Solo itinerary first timer

Question

Will be coming 5/31-6/4 solo female staying in Soulard.

Plan to go up the gateway arch ,Mo botanical Garden / Zoo , st Louis Art museum, Basilica, and do a tour of the brewery and go to a cardinals game. Looking at restaurants to visit and some rooftop or patio bars. Have a reservation at Charlie Gitto’s on the hill- friend recommended and Will have to go to Pappys bbq or the other one I see mentioned.

Any other suggestions. I’m flying so will uber or walk when it’s not too far.

Answer

It sounds like you have a fantastic trip planned already, and St. Louis has so much to offer! Given your itinerary, here are some additional suggestions to help you make the most of your solo trip:

1. Explore Soulard

Since you're staying in Soulard, take some time to explore the neighborhood. It's a charming area with beautiful old brick homes, a vibrant farmers market, and some great bars and restaurants. If you have time, check out the Soulard Farmers Market (open Tuesday-Saturday), one of the oldest markets in the U.S. It's perfect for grabbing some local treats and exploring the neighborhood.

2. The Gateway Arch and Museum

The Gateway Arch is a must-see! Since you're planning on visiting, be sure to visit the museum at the base of the Arch as well. It offers a great history of the region and the Arch’s construction. You can also take a tram ride up to the top for incredible views of St. Louis. It's especially beautiful in the evening when the city lights up.

3. St. Louis Zoo

The St. Louis Zoo is one of the best free zoos in the country and is located in Forest Park, a beautiful space to explore. If you're into nature, it's worth spending some time there. The St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station is another interesting spot, though it does have an entry fee.

4. St. Louis Art Museum

The St. Louis Art Museum is one of the city's gems. It's located in Forest Park and has an impressive collection of artwork, from ancient artifacts to modern pieces. It's also free to enter, though special exhibits might have an entry fee.

5. Basilica of St. Louis, King of France

The Basilica is a stunning church with incredible mosaics and architecture. It’s one of the most beautiful churches in the U.S. If you enjoy history and architecture, it's definitely worth the visit.

6. Brewery Tour

You're right to plan a brewery tour – St. Louis is known for its brewing history. The Anheuser-Busch Brewery offers great tours where you can learn about the brewing process and history, and of course, sample some of their beers. There's also the Schlafly Tap Room if you’re interested in local craft beer. Don’t forget to visit the Urban Chestnut Brewing Co. for more craft beer options.

7. Cardinals Game

Going to a Cardinals game is a great idea! Busch Stadium has a great atmosphere, and even if you're not a baseball fan, the experience of being at a major league game is something special. If you're solo, don't hesitate to chat with the friendly locals – they’re passionate about their Cardinals!

8. Food and Restaurants

Charlie Gitto’s on the Hill – Great choice for Italian, and it’s located in the Hill, a historic Italian neighborhood. It’s perfect for a classic St. Louis experience.
Pappy's Smokehouse – Definitely a must-try for BBQ! It’s often mentioned as one of the best BBQ spots in St. Louis.
Iron Barley – A funky spot with creative American dishes and a relaxed vibe. It’s off the beaten path but well-loved by locals.
The Crossing – A trendy spot with farm-to-table dishes. If you're looking for something a bit more upscale, this would be a great choice.
Farmhaus – If you’re interested in local cuisine, this spot offers amazing farm-to-table meals with ingredients sourced from local farms.

9. Rooftop Bars and Patio Bars

3 Sixty Rooftop Bar – Located at the top of the Hilton at Ballpark Village, this rooftop offers a stunning view of Busch Stadium and downtown St. Louis.
Moonrise Hotel Rooftop – A laid-back, trendy rooftop bar with great cocktails and amazing views of the city skyline and the Arch.
The Last Hotel Rooftop – Another great rooftop bar with a fantastic view of the city and a relaxing atmosphere.
Bar at The Cheshire – Cozy and inviting, this is a nice spot for a more intimate drink on the patio. It’s part of The Cheshire Hotel and has a cool vibe.

10. Extra Suggestions

If you enjoy history, visit the Missouri History Museum in Forest Park for an insight into the region’s past.
Take a stroll or rent a bike in Forest Park if you want to enjoy a bit of nature in the city. It’s a large park with museums, lakes, and lots of green space.
For a bit of local flavor, visit the City Museum – it’s an interactive museum made from repurposed materials with lots of quirky rooms and secret passageways.
For an evening activity, check out the Fox Theatre for a Broadway show or concert, or head to the Delmar Loop for some live music at one of the local venues.

It sounds like you’ve already planned a lot of fun things, but I hope these tips and recommendations help you round out your trip. Enjoy St. Louis!