When traveling... eating, shopping, and having fun is all part of the total experience.  Here are our Top Picks of places to go. 

[Attractions]  [Day Trips]   [Dining]   [Entertainment]   [Shopping]    [Tours]

 Dining 

 

West County Area

 

 

Almonds

8127 Maryland Ave.

(314) 725-1019

 

Tony is always in the kitchen cooking up great favorites.  He has a wood fired oven that produces a flavor that is out of the world.  I tried the salmon and now I am really spoiled.  Call ahead for reservations.

 

 

 

Cafe Provencal

34 N. Central

(314) 725-2755

 

For a romantic evening and French cuisine that is just right for your pallet you must try Cafe Provencal.  With their open kitchen you can see Chef Bernard prepare his specialties.  I tried his boeut en daube (beef stew) and I was ready for seconds.  They also have a great wine list to choose from.

 

 

Dierdorf & Hart's 

734 West Port Plaza

(314) 878-1801

www.dierdorfharts.com

 

When it comes to fine dining, football legends Dierdorf and Hart have put together a winner.  Their award winning chefs and staff will treat you to one of the best meals you will ever experience. My sirloin strip was so tender I could have cut it with a butter knife.  When it comes to a great steaks and seafood, the locals go to Dierdorf & Hart's.

 

 

Harvest Restaurant

1059 South Big Bend 

(314) 645-3522

www.harveststlouis.com

 

Harvest features fresh local and seasonal ingredients,
beautifully presented, in a casual, warm setting. Harvest takes
American cuisine to a new level, transforming seafood, steaks,
chicken, game, and vegetables into multi-tiered presentations of flavors
and textures. Centrally located in the Clayton-Richmond Heights corridor,
Harvest is just 5 minutes from downtown St. Louis and the airport.

 

 

Marciano's

333 West Port Plaza

(314) 878-8180

 

One name says it all when it comes to fine Italian Food. Marciano's!  It's the tradition of Italian cooking from the "Hill" in West County.  You will love their wine selection as well.

 

 

Ozzie's Restaurant & Sports Bar

645 West Port Plaza

(314) 434-1000

 

This is a great place to hang out.  They have TV's everywhere and a huge bar for happy hour.  Plus their dining area offers a great time for the entire family with a menu that easy on the pocket book.  I was impressed looking at the  13 Gold Gloves belonging to Ozzie Smith, "Mr. Hall of Fame" himself.

 With my tummy full, I could have stayed around for another hour just viewing the pictures and other memorabilia. 

 

 

Trainwreck Saloon

720 West Port Plaza            and        9243 Manchester Road

    (314) 434-7222                                   (314)962-8148

www.trainwrecksaloon.com

 

We had a great time at the Trainwreck.  Try their bison or ostrich burgers with your favorite brew.  They have one of the largest beer selections in town with 24 of America's finest beers on tap.  At night it's party time with live bands to dance into the night.

 

 

 

Down Town

 

Mike Shannon's Steaks and Seafood

100 N. Seventh Street

(314) 421-1540

www.shannonsteak.com

 

For steaks that melt in your mouth and desserts that are out of the world, you must try Mike Shannon's.  It's fine dining in a sophisticated sports atmosphere for lunch and dinner.  Named #1 beef Restaurant in the St. Louis Metro area for three years. In addition to great food, you will enjoy the trophies and memorabilia here.  Live music on Saturday nights. 

 

 

Morgan Street Brewery

721 N Second Street

(314) 231-9970

www.morganstreetbrewery.com

 

It's time for a "brewski" and no better place then Morgan Street Brewery.  Believe it or not, I have never tried micro beer and after having Steve's "Honey Wheat" lager, I am now converted.  My experience with dinner was no exception either. I had Lobster Ravioli with spicy shrimp, blue crab and mixed veggies in an herb cream sauce that was delicious.

 

 

Show-Me's

The Landing

724 N. First Street

(314) 241-8245

www.showmes.com

 

This is a great Florida Beach style restaurant that serves up the best shrimp tails in town.  The owner Ron, takes good care of his customers with a friendly staff and great food.  Check them out for lunch, after a game or a late night dinner.  I had their Fried Shrimp Dinner... too bad it wasn't all you can eat, because I would have broke the bank.

 

Trainwreck Saloon Laclede's Landing

720 N. First Street

(314) 436-1006

www.trainwrecksaloon.com

 

We had a great time at the Trainwreck.  Try their bison or ostrich burgers with your favorite brew.  They have one of the largest beer selections in town with 24 of America's finest beers on tap.  At night it's party time with live bands to dance into the night.

 

 

 

 

 

Shopping

 

Curt Parker Jewelers

10192 Conway Road

(314) 989-9909

www.curtparker.com

 

We're not your "Grandfather's Jeweler." We are up-to-date in design and technology. We're hip, we're happening, we're now! We are International Award-winning designers. Use our website to learn more about the world of Curt Parker Jewelers. Preferred Jeweler of the St. Louis Rams.

