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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown West

Unique spots

A destination that offers a distinct experience instead of the predictable, cookie-cutter options found everywhere else.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Winnie's Wine Bar image 1
Winnie's Wine Bar image 2
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Wine bar near Lafayette Square features a complex layout with cozy couches and a lively patio. Unique house margarita offers a special taste. Warm, welcoming vibe suits groups and couples, enhanced by crisp sound system and bright, aviation-themed decor.

Complex layout stands out just outside Lafayette Square. The house margarita offers a unique flavor not found elsewhere.

People are saying

"Dawn was so sweet and knowledgeable, helping me pick the perfect wine."

"This bar has such a warm, inviting vibe; you won't want to leave."

"The wine selection here is plentiful and the cocktails are delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be hard to find, but there is plenty available after hours.

2

Winnie's Wine Bar opens at 3:00 PM daily.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on Wednesdays with discounted appetizers.

02
Good Press Cafe at 21c St. Louis image 1

Vibrant orange and earth tones create a stylish vibe that feels warm and energizing. Phenomenal coffee fuels creativity in an open art gallery setting. Unique walls with capsules and sequins add an artsy atmosphere perfect for chilling or working.

Phenomenal coffee blends with an open art gallery vibe. Walls showcase unique art made from capsules, stickers, and sequins creating an artsy atmosphere.

People are saying

"The staff here is so sweet and makes great coffee."

"The breakfast here is high quality and filling."

"It's a unique spot with cool art everywhere."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available, but valet service is expensive.

2

The cafe opens at 6:30 am daily.

3

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially around 8:30-9:00 am.

03
Escape The Room St Louis image 1
Escape room center

Escape room center offers immersive themes like submarine and clock tower with intricate puzzles and unique props. Atmosphere stays fun and engaging, filled with laughter and smiles. Non-intrusive hint system and innovative tech enhance the experience for all skill levels.

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.

04
St. Louis Union Station image 1
Tourist attraction

Grand interior and historic architecture create a unique setting with a large koi pond. Aquarium showcases rare animals not found elsewhere, blending indoor and outdoor spaces with a partial cover. Family fun thrives with a Ferris wheel and lively interactive attractions.

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."

"The outdoor space has super fun rides and games for families."

"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.

05
St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station image 1

Aquarium inside an old train station blends historic architecture with marine life. Families enjoy feeding manta rays and a giant Ferris wheel offers stunning city views. Interactive touch tanks create a calm, engaging atmosphere perfect for all ages.

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."

"The aquarium is packed with fun interactive activities for everyone."

"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.

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

Old train station turned hotel blends historic architecture with unique laser shows in a stunning lobby. Guests enjoy an immersive atmosphere featuring an aquarium and carousel. The space balances relaxing history with lively events under one roof.

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 architecture here is unique, stunning, and historic."

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.

07
21c Museum Hotel St Louis image 1

Hotel blends contemporary art with vintage-inspired design in a quiet, spacious setting. Unique vibe comes from a historic YMCA building and a thought-provoking lobby. Amenities like an indoor pool and cocktail bar add to the relaxed atmosphere.

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 hotel's museum exhibits are beautiful and visually stunning."

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

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.

08
The Hawthorn image 1
Event venue

Large open space with solid acoustics creates an intimate vibe. Unique atmosphere adapts well to creative ideas. Lighting and stage setup boost live energy for memorable events.

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 food here is simple, classic, and satisfying."

"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.

09
Imo's Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Spacious pizza house offers a quiet vibe and warm atmosphere. St. Louis style pizza shines with unique cheese and fresh flavors. Toasted raviolis add a distinctive menu touch. Convenient parking makes it a calm city refuge.

Pizza features a unique cheese and a style that stands out as distinctly St Louis. The flavor profile is special and tasty compared to typical pizzas.

People are saying

"I thought their pizza was unique and shockingly good."

"I found the food here to be amazing and fresh."

"I found the pizza here to be unique and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is convenient and available near the restaurant.

2

The lunch deal offers an entree, side, and drink for $12.

3

Delivery is not available to offices, as per the manager's policy.

10
Levels image 1
West African restaurant

Experience authentic Nigerian cuisine with bold, unique flavors in a vibrant setting. Enjoy a walkthrough art gallery showcasing local and Nigerian art that adds genuine character. Lively vibes with a DJ and exotic lighting create a high-energy cultural feel.

Bold, unique flavors define the Nigerian dishes here, offering a fresh take on African cuisine. Soft exotic lighting and unique interior design create a distinct atmosphere, complemented by delicious cocktails.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and flavorful."

"I loved the authentic Nigerian flavors, especially the egusi soup."

"The African cuisine here has such unique, bold flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

3

Friday only dishes are available after 7pm, so plan accordingly.

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Downtown West, St. Louis

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