Alexis Zotos Blog

Planning a trip to Boston with kids? Here's how we spent 36 hours exploring family-friendly attractions, the Public Garden, North End and more.

Birthdays always make me reflective.

If you know me, I’m a big list kind of girl. I love to make lists of goals and resolutions, to-do lists and lists to help record life. I turned 38 yesterday and I am excited about the year ahead. This year feels full.

Full of lessons I wish I'd learned sooner, confidence I didn't have in my twenties, and a growing understanding that life isn't about squeezing more in, it's about making room for what matters.

Here are a few things I'm taking with me into this next year.

Stepping into 38 with a full heart and four shots of espresso!

1. Putting my phone down helps in almost every situation.

I will be the first to admit I am addicted to my phone. Part of it’s my job but there' is also just a part of me that constantly reaches for it.

Waiting in line.
Sitting on the couch.
Even during those little moments when nothing is happening.

But I've noticed something over the past year: almost every time I choose to put it down instead, something better happens.

I pay attention to my kids a little more. I actually finish a conversation. I notice the sunset. My mind feels quieter.

The world keeps spinning without me checking one more notification.

I'm not aiming for perfection—my phone is part of my work—but I do want to be more intentional about when it's in my hand and when it isn't. My Brick helps a lot with that. It’s a tool that literally blocks the apps that are most addicting (for me, that’s social media). But I just need to remind myself to put it on every night. (I have a code for 10% off! ALEXIS60392)

2. Making time for myself really is that important…

I am not good at taking me time. There’s always something that needs to be done. An email to answer, an invoice to set out, a load of laundry to fold.

The problem is...everything is never done.

I've learned that even an hour to read, take a walk, grab coffee alone, or simply sit in silence changes how I show up for everyone else.

I have more patience.
More creativity.
More energy.

Turns out, filling your own cup really does make a difference. I shared a few ways earlier this year about outsourcing and I am trying to lean into that more as the school year approaches.

3. We can do all the things—but not all at the same time.

This one has probably been the biggest lesson.

There are so many things I want to accomplish. I want to grow my business. Be present for my family. Travel. Exercise. Read more books. Keep a clean house. Cook dinner. See friends.

None of those goals are impossible.

But expecting them all to happen perfectly in the same season? That's where I get into trouble.

Life has seasons.

Some seasons are for building.
Some are for resting.
Some are for family.
Some are for chasing big dreams.

I've stopped expecting balance every single day and started appreciating balance over time.

4. Do the thing you've been putting off.

You know the thing.

The doctor's appointment.
The closet you've been avoiding.
The email.
The project.
The trip you've been saying you'll plan "someday."

Almost every time I finally tackle something I've been avoiding, I wonder why I waited so long. Like I FINALLY took things to Goodwill the other day…it took minutes. Why had the bag sat in my trunk for so long?

The anticipation is usually worse than the actual task.

This year I want to stop letting little things take up so much mental space.

5. Stop saying yes to everything.

I used to think saying yes meant being helpful.

Now I realize every yes is also a no to something else.

Sometimes it's a no to family dinner.
Sometimes it's a no to sleep.
Sometimes it's a no to my own peace.

As I stepped away from news and into building my own business, this has been one of the biggest life lessons over. the last year. I said yes to so many things because I didn’t know what I was doing, I didn’t know who would say yes to my ideas so I said yes to everyone. That led to some serious burnout. Now I lean into the idea that if it’s not a HELL yes, it’s a no. Or at least a not right now.

Not every opportunity is my opportunity.

And that's okay.

Goals for 38

Instead of creating a long list of resolutions, I'm focusing on a few simple habits that I think will make this year feel more intentional.

• Journal more. Even if it's just a few sentences each day, I want to remember this season of life instead of letting it blur together.

• Finally make scrapbooks. My phone is filled with thousands of photos that deserve to become something tangible my kids can flip through years from now.

• Create better systems for the school year. Less scrambling, fewer forgotten forms, and routines that make life a little calmer for everyone.

Nothing groundbreaking.

Just small changes that I hope add up to a life that feels a little less rushed and a lot more present.

Here's to 38.

I'm grateful for every lesson, every challenge, every unexpected turn, and every person who's been part of this journey.

I don't have everything figured out.

But I know more than I did a year ago.

And that's a pretty great place to start.

Personally August is my favorite month. First off, it’s my birthday month and I love to celebrate! But it’s also the month kids head back to school and those final weeks of summer are so special. My advice? Slow down, say yes to the ice cream, let the kids stay up late and go to the free concert, soak in the August days. And you know St. Louis won’t let you be bored! From festivals to free music to family-friendly fun, there’s tons to do! Here’s a look ahead at things to add to your calendar this month. Don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter for even more events sent straight to your inbox every Monday.