 

 

Doctor John's

Airport                                                   Down Town
11431 St. Charles Rock Rd.            20 Morgan Street on the Landing
(314) 291-5997                                       (314) 588-1800
www.doctorjohns.com               
                        

This lingerie and adult novelty boutique is a fun place to shop.  They have a full line of swimwear, shoes, dancewear, videos, DVD's and of course, adult novelties.  Give your partner a chance to explore your wildest fantasies and make them a reality.  I really liked this store for it's professionalism and making me feel comfortable with a little humor.  Not to mention getting an education too! 

 

 

The Designing Block

7735 Clayton Rd.

(314) 721-4224

www.designingblock.com

 

Well known St. Louis Interior Designer Susan Block has created an atmosphere with such ambiance that one could easily spend many hours browsing in her store. Peruse a special place filled with a whimsical and eclectic mixture of merchandise designed to add comfort, tranquility and personality to your home.

 

 

The Diamond Shop

12 N. Central Ave

(314) 721-2210

www.thediamondshop.net

 

The Diamond Shop is a great place to look for that special gift while in town.  The Kohn family have been serving clients for 50 years with exceptional designers like; Tacorie, Gonshor, Techline, Movado and Concord.  For that person touch, Thom Kohn can custom design you a unique piece with gold or platinum.  

 

Levine Hat Company

1416 Washington Ave.

(314) 231-3359

www.levinehats.com

 

For generations, Levine Hat Company has been the premier source for fine quality men's headwear. The largest hat store in the world, our selection includes such styles as the fedora, homburg, derby, outback, and a full line of leather and cloth caps. With trusted brand names including Stetson, Kangol, Dobbs, Knox, Stacy Adams, Akubra, and Borsalino, you know what excellent quality to expect. Whether you prefer the classic look of a homburg or the modern look of a Kangol ivy cap, Levine's has it all.

 

TimeKeepers

17 N. Meramec and 9495 Olive Street

(314) 721-4548

www.watchcountry.com

 

A family owned business since 1979 provides expertise in buying, selling, appraising and repair of fine jewelry, timepieces and collectibles.  This is a great store to visit for one-of-a-kind items from estate sales.  I was impressed with the 16th Century clocks, the huge selection of wristwatches and the antique animatronics.  

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

Backstreet Jazz & Blues Club

610 West Port Plaza

(314) 878-5800

 

It's the best live jazz and blues in West County.  Catch the hottest sounds in town featuring the finest artists around. 

 

 

The Big Bang!

807 N. Second Street

(314) 241-2264

www.thebigbangbar.com

 

If you have never been to a dueling piano bar, you must go to the Big Bang! You will have the time of your life watching the talented duo play your favorite tunes and be entertained like you've never been entertained before.  You will sing, shout and laugh into the wee hours of the morning.  This is one place you must check out.

 

 

Casino Queen

200 S. Front St.

East St. Louis, IL

(800) 777-0777

www.casinoqueen.com

 

Only downtown area casino offering free admission, no buy-in or wagering limits, no hassles.  Opposite the Arch with restaurants, free parking, free downtown shuttle, Metrolink.

 

 

The Funny Bone

West Port Plaza

(314) 469-6692

www.funnyboneusa.com

 

A West Port landmark which has booked the nation's top names in stand-up comedy for more than 15 years.  Be prepared  to laugh your socks.  They are sure to tickle your funny bone!

 

Diamond Cabaret

1401 Mississippi 

Sauget, IL

(618) 274-0380

www.ptsshowclub.com

 

The Diamond Cabaret is St. Louis' premier gentleman's club.  You will experience first class entertainment, premium cigars and champagne with six stages of fun with beautiful dream girls.  You won't want to miss one moment of the non-stop action.  The club is just 10 minutes from downtown.

 

 

PT's Sports Cabaret

400 Monsanto Ave.

Sauget, IL

(618) 274-4500

www.ptsshowclub.com

 

It's St. Louis' hot spot for fun and sports.  TV's galore and "Dream Girls" that will melt the ice in your drink.  It's great food and entertainment and the club management is top notch when it comes to creating a safe and fun place to come and relax.

 

President Casino

Laclede's Landing at St. Louis Riverfront

(314) 622-3000

www.presidentcasino.com

 

 It's Vegas action...St. Louis style.  If you are looking for some action, come aboard today, and bring "Lady Luck" with you to our tables and 1,200 slots.  We provide free shuttle bus service from most downtown hotels, free self-parking, valet parking and nearby Metro Link stop.  Check out our buffet for great food and our new Galaxy Room for St. Louis Blues and Jazz. 

