These free things to do in St Louis include some of the best attractions in the city, so you can visit St Louis on a budget.
St. Louis is known for its Gateway Arch, Blues Heritage and passionate sports culture, and is one of the best places to visit in Missouri. When we moved to Chicago, we knew this was a city (not far from us) that we wanted to explore fully. We love finding the free attractions in a city, so of course, that was the first thing we did with St Louis, at this iconic city along Route 66.
We were pleasantly surprised to find plenty of free things to do in St Louis, ideal for trips, romantic dates and family outings.
Free things to do in St Louis
1. Saint Louis Zoo
Located in Forest Park, the Saint Louis Zoo is one of the top free zoos in the country and one of the best free things to do in St Louis.
Home to over 16,000 animals representing 600 species, visitors can explore exhibits like River’s Edge, the Primate House, and the Penguin & Puffin Coast. The Zoo is dedicated to saving species and bringing people together; making it perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
There are various areas of the zoo, grouping the animals accordingly, and, within each area, are some paid attractions such as the Sea lion Show or a Giraffe Feeding experience.
2. Saint Louis Art Museum
This museum, also situated in Forest Park, features an extensive collection of art spanning cultures and time periods. This is another one of the free things to do in St Louis and a popular place for art lovers.
From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, there’s something for everyone; we love the Van Gogh and Matisse works in display here.
The building itself is also impressive, set inside a beautiful, grand Beaux-Arts building.
3. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis
This breathtaking cathedral is famous for its collection of mosaics, and is one of the largest in the world. This is one of the free things to do in St Louis but there is a donation request of $2 to enter the Mosaic Museum.
Visitors can admire over 41 million glass tiles create intricate religious artwork adorning the walls and ceilings. Visitors are welcome to tour the basilica and admire its architectural beauty and serene atmosphere. The cathedral is open from 7am – 5pm but can close for weddings and special events.
4. Missouri History Museum
Another one of the free things to do in St Louis is the Missouri History Museum; one of my favorite museums in the city. Here, you can dive into the rich history of the city and state, with exhibits sharing the history of the 1904 World’s Fair to the civil rights movement. It’s an engaging way to learn about the region’s past while exploring beautifully curated displays.
Plan to spend at least 2 hours at the museum, as it is extensive. If you are visiting with family, there is also a Kids History Clubhouse area, which can turn your visit into a whole day trip.
5. Saint Louis Science Center
Another great museum and ideal for families, is the Saint Louis Science Center. This museum offers interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and a planetarium. There is also an OMNIMAX Theater but this is an additional cost.
Visitors of all ages can explore topics like robotics, space exploration, and geology; we loved the Dinosaurs and the T.Rex Movie (but this can be a little scary for young children). As brits, we also loved the Doctor Who exhibit, where you can see the ONLY screen-used, full-scale Tardis available for public viewing in North America.
6. Forest Park
As one of the largest urban parks in the United States, Forest Park is a gem with over 1,300 acres of natural beauty and is another one of the best free things to do in St Louis.
It’s home to several major cultural institutions, including the zoo and art museum. Visitors can also enjoy walking trails, boating, and stunning landscape, all for free.
7. Citygarden
Another free green space in the city, is Citygarden. Located downtown, this is an urban park that combines art and nature.
The park features contemporary sculptures, fountains, and lush gardens, making it a great spot for relaxation or a casual stroll. Kids especially love the interactive water features during the summer months and when the sun sets, the water features light up, creating a romantic setting for date nights.
8. Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis
For those who appreciate modern art, this museum offers free admission to cutting-edge exhibits featuring local, national, and international artists. The Contemporary Art Museum is another one of the best free things to do in St Louis, but art enthuasists should consider signing up to the monthly memberships for year-round perks.
Rotating exhibits ensure that there’s always something new to discover, and the sleek design of the building itself adds to the experience.
