Things To Do In St. Louis City: The Outwardlab Guide To Urban &

ByEric James Updated on

Thinking about St. Louis, you might picture the Gateway Arch, blues music, and barbecue. You probably don’t picture a launchpad for serious outdoor adventure, a place to hone your survival skills, or a city packed with sprawling green spaces perfect for a day hike.

We’re here to change that. We promise to show you a different side of this historic city, one that speaks directly to the adventurer in you. This guide goes beyond the typical tourist traps to uncover the best outdoor things to do in St. Louis City and its surrounding wilderness.

Get ready to explore rugged trails just minutes from downtown, learn how to paddle a major American river, and discover how to make your urban travels more sustainable and self-reliant. This is your blueprint for adventure in the Gateway City.

Gateway to Adventure: More Than Just an Arch

The Gateway Arch symbolizes St. Louis’s role as the starting point for westward expansion. For the modern explorer, that spirit is still very much alive. The city serves as a perfect urban basecamp, blending rich history with surprising access to wild, natural landscapes.

Instead of just seeing the city, think of it as your staging ground. You can spend the morning tuning up your gear, the afternoon hiking a bluff trail along the Missouri River, and the evening enjoying a local craft beer. This unique blend of urban amenities and rugged nature is one of the key benefits of Things to do in St. Louis City for the outdoor enthusiast.

This guide will show you exactly how to tap into that adventurous spirit, providing practical tips for exploring smartly and safely.

Urban Oases: Finding Your Green Space in the City

You don’t need to drive for hours to find nature. St. Louis is home to some of the most beautiful and expansive urban parks in the country, offering a perfect escape and a place to stretch your legs after a long day in the van or RV.

Forest Park: An Explorer’s Playground

At nearly 1,400 acres, Forest Park is larger than New York’s Central Park and a must-visit. While many come for the free museums, the OutwardLab adventurer will find miles of trails, waterways for paddling, and quiet wooded corners perfect for a trailside lunch.

Consider walking or jogging the 5.5-mile perimeter loop for a great overview. For a more secluded experience, explore the trails in the Kennedy Forest or the Successional Forest. It’s a fantastic place to test out a new pair of trail runners like the Altra Lone Peak before hitting more rugged terrain.

Tower Grove Park: A Victorian Walking Haven

This Victorian-era park is a designated National Historic Landmark, but it’s also a fantastic spot for a long walk or some urban bird-watching. Its well-maintained paths are perfect for a low-impact day, and the stunning architecture of its pavilions provides a unique backdrop.

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This is a great example of eco-friendly Things to do in St. Louis City. Pack a waste-free lunch, bring your reusable water bottle, and enjoy an afternoon reconnecting with nature without leaving the urban core.

Beyond the City Limits: Day Trips for the Serious Adventurer

When you’re ready to trade cityscapes for cliffside views, some of Missouri’s best state parks are just a short drive away. Here are a few of our top picks that offer real challenge and reward. This is our essential Things to do in St. Louis City guide for day-trippers.

Castlewood State Park

Just 30 minutes from downtown, Castlewood offers some of the best hiking and mountain biking in the region. The park is famous for its soaring bluffs overlooking the Meramec River.

  • For Hikers: The River Scene Trail is a challenging 3.25-mile loop that takes you up to the bluff tops for breathtaking views before descending to the river valley. Wear sturdy hiking boots like the Merrell Moab 3, as the climbs can be steep and rocky.
  • For Bikers: The Grotpeter Trail offers over 7 miles of technical single-track that will test your skills. Always wear a helmet and check trail conditions before you go, as trails close after rain.

Pere Marquette State Park

Head an hour north to Illinois for dramatic views of the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. In the winter, this park is a prime location for spotting bald eagles. The Goat Cliff Trail is a local favorite, offering a short but steep climb to a stunning overlook.

A common problem with Things to do in St. Louis City area parks is underestimating the terrain. Missouri and Illinois trails can be rocky, root-filled, and slick when wet. Always carry a small daypack, like the Osprey Talon 22, with water, snacks, a basic first-aid kit, and a map.

Paddling the Big Muddy: A Guide to Urban Water Adventures

Paddling on the Mississippi River might sound intimidating, but with the right guidance, it’s an unforgettable experience. Seeing the Gateway Arch from a kayak offers a perspective few travelers ever get. This is a masterclass in how to Things to do in St. Louis City differently.

