Budget-Friendly Destinations in St. Louis, Missouri, United States

St. Louis, United States, St. Louis, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Budget-Friendly Destinations

Budget-Friendly Destinations in St. Louis, Missouri, United States

1. Forest Park

A sprawling urban park offering a zoo, art museums, and lakes for boating – all for free or low cost.
  • Free Attractions: Many attractions within the park are either free to enter or have reduced admission fees.
  • Variety of Activities: Offers a wide range of activities including picnicking, biking, hiking, and cultural exploration.
  • Pet-Friendly: Leashed pets are welcome in most areas of the park, making it a great destination for pet owners.

2. City Museum

An eclectic attraction with tunnels, caves, and unusual exhibits housed in a repurposed shoe company building.
  • Unique Experience: Provides an unforgettable experience with its creative exhibits and architectural wonders.
  • Affordable Admission: Offers discounted admission prices for St. Louis residents, making it accessible to locals and visitors alike.
  • Hands-On Interaction: Encourages active participation in the exhibits, allowing visitors to touch and explore different materials.

3. Gateway Arch National Park

Iconic landmark offering a tram ride to the top of the arch and riverboat cruises at affordable prices.
  • Affordable Tickets: Provides discounted tickets for visitors with a valid student ID or military status.
  • Inclusive Experience: Offers a wheelchair-accessible tram ride and accommodates guests with various accessibility needs.
  • Historical Significance: Symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States and offers an educational experience for visitors.

4. The Fabulous Fox Theatre

A historic theater hosting live shows at affordable prices, with stunning architecture and a grand atmosphere.
  • Live Entertainment: Hosts a variety of live performances, including music concerts, dance productions, and plays.
  • Affordable Tickets: Offers affordable ticket prices for most shows, making it accessible to budget-conscious visitors.
  • Architectural Marvel: Features intricate art deco design elements and a breathtaking interior that is worth the visit alone.

5. Saint Louis Art Museum

A world-class museum with free admission to most exhibitions and a collection spanning 5,000 years of art.
  • Free Admission: Admission is free for all visitors, making it accessible to everyone.
  • Diverse Collection: Features art from various cultures and time periods, providing a comprehensive look at the history of art.
  • Family-Friendly Programs: Offers educational programs and activities for families, encouraging intergenerational learning and appreciation of art.

6. Mississippi Riverfront

A scenic waterfront offering riverboat cruises, outdoor sculptures, and picnic areas – all at affordable prices.
  • Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of the St. Louis skyline and the Mississippi River.
  • Affordable Cruises: Offers affordable riverboat cruises, providing an affordable way to experience the Mississippi River.
  • Outdoor Activities: Features picnic areas, bike trails, and outdoor sculptures for visitors to enjoy.

7. The Magic House

A children's museum with interactive exhibits designed to inspire creativity and learning.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Provides hands-on exhibits that encourage kids to learn through play.
  • Affordable Admission: Offers discounted admission prices for families, making it accessible to budget-conscious parents.
  • Educational Programs: Provides educational programs and workshops focused on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) concepts.

8. Tower Grove Park

A picturesque urban park featuring beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a conservatory – all free to enter.
  • Free Attractions: Admission to the park and its main attractions is free, making it accessible to everyone.
  • Scenic Beauty: Features a variety of gardens, including rose, daylily, and perennial gardens, as well as walking trails through the park.
  • Pet-Friendly: Leashed pets are welcome in most areas of the park, making it a great destination for pet owners.

9. Laumeier Sculpture Park

An outdoor museum featuring more than 70 sculptures scattered throughout a peaceful park setting.
  • Outdoor Art Exhibits: Features a variety of sculptures by internationally known artists, providing an outdoor art experience.
  • Free Admission: Admission to the park and its exhibits is free, making it accessible to everyone.
  • Nature Trails: Features walking trails that wind through the sculptures, providing a peaceful and educational experience.

10. The Muny

An outdoor amphitheater hosting free-to-attend productions of classic musicals during the summer season.
  • Free Musicals: Provides free-to-attend productions of classic musicals during the summer months.
  • Spacious Seating: Offers ample seating in an outdoor setting, providing a unique theater experience.
  • Family-Friendly Entertainment: Offers family-friendly musical productions that are suitable for all ages.

11. St. Louis Zoo

A free zoo showcasing a diverse collection of animals in naturalistic habitats.
  • Free Admission: Admission to the zoo is free for all visitors, making it accessible to everyone.
  • Naturalistic Habitats: Features naturalistic habitats that provide a more immersive and educational experience for visitors.
  • Conservation Efforts: Supports various conservation efforts, helping to protect endangered species both locally and globally.

12. The Science Center

An interactive science museum featuring hands-on exhibits and a planetarium with affordable tickets.
  • Hands-On Exhibits: Provides interactive exhibits that encourage visitors to learn through exploration and experimentation.
  • Affordable Tickets: Offers discounted admission prices for St. Louis residents, making it accessible to locals and visitors alike.
  • Planetarium Shows: Features planetarium shows that provide an educational experience about the universe and beyond.

13. Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour

A free tour of the historic Anheuser-Busch brewery, including a beer sampling.
  • Free Admission: Admission to the tour is free for all visitors, making it an affordable activity.
  • Historical Significance: Provides a glimpse into the history of one of America's most iconic breweries.
  • Beer Tasting: Includes a beer tasting at the end of the tour, allowing visitors to sample some popular Anheuser-Busch products.

14. Lumiere Place Casino

A casino offering affordable gaming options, dining, and entertainment in downtown St. Louis.
  • Affordable Gaming: Offers a variety of affordable gaming options for visitors.
  • Dining and Entertainment Options: Features several dining options and entertainment venues, providing a well-rounded experience.
  • Convenient Location: Located in downtown St. Louis, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring the city.

15. Busch Stadium Tour

A tour of Busch Stadium, home to the St. Louis Cardinals, with an optional game ticket.
  • Historical Significance: Provides a glimpse into the history and tradition of one of baseball's most iconic stadiums.
  • Affordable Tour Options: Offers affordable tour options for visitors, including self-guided tours and guided tours.
  • Optional Game Ticket: Provides the opportunity to upgrade your tour experience with an optional game ticket.