
The museum features a variety of exhibits and events that showcase the rich history of Saint Louis and Missouri. Some more permanent exhibits include the History Clubhouse, The 1904 World’s Fair, and Seeking St. Louis.
In addition to the permanent exhibits, the Missouri History Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that provide a unique educational experience year-round.
These exhibits, which change regularly, teach visitors about different historical topics and periods, giving something new and exciting to see with every visit.
Overall, the Missouri History Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history. It offers an engaging, fun, unique, and informative experience for visitors of all ages.
Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis
The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis is a stunning masterpiece of art that opened in 1914. It took almost a century to build and is considered one of the most beautiful churches in the world.
The church features one of the largest mosaic collections, with over 41 million glass tesserae pieces covering the walls and ceilings.
The mosaics in the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis are genuinely breathtaking. Visitors will be amazed by the intricate designs and stunning colors.
The mosaics cover an area of over 83,000 square feet and are considered some of the most impressive in the world. They depict biblical scenes and images of saints, angels, and other religious figures.
In addition to the mosaics, the church has a Mosaic Museum on the lower level. The museum is focused on the mosaics and demonstrates how they were built inside the church.
Visitors can learn about the church’s history and mosaics and view several incredible artifacts. An additional contribution per person is requested to visit the museum, which is well worth it for those interested in the church’s history and art.
Overall, the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art, history, or religion. Its stunning mosaics and beautiful architecture will leave a lasting impression on you.
Important Information: The Cathedral Basilica offers guided tours Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Reservations are required; please call 314-373-8241 to make your reservations.
Purina Farms Visitor Center
The Purina Farms Visitor Center is great for a free family outing in Saint Louis. The center offers a variety of activities and exhibits that will entertain visitors of all ages, from exhibits and dog shows to cow milking demonstrations.
Purina Farms Visitor Center is a fantastic destination for families looking for a fun, educational, and free outing in Saint Louis.
The center offers a variety of activities and exhibits that will entertain visitors of all ages and provide a unique and memorable experience.
Important Information: Parking is free most days, except there may be a parking fee during special events. Some events are time-based, so check out their website before visiting. Only outside food or drinks are allowed if a picnic area is rented. Admission is free unless there is an event or otherwise noted. Check the website before visiting.
Laumeier Sculpture Park
Laumeier Sculpture Park is a unique outdoor museum that showcases over 60 sculptures. Founded in 1976, it is the largest sculpture park in the United States and a must-visit destination for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The park offers a free self-guided tour that allows visitors to view the various sculptures at their own pace.
Three different paths, all less than a mile long, enable visitors to walk the entire park and see the various sculptures.
The Central Pathway takes approximately 25 minutes to complete and allows visitors to see several of the park’s sculptures.
The Art Hike Trail takes approximately 30 minutes to complete and offers a unique experience with sculptures nestled in the woods.
The Western Woodland Trail only takes 10 minutes but features some of the park’s most famous sculptures.
Each trail is unique in offering what you see and experience, making it a great way to explore the park and appreciate the sculptures.
The park also offers guided tours for visitors who want to learn more about the sculptures and the artists behind them.
Overall, the Laumeier Sculpture Park is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in art, nature, and outdoor activities. It offers a unique and memorable experience that will leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Economy Museum
The Economy Museum is an exciting and interactive way to learn about the economy and its significance. The museum boasts over 100 interactive displays, games, photos, and videos that educate individuals about the economy and its importance.
The museum is divided into six zones, each offering a unique experience.
The first zone educates visitors about the Federal Reserve, its history, and its role in regulating the economy.
The second zone teaches visitors about investing, credit scores, and earnings, providing valuable information for managing finances.
The third zone is interactive, allowing visitors to understand how individuals interact with the economy and how their actions can affect the economy.
The fourth zone features engaging educational videos that overview various economic subjects.
The fifth zone highlights how money flows through the economy and affects individuals and their livelihoods.
Additionally, the sixth category encompasses monetary policy, unemployment, GDP, and more subjects.
Visitors can learn about the government’s role in producing money and how it contributes to economic growth and development.
