Undergraduates and graduate students alike spend a significant portion of their time either on campus or in their apartments near Saint Louis University*. Residents of our St. Louis apartments, however, are encouraged to explore beyond these places by taking advantage of the surrounding city. St. Louis is a beloved city that attracts thousands of tourists every year. If residents are open to it, St. Louis can quickly feel like home and serve as the backdrop for many of their college memories.
Moving to a new place, in general, means starting from scratch. Students have to learn about the city, where to live, where to eat, and what to do. But this doesn’t have to be a burden. Learning about St. Louis can also be exciting. Below is a compiled list of several highlights this delightful city has to offer.
St. Louis Tourist Sites
Whether you are looking for something to do on a Saturday or you’re planning a trip for your family when they visit, City Lofts on Laclede offers apartments near Saint Louis University* with a convenient property located nearby plenty of exciting landmarks and museums. Explore the city by yourself or bring your roommate along to experience what the city has to offer.
- Saint Louis Science Center: The Saint Louis Science Center is one of many popular attractions provided by the city. With more than 700 interactive exhibits, visitors of all ages remain interested and excited to learn during their visits. Here, you can watch a space show at the planetarium, relive the discovery of King Tut, reconstruct the Gateway Arch, and much more.
- The Gateway Arch: This world-famous arch was built in 1965 to symbolize America’s westward expansion and is the city’s most iconic structure. Visitors to The Gateway Arch witness the splendor of the St. Louis cityscape from the top of this 630-foot structure or from the ground underneath.
- Saint Louis Zoo: With more than 18,000 animals, Saint Louis Zoo visitors have the opportunity to see many of nature’s finest specimens up close. You can enjoy a guided tour of the main attractions on the Emerson Zooline Railroad or you can explore the exhibits for yourself. Along the way, you can watch penguins play at Penguin & Puffin Coast, socialize with stingrays at the Interactive Stingray Pool and walk through the 1904’s World Fair’s Bird Cage. As an added bonus, guests can experience everything this nationally acclaimed zoo has to offer, free of charge.
Parks & Recreation In St. Louis, MO
While our off campus housing near Saint Louis University* community offers plenty of entertaining student living amenities on-site, don’t forget to take the time to discover what the city has to offer. Get some much-needed fresh air when you visit St. Louis’ many beautiful parks and landscapes.
- Forest Park: This 1300-acre park has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a beautiful place to have a picnic, have an exciting adventure or intense workout, Forest Park offers a solution. Among many entertainment options, you will find an outdoor theatre, walking and jogging trails, ice skating rink, paddle boats, golf courses, and fishing areas.
- Meramec Caverns: The Meramec Caverns are the underground home to beautiful mineral structures that formed over thousands of years. Above ground, there are a variety of exciting activities to enjoy, including swimming, hiking, ziplining, and canoeing.
- Missouri Botanical Garden: While exploring St. Louis, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a must-see attraction. It is the oldest botanical garden in the United States and is considered to be one of the top three botanical gardens in the world. The Climatron allows guests to experience exotic rainforest plants, splendid waterfalls, and tropical birds without having to travel. You can also enjoy a casual stroll through the garden as you observe impressive horticultural exhibits, statues, and fountains.
Restaurants/Eateries In St. Louis, MO
City Lofts offers luxury apartments by Saint Louis University* complete with gourmet kitchens and stainless steel appliances, so residents can refine their cooking skills and enjoy homemade meals. However, even the best chefs need breaks from cooking. St. Louis is known for its barbecue, but it is also home to many delicious restaurants that present all types of food and also serve signature dishes, including gooey butter cake, pork steaks, and toasted ravioli.
- Fieldhouse Pub and Grill: If you are looking for the best place to watch the Cardinals game, the Fieldhouse Pub and Grill is the place to be. Well known for its burgers, pizza, and nachos, you can eat your favorite dishes in full view of the nearest flat-screen TV. If you’re a bit daring, you might also want to participate in Jefe’s Seriously Hot Chicken Wing Challenge, which requires that participants eat 10 ghost pepper wings in under 5 minutes.
- The Fountain On Locust: The Fountain On Locust is an award-winning restaurant favored by St. Louis residents. Here, you can trust that your dish will be made from scratch. Make sure you save room for dessert because this food spot serves old-fashioned phosphate sodas and ice cream parlor specialties. Don’t forget to bring a camera, because the hand-painted design and art-deco aesthetic makes The Fountain the most photographed restaurant in the city.
- Crave Coffeehouse: Every student needs a go-to study spot where coffee is plentiful. Crave Coffeehouse is located in the heart of a historic church giving the space a unique atmosphere. With quality coffee, tasty sandwiches, friendly staff, and free Wi-Fi, Crave Coffeehouse will quickly become a favorite.
- City Diner South Grand: Are you craving delicious comfort food at an affordable price? If so, City Diner South Grand is your top restaurant choice. This restaurant features diner classics, including grilled cheese, milkshakes, classic breakfast dishes, and pork steak. It is also the perfect option for those attending a show at the Fox Theatre.
- Crazy Bowls and Wraps: If you enjoy light, healthy meal options that still taste good, try Crazy Bowls and Wraps. Their menu boasts a wide assortment of good-for-you foods with both vegetarian and vegan options available. All of the dishes are prepared quickly with fresh ingredients, making it perfect for students on the go.
- Vito’s Sicilian Pizzeria & Ristorante: This family-owned-and-operated restaurant is a local favorite, with a mission to bring people together over award-winning pizza and delicious, authentic Italian offerings. Make sure to visit Vito’s Sicilian Pizzeria & Ristorante during the afternoon for the lunch buffet, which is a favorite among Saint Louis University* students.
Neighborhoods Near Saint Louis University*
St. Louis is a diverse melting pot that comprises a wide variety of different cultures. Though students may be inclined to spend most of their time near campus, we recommend that residents of our apartments in St. Louis, MO, explore the various surrounding neighborhoods, because each area has something unique to offer. To learn more about our vibrant, student-centered neighborhood or to schedule a property tour, contact us today.
- Delmar Loop: Delmar Loop is a neighborhood comprising 6 blocks and a convenient location that’s close to the Saint Louis University* campus. This area is filled with a multitude of shops, restaurants, and sources of entertainment. Blueberry Hill is perhaps the most acclaimed restaurant and music venue in the neighborhood and is frequented by famous musicians from around the nation. The streets of the Delmar Loop are paved with stars featuring well-known St. Louis residents.
- Tower Grove East: Tower Grove East is a neighborhood located just south of the Saint Louis University* campus. It features splendid architecture and a small-town community vibe. Simultaneously, Tower Grove East has a variety of markets and restaurants that reflect the prevalence of rich diversity of the neighborhood.
- Soulard: This neighborhood is home to the Soulard Farmers Market. This market, founded in 1779, represents vendors from a large variety of ethnicities with individuals from Croatia, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Ireland, Germany, and Lebanon. Because of its strong French roots, Soulard hosts huge Mardi Gras and Bastille Day celebrations every year.
- Lafayette Square: Lafayette Square is located a mile east of the Saint Louis University* campus. It boasts the first park located west of the Mississippi River and features 30-acres of space filled with beautiful, old trees. Throughout the past several years, this neighborhood has experienced significant renovation during which the area’s iconic and historic Victorian houses were restored.