CAN’T MISS EVENTS THIS AUGUST:

• Greenway Quest, free scavenger hunt - All month long 

• STL Fringe Fest - August 4-9 

• Patterns in Nature at Missouri Botanical Garden - All month long 

• Storytime at the Riverboats - Tuesday August 4

• Cherokee Street First Thursdays (FREE) - Thursday August 6 

• Food Truck Friday at Tower Grove Park - August 7 and August 21 

• Meet Me in St. Louis at The Muny - August 6-13

• Planetarium Star Party at the St. Louis Science Center - August 7 

• Super Fair at World Wide Technology Raceway - August 1-8 

• Mondays at the Music Stand, free concert in Tower Grove Park - Monday August 10 

• Touch at Truck at Jefferson Barracks Park (FREE) - Friday August 14 

• Blues at the Arch (FREE) - August 14-16 

• Grub and Groove at Francis Park (FREE) - August 15

• Opening Drive for BMW Championship - Free preview of the championship at Bellerive - August 16.

• Gateway Dragon Boat Festival at Creve Coeur Lake - August 15 

• St. Louis Shakespeare Festival presents The Two Gentlemen of Verona touring throughout St. Louis (FREE) - See all the dates and locations - All month long 

• Something Rotten at The Muny (final show of the season!) August 17-23

• BMW Championship at Bellerive - August 18-23

• Night at the Zoo - August 21 

• Back to YOU: Parents' Day Out Pool Party at Le Meridian - Tuesday, Aug. 25

• One World Fest - August 22-23

• Trike Town Opens at The Magic House - August 22 

• Foodies Eat First Fest - August 22-23

• Centralia Balloon Festival - August 21

• Pups at the Park at City SC - August 28 

• Festival of Nations-  August 29-30

What are YOU looking forward to this month??

It’s almost my birthday and if you’ve ever met me, I like to go all out for my birthday. I’m usually a celebrate over several days kind of girl. That changed a bit when I had my youngest the day before my birthday (best gift ever!) but I still love to celebrate. And for me, there’s nothing better than a great meal to kick off a new year, celebrate one of life’s milestones or cheers a big win! Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, birthday, promotion, engagement, or just planning a long-overdue date night, St. Louis has no shortage of incredible restaurants that make an ordinary evening feel unforgettable.

You definitely don't need an expensive dinner to celebrate something special. Some of my favorite meals in St. Louis are at neighborhood gems with a much smaller price tag. But if you're looking for those splurge-worthy restaurants where the service, atmosphere, and food all make the night feel like an occasion, this list is for you.

I recently shared my 5 most expensive restaurants in St. Louis, and the response was overwhelming. While I absolutely stand by those original picks, so many of you shared your own favorites that I had to expand it into a list of ten.

Here are my favorite restaurants for celebrating life's biggest moments.

Cheers to celebrating the big and small wins in life!

1. Wright's Tavern

Some say it’s overhyped but personally I think it’s worth the expense and the effort to score a reservation. Wright's Tavern in Clayton is simply perfection for a celebration. It's intimate, incredibly stylish, and consistently delivers one of the best dining experiences in the city. Now I will say, it’s incredibly hard to get in. But reservations open on the first of the month at midnight and you can also walk in and try to snag one of the four bar seats.

My favorites: I haven’t had a bad meal. The pasta is just as amazing as the steak. The salads and the oysters are all delicious but you must try to save room for the epic sundae!

📍7624 Wydown Blvd, Clayton, MO 63105

Everything is delicious at Wright’s Tavern in Clayton.

2. Louie

Louie is probably my favorite restaurant in St. Louis. Somehow feels both trendy and timeless. The warm lighting, incredible wine list, and outstanding Italian-inspired menu make it one of my favorite date night spots. It feels elevated without being stuffy, and that's a combination that's hard to find. I also think it’s fairly reasonable in price for the service, hospitality and quality. We love to try to snag a seat at the bar.

Don't miss: The pastas, the peach and prosciutto in the summer, the cauliflower.

📍706 De Mun Ave, Clayton, MO 63105

Pro tip: Try to snag a spot at the bar or the pizza counter for dinner at Louie.

3. Mainlander

Looking for an experience instead of just dinner? Mainlander in the Central West End offers one of the city's most unique tasting menus. It feels like you’ve been transported to your grandma’s living room in the 1970s in the best way. The owners take such care to craft a menu that fuses Midwestern classics with French and Taiwanese cruise. It’s a three course prix fix menu and you pay up front when you make your reservation (and no tipping allowed). There are two seatings. We’ve done the cocktail pairing and it’s always very creative! Reservations can be difficult to score, but it's well worth planning ahead. Always keep an eye out for cancelations and next door is their walk-in only concept the Jujube Inn.