9. Grant’s Farm
Next on our free things to do in St Louis list is Grant’s Farm, the ideal day out for families. The farm includes a tram ride through a deer park, and a visit to Tiergarten, a petting zoo area. In this area, there are also some rides and concessions that are an additional price.
This is a fun day out and we loved visiting throughout the year, to experience the different seasons at the farm.
10. Lone Elk Park
Not technically located in the city, this free things to do in St Louis makes for a great day trip. The Lone Elk Park is a wildlife management area, of 546 acres of land. Here you will find bison, waterfowl, elk, deer and wild turkey.
The County park is free to visit but donations are encourage.
11. Laumeier Sculpture Park
For something a little unique, why not head to the Laumeier Sculpture Park. This is a 105-acre outdoor area, which features over 70 large scale sculptures. This is a popular attraction in Missouri and holds various education programs, temporary exhibits and public events throughout the year.
12. Museum at the Gateway Arch
Although the Gateway Arch is a paid attraction, you can visit the Museum at the Gateway Arch for free. This museum showcases over 200 years of the city’s history through 6 interactive galleries. We found Colonial St Louis section fascinating and loved hearing about how they built the famous arch.
13. The Muny (free seats)
The Muny is America’s oldest an d largest outdoor musical theatre, with a variety of musical performances. For example, the 2025 season will feature Frozen, Evita and Jersey Boys to name a few.
You can buy tickets in advance to secure your seats, or, head here early (when the gates open) to claim a free seat! These are in the last 9 rows which are available on a first come, first served basis. The 11,000 capacity theatre has almost 1500 free seats for every show.
14. World Chess Hall of Fame
Another one of the best free things to do in St Louis, is the fun World Chess Hall of Fame. Admission is free but there is a donation box near the greeter’s desk.
This museum is a nonprofit instigation, founded in 1984. The museum itself features chess exhibits and maintains a list of inductees to the U.S. Chess Hall of fame and World Chess Hall of Fame. This is a quirky, unique experience in the Central West End neighborhood.
15. Economy Museum at Federal Reserve Bank
Another one of the more unique free things to do in St Louis, is the Economy Museum at Federal Reserve Bank. This offers over 100 interactive exhibits, activities and games that dive into the history of finances and economy. We loved trying to raise a 28-pound gold bar and exploring The Vault.
16. Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum
Art lovers won’t get bored in the city, with our next free things to do in St Louis. The Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum offers free public tours, where you can see the artworks in the museums collection. The museum is only open Monday, Wednesday – Sunday from 11am to 5pm, so plan your visit around these times.
17. Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site
Around a 20 minute drive from the city, is Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site; a free historic site ran by the National Park Service. Ulysses S. Grant is known as a Civil War general, who saved the Union and the 18th President of the United States.
The grounds and visitor center are free to visit and learn about Grant’s life and legacy, as well as his role in the reconstruction and establishment of civil rights policies.
18. Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company Tour
Ok, this is perhaps my favorite free things to do in St Louis. This is a free factory tour, now running 5 days a week (Monday to Friday). The Abel Family opened their new factory in 2012 and offer tours of the factory floor, where you can see, hear, smell and even taste the chocolates.
This is a popular free attraction in St Louis, so reserve your ticket in advance! Tickets are free and tours run every 30 minutes from 9am to 2.30pm, but they can fill up fast. You can book your tour online.
19. Moto Museum
Another one of the best free things to do in St Louis, is the Moto Musuem. We loved this tourist attraction, which features a collection of vintage motorcycles from over 20 countries. This is a private collection, so although admission is free, there is an optional donation box.
20. Grand Hall Light Show
For a 3D Light show, head to the St Louis Union Station Hotel. Each night, on the hour from 5pm to 10pm, is a daily light show. With images of flowers and fireworks dancing around the 65 foot ceiling of the Grand Hall Lobby, this is a popular place for people to stop by and watch.
There are also plenty of great restaurants in the area, if you want to enjoy a meal or drink after watching the light show.
21. Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center
Another great day trip, just outside of the city, is Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center. This is a nature oasis, offering kid-friendly hiking trails, making for the perfect family outing (complete with picnic benches).
