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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown West, St. Louis

Fun activities and unique spots

Made for those who seek out novel experiences and refuse to participate in the same tired weekend routines.

Based on 899 Opinions
+896
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Updated May 2026
01
Escape The Room St Louis image 1
Escape The Room St Louis image 2
Escape The Room St Louis image 3
Escape room center

Escape room center offers elaborately decorated and immersive themed rooms like submarine and clock tower with unique puzzles. Atmosphere feels fun and engaging, filled with laughter and smiles during games. Spaces range from beginner-friendly theater rooms to demanding, well-built challenges.

Escape rooms offer a fun and challenging experience with scenarios like the Western heist. The activity encourages team bonding and features engaging clue masters.

The escape room features unique and intricate puzzles with a cohesive lore supported by distinctive props. A non-intrusive hint system and a submarine challenge showcase innovative use of technology.

People are saying

"The escape room was a lot of fun!"

"The staff here is so energetic and helpful!"

"The escape room puzzles were really unique and intricate."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure availability.

2

The submarine escape room requires at least three players for optimal experience.

3

Expect potential issues with air conditioning; it may not always be functional.

02
St. Louis Union Station image 1
Tourist attraction

Grand interior combines with historic architecture and large koi pond to create a unique setting. Ferris wheel, aquarium, and interactive attractions offer a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Outdoor fountain features a free fire and water show, adding to the festive vibe.

Evenings here offer sightseeing, shopping, and family fun all in one spot. The aquarium lets kids touch many fish, adding hands-on excitement to the visit.

Unique aquarium features animals not seen elsewhere. Indoor and outdoor areas offer a distinct atmosphere with a partial cover that balances fresh air and shelter.

People are saying

"The aquarium was amazing and interactive; you could touch aquatic species."

"I had a lot of fun with the aquarium and rides."

"You'll find unique experiences and animals you won't see anywhere else."

Good to know

1

The Grand Hall Experience light show occurs nightly and is free to watch.

2

The fire and ice show runs hourly in the evenings and is free.

3

Walking around St. Louis Union Station is free and offers many sights.

03
St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station image 1

Aquarium built inside an old train station offers a unique integration of historic architecture and marine exhibits. Atmosphere stays calm and relaxing, with interactive touch tanks and hands-on activities that engage visitors closely with sea life. The venue includes a giant Ferris wheel providing city views, adding an exciting outdoor element to the experience.

Interactive stations offer hands-on fun for both kids and adults. Activities engage the entire family in a wonderful and fun environment.

Many attractions suit families, like a Ferris Wheel, Carousel, and face painting. Feeding manta rays and sting rays offers strange but cool experiences. The aquarium integrates into an old train station, creating a unique setting with distinctive exhibits.

People are saying

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place with lots of interactive activities."

"I had a lot of fun with the interesting displays."

"You can touch so many unique aquatic creatures, like stingrays and jellyfish."

Good to know

1

Admission costs $30 per person, with discounts for seniors and children.

2

Parking is paid and can be difficult to navigate due to limited space.

3

The aquarium is not wheelchair accessible, which may affect some visitors.

04
The Hawthorn image 1
Event venue

Large open space with solid acoustics and clear sound supports an intimate atmosphere despite its size. Layout offers plenty of room to move and get close to the stage without feeling cramped. Lighting and stage setup enhance the energy of live performances.

Events include Art, Mimosas, and Pancakes and concerts that keep the crowd engaged. Intimate settings create a fun atmosphere for nights out and shows.

A very unique atmosphere sets this venue apart. It adapts well to creative ideas and offers a special setting for events.

People are saying

"This bar has a great layout, spacious yet intimate."

"The venue's intimate vibe makes for really fun activities."

"Rachel and George were so easy and willing to work with on unique ideas."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Hawthorn can be very limited, especially during events.

2

The venue has a strict no reentry policy, so plan accordingly.

3

Only the first 12 people may find seating during busy events.

05
21c Museum Hotel St Louis image 1

Hotel combines contemporary art gallery with stylish accommodations and vintage-inspired design. Atmosphere feels quiet and comfortable, enhanced by unique art pieces and spacious interiors. Amenities include indoor pool, spa, and cocktail bar, creating a relaxed yet engaging environment.

Orange penguins move around the hotel to add a playful touch. Docents encourage taking pictures and enjoying the art, making exploration engaging and fun.

Modernizing a historic YMCA building creates a unique eccentric vintage vibe. The lobby stands out as beautiful and thought-provoking, while the waitstaff show deep knowledge of the unique menu dishes.

People are saying

"This hotel's art exhibits create such a unique and inspiring setting."

"The decor is unique, creative, and visually stunning."

"The art museum here is amazing and made my stay enjoyable."

Good to know

1

Self-parking costs $20 per day, while valet parking is $45.

2

The hotel does not have secured parking or sufficient security.

3

Expect cleanliness issues in rooms based on guest experiences.

06
St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton image 1

Old train station converted into a hotel offers historic architecture and a two-story lobby with hourly light shows. The space feels artistic and immersive, with amenities like an aquarium, carousel, and Ferris wheel under one roof. Atmosphere blends relaxing history with occasional lively events.

Very unique architecture and a gorgeous lobby create a standout atmosphere. The hotel has a rich history well preserved and offers a distinctive laser show in the Grand Hall.

People are saying

"The hotel staff's kindness and professionalism really made me feel welcomed."

"This place is a beautiful historical site with a lot of history."

"The light show in the grand hall is enchanting fun."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $40 per day.

2

The hotel lacks proper handicap accessibility for guests.

3

Every hour on the hour, there is a light show in the grand hall.

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Downtown West, St. Louis

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