📍392 N Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108

The supper club dining experience at Mainlander is such a vibe!

4. Sado (and Pavilion)

Chef Nick Bognar continues to raise the bar with Sado. His James Beard nomination was so well deserved! Whether you're ordering incredible sushi or opting for the omakase experience, every meal feels memorable. For something extra special, check out Pavilion, it's an even more elevated dining experience. Located on The Hill, where so many have dined on special occasions for years, Sado offers something a little different.

Must orders: Crab ragoon, acorn squash tempura and of course nigiri and sashimi

📍5201 Shaw Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110

5. Vicia

Seasonal, local, and beautifully executed, Vicia has long been one of my favorite restaurants for celebrations. The tasting menu lets the kitchen truly shine, and the service always makes you feel like you're celebrating something important. It's refined without feeling intimidating. They also offer a great happy hour menu now.

Must orders: Let them wow you with vegetables.

📍4260 Forest Park Avenue Entrance On Boyle, At Corner Of, Duncan Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108

6. Little Fox

Little Fox proves that a restaurant doesn't need white tablecloths to feel special. The cozy dining room, thoughtful cocktails, and creative menu make it one of my favorite places for a date night. Its approachable while still feeling like somewhere you'll remember.

Order: The potato churros, any of the pastas, the duck if you are a duck fan!

📍2800 Shenandoah Ave, St. Louis, MO 63104

The patio at Little Fox is always a favorite.

7. The Crossing

A longtime Clayton favorite, The Crossing has earned its reputation over the years. I’'ll be honest, it’s been years since I’ve been but it is consistently a favorite for find dining. The seasonal menus combine French and Italian influences with locally sourced ingredients, creating one of the most consistently excellent fine dining experiences in St. Louis. The Crossing

📍7823 Forsyth Blvd, Clayton, MO 63105

8. Idol Wolf

One of the newer additions to St. Louis' dining scene, Idol Wolf combines bold Spanish flavors with one of the city's most beautiful dining rooms. I love the bar for a date night. Between the cocktails, shareable plates, and lively atmosphere, it feels festive from the moment you walk in. Plus the 21C Hotel where it’s located is so cool. The upstairs is an art gallery.

Go with a group so you can order as many dishes as possible. But definitely get the churros for dessert.

📍1528 Locust St, St. Louis, MO 63103

9. Olive + Oak

Olive + Oak has become one of those restaurants that locals recommend over and over again, and for good reason. The food is consistently outstanding, the cocktails are some of the best in town, and the service always feels polished. It's one of those restaurants where every celebration feels a little more special. I also love a place that can be just as special for a Tuesday dinner at the bar as a celebratory dinner! I also love love love their sister restaurant O + O Pizza.

📍216 W Lockwood Ave, Webster Groves, MO 63119

10. Sidney Street Cafe

This one always holds a special place in my heart because it’s where we went when we got engaged. It’s a St. Louis classic that continues to impress year after year. Sidney Street Cafe blends fine dining with warm hospitality, making it a favorite for anniversaries and milestone celebrations. The menu from James Beard award winning chef Kevin Nashan changes regularly, but the attention to detail never does.

Must order: Lobster turnovers!

📍2000 Sidney St, St. Louis, MO 63104

Honorable Mentions

These restaurants came up again and again when I asked for recommendations, and they're absolutely worth adding to your own special occasion list:

• Acero

• Akar

• Annie Gunn's

• The Capital Grille (Yes, it's a chain—but I genuinely love the service and consistently excellent food at the Clayton location.)

• Nobu's (still on my personal list to try!)

• Blood & Sand

• Scout’s

Final Thoughts

The best special occasion restaurant isn't always the most expensive one, it's the place where you leave saying, "That was worth it." Every restaurant on this list offers something different, whether it's impeccable service, unforgettable food, a stunning dining room, or an experience you simply can't recreate at home. It also continues to showcase what a power house of a food scene we have in St. Louis!

Did I miss your favorite? Let me know, I'm always looking for another excuse to make a reservation.

There’s no better way to soak up summer than with a great meal or drink on a patio. Whether you're looking for a rooftop with skyline views, a shady beer garden, or a spot on the water, the St. Louis area has plenty of incredible outdoor dining options.

Here's your guide to some of the best patios around St. Louis, organized by neighborhood to help you plan your next outing. Scroll down to the end for a link to a Google map with all of these spots listed!

