The Gateway to the West, St. Louis lies at the confluence of two of America's great rivers, and is rich in the history of America's Western expansion. Known for its beer, barbecue, and music, St. Louis is a lively city with a strong arts scene and a walkable downtown.
DAY 1: GET YOUR KICKS
10:00 AM
Start your day exploring the famous Route 66 by walking the now pedestrian-only Old Chain of Rocks Bridge over the mighty Mississippi, a few miles south of where it is joined by the Missouri River. Built in 1929, the scenic, mile-long bridge has a 22-degree bend in the middle to help riverboats pass through. In January, it is a great place to see a large population of wintering Bald Eagles.
1:00 PM
Make your way to the heart of the city's downtown: the world-famous Gateway Arch, which honors the route of the pioneers who settled the West. Take in the view from the top of the 630-foot structure and explore the newly renovated Mississippi Riverfront park it sits on, housing the Museum of Westward Expansion.
DAY 2: BEER, BUTTERFLIES, AND BLUES
2:00 PM
A relaxing afternoon begins at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House, a three-story glass palace filled with tropical flora and nearly 2,000 butterflies from up to 80 species.
4:00 PM
One of St. Louis' best-known businesses is the Anheuser-Busch St. Louis Brewery, established in 1852. Activities include a tour of the historic Brewhouse, a Beermaster tour, the Budweiser Clydesdale Paddock and Stables, a beer school, and of course the Biergarten.
7:00 PM
The Anheuser-Busch tour will leave you on the southern edge of the Soulard neighborhood, with more than 30 restaurants, bars, and live music venues.
DAY 3: IN AND OUT
9:00 AM
An hour's drive from the city center will take you to one of St. Louis' underground wonderlands of stalactites and stalagmites, Meramec Caverns (a hideout used by Jesse James).
2:00 PM
Head out to The Lewis and Clark Boat House and Nature Center on the site of the great expedition's first campsite along the Missouri River. The collection's exhibits include three expedition boat replicas. If you're feeling more active, about 10 minutes away is the access point of Katy Trail State Park, where you can hike or bike part of a 165-mile segment of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail.
8:00 PM
Walking a few blocks north of Gateway Arch park will take you to Lumiére Place Casino & Hotels, where you can try your luck at the tables, dine, or take in a show.
This article appears in the December 2016 issue of Successful Meetings.