2 Days in St. Louis: Budget-Friendly Fun

Discovering the Gateway to the West on a shoestring budget.

21 June 2023

Explore the Gateway Arch for free and enjoy breathtaking views of the city from its top. Visit the St. Louis Zoo to see over 17,000 animals from around the world without spending a penny. Take a stroll through Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, offering free admission to its museums, gardens, and art exhibits.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the City

  • Check in to the Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis Forest Park, a budget-friendly hotel located near the famous Forest Park.
  • Start your day with breakfast at Rooster, where you can try their delicious crepes and pastries.
  • Visit the iconic Gateway Arch and take a tram ride to the top for stunning views of the city.
  • Head to the City Museum, a one-of-a-kind attraction that combines a playground, funhouse, and surrealistic pavilion for an unforgettable experience.
  • Take a stroll along the Delmar Loop, a vibrant street filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
  • End the day with dinner at Pappy's Smokehouse, where you can indulge in some of the best BBQ in town.
Day 2

Cultural Immersion

  • Start your day with breakfast at Southwest Diner, a cozy spot serving up delicious southwest-style breakfast classics.
  • Visit the Saint Louis Art Museum, which features over 34,000 works of art from around the world, including works by Monet, Picasso, and Van Gogh.
  • Take a tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, where you can learn about the history of the famous Budweiser beer and see the Clydesdale horses up close.
  • Explore the vibrant Soulard neighborhood, known for its blues music and historic architecture.
  • Have dinner at Gioia's Deli, a local favorite for their authentic Italian sandwiches and fresh-baked bread.
  • End the night with drinks and live music at the Off Broadway Venue, located in the heart of the historic Cherokee neighborhood.
  • St. Louis may not be the first place on your list for a trip, but with a rich history and culture, amazing foodie spots, and tons of attractions, it's definitely worth a visit. Enjoy your stay in this Midwestern gem!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to St. Louis is by flying into St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) which serves multiple airlines and offers direct flights from major cities across the country.

Car

Driving to St. Louis is an option, with major highways such as I-70 and I-55 connecting to the city. However, traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.

Train

While there are no direct train services to St. Louis, taking the Amtrak train to nearby cities such as Kansas City or Chicago followed by a connecting bus or rental car may be an option.

Boat

St. Louis is located on the Mississippi River, but there are no regular passenger boat services to the city. Private boat charters may be available for those looking for a unique travel experience.

Bus

Greyhound offers bus services to St. Louis from various cities across the United States, with the St. Louis Greyhound station located downtown.

Destination

St. Louis

Welcome to the gateway of the west, where the arch is mighty and the barbecue is mightier.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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5 Days in the Gateway: St. Louis on a Budget

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