Explore St. Louis
We are thrilled to welcome you to St. Louis for CGA-IGC 2025! Check out our list of 5 must-visit attractions while you’re in the Gateway City.
1. Gateway Arch & Gateway Arch National Park
Why Visit: The 630-foot Gateway Arch is St. Louis’s most iconic landmark, offering spectacular views of the city and the Mississippi River from the observation deck. The surrounding park is a lovely place to stroll.
Typical Hours: The Gateway Arch Visitor Center and the tram ride to the top are usually open daily (with extended hours in summer and reduced hours in winter). In early to mid-October, you can generally expect them to be open from morning through late afternoon or early evening.
Entrance / Ticket Info:
- Entrance to Gateway Arch National Park (the grounds) is free.
- Tram ride to the top: Around $15–$19 per adult, $11–$15 for kids (ages 3–15). Online booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially around holidays or busy weekends.
Tips:
- Check the National Park Service website for any planned maintenance or closures.
- Arrive early for your tram ride reservation to allow time for security and to explore the museum.
2. Saint Louis Zoo
Why Visit: Consistently ranked as one of the best zoos in the country, the Saint Louis Zoo features more than 17,000 animals across 600 species. It’s located in scenic Forest Park, giving you plenty of green space to enjoy.
Typical Hours: Open every day of the year except Christmas and New Year’s Day. Hours in October are usually around 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (extended hours possible on weekends).
Entrance / Ticket Info:
- Free admission to enter.
- Some special exhibits/experiences: $3–$8 (for example, the Stingrays at Caribbean Cove exhibit or the Zooline Railroad).
- Parking: $15–$30, depending on the lot and whether it’s peak time.
Tips:
- Arrive close to opening time to find free street parking in Forest Park (if available).
- Wear comfortable shoes, as it’s large and spread out.
3. City Museum
Why Visit: A one-of-a-kind attraction made of repurposed architectural and industrial objects, City Museum is a playground/art installation/maze for all ages. Expect climbing tunnels, slides (including the famed 10-story slide), and plenty of interactive art.
Typical Hours: Generally open Wednesday–Sunday (hours can vary by season). In October, they’re often open late on weekends, making it great for an evening visit.
Entrance / Ticket Info:
- General admission: Usually $20–$25 per person, plus tax. Children under 2 are often free.
- Additional fees may apply for roof access or special exhibits.
Tips:
- Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes.
- If you have kids, keep an eye on them in the maze-like areas!
4. Missouri Botanical Garden
Why Visit: One of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States, the Missouri Botanical Garden (often called Shaw’s Garden) features beautifully landscaped grounds, a Climatron® geodesic dome conservatory, and seasonal exhibits (like the popular Garden Glow in winter, though that typically starts in November).
Typical Hours: Open daily, typically 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; hours can extend for special events.
Entrance / Ticket Info:
- Adults (ages 13–64): Around $14–$16.
- Children (ages 12 and under): Free (though certain special events may have a fee).
- St. Louis City/County residents: Often receive discounted admission (proof of residency required).
Tips:
- October is a lovely time for fall foliage in the garden.
- Check the Garden’s schedule for any special autumn-themed events.
5. Saint Louis Science Center
Why Visit: An interactive science museum featuring exhibits on space, engineering, and more. The Saint Louis Science Center features hands-on displays, an IMAX theater, and an outdoor exhibit area that occasionally hosts special events.
Typical Hours: Usually open daily in October, around 9:30 AM–5:30 PM (may vary). Closed on some major holidays.
Entrance / Ticket Info:
- General admission: Free (suggested donation welcomed).
- Planetarium shows: $6–$8.
- OMNIMAX Theater tickets: $9–$12 (discounts often available for multiple shows or combos).
Tips:
- If you plan to see a Planetarium or OMNIMAX show, buy or reserve tickets in advance—especially on weekends.
- Parking in the main lot typically costs around \$12–\$15.
Practical Planning Notes
1- Operating Hours Can Shift
While these attractions are generally open year-round (except for major holidays), always check their official websites for the exact schedule, especially if you’re visiting on weekdays or off-peak seasons.
2- Discounts & Bundles
Many St. Louis attractions offer memberships, city passes, or bundle deals. If you plan on visiting multiple fee-based attractions, it may be cost-effective to explore those options.
3- Special Events
October often sees events like Halloween-themed exhibits or fall festivals. Keep an eye on each venue’s events calendar for special programming that might affect crowds or ticket prices.
Enjoy your visit to St. Louis!