Beyond the Arch: Exploring the St. Louis Riverfront
Discover the history and hidden gems along St. Louis’ riverfront, from cozy cafés and historic landmarks to unforgettable views of the Mississippi River.
If you’ve only passed through St. Louis on I-64 and geeked at the 630-foot carbon-steel Arch through the passenger window, you're missing out. The city is more than just the "Gateway to the West"—its riverfront is a hidden oasis for history buffs, food lovers, and anyone seeking an unforgettable riverside view.
Laclede's Landing
This historic district offers a charming blend of cobblestone streets and revitalized 19th-century buildings. Whether you’re stopping by for coffee or a microbrew, it’s a lively spot for discovering local eateries, live music, and classic architecture.
The Old Cathedral
Situated right next to the Arch, this beautiful basilica is one of the oldest landmarks in St. Louis. As the first cathedral built west of the Mississippi, its peaceful interior and historic churchyard feel like a step back in time. It’s a serene and reflective spot, strikingly contrasting the towering monument nearby. As you enter, be sure to take in the lofted ceilings, the historic pipe organ that dates back to the early 1800s, and beautifully preserved dark wood accents.
Find a quiet place along the river’s edge to take in one of the most scenic views in the Midwest. The overlook provides a stunning panorama, especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset when the light hits the water and Arch just right. Click the link above to view a livestream of the Arch grounds from across the river.
You’ve had traditional BBQ, but have you had St. Louis BBQ? Known for its award-winning pulled-pork and beef brisket, Sugarfire Smokehouse brings a modern twist to the St. Louis barbecue scene with creative takes on ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. Located near the riverfront, it’s an ideal spot to dig into hearty, flavor-packed dishes after a day of sightseeing. Don’t miss their unique daily specials, like smoked brisket cheesesteaks or bourbon-glazed ribs, which will fill your stomach after walking along the river.
“I think I always had high hopes that tourism would be there and that people would always be hungry. Luckily, both are true,” says chef and owner Mike Johnson. “I can thankfully say people think we make great barbecue. Hopefully, one day, people will speak about Sugarfire or Hi-Pointe and say, ‘Wow, I remember going there.’”
Johnson is a St. Louis entrepreneur with a knack for comfort food. For another local favorite, check out Hi-Pointe Drive-In, his vibrant burger joint. Known for its creative spins on classic American fare, Hi-Pointe serves up juicy burgers, imaginative sandwiches, and indulgent shakes that are perfect for satisfying your cravings after exploring the city.
Named for the mighty river, this café is a local favorite for those looking to get a taste of St. Louis' laid-back vibe. Try the signature Mississippi Mud coffee blend, which combines bold flavors as rich as the city’s history.
Of course, no trip to the riverfront is complete without experiencing the Arch, but don’t overlook the Museum at the Gateway Arch. Its interactive exhibits dive into St. Louis's fascinating role in westward expansion and the city’s cultural evolution.
“I vividly remember a family trip to St. Louis, and our first stop was the Arch,” says Mike Stupi, a college student in the Midwest. “The [tram] ride can be a bit daunting, but when you step out of the pod and take in the view, it’s totally worth the ride.”
Completed in 1874, and after spending nearly $10 million, Eads Bridge was the first steel arch bridge ever built—a marvel of engineering. Stroll across the bridge to Illinois and back for a unique perspective of the St. Louis skyline and river.
And if you find yourself with some extra time …
For sports enthusiasts, no visit to the St. Louis riverfront is complete without a stop at CITYPARK, the new home of St. Louis City Soccer Club.
“The [Downtown St. Louis] atmosphere is honestly a great place to get a taste of what St. Louis has to offer,” says Davia Goette, a St. Louis native and St. Louis City SC season pass holder. “It’s a new sport to St. Louis, and we’ve embraced the change really well.”
This expansive stadium is a short distance from the riverfront, making it easy to add some sports excitement to your day. On game days, the atmosphere around the stadium is electric, with fans decked out in red and blue, filling the surrounding streets.