
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.