Rooftop Patios

If you're looking for amazing views along with your meal or cocktail, these rooftop bars and restaurants are worth checking out.

ART Bar

Address: 3338 Samuel Shepard Dr., St. Louis, MO 63103

Located atop Angad Arts Hotel in Grand Center, ART Bar offers sweeping city views, creative cocktails, and a stylish atmosphere that's perfect for date night.

UpBar

Address: 4054 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110

This Midtown rooftop is known for its laid-back vibe, colorful cocktails, and excellent sunset views.

Maryland House

Address: 44 Maryland Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63108

Located in the Central West End, Maryland House features an elegant rooftop patio with craft cocktails and a sophisticated atmosphere. This is a membership-based spot but non-members can visit Thurs-Sunday.

Moonrise Hotel Rooftop

Address: 6177 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63112

One of the most recognizable rooftops in St. Louis, Moonrise Hotel overlooks the Delmar Loop and features its iconic rotating moon sculpture.

Three Sixty Rooftop Bar

Address: 1 S. Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102

One of downtown's most popular rooftop destinations with unbeatable views of Busch Stadium and the Gateway Arch.

360 Westport

Address: 111 West Port Plaza Dr., Maryland Heights, MO 63146

A lively rooftop featuring live music, cocktails, and plenty of outdoor seating.

Bellwether

Address: 1419 Carroll St., St. Louis, MO 63104

This downtown favorite offers a spacious rooftop with elevated American fare and craft cocktails.

High Bar

Address: 1 S. Brentwood Blvd., Clayton, MO 63105

Located atop the AC Hotel in Clayton, High Bar offers skyline views and a relaxed lounge atmosphere.

Sky Terrace at Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis

Address: 999 N. Second St., St. Louis, MO 63102

Luxury rooftop dining with one of the best views of the Gateway Arch.

Oak Street Inn & Lounge

Address: 300 Oak St., Cottleville, MO 63304

A charming rooftop patio in the heart of Cottleville that's ideal for a relaxing summer evening.

Fire pits and rooftop views at High Bar in Clatyon.

Best Patios in St. Louis City

• McGurk's Irish Pub — 1200 Russell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63104

• Edera — 48 Maryland Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63108

• Molly's in Soulard — 816 Geyer Ave., St. Louis, MO 63104

• Bowood by Niche — 4605 Olive St., St. Louis, MO 63108

• The Boathouse at Forest Park — 6101 Government Dr., St. Louis, MO 63110

• Rockwell Beer Garden — 1320 S. Vandeventer Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110

• Urban Chestnut Brewing Company (Grove) — 4465 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110

• Saturn Lounge — 2000 Sidney St., St. Louis, MO 63104

• Sasha's on Shaw — 4069 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63110

• Civil Life Brewing Company — 3714 Holt Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116

• Modern Brewery — 5200 Oakland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110

• Sports & Social St. Louis — 651 Clark Ave., St. Louis, MO 63102

• Milo's Bocce Garden — 5201 Wilson Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110

• Stellar Hog — 5623 Leona St., St. Louis, MO 63116

• Pizzeria da Gloria — 2020 Marconi Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110

• Schlafly Tap Room — 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, MO 63103

• Broadway Oyster Bar — 736 S. Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102

The patio at Edera is one of the most beautiful in St. Louis

Best Patios in St. Louis County

• Herbie's — 8100 Maryland Ave., Clayton, MO 63105

• Billy G's — 131 W. Argonne Dr., Kirkwood, MO 63122

• Katie's Pizza & Pasta (Rock Hill & Crestwood)

• The Mexican — 8752 Watson Rd., Crestwood, MO 63126

• Farotto's — 9525 Manchester Rd., Rock Hill, MO 63119

• 4 Hands at The District / Peacemaker Kirkwood — 105 E. Jefferson Ave., Kirkwood, MO 63122

• Salt + Smoke — 110 S Kirkwood Rd, Kirkwood, MO 63122

• Perennial on Lockwood — 226 W. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, MO 63119

• Frisco Barroom — 8110 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, MO 63119

• Winslow's Table — 7213 Delmar Blvd., University City, MO 63130

• Taco Buddha (Kirkwood & University City)

• 9 Mile Garden — 9375 Gravois Rd., Affton, MO 63123

• Schlafly Bottleworks — 7260 Southwest Ave., Maplewood, MO 63143

• The District — 17081 N. Outer 40 Rd., Chesterfield, MO 63005

• Hendel's — 599 St. Denis St., Florissant, MO 63031

The District has something for everyone when it comes to food and a giant outdoor area with seating and big screen.

