3 day stay in St Louis

Question

My husband and I are looking at flying into St Louis from Chicago early March. We are from Australia & have never been to St Louis before

We are looking at having 3 days there. Could I have recommendations on where to stay & things to do please

Answer

St. Louis is a vibrant city with a rich mix of history, culture, and outdoor attractions, making it a great destination for a 3-day visit. Since this will be your first time, staying in a central location is ideal for minimizing travel time and maximizing sightseeing opportunities.

Where to stay:

Downtown / Gateway Arch area: This is the heart of St. Louis, close to the iconic Gateway Arch, the Mississippi Riverfront, and many museums and restaurants. Hotels here offer easy walking access to several attractions.
Central West End / Clayton: These neighborhoods are slightly quieter and more upscale, with charming streets, good dining options, and easy access to public transportation and highways.
Forest Park / Delmar Loop: Ideal if you prefer a more relaxed, residential feel but still want access to cultural attractions. Forest Park is home to major museums and the St. Louis Zoo.

Suggested 3-day itinerary:

Day 1 – Downtown & Gateway Arch: Start at the Gateway Arch and take the tram ride to the top for city views. Explore the Museum of Westward Expansion beneath the Arch. Walk along the Mississippi riverfront and consider a riverboat cruise. Have dinner in the downtown area or nearby Laclede’s Landing.
Day 2 – Forest Park & Museums: Spend the day in Forest Park, which is larger than Central Park in NYC. Visit the St. Louis Art Museum, the Science Center, or the Missouri History Museum. If you enjoy wildlife, the St. Louis Zoo is free and highly recommended. End the day with dinner in the Central West End or Delmar Loop area.
Day 3 – Local culture & neighborhoods: Explore the Delmar Loop for shopping, dining, and live music. Consider a visit to the City Museum, which is a very unique, interactive experience. If time allows, drive to the Missouri Botanical Garden or see the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis with its stunning mosaics.

Additional tips:

St. Louis weather in early March can be chilly and unpredictable, so pack layers and a waterproof jacket.
If you plan to rent a car, downtown hotels have paid parking; consider using public transportation or rideshare for convenience in the city center.
Try some local cuisine such as St. Louis-style pizza, toasted ravioli, and gooey butter cake.
Check opening hours of museums and attractions in advance, as some may have limited winter hours.

With this itinerary, you can get a well-rounded introduction to St. Louis’ history, culture, and neighborhoods without feeling rushed, making the most of your 3-day visit from Chicago.