We strongly recommend going with a professional outfitter, especially if you’re new to paddling on large rivers. Companies like Big Muddy Adventures offer guided trips that prioritize safety and education. They provide all the gear, including stable canoes or kayaks, and a Personal Flotation Device (PFD), which you must wear at all times.

Their guides are experts on the river’s currents, channels, and hazards. They’ll teach you about the river’s history and ecology, turning a simple paddle into a rich learning experience. This is one of the best ways to connect with the powerful nature that defines this region.

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Building Your Skills: Workshops for the Self-Reliant Explorer

An OutwardLab adventure isn’t just about the destination; it’s about building competence and confidence. St. Louis offers unique opportunities to learn practical skills you can use on the road, on the trail, or on the homestead.

  • Climbing Skills: Hone your rock climbing and problem-solving skills at a place like Climb So iLL. Their facility, built in a repurposed power plant, offers world-class bouldering and rope climbing. It’s a great way to stay strong and practice movement skills on a rest day.
  • Urban Foraging & Homesteading: Look for workshops offered by local organizations or community gardens. While we caution against foraging without expert guidance, taking a class can be a fantastic way to learn plant identification. These workshops often cover skills like canning, composting, and basic botany.
  • Navigation Practice: Use the city’s extensive park systems to practice your map and compass skills. Before relying on a GPS in the deep wilderness, see if you can navigate from one point to another in Forest Park using only a topographic map and a compass like the Suunto A-10.

Sustainable Exploration: Best Practices for Your St. Louis Adventure

As responsible travelers, minimizing our impact is always a top priority. Practicing sustainable Things to do in St. Louis City ensures these natural and urban spaces remain beautiful for generations to come. This is our essential Things to do in St. Louis City care guide for the conscious explorer.

  1. Follow Leave No Trace Principles: This isn’t just for the backcountry. Pack out everything you pack in, even in city parks. Stick to designated trails to prevent erosion, and observe wildlife from a distance.
  2. Reduce Single-Use Plastics: The Midwest can be hot and humid. Instead of buying plastic water bottles, carry a reusable one like a Hydro Flask or Nalgene and refill it. Many parks and public spaces have water fountains.
  3. Support Local: When buying supplies or grabbing a meal, choose local businesses over large chains. Visit a local gear shop for advice, eat at a neighborhood cafe, and buy produce from a farmer’s market. This directly supports the community you’re visiting.
  4. Use Public Transit: To get around the city, consider using the MetroLink light rail system. It’s an efficient and eco-friendly way to get to many attractions, including Forest Park, reducing your carbon footprint.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to do in St. Louis City

What’s the best time of year for outdoor activities in St. Louis?

Fall (September to November) is ideal. The temperatures are cool and comfortable, the humidity drops, and the fall foliage in the state parks is spectacular. Spring (April to May) is also beautiful but can be stormy. Summers are very hot and humid, so plan any activity for the early morning.

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Are there any free outdoor things to do in St. Louis?

Absolutely! One of the best parts of St. Louis is that many of its best attractions are free. All the institutions in Forest Park (like the Zoo and Art Museum) have free admission. Hiking in city and state parks is also free, though some state parks may have parking or entrance fees for specific areas.

Is it safe to hike alone in the parks near St. Louis?

Use the same precautions you would anywhere. Stick to well-marked and well-trafficked trails, especially if you’re alone. Always tell someone your plan: where you are going, what trail you’re hiking, and when you expect to be back. Carry a fully charged phone and consider a personal locator beacon for more remote adventures.

Can I camp in my RV or van near St. Louis City?

Yes, there are several options. Babler State Park and Meramec State Park (a bit further out) have excellent campgrounds with facilities for RVs. For vanlifers looking for something closer, some Cabela’s or Bass Pro Shops locations may allow overnight parking, but always call the store manager to confirm their policy first.

St. Louis is an underrated gem for the outdoor adventurer. It’s a city that rewards the curious explorer with hidden trails, powerful rivers, and a resilient, self-reliant spirit. By looking beyond the obvious, you’ll find a perfect basecamp for your next great adventure.

So pack your daypack, lace up your boots, and get ready to explore the Gateway to the West. The wild is closer than you think. Stay safe and happy trails!

Eric James
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