Convention

Question

We will be in town for 3 days for a Convention. We will be staying close to the Convention Center. What restaurants and evening activities do you suggest?

Answer

Staying near the St. Louis Convention Center puts you in downtown, within walking distance or a short drive to many restaurants and evening activities. Downtown has a mix of casual, upscale, and local dining options, as well as nightlife and entertainment suitable for convention-goers looking to relax after a day of meetings.

Restaurants near the Convention Center:

BB’s Jazz, Blues & Soups: Classic St. Louis fare with live music in the evenings, perfect for a relaxed dinner.
Eleven Eleven Mississippi: Upscale American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients, just a short walk from the riverfront.
Bridge Tap House & Wine Bar: Casual spot with a good selection of craft beers and small plates, ideal for a post-convention meal.
Pastaria: Italian-inspired menu with fresh pastas, great for groups or casual dinners.
The Crossing: Fine dining with contemporary American dishes, a good option if you’re looking for a more formal evening.

Evening activities in downtown St. Louis:

Explore Laclede’s Landing: Historic district along the riverfront with bars, music venues, and casual dining.
Catch a show: Check the schedule at the Fabulous Fox Theatre or Powell Symphony Hall if you want live performances.
Visit the Gateway Arch at night: The Arch and riverfront are beautifully lit in the evenings and provide great photo opportunities.
Rooftop bars and lounges: Several hotels downtown have rooftop bars with city views, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Casino nightlife: Nearby Lumière Place Casino offers gaming, dining, and entertainment in one location.

Additional tips:

Many downtown restaurants are within walking distance, but rideshares are convenient if you want to explore slightly farther neighborhoods.
If you enjoy craft cocktails or local beers, ask for recommendations at smaller bars in the downtown and Central West End areas.
Reservations are recommended for popular spots, especially on weekends or during convention season.

Overall, staying near the Convention Center gives you excellent access to both dining and evening entertainment. You can mix casual dinners and drinks with a bit of St. Louis culture and nightlife without spending a lot of time traveling between locations.