Why You Should Visit Saint Louis

Home of super rap star, Nelly, Saint Louis, Missouri brings southern comfort with an urban city flavor. Saint Louis, Missouri is appealing to all types of visitors from many cities. If you drive up from Chicago, Illinois it's only four to five hours on the road. It's also accessible from many Midwest and other cities. Some of my favorite highlights are visiting Arch, the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Legacy Spoken Word Club, and hanging out in University City where many trendy shops are set up, and eating ice-cream at Ted Drewes. Saint Louis, Missouri has many offerings for the experienced traveler and the novice.

The culinary delights of Ted Drewes are one you should never miss when visiting Saint Louis. If you love ice-cream, and are willing to wait in the long lines, then Ted Drewes is for you. It was in the Summer of 2004 when I had the absolute pleasure of consuming my first Ted Drewes ice-cream sundae, a thick delightful combination of vanilla ice-cream, apples, and caramel topped with nuts. It was the best ice cream I have ever eaten in my life and for a woman who likes Sorbet, I almost got converted to being an ice-cream eater that summer. This is much better than a Baskins and Robbins ice cream cone. Try on the Oatmeal Ice Cream Sandwich on for size, it's two soft oatmeal cookies with a thick slab of vanilla ice cream in between the two and at a price of $1.25 packs a great sweet punch. There are two locations in Saint Louis, one on Grand Boulevard and the other on Chippewa. Just make sure you have a lot of patience as lines are packed but it's definitely worth the wait. Log on today find out the scoop on this Saint Louis tradition http://www.teddrewes.com/Drewes.asp.

Off the beaten track, urban poets and lovers of the written and spoken word gather every Friday night at Legacy Books and Café. The café is located at 5249 Delmar Blvd just east of Union. Come early to browse quality literature, and then settle into the comfortable environment to hear the greatest in spoken word. The poetry sets are well attended so early arrival is suggested. Doors open around 9:30 pm, and the poetry sessions start at 10pm. With a neo-soul band accompanying most open microphone artists, Legacy Books and Café hits a high note. Call 314.862.4226 to receive current events and happenings at the café. You won't be disappointed.

Located in Forest Park, The Saint Louis Art Museum is free to one and all. It's a nice place that is family-oriented. Many exhibits are art-influenced and there's an extensive historical aspect that you can introduce your family. Onsite at the museum is a library, restaurants, media center and museum shop. The museum is located at One Fine Arts Drive in Forest Park. Call 314.721.0072 to hear a listing of current exhibits and events. http://www.stlouis.art.museum/

University City brings a lot of restaurants and shops to the visitor. My favorite pick is the St. Louis Bread Company. Fresh delicious bread with various sandwiches, a side of tasty salads and beverage to top it off. This is a great spot to sit and relax in between shopping during the day. It's located on Delmar Boulevard where you can browse other shops during your Saint Louis visit.

Many people journey to the top by taking the St. Louis Archway's tram. The service takes you all the way to the top of the 630 foot arch. The trip to the top takes less than five minutes. I would only suggest taking the tram if you are not scared of heights or small areas because the tram is very small. About four people should be able to fit inside the tram per trip. Basically after you get off the tram, you have to walk up some stairs to get the view. Again, it is suggested for those that want to take the ride up and walk up to the top. Believe me, it's an incredible sight. The view along is worth the price of the tram service and it gives you a great view of the entire city, including landmarks around the arch, the riverboat casinos, and other notables. Log on to http://www.stlouisarch.com/ to get more information about this trademark.

With so much to do, this southern town with an urban city flair, is one that should not be missed. Enjoy time with family and friends in this town where everyone is welcoming to visitors. You'll feel home in Saint Louis, Missouri.