Gay St. Louis
St. Louis is Missouri's second-biggest city and is commonly known as the gateway to the west. With a population of about 2,216,000 across 65 square miles, it has grown to a thriving city that extends all the way to Illinois. The influence of the 1904 world's fair has left a lasting impression in the city's culture that has preserved the city's architecture, art, food, and many migrant communities. St. Louis takes pride in its food, as it is the birthplace of many famous foods such as toasted ravioli, St. Louis-style pizza, gooey cake, and peanut butter!
Photo Credit: alin-andersen
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Top Things to See and Do in St. Louis
MUST DO: Attractions & Activities
MUST VISIT: Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife
Local Expert: Gay Scene in St. Louis
St. Louis has a vibrant and thriving gay scene. In fact, St. Louis has a few areas that the LGBT community frequent. In these areas, you'll find rainbow flags proudly displayed, coffee shops, boutiques, theaters, and bars, and condos. These areas are all welcoming and inclusive and are worth a visit while in town.
The Grove - This is the area where all the nightlife happens. There are more than a dozen places to have a cocktail and enjoy the nightlife. Each bar has its own unique atmosphere so you can easily get a change of scenery by moving on to the next. If you are looking for a place to party and dance the night away, this is the place!
Central West End - If you are looking for a place to enjoy a nice stroll, enjoy a nice cup of coffee, and check out a local art gallery, Central West End is where you want to be. Considered the most cosmopolitan area, this community is growing with newly built condos, trendy boutiques, private walkways, and bars.
South Grand - This popular area is full of different varieties of restaurants to choose from. It also has a handful of LGBTQ-owned coffee shops and boutiques. If you are looking for a place that offers a variety of different restaurants, a melting pot of cultures, and funky shopping, this is the place to be.
Photo Credit: alex-otoole
Best Time to Visit St. Louis
The best time to Visit St. Louis is from late spring to early fall, so March-April and from September through October. This way, you can enjoy the city with pleasantly warm weather and not scorching heat. In the fall, you'll be able to comfortably enjoy cool weather while taking in the fall festivities.
Photo Credit: kawshar-ahmed
Top Things to See and Do in St. Louis
MUST DO St. Louis Attractions & Activities
St. Louis offers plenty of attractions and landmarks to visit. Historic buildings, Victorian homes, and trams all line the city offering a unique visiting experience.
The Gateway Arch - What is a trip to St. Louis without visiting the gateway arch? The gateway arch offers a museum experience, a souvenir shop, and a coffee shop to enjoy while visiting the arch. You can take a tram to see the arch, or even just enjoy the park. However much time you have to spend will be worth your while.
Photo Credit: wolfgang-frick
Missouri Botanical Garden - Built in 1859, this historic landmark botanical garden offers 79 acres of horticulture in an indoor and outdoor setting, conservation, and learning experiences. Take some time to stroll and smell the flowers.
Photo Credit: wolfgang-frick
MUST EAT St. Louis Gay-Friendly Dining
St. Louis is known for many famous foods that are distinctly St. Louis. St. Louis-style Barbeque is one of them. Though the city is known for its mouth-watering ribs and thick pork steaks, St. Louis has other dishes that you should definitely try while visiting the city.
St. Louis Style Pizza - A St. Louis favorite! This style of pizza is made with thinly rolled out dough, tomato sauce, and cut into squares rather than slices. What makes this pizza so unique is the use of Provel processed cheese giving it a unique taste. Try this style of pizza while visiting the city and see why it's a local favorite.
Toasted Ravioli - Contrary to its name, toasted ravioli is not in fact toasted, but fried. However, that doesn't make this dish any less delicious! Toasted ravioli is a meat-filled ravioli that has been coated in breadcrumbs seasonings and then fried until it's golden brown.
Photo Credit: Eugene Kim
Gooey Butter Cake - This popular cake tastes just like it sounds. The recipe is pretty straightforward. Yellow cake mix, cream cheese, and butter. Lots of it, giving it the texture and taste it's known for. There are also other flavors available such as strawberry and chocolate chip. Try a few while you are visiting, it's hard to only have one slice.
MUST VISIT: St. Louis Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife
As mentioned earlier, the neighborhood of “The Grove” offers the best LGBTQ nightlife. From casual bars to cocktail rooms, the Grove has an ever-expanding nightlife scene that will make you want to come back again and again!
Photo Credit: Humphreys & Partners Architects
Travel Safety Tips
St. Louis is a very safe place to visit. Crime in the main parts of the city is low and no higher than in any other urban city. Just like when visiting any big city, it's always smart to be vigilant of your surroundings.
Being vigilant and mindful will guarantee a fun and memorable experience.
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