"Union Station Group Photo"

Things to Do in St. Louis

Your summer at WashU is more than an academic experience — it’s a chance to explore one of the most dynamic and historic cities in the Midwest.

Iconic Landmarks & Must-Sees

Gateway Arch
No visit to St. Louis is complete without seeing the city from the top of the Gateway Arch. This 630-foot monument to westward expansion offers sweeping views of the Mississippi River and downtown. 

St. Louis Union Station
A former train station turned entertainment complex, Union Station is home to the St. Louis Aquarium, a giant Ferris wheel, a mirror maze, light shows, and more. 

St. Louis Zoo
Located in Forest Park and consistently ranked among the top zoos in the country, the St. Louis Zoo is home to over 16,000 animals — and admission is free! It’s a go-to weekend destination for many of our students.

 

 

Arts, Museums, and Culture

St. Louis Art Museum
Located in Forest Park, the museum houses everything from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces. Admission is free.

Kemper Art Museum
Right on WashU’s campus, this modern and contemporary art museum regularly features work from globally recognized artists.

Missouri History Museum
Explore the social and cultural history of the region — from the 1904 World’s Fair to civil rights in St. Louis. Admission is free and exhibits rotate often.

St. Louis Science Center & Planetarium
A favorite among students interested in STEM, the Science Center features interactive exhibits and a planetarium. Great for both solo exploration and group visits.

City Museum
Part sculpture, part jungle gym, part architectural wonder — the City Museum is an experience unlike any other. It’s a giant, climbable, maze-like building made from reclaimed materials and always a student favorite.

Museum of Illusions
Located near City Foundry STL, this interactive museum plays with perception, light, and space — making it perfect for fun photos.
 

 

 

Green Spaces & Outdoor Fun

Forest Park
Right next to campus, Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country — even bigger than Central Park. 

Missouri Botanical Garden
One of the oldest and most renowned botanical gardens in the world. Perfect for a weekend afternoon.
 

 

Neighborhoods Worth Exploring

The Delmar Loop (walking distance from campus)
The Loop is where students go for restaurants, shops, and live entertainment. 

Central West End
Just a short MetroLink ride away, this area blends classic architecture with a lively café culture. Great for brunch, bookstores, and an afternoon walk.

Downtown St. Louis
Home to the Arch, Busch Stadium, museums, and big summer events, downtown offers a more fast-paced city vibe with plenty to do. 

More About St. Louis