Best Patios in St. Charles County

• Bella Vino Wine Bar — 325 S. Main St., St. Charles, MO 63301

• Cottle Village — 5490 Fifth St., Cottleville, MO 63304

• Frankie Martin's Garden — 5372 St. Charles St., Cottleville, MO 63304

• Good News Brewing (Frenchtown) — 117 N. Main St., St. Charles, MO 63301

• Chillax Tap & Co. — 131 Salt Lick Rd., St. Peters, MO 63376

• Chandler Hill - 596 Defiance Rd, Defiance, MO 63341

• Hendrick's BBQ — 1200 S. Main St., St. Charles, MO 63301

• Salt + Smoke — 501 S. Main St., St. Charles, MO 63301

• Montelle Winery — 201 Montelle Dr., Augusta, MO 63332

• Good News Brewing (Defiance) — 2886 S. Missouri 94, Defiance, MO 63341

For more must-visit wineries around the St. Louis region, check out this post!

There’s nothing like a beautiful day outside at the wineries in St. Charles County.

Best Patios in the Metro East

• Aerie's Resort — 14 W. Main St., Grafton, IL 62037

• The Loading Dock — 401 Front St., Grafton, IL 62037

• Old Bakery Beer Company — 400 Landmarks Blvd., Alton, IL 62002

• Grafted Wine Bar — 700 E. Main St., Belleville, IL 62220

• Old Herald Brewery & Distillery — 115 E. Clay St., Collinsville, IL 62234

• Cider Shed at Eckert's — 951 S. Green Mount Rd., Belleville, IL 62220

River views, cold drinks, live music and tons of space, make the Loading Dock one of the best patios.

I’ve added all of these spots to a Google map so you can find a patio or rooftop closest to you!

Chicago is one of those cities that never gets old. Whether you've visited a dozen times or it's your first trip, summer is when the city truly shines. I always say if it wasn’t for winter, I’d move to Chicago in a heartbeat. My sisters and I went for a girls weekend and jam-packed three days of food and fun. From lakefront bike rides and rooftop cocktails to incredible food and world-class museums, it's an easy getaway that feels like a real vacation without hopping on a plane.

Even better? It's only about a 4½ to 5-hour drive from St. Louis, making it one of my favorite weekend escapes.

Chicago is the perfect city for a girl’s trip in the summer!

Breakfast for dinner Little Goat Diner

Getting There: Drive or Take Amtrak?

If you're coming from St. Louis, you have two great options.

Driving gives you the most flexibility, especially if you're planning to explore neighborhoods beyond downtown or want to stop along the way. The drive is straightforward and takes around 4½-5 hours depending on traffic.

You can also take the Amtrak Lincoln Service, which is a popular option and one that so many people recommended to us. We actually planned to take the train ourselves, but unfortunately our departure was canceled the morning of our trip. We quickly pivoted, packed up the car, and hit the road instead.

If you've taken the train between St. Louis and Chicago, I'd still love to hear your experience because it's definitely on my list to try again.

Where to Stay

There are so many great neighborhoods in Chicago and I’d suggest looking at places you want to visit and trying to stay close by because while we loved staying Downtown, a lot of the restaurants we went to were in other neighborhoods and we spent a lot of time in Lyfts! But we loved our stay at Loews Chicago Hotel! It’s a gorgeous hotel in the heart of the city.

It was within walking distance (or a quick bike ride!) to a lot of the activities we planned for the weekend including shopping, the beach, Millenium Park and the river.

The rooms are spacious, the views are incredible, and the rooftop, Streeterville Social, is one of the best places to unwind after a day exploring the city. It’s also super family-friendly! They have a "Bedtime Book Cart", plus complimentary cribs, baby bath kits, and nightlights. They also have a heated indoor pool!

If you're visiting this summer, check out their Loews on 66 package celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66.

View from our room at Loew’s Chicago in Downtown

Loew’s Chicago is in the heart of Downtown with a view of the river just a block away.

Things to Do

Take an Architecture Boat Tour

If you only do one thing in Chicago, make it an architecture cruise with Chicago's First Lady Cruises. You might think it’s touristy but I promise this is such a cool way to see the city and I learned so much! The stories behind the skyline is fascinating. You'll cruise through the Chicago River while learning about iconic buildings and the history that shaped the city. It's consistently rated one of the best tours in Chicago, and for good reason. Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen!

Explore the Art Institute of Chicago

Home to masterpieces from Monet, Van Gogh, Grant Wood, and more, you could easily spend several hours wandering the galleries. Whether you're an art lover or just want to escape the summer heat for a bit, it's well worth a visit.