Overall, the Economy Museum is an excellent destination to learn about the economy, money, and the government’s role in producing it.
Saint Louis Zoo
The Saint Louis Zoo is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers of all ages.
This zoo is home to over 500 species of animals spread across 90 acres of land, making it one of the largest free zoos in the country. From penguins and lions to elephants and gorillas, there’s something for everyone to see and enjoy.
One of the unique aspects of the Saint Louis Zoo is that it’s divided into six sections, each with its own set of animals and experiences. You can download a map before visiting; however, maps are located at the entrance.
Important Information: Admission to the zoo is free. Parking is available along the side roads. Parking along the side of the road is free. However, if the street parking is full, you may have to pay an additional fee to park in a parking lot.
Some Amenities within the zoo cost extra; please check their website to learn more.
In conclusion, Saint Louis offers many free activities for locals and travelers. From exploring the chocolate factory to hiking through state parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The Gateway Arch and the Saint Louis Zoo are two must-visit attractions that offer visitors a unique and exciting experience.
Saint Louis has it all if you’re interested in history, nature, or fun. So why not pack your bags and visit this vibrant and exciting city today?
Full List of Free Things to do this Weekend with your Kids in Saint Louis Missouri
- St Charles Chocolate Tour
- Gateway Arch
- Hiking
- Saint Louis Science Center
- Grant’s Farm
- Saint Louis Art Museum
- Missouri History Museum
- Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis
- Purina Farms Visitor Center
- Laumeier Sculpture Park
- Economy Museum
- Saint Louis Zoo
Above are some free places to visit in Saint Louis, Missouri. We hope this helps you find something fun and free to do this weekend while saving you money!
Please comment below with your favorite free hot spot in Saint Louis. We would love to hear from you.
About Author, Sara Elizabeth
Writer, Amora V Lifestyle
Co-Owner of AmoraVBoutique.com
Sara is a writer for Amora V Lifestyle and is Co-Owner of Amora V Boutique. Sara previously worked as a Marketing Manager and has her Master’s from Lindenwood University.
Sara studies everything of interest, from psychology, recipes, finances, mental health, and travel, thriving to find happiness and to live a good life.
When not learning, Sara loves all things outdoors, food, and hanging around great company. Furthermore, Sara loves spending time with family, who she is blessed to have in her life.
Note from the author: Through my articles, I hope to bring you joy and peace and that you enjoy it!
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this travel blog are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of any organizations mentioned or affiliated with. The information provided in this blog is accurate and up-to-date to the best of the author’s knowledge, but readers are advised to do their own research and confirm any information before making travel plans or decisions. The author is not responsible for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by readers while traveling based on the information provided in this blog. Travel at your own risk and always prioritize your safety and well-being. Any reviews or comments written are the subjective opinion of an Amora V Lifestyle member and not Amora V Lifestyle. Amora V Lifestyle performs occasional checks on commentary left by users. It’s worth mentioning that we may also use comments in our articles. By posting a comment, you are giving us permission to use it in our content. Please check out Privacy Policy and Terms of Use for full disclosure. This article was paraphrased from the Saint Louis Art Museum Website, https://www.slam.org, from Saint Louis Science Center website, https://www.slsc.org, from Grant’s Farm website, https://www.grantsfarm.com, Saint Charles Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Companies website, https://www.chocolatechocolate.com/product/were-expanding/, Gateway Arch website, https://www.gatewayarch.com, Castlewood State Par website, https://mostateparks.com/park/castlewood-state-park, Missouri History Museum, website, https://mohistory.org/museum, Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis website, http://cathedralstl.org, Purina Farms website https://www.purina.com/about-purina/purina-farms, Laumeier Sculpture Park website at https://www.laumeiersculpturepark.org/, Anheuser-Busch St. Louis Brewery website, https://www.budweisertours.com/locations/st-louis-missouri.html, Economy Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank website, https://www.stlouisfed.org/inside-the-economy-museum, Saint Louis Zoo website, htps://www.stlzoo.org/ The article has no affiliation with any of the companies listed above. Pricing may change without notice. We cannot guarantee pricing. Please contact the facility before going to ensure pricing is correct