This is a 112 acre forest, and includes a gift shop, nature center, educational exhibits and even an 3000 gallon aquarium.
22. Purina Farms
Another popular free things to do in St Louis with children, is the Purina Farms. This is a stroller-friendly spot with plenty of parking and some fun attractions for the family. You can enjoy cow-milking, dog shows, adoptable pets and lots of open space to run around and have fun.
Note: This farm is open during the Spring – Fall months and closes for the Winter.
23. Cahokia Mounds
The Cahokia Mounds is at the centre of prehistoric Mississippian culture, and a fascinating place to visit.
Home to four trails, more than 100 mounds and plenty of history, this is a historic free things to do in St Louis. We recommend you climb to the top of Monks Mound; a 154-step climb to the largest earthen mound in North America.
24. Daniel Boone Home
The historic Daniel Boone Home does charge a fee for guided tours but offers free admission to the park itself. The park features a historic reconstructed 19th century village and gift shop, where you can learn about the Boone Family.
25. The Old Courthouse
Another one of the free things to do in St Louis is the Old Courthouse. This is a significant site in St. Louis’ history; in 1847, Dred Scott and his wife Harriet, sued for their freedom and were granted it. The Supreme Court later ruled that slaves were property, which quickened the start of the Civil War.
Admission is free and the Courthouse is open daily, although closed on select public holidays.
26. Soulard Farmers Market
We love visiting a market when we travel, and the Soulard Farmers Market is a great choice when in St Louis. This free market is the oldest operating public market in the city and one of the oldest in the US.
Open Wednesday to Saturday, this is the place to get fresh fruit, veg, bakery items and tasty treats!
Sometimes free things to do in St Louis
There are some attractions in the city that are free on select days and/or only free for residents of the city. We wanted to include these, so you can still see the best of the city without spending too much!
27. Missouri Botanical Garden
One of the most popular sights in the city, this becomes a free things to do in St Louis every Wednesday and Saturday morning, from 7am – noon for St. Louis City and County residents. The garden is magical, featuring a 14-acre Japanese Garden, Victorian District and the George Washington Carver Garden.
28. Jewel Box
Admission for this attraction is just $1 but they also have free days on Monday and Tuesday, from 9am to noon. Located in Forest Park, this is a glass display greenhouse, full of tropical trees, foliage plants and water and fountain feature. They also have seasonal floral shows throughout the year.
29. The Magic House
The Magic House at the St. Louis Children’s museum, full of interactive, hands-on exhibits, like a pretend village that children can shop and take on various roles.
On the third Friday of each month, the Magic House hosts a special nights for families to visit the Musuem for free! There is no reservation required but it is at a first come, first serve basis, so arriving around 5pm when the evening event starts, is recommended.
How to Plan a Trip to St Louis
Best time to visit: Spring and Fall are the best times to visit, because of the mild weather, fewer visitors and beautiful scenery. We recommend you time your visit to catch a Cardinals baseball game, which runs from April to October.
Getting around St Louis: The City has a MetroLink light rail, which can get you between the popular areas like downtown, Forest Park and the airport. To reach places further afield, you can use the MetroBus or drive yourself.
Where to stay in St Louis: Downtown St Louis is the best place to stay for first-time visitors. This way, you are close to the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadiums and museums. Staying near the Forest Park Area is a great choice for families and those that want to take advantage of these free things to do in St Louis, whilst Central West End is is perfect for those wanting to enjoy nightlife and dining options.
What to Pack: The city ca be incredibly humid in the summer and cold in the winter, so pack appropriate clothing and bring plenty of layers. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you will be doing a lot of walking. Bring sunscreen for the warmer weather too and there are plenty of water fountains around the city, so you can bring a reusable water bottle too.
What to eat in St Louis: The city has some great food to try whilst you are here. Iconic dishes include their St. Louis-style pizza served with proven cheese, but their toasted ravioli and gooey butter cake, is a must!
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