Catch a Match at Recess

We visited Chicago during the World Cup and if you’re there during the tournament head to Recess in the West Loop neighborhood for the ultimate watch party!

Bike the Lakefront Trail

Riding bikes on the streets of Chicago is a little intimidating for me but on the trails on the lakefront it’s so much fun! We rented them right outside the Art Institute and took them to the beach! No hassle for parking! The views of both Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline are unbeatable, and it's one of the best ways to experience the city.

Spend Time at the Beach

One of the cool parts about Chicago in the summer is you get the big city vibes plus the beach! We spent the afternoon at Oak Street beach, laying in the sand and dipping our toes in the chilly waters of Lake Michigan. There is a bathroom to change in (but honestly pretty gross…so I’d come dressed in your suit) as well as a restaurant and bar with live DJ.

Walk Through Millennium Park

No trip is complete without seeing Cloud Gate ("The Bean"), enjoying the gardens, and taking in one of Chicago's most recognizable landmarks. Plus if you have kids there’s a splash pad they will love!

The architecture boat tour is a must-visit on a trip to Chicago!

So many beautiful pieces at the Art Institute in Chicago.

Where to Eat

Chicago's food scene never disappoints. There are so many places I want to try! Here’s where we ate over the weekend and then I’m also sharing places I saved for our next visit.

• Little Goat Diner — A fantastic breakfast and brunch spot that's worth the wait. But they also do dinner!

• Mano a Mano — This Italian restaurant in Logan Square was delicious! They also have a fabulous happy hour menu.

• Tilly Bagel Shop — Still dreaming about this bagel spot. Perfect stop before the Art Institute or Millennium Park

• Taqueria Chingón — Some of the best tacos we had all weekend.

• Streeterville Social — Perfect for rooftop drinks with skyline views.

• Giant — A memorable dinner with creative small plates that absolutely lived up to the hype. Perfect for sharing!

Based on many of your recommendations, as well my research, these are spots on my list for the next visit! What else should we put on the list?

• Asador Bastian, Avec, JT’s Genuine Sandwich Shop, Mariela, Girl and the Goat, Aba, Aya Pastry, Ciccio Mio, BiXi Beer

One of my favorite things about Chicago is how much you can fit into just a couple of days. Have a favorite Chicago restaurant, hidden gem, or neighborhood I should check out next time? Let me know, I'm already planning my next trip!

Want other easy road trips from St. Louis? Check out St. Genevieve, MO or Centraillia, IL!

MATI Festival takes place in Grand Center in St. Louis this July.

Looking for peach picking and berry farms near St. Louis? Discover the best family-friendly places to pick your own peaches, blackberries, flowers and more this summer.

The Muny in Forest Park in St. Louis is the largest outdoor theatre in the country.

Planning a family road trip from St. Louis? Discover the perfect 36-hour itinerary in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, including kid-friendly attractions, great restaurants, a charming hotel, playgrounds, and water park fun.

June in St. Louis is packed with free festivals, free concerts, pool parties and free fun for kids. Here’s your guide to all the fun as summer kicks off!

Tot times at your local pool might just be the best summer deal out there. A water park reserved for your little ones for less than a cup of coffee? Yes please! Prices, ages and dates vary but you can find an option for water play almost every day of the week around St. Louis! These times are reserved for kids usually 6 and under so it’s way less busy and therefor easier for parents (or grandparents!) to manage. Usually you need to leave the pool at the end and re-enter if you want to come back for a full pool day. Lots of pools have special themed sessions! As always, make sure to check the weather and the pool before heading out for the day! Personally I’m keeping a bag packed every day for spontaneous pool day adventures! I’ve split the tot times up by days of the week and then by area (which includes dates, times, ages and prices!) to make this as helpful as possible. Want my ultimate guide to summer in St. Louis, including totally free splash pad options? Grab it here!

TOT TIMES BY DAY OF THE WEEK

MONDAYS
Ellisville Edge Aquatic Center, Kirkwood Aquatic Center, The Lodge, Manchester, Maplewood, Pavillion at Lemay, Shaw Park, Webster Aquatic, Wapelhorst

TUESDAY 
Kirkwood Aquatic Center, The Lodge, Manchester, North Pointe, Pavillion at Lemay, Shaw Park, Timbers of Eureka, Webster Aquatic, Wapelhorst

WEDNESDAY 
Kirkwood Aquatic Center, The Lodge, Koch Park, Maplewood, Manchester , Pavillion at Lemay, Shaw Park, Splash Station, Webster Aquatic, Wapelhorst

THURSDAY
Ellisville Edge, Kirkwood Aquatic Center,The Lodge, Manchester, North Pointe, Pavillion at Lemay, Shaw Park, Timbers of Eureka, Webster Aquatic, Wapelhorst

FRIDAY 
Aquaport, Chesterfield Family Aquatic Center, Collinsville, Kirkwood Aquatic Center, Korte Rec Center, The Lodge, Koch Park, Maplewood, Manchester, Pavillion at Lemay, Shaw Park, Webster Aquatic, Wapelhorst

SATURDAY
Wapelhorst

TOT TIMES BY AREA

St. Louis County

• Aquaport - Maryland Heights 

  • Fridays, 10-11am 

  • June 5 - August 7

  • Ages 6 months - 5 years

  • Fee: Free for residents, $7 for nonresidents. Adults are free. 