 

 

Attractions

 

Gateway Arch- Jefferson National Expansion Memorial

St. Louis Riverfront

877-982-1410

www.gatewayarch.com

 

At 630 ft., our nation's tallest manmade monument has plenty of exciting activities.  Visit the Arch and see a giant screen movie, a documentary film on the building of the Arch, a museum, shopping and "Journey To The Top" - the tram experience that blasts you to the past before you take the ride to the top.  Winter Hrs. 9am - 6pm, Summer Hrs. 8am - 10 pm.

 

Museum of Transportation

3015 Barrett Station Road

(314) 965-7998

www.museumoftransport.org

 

More than 300 pieces including locomotives, passenger and freight cars, trolleys, automobiles, streetcars, buses, aircraft and Missouri River Towboat.  $4 adults; $1.50 children and seniors 65+'under 5 free. 

 

Missouri Botanical Gardens

4344 Shaw Blvd.

(314) 7577-9400

www.mobot.org

 

See the world at the largest traditional Japanese garden in North America, the Kemper Center for Home Gardening, the Climatron rain forest and more.  Daily 9am - 5pm.

 

National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows

442 S. DeMazenod Dr.

Belleville, IL

(314) 241-3400

www.snows.org

 

Largest outdoor shrine in North America.  Gift shop, restaurant, and hotel.  Eight devotional areas.  Daily Masses.  Grounds open 6 am - 10 pm year round. 

 

Purina Farms

200 Checkerboard Dr.

Gray Summit

(314) 982-3232

www.purina.com

 

I-44 to Gray Summit exit, Hwy. 100 to Country Rd. MM.  Live pets, displays, hands-on activities and animal demonstrations.  Mid-March to mid November .. Reservations required.  FREE.

 

St. Louis Science Center

5050 Oakland Ave

(800) 456-7572

www.slsc.org

 

Explore 700 exhibits on environment, aviation, technology and more; life-size dinosaurs and the new James S. McDonnel Planetarium's Space Station experience, OMNIMAX Theater and traveling exhibitions for nominal fee. Sat. - Thurs 9am - 5pm; fri., 9am - 9pm.  FREE

 

St. Louis Zoo

Forest Park

(314) 781-0900

www.stlzoo.org

 

World-class zoo with more than 6,600 animals.  New exhibits inclue River's Edge and the Insectarium.  Natural habitat areas include Big Cat Country, Jungle of the Apes, Children's Zoo. Daily 9am - 5pm; until dusk on Tue. in summer.  FREE 

 

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

Old Route 66 - 6726 Chippewa

(314) 481-2652

www.teddrewes.com

 

A St. Louis tradition on Old Route 66 since 1929.  Known for specialty "concrete" shakes, so thick you can turn them upside down.

 

Missouri History Museum

(Missouri Historical Society)

Forest Park

(314) 746-4599

www.mohistory.org

 

Tour "Seeking St. Louis," a new permanent exhibition spanning two exciting and interactive galleries.  Dine in the fabulous restaurant.  Watch for traveling exhibitions and special events.  Open daily. FREE

 

 

City Museum

701 N. 15th Street

(314) 231-2489

www.citymuseum.org

 

Explore the unexpected at this exciting museum for children and adults.  Art, science, history, aquatic, history  and fun weave together in this one-of-a-kind downtown attraction.  $7.50 per person

 

Day Trips

 

Historic Saint Charles

Saint Charles, MO

(800) 366-2427

www.historicstcharles.com

 

Founded in 1769 by French Canadian, Louis Blanchette, has been welcoming visitors for over 200 years.  Come walk in the footsteps of America's ancestors, enjoy our many attractions, savor on outstanding dining experience and indulge yourself in a unique shopping experience. 

 

We also invite you to  the many festivals each year.  Check them out at our web site.

 

 

National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows

442 S. DeMazenod Dr.

Belleville, IL

(314) 241-3400

www.snows.org

 

Largest outdoor shrine in North America.  Gift shop, restaurant, and hotel.  Eight devotional areas.  Daily Masses.  Grounds open 6 am - 10 pm year round. 

 

 

 

 

Tours

 

Discover St. Louis Tours

Seventh ST. & Washington Ave.

(314) 522-6367/(800) 628-3093

www.discover-stlouis.com

 

One and one-half hour guided walking tours of downtown St. Louis.  No reservations necessary.  Tours begin from the Visitor Information Cneter at America's Center.  May 1 through Sept. 14, Wed., Thur. and Sat., 10am - noon.

 

JED Limousine Service

(314) 429-2200/(800) 800-JED1

www.jedlimousine.com

 

St. Louis' largest limousine service featuring 6, 8, & 10 passenger limousines, sedans, vans, mini buses, motorcoaches and executive buses.  Mercedes-Benz sedans since 1967.

 

Gray Line of St. Louis

(314) 241-1224

www.vblinc.com or www.grayline.com

 

Be picked up at your hotel and enjoy one of our daily tours.  Learn about our great city with stories handed down from generations and see many St. Louis attractions and historical site in comfort and total relaxation.  Daily tours are available from April 1st - October 31st.