Discover the history and charm of St. Louis, the central hub of the metro area. From its iconic Gateway Arch to its suburban expanses, this city has weathered challenges and remains a beautiful destination to explore

Courtesy of Roger Hunt
St. Louis has weathered significant challenges over the decades, akin to a marriage gone awry, resulting in a dwindling population. Yet, those who have departed have merely shifted to the county.
The county of St. Louis, to be precise. Pose a question to any resident within the metro area about their hometown, and they’re likely to respond with “St. Louis.” They typically bypass mentioning suburbs such as Ferguson, University City, Wellston, or Clayton. This is because St. Louis remains the central hub, despite a reduction of over 400,000 inhabitants within fifty decades.
St. Louis is a city of beauty, nestled against the eastern banks of the Mississippi River, with suburban expanses stretching to the west, where the Missouri River converges. The city’s allure is emblemized by the iconic Gateway Arch, a distinguished element of the National Park System, enhancing its symbolic charm.
Consequently, some would argue that the Arch should not be included in the National Park System… but that is a topic for another time.
Standing at 630 feet, the Gateway Arch serves as a reminder that St. Louis is truly unique. Although the city’s boundaries are more confined than those of its western neighbor, Kansas City, Missouri, St. Louis boasts the largest media market and serves as the metropolitan center of Missouri. Consequently, it holds the 22nd position in the Metropolitan Statistical Area rankings in the United States. This is reflective of the trend where the majority opt for suburban life in St. Louis over city living.

And did I mention, the free world-class consistent no. 1, Zoological Park, located in the US’s largest urban park Forest Park? Moreover, Forest Park hosted Missouri’s only World’s Fair in 1904.
In addition, keep in mind, that we may have dropped from being the most dangerous town. But, still use caution as you explore.
How to stay safe while a tourist:
- Know where you are going at all times; don’t always rely on GPS, use common sense.
- Do not sit in your car after 2 a.m.; criminals creep at night
- If you know you are a target; females, elders, and some soft-males (Especially Caucasians). Don’t be associating with undesirable downtown or near your hotels. Say hi and move on.
- No lighters, no cell phone use, or handing out coins.
- Keep your bulky iPhones and others out of sight. Use the phone and pocket it.
- Keep your jewelry in a safe at the hotel. Don’t walk downtown St. Louis being flashy.
- Car accident, stay in car. Call 911
- Panhandles and the unhoused are not your friends or your charity, please use precaution, especially downtown, when handing them money or having a conversation.
Don’t be walking around trying to get scammed or carjacked inquiring about drugs.
In closing, travel with your group, don’t be a curious George, and go it alone, because most criminals look for those who are alone and unfamiliar.
Some great attractions to enjoy during the day:
- City Museum; great for kids and adults
- Forest Park/St. Louis Zoological Park
- Busch Stadium/Six Flags St Louis
- Ball Park Village
- The Gateway Arch
- Horseshoe Casino/Four Season Hotel
- Union Station
- Central West End
- Clayton
- Westport
- Tower Grove Park
- South Grand
- City Foundry
- Plaza Frontenac
- Delmar Loop
- City Park Stadium
- The Boulevard at Brentwood
Some Top Eateries:
- Sugar Fire BBQ Downtown
- Trainshed Union Station
- Peacock Diner in Delmar Loop
- In Da Loop Restaurant
- The Cheesecake Factory Galleria
- Salt & Smoke BBQ Ball Park Village
- First Watch Brunch Restaurant
- Forever Yours Restaurant
- The City Foundry
- Steve’s Hot Dog & More
- Tripe City North City
- The Hill
- The Historic Armory (world’s largest bar)
- Krab Kingz Seafood
Coming soon is the Memorial Day weekend and summer weather fun. So, the St Louis Argus wants you to enjoy our city but please watch your surroundings.
#StLouis #GatewayArch #ExploreTheCity #Food #safety #historic #architecture
Video by Travel with Bo
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