Celebrate Summer in St. Louis
St. Louis Brings Big Summer Energy
From riverfront days to festival nights, your bucket-list summer starts in St. Louis. Set at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, the region shows up in its distinctive neighborhoods, where iconic landmarks and hidden gems reveal rich history, living culture and irresistible flavor.
Home to more free attractions and events than any U.S. city outside the nation’s capital, St. Louis makes it easy to explore on any budget. From ball games and bar patios to artsy experiences and outdoor adventures, summer plans come effortlessly and stay endlessly exciting.
Whatever you want your summer to be, St. Louis delivers without the hassle.
Ultimate Summer Checklist
Imagine the roar of the crowd after a Cardinals win. Picture a lazy day on the river, cold beer in hand. See yourself near the stage where your favorite artist plays. This is summer in St. Louis. Peruse our must-dos for the dog days, including expert advice from local creatives, and start planning your weekend getaway today.
Postcard-Worthy Stops
From the tallest human-made monument in the Western Hemisphere to the largest chess piece in the entire world, St. Louis is packed with Instagrammable locations, where you won’t be able to stop snapping. Here, colorful murals, evocative sculptures, lush parks, wild animals and over-the-top treats await. Is your camera ready?
Free Summer Fun
We know that travel can get expensive, but a trip to the Gateway City won’t break the bank. From world-renowned museums to all-ages activities, St. Louis has endless options for free summer fun. Where will you go first?
Summer Events in St. Louis
Festival season has arrived, and St. Louis boasts an electrifying lineup of concerts, performances and community celebrations that will leave you with barely a moment to rest.
Route 66 Centennial
Whether you’re chasing the warm glow of vintage neon, capturing the perfect shot of polished chrome or savoring the timeless flavor of roadside eateries, St. Louis is a must-stop on your centennial road trip. Find your rhythm, follow the route and experience the spirit of the Mother Road firsthand.
America250 Celebrations
Front-row fireworks beneath the Gateway Arch. Immersive journeys through America’s past. Lively neighborhood festivals that showcase Midwestern spirit. There’s no better place to celebrate America’s 250th birthday than St. Louis. Be part of a once-in-a-generation moment where Americana charm meets modern entertainment.
STL Game Day
Named the “Ultimate Sports City” by ESPN The Magazine, St. Louis gives fans something to cheer about all year long. This summer, score tickets to see the St. Louis Battlehawks (UFL), St. Louis Cardinals (MLB) and St. Louis CITY SC (MLS) in action. Hosting major events that appeal to a wide range of racing interests, World Wide Technology Raceway also heats up this season.
Monumental Fun for All
’Cue the Good Times
Nothing beats saucy barbecue on a summer day. While St. Louis-style ribs dominate the local barbecue scene, you can also feast on juicy pulled pork, grass-fed beef brisket, crunchy burnt ends and iconic pork steaks alongside tantalizing sides at area restaurants.
I Scream, You Scream
July – in case you didn’t know – is National Ice Cream Month, and what better destination to indulge in a 31-day ice cream celebration than St. Louis? After all, this is the place that perfected the waffle cone.
Hottest Patio Hangouts
We’re serving vibes in St. Louis, and throughout our most unique neighborhoods, you’ll find plenty of patios that set the tone. From Downtown St. Louis to Webster Groves and Soulard to Chesterfield, these outdoor oases offer dining under sun and stars.


