Top 10 Hidden Gems in St. Louis

When you visit St. Louis you can expect delicious BBQ, soulful blues, and historic Mississippi paddle-wheelers to accompany your visit, just a few things that set this Missouri city apart from the rest. In this fun Gateway City, you will discover classics such as the iconic 630 foot Gateway Arch, the Cardinals' Busch Stadium, and the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, but we're sure there are several locations you haven't heard of that you need to as well!


  1. Union Station Whispering Arch - The Whispering Arch at St. Louis’ Union Station is at the top of our list for hidden gems, the unique "sound focusing" destination something not many locals or tourists know about. Find the plaque on the second floor North Entrance and face the walls on opposite sides of the archways (don’t look up while whispering). Under the four archways of stone, the sound path reflects from even 10 meters away, allowing you to hear your friend perfectly.
  2. Lemp Mansion - The Lemp Mansion in St. Louis is the historic stately mansion known for its fine Sunday family dinners, luxury lodging, and perhaps most importantly, its historic hauntings! Tour this restaurant and inn with its four suites, kitchen, gift shop, and museum and learn all about the history of John Adams, from beer mogul and millionaire to the bearer of a family tragedy. You will learn all about the many tragedies within the residence, as well as enjoy a haunted tour, dinner, or cocktails!
  3. Moolah Theatre - Welcome to the Moolah Theater, the first single-screen theater in the area in decades! This former Shriner's temple on Lindell Boulevard is the perfect place to grab a sofa, a cocktail, and a flick, as well as perhaps some bowling in the eight-lane retro alley within! This 1913 classic complex holds 110,000 square feet full of theater-style concessions, a full bar, and even 20 luxury lofts!
  4. Castlewood State Park - Castlewood State Park is the perfect secluded place to connect with nature, the entire 1,818-acre natural park a highly respected hiking and mountain biking area. Here, on Kiefer Creek Road, you will have access to the Meramec River, one of the best mountain biking trails in the area, fishing opportunities, recreational facilities, and views of the amazing lush valleys filled with wildlife. What was once a popular partying retreat for early 1900 St. Louis locals is now a quiet place to enjoy local beauty.
  5. Carl’s Drive-In - Though more than likely not hidden to the locals, Carl’s Drive-In is probably something a wandering tourist isn't privy too, which is why we’ve included it. At Carl’s, you will enjoy an old-school Route 66 themed dinner that features the absolute best local burgers, barrel root beer, and fresh onion rings. This place is no joke, being a Manchester Road classic since 1959 and earning the title of being one of the nation’s top 10 burger joints by MSNBC and Fox News. Don’t miss this funky and delicious landmark!
  6. Graffiti Wall -  The Kosciusko Graffiti Wall is the only legal, primed wall space in St. Louis, spanning over one mile full of local artist's best work. Located along the Mississippi riverfront, right next to the Arch, this is the perfect place to get a free glimpse at local art, culture, and even history, as this wall has ties with the monumental Paint Louis event in the early 2000s. The great thing about this hidden gem? There is new art being constantly added, meaning your visit will always be new and exciting!
  7. Museum of the Dog - St. Louis natives love their dogs so much, they even have their own hidden gem of a museum dedicated to them! Here at the American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog in Queeny Park, you will find the world’s finest collection of art devoted entirely to the dog, over 14,000 square feet (over 700 original works) of fine dog art, culture, and history. There’s even a fancy gift shop/pet store onsite!
  8. Historic Soulard Market - Welcome to the city's most historic market, Soulard Market on Carroll Street, located just a half-mile from Anheuser-Busch. Enjoy this year-round St. Louis tradition with over 200 years of experience, history, and culture, featuring the finest locally grown produce, meats, cheeses, spices, kettle corn, baked goods, flowers, and local crafts. You will even be able to try the wares of local eateries and specialty shops along the way!
  9. Juniper - Juniper is a local eatery that has really taken off since its creative inception by owner John Perkins. This establishment is considered a Southern Table and Bar, a classic and inventive take on old-school family classics. Enjoy the hip atmosphere, family-oriented feel, and exposed brick decor as you chow down on some Ozark pudding, fried catfish, or scrumptious chicken and waffles, or perhaps a cola high-baller or Monday Meat and Three special! This one is definitely worth the stop!
  10. Museum of Transportation - Another unique museum located in St. Louis is the Museum of Transportation, a hidden gem full of historic vehicles, cars, planes, and of course, over 70 authentic locomotives. This indoor and outdoor museum holds several stunning classic cars and steamers and tons of local history (not to mention transportation history in general) that you won’t want to miss while here!