Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in St. Louis, Missouri, United States
1. City Museum
A unique mixed-media museum housed in a repurposed shoe company instorehouse. It features interactive art installations and historic architecture.
- Artistic Experience: Offers a dynamic blend of contemporary and historical art
- Interactive Attractions: Includes attractions like the Spaceship, Shoe Museum, Cave, and School Bus
- Historical Architecture: Showcases a variety of architectural styles from different eras
2. The Ghost Signs of St. Louis
Discover the historic ghost signs that adorn buildings in downtown St. Louis, providing a glimpse into the city's past.
- Historical Insight: Reveals stories about St. Louis' business history
- Photography Opportunities: Provides unique backdrops for stunning photos
- Urban Exploration: Allows visitors to delve into the city's rich history and architecture
3. The Tower Grove Park Mosaics
Stroll through Tower Grove Park and admire the beautiful mosaics scattered throughout its grounds.
- Cultural Diversity: Features designs from various cultures, showcasing St. Louis' multicultural fabric
- Artistic Masterpieces: Offers a collection of stunning, intricately designed mosaics
- Relaxing Environment: Set within a serene park, perfect for a tranquil stroll or picnic
4. The World's Largest Cement Bottle
Visit the iconic World's Largest Cement Bottle in Sauget, just a short drive from St. Louis.
- Historical Curiosity: A remnant of the early cement industry, built in 1940
- Photo Opportunities: Provides a quirky and memorable backdrop for photos
- Educational Value: Offers insights into the history of cement production
5. The Fabulous Fox Theatre
Take a tour of this stunning Art Deco masterpiece and marvel at its opulent interior.
- Architectural Marvel: Featuring beautiful murals, intricate carvings, and lavish decor
- Historical Preservation: A beautifully preserved example of the Art Deco movement
- Entertainment Venue: Hosts a variety of performances, from Broadway shows to concerts
6. The Museum of Westward Expansion
Explore the history of westward expansion at this National Park Service museum in St. Louis' historic Gateway Arch.
- Historical Insight: Offers an immersive look into the westward expansion era
- Interactive Attractions: Features interactive exhibits and artifacts
- Architectural Masterpiece: Located within the iconic Gateway Arch structure
7. The Magnetic Storms Exhibit at City Museum
Experience the electrifying Magnetic Storms exhibit at the City Museum, where visitors can generate their own sparks and create electricity.
- Interactive Experience: Provides hands-on, educational fun
- Scientific Exploration: Offers insights into the science of electricity
- Unique Attraction: One-of-a-kind exhibit in a museum filled with unusual attractions
8. The St. Louis Maelstrom at Six Flags
Feel the adrenaline rush on the St. Louis Maelstrom, a massive, spinning, pendulum-style roller coaster at Six Flags.
- Thrilling Ride: Provides an intense and exhilarating experience
- Iconic Attraction: Recognizable as a major Six Flags attraction
- Unique Design: Featuring a unique pendulum-style design
9. The Lemp Mansion
Step into the eerie Lemp Mansion, once home to one of St. Louis' most prominent beer brewing families and now said to be haunted.
- Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into St. Louis' brewing history
- Paranormal Activities: Reported to be haunted, providing a spooky experience for visitors
- Architectural Beauty: A beautiful, Victorian-era mansion with intricate details
10. The Muny – America's Oldest Outdoor Musical Theatre
Experience the magic of live theatre under the stars at The Muny in Forest Park.
- Outdoor Venue: The only professional outdoor musical theatre in the United States
- Historical Significance: Established in 1918, it has a rich and vibrant history
- Diverse Performances: Offers a wide variety of musical performances throughout the summer
11. The Missouri Botanical Garden Nighttime Glow
Wander through the beautiful Missouri Botanical Garden after dark to see it illuminated by thousands of colorful, glowing lanterns.
- Beautiful Light Display: A stunning visual spectacle
- Relaxing Environment: Set within a serene botanical garden, perfect for a peaceful walk
- Cultural Experience: Featuring displays based on Chinese lantern festivals
12. The National Shoeshine Museum & Hall of Fame
Discover the fascinating history of shoeshining at this unique museum in Downtown St. Louis.
- Historical Insight: Offers a glimpse into the history and evolution of shoeshining
- Interactive Attractions: Includes interactive exhibits and artifacts
- Unique Museum: One-of-a-kind attraction dedicated to the art of shoeshining
13. The St. Louis Zoo's Penguin and Puffin Coast
Visit the charming Penguin and Puffin Coast at the St. Louis Zoo to observe these adorable creatures up close.
- Educational Experience: Offers insights into penguins' habitats, diets, and behaviors
- Interactive Attractions: Includes underwater viewing areas for close encounters with the animals
- Family-Friendly Fun: An exciting and educational experience for both children and adults
14. The Citygarden Sculpture Park
Explore the urban oasis of Citygarden, a stunning sculpture park in Downtown St. Louis.
- Artistic Experience: Features a collection of contemporary sculptures
- Relaxing Environment: Set within a tranquil, urban park, perfect for a peaceful stroll
- Unique Attraction: A one-of-a-kind sculpture park in an urban setting
15. The Gravois Bluffs Park & Bottleworks
Visit the historic Bottleworks and explore the unique Gravois Bluffs Park, which overlooks the Mississippi River.
- Historical Significance: Features a preserved bottle-making facility from the early 20th century
- Outdoor Activities: Offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of the Mississippi River
- Photography Opportunities: Provides picturesque backdrops for stunning photos