• Chesterfield Family Aquatic Center 

  • Fridays 9:30am-11:15am 

  • Ages 5 and under (Children 6-11 are invited with adult and child) 

  • Fee: $5 residents, $6 nonresidents 

• Ellisville Edge Aquatic Center 

  • Monday and Thursday, 10-11:15am

  • June 1-August 13

  • Ages 6 and under

  • Fee: Adults $3, Children $3 

• Kirkwood Aquatic 

  • Monday-Friday 10:15-11:30am 

  • June 1-August 7 

  • Ages 5 and under 

  • Fee: $6 resident, $10 non resident (child) 

• Koch Park Aquatic Center - Florissant 

  • Wednesday and Friday, 11:30-12:30 

  • Ages 6 and under (siblings welcome) 

  • Fee: Free for those 0-3, Youth and Seniors $3, Adults $4

• Lodge At Des Peres 

  • Monday-Friday 9:30-10:30am 

  • May 26-August 7

  • Ages 6 and under

  • Fee: Free for members, $5 resident, $7 non resident 

• Manchester Aquatic 

  • Monday-Friday 10-11:45am 

  • Saturday 9-10:45am

  • June 1-August 28 

  • Ages 6 and under 

  • Fee: $3 resident, $4 nonresident 

• Maplewood Family Aquatic Center 

  • Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 10-12pm 

  • Ages 9 and under 

  • Fee: $8 adults, $5.50 child 

• North Pointe Aquatic Center - Ballwin

  • Tuesday and Thursday 10-11am 

  • June 2-August 20 

  • Ages 5 and under 

  • Fee: $6 per child, adults are free (pass holders are free) 

• Pavilion at Lemay 

  • Monday-Friday 10-11:30am, 6:30-7:30pm

  • June 1-August 14

  • Ages 5 and under

  • Fee: $3 per child, adults free  

• Shaw Park Aquatic Center - Clayton

  • Monday-Friday, 10-11:30am

  • May 26 -August 7 

  • Ages 6 and under 

  • Fee: 

• Timbers of Eureka 

  • Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:30-11:30 

  • June 2-August 13

  • Ages 5 and under 

  • Fee: Free for members, $6 for residents, $7 for nonresidents 

• Webster Aquatic Center 

  • Monday-Friday 10-11:30

  • June 1-August 15

  • Must be under 48 inches

  • Fee: $5 for resident, $8 non resident, adults are free 

St. Charles County 

• Blanchette Pool - City of St. Charles 

  • Monday-Friday, 9-10:45am 

  • May 25-August 15

  • Ages 6 and under 

  • Fee: $6 per person 

• Wapelhorst Aquatic Facility 

  • Monday-Saturday, 9:00-10:45am

  • May 25-August 22

  • Ages 6 and under

  • Fee: $6 per person 

• The Cove Aquatic Center - St Peters

  • Mondays and Fridays, 10-11:30am

  • Starts June 8 

  • Ages 6 and under

  • Fee: $4 for children, $3 for adults, free for passholders

• Alligators Creek

  • Select Fridays, 9:30-10:30 

  • Check dates

  • Ages 5 and under 

  • Fee: $5 for residents, $7 for non residents 

• Splash Station

  • Wednesdays, 10:45-11:45am

  • June 3-August 5 

  • Ages 5 and under 

  • Fee: Regular admission price Adults (R $11/NR $14) Child (R$10/NR $13) Toddler (R $3/$4) 

Illinois 

• Collinsville Aqua Park 

  • Fridays, 10-11am 

  • June 5-August 7 

  • Ages 7 and under 

  • Fee: $8 residents, $10 non residents. Children under 1 are free. 

• Korte Rec Center 

  • Fridays, 10:30-11:30am

  • Ages 8 and under 

  • Fee: Members FREE, Non-members $1 Discount off Daily Admission, Children 2 and under are FREE with a paying adult.

