A few questions for party of two adults

Question

My adult son and I are traveling to St. Louis this coming week, staying three nights at the Hampton Inn, Butler Hill/I 55. We're coming for a memorial service and plan to see a few relatives while in the city. But, we will have some free time. I know that being February, some attractions are closed or impractical, depending on the weather. We're considering Union Station as we haven't been there in many years. Any other suggestions? I'm originally from St. Louis and we've traveled there many times over the years. We've been to a lot of the attractions. But, we haven't been there in about ten years now.

Also, we'd like to go out to lunch or dinner on The Hill. We've been to Cunetto's several times, but recent reviews say its not as good as it used to be. We've been to Anthonino's, but weren't big fans of it. Not looking for somewhere too upscale. Any suggestions beyond those two mentioned?

Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Answer

It's great that you're returning to St. Louis after some time away! With your limited free time, here are some suggestions that should make the most of your trip, given the season and your preferences.

Things to Do in St. Louis

Union Station: As you mentioned, Union Station is definitely worth a visit. It has undergone some renovations in recent years and now includes attractions like the St. Louis Aquarium and the St. Louis Wheel, both of which are indoors and great for a winter visit. The station itself is historic, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops, and beautiful architecture to enjoy. It’s a good spot to spend a few hours, especially if you’re interested in a blend of history and modern attractions.
St. Louis Art Museum: Even though you’ve been to many attractions, the St. Louis Art Museum (located in Forest Park) is a gem worth revisiting. It has a fantastic collection and offers free admission to the permanent galleries. It’s a peaceful and enriching spot to spend some time, and the architecture and park setting are beautiful.
Missouri Botanical Garden: While it’s cold outside, the Missouri Botanical Garden is still an excellent destination if you love nature. The Climatron (a tropical conservatory) and the indoor gardens provide a warm escape and are visually stunning, even in winter. The garden is also home to the beautiful Japanese Garden, which is worth a stroll if the weather permits.
The Gateway Arch National Park: Even if you've seen it before, the Arch is iconic and offers spectacular views of the city, particularly from the top. The museum at the base has also been revamped and is worth checking out if you haven’t been in a while.
Old Courthouse: If you’re in the area, the Old Courthouse is a piece of St. Louis history. It was the site of the Dred Scott case, and it now houses exhibits on the Civil War and the history of St. Louis. It’s located near the Arch, so it can be combined with a visit there.

Dining on The Hill

It sounds like you're looking for some great, casual dining options on The Hill, which is known for its Italian heritage and amazing food. Since you’ve already tried Cunetto's and Anthonino’s, here are a few other places to consider:

Gioia's Deli: A local favorite for years, Gioia’s is famous for its St. Louis-style sandwiches, especially the hot salami. It's a casual spot with great comfort food, and many consider it an essential stop in the city.
Charlie Gitto's: Located on the Hill, Charlie Gitto's is an institution in St. Louis. While it's a bit more upscale than the places you mentioned, it’s still comfortable and not overly fancy. Their toasted ravioli and other Italian dishes are highly praised. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a classic Italian meal with some history behind it.
Favazza's: Favazza’s is another staple on The Hill, known for its classic Italian-American dishes. The restaurant has a cozy, family-friendly vibe, and the portions are generous. It's a great spot for a casual but delicious meal.
DiGregorio's: If you're in the mood for something more casual and authentic, DiGregorio's is a great neighborhood Italian grocery and deli. They offer delicious sandwiches, pasta, and other Italian favorites at an affordable price. It’s a bit off the beaten path but perfect if you want to try something different.

Additional Suggestions

Laumeier Sculpture Park: If you have any time outdoors, Laumeier Sculpture Park in Sunset Hills is a great option, especially if the weather is mild. It’s an open-air museum with a variety of contemporary sculptures set in a beautiful park.
City Museum: While it's a bit more kid-friendly, the City Museum is an indoor playground that is equally fun for adults. It’s quirky, creative, and one-of-a-kind. If you’ve never been, it’s worth a visit, especially if you’re looking for something unique and offbeat.

Summary

With your time in St. Louis, I recommend combining a visit to Union Station for some fun indoor attractions, with a trip to places like the Art Museum or Botanical Gardens for a more cultural or relaxing experience. For dining on The Hill, consider trying Gioia's Deli, Charlie Gitto's, or Favazza's to get a taste of authentic, casual Italian cuisine. Enjoy your time in the city, and I hope the memorial service and time with your family go well!

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