Things to Do in St. Louis, Missouri in December
The holiday season is a magical time to experience the many attractions of St. Louis, Missouri. From festive light displays and holiday markets to world-class museums and sporting events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city.
As a resident of St. Louis for over 20 years, I’ve had the chance to experience the city’s holiday magic firsthand. One of my favorite traditions is visiting the Winter Wonderland at the Saint Louis Zoo, where visitors can marvel at hundreds of festive light displays and even meet Santa Claus. Another must-see is the Christmas Tree Walk in downtown St. Louis, where visitors can stroll through a beautiful display of holiday trees and enjoy live music and entertainment.
Holiday Celebrations
St. Louis comes alive during the holiday season with a variety of festive celebrations. The annual St. Louis Holiday Market at Citygarden is a must-visit for shoppers, offering unique gifts and handmade crafts from local vendors. The market is open daily from November 17th to December 24th.
For a more unique holiday experience, visit the Holiday Nights at the Missouri Botanical Garden. This spectacular light display features more than a million twinkling lights and holiday-themed exhibits. The garden is open nightly from November 25th to December 31st.
Cultural Attractions
St. Louis is home to a wealth of world-class cultural attractions, including the Saint Louis Art Museum and the Pulitzer Arts Foundation. The Saint Louis Art Museum is renowned for its extensive collection of European and American art, including works by Monet, Picasso, and Van Gogh. The Pulitzer Arts Foundation is a modern and contemporary art museum with a focus on works by American artists.
For a glimpse into the city’s rich history, visit the Gateway Arch, the iconic monument to the westward expansion of the United States. The Arch is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm.
Sports and Recreation
St. Louis is a sports-mad city, and there’s no better time to catch a game than during the holiday season. The St. Louis Blues, the city’s NHL team, play their home games at the Enterprise Center. The St. Louis Cardinals, the city’s MLB team, play their home games at Busch Stadium.
For outdoor recreation, visit Forest Park, a 1,371-acre park that offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. The park is also home to the Saint Louis Zoo and the Missouri History Museum.
Tips and Expert Advice
- Plan ahead. December is a popular time to visit St. Louis, so it’s important to plan your trip in advance. Book your hotel and flights early, and make sure to purchase tickets for any attractions you plan to visit.
- Dress warmly. The weather in St. Louis can be cold in December, so be sure to pack warm clothing.
- Bring your camera. There will be plenty of photo opportunities, especially at the holiday light displays and markets.
- Take advantage of the free activities. There are many free activities to enjoy in St. Louis, such as visiting the Gateway Arch and exploring Forest Park.
- Attend a holiday show. The Kranzberg Arts Center and the Fox Theatre both offer a variety of holiday shows, including concerts, plays, and musicals.
FAQ
- What are the best holiday light displays in St. Louis? The Winter Wonderland at the Saint Louis Zoo, the Christmas Tree Walk in downtown St. Louis, and Holiday Nights at the Missouri Botanical Garden are all must-see holiday light displays.
- What are some free holiday activities in St. Louis? Visiting the Gateway Arch, exploring Forest Park, and attending the Holiday Parade are all free holiday activities.
- What are some unique holiday experiences in St. Louis? Visiting the Holiday Nights at the Missouri Botanical Garden and attending a holiday show at the Kranzberg Arts Center or the Fox Theatre are both unique holiday experiences.
- What are some tips for planning a holiday trip to St. Louis? Plan ahead, dress warmly, bring your camera, take advantage of the free activities, and attend a holiday show.
Conclusion
St. Louis is a vibrant city that offers something for everyone, especially during the holiday season. From festive light displays and holiday markets to world-class museums and sporting events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this Midwest gem. So bundle up and head to St. Louis this December for a truly unforgettable holiday experience.
Are you interested in learning more about things to do in St. Louis in December? Leave a comment below and let me know.