Free Summer Concerts in St. Louis 2026: Your Guide to Free Live Music Every Night of the Week

Explore the charm of Centralia on the perfect Southern Illinois day trip from St. Louis. Sip local wine, explore historic downtown, and dine at the legendary Centralia House, a historic railroad-era restaurant dating back to 1854.

Cuba Missouri is the perfect road trip destination to celebrate 100 years of Route 66.

A monthly round up of my favorite meals, places, purchase and more for the month of April!

Discover the best things to do in St. Louis this May, from festivals and family-friendly events to free attractions and outdoor activities happening all month long.

Looking for kid-friendly outings? Discover the best St. Louis-area playgrounds near great coffee shops, perfect for toddlers, families, and weekend fun.

Discover the best independent bookstores in St. Louis, St. Charles, Metro East, and beyond. From used book gems to cozy neighborhood shops, here are 14 local bookstores worth visiting.

It’s officially farmers market season and in my opinion there’s no better way to spend a Saturday than strolling the market, trying local food, shopping from area farmers and vendors and enjoying the spring and summer weather. Whether you make it a family outing, a day date or just wander through the rows of fresh produce, here’s a list of. the markets to check out around the St. Louis area!

The St. Louis region is full of amazing farmers markets from spring through fall!

Tower Grove Farmers' Market

Location: Tower Grove Park, St. Louis
Dates & Times:

• Saturdays: 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM (April-October)

• Tuesdays: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM (May 5- September)

About:
This is the farmers market in St. Louis. Expect a huge lineup of local farmers, food vendors, and makers, plus live music and one of the best morning atmospheres in the city. It’s less of a quick stop and more of a full experience. For the kids, there’s two playgrounds and a splash pad!

Soulard Farmers Market

Location: Soulard neighborhood, St. Louis
Dates & Times:

• Wednesday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM (full market)

About:
This market is year-round! It’s one of the oldest farmers markets in the country, and a true St. Louis staple. Just FYI, on Wednesday and Thursdays, only 10% of vendors are there, on Fridays it’s 35% and then Saturdays it’s the full experience! The prices on produce are really great and there’s tons of fantastic food to try! Y

Rockwell Beer Garden Farmers Market

Location: Francis Park, St. Louis Hills
Dates & Times:

• Thursdays: 4:00 PM - Dusk (May 7-September)

About:
A perfect weekday option. This market leans into a relaxed, family-friendly vibe, grab a drink from Rockwell, let the kids run around the playground, and shop a smaller but well-curated group of vendors.

Midwest Farmers Market (U City)

Location: Outdoors at Heman Park, 7210 Olive Blvd, St Louis
Dates & Times:

• Thursdays: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM (May 7 - October)

• Saturdays: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM (April-November)

About:
Located in Heman Park in University City this market is packed with local produce, artisanal food and handcrafted foods. They have a weekly music series, culinary demos and children’s activities!

The Boulevard Farmers Market

Location: The Boulevard, Richmond Heights
Dates & Times:

• Sundays: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM (May 3-October)

About:
When Saturdays are just too busy, I love that this is a Sunday option. This is a smaller market but there’s great produce, coffee and artisanal goods.

Kirkwood Farmers Market

Location: Downtown Kirkwood
Dates & Times:

• Open daily (hours vary)

• Vendor Market on Saturdays: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Opens in April)

About:
This is a permanent market for a mostly year round stop for produce and goods. Starting in April, Saturdays turn into a full farmers market with extra vendors and delicious eats.

Lake Saint Louis Farmers & Artists Market

Location: The Meadows at Lake St. Louis
Dates & Times:

• Saturdays: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (April-October)

About:
A mix of farmers market + artisan fair, this one is great if you’re out in St. Charles County. With 125+ vendors, you can find produce, handmade goods, and a family-friendly setup.

Ferguson Farmers Market

Location: Downtown Ferguson, 501 S. Florissant Road
Dates & Times:

• Saturdays: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (May-October)

About:
One of the most community-driven markets in the region. You’ll find local produce, prepared food, and a strong focus on accessibility, events, and neighborhood connection.

Land of Goshen Community Market

Location: Downtown Edwardsville
Dates & Times:

• Saturdays: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (May 9-October)

About:
Worth the short drive to the Metro East. This is a large, well-loved market with a strong lineup of farmers, makers, and food vendors, plus a charming small-town feel.

Alton Farmers & Artisans Market

Location: Downtown Alton (Riverfront)
Dates & Times:

• Saturdays: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (May 9 - October)

About:
Set along the Mississippi River, this market is as scenic as it gets. You’ll find live music, artist demos and other activities! Make a morning of it, shop the market, then explore Alton’s shops, restaurants, or riverfront views.