Published
April 28, 2025
Beyond the traffic and construction, some of the best escapes sit just outside St. Louis — plus a few road-safety notes before you drive out.
Despite the nightmare traffic, the city thrives in the tourism stakes with a predicted 1.3% increase in hotel revenue this year.
Businesses are flocking to the region as it centers itself as a premier conference venue. Music artists are bringing their star power as well. Kendrick Lamar and SZA are coming to The Dome in June. It's a jam-packed year for St. Louis.
However, there's so much more on offer if you consider exploring beyond the city limits. Whether you're native to the area or plan on visiting, some great places on St. Louis's doorstep are worth your time and effort.
But first, let's lay some ground rules…
Invisible Obstacles and Environmental Factors
When riding a bike, you may encounter many problems that are not right in front of you. Sun glare can also temporarily blind you, leading to misjudgment as to where you are. Like, for example, low visibility in fog or heavy rain can hide potential hazards. Another common issue is potholes and irregular road surfaces, which will make you jump so that you lose your balance.Walk, Don't Run
St Louis is rated the most walkable city in Missouri with a walk score of 66. While safety remains a concern, Spectrum News reports that the city has commissioned a mobility study focused on improved safety.Drive Defensively
Be aware that St Louis reports a significantly high number of car accident fatalities annually. The county has earned a reputation as being a truck crash hotspot.Insurance
If you're visiting the city, ensure you have comprehensive car insurance that covers you in the event of an accident. Should you be one of the many thousands of car accident victims, the first thing to do is contact a car accident lawyer.Enlist the help of an experienced car accident attorney with a proven track record in car accident cases who can secure compensation for serious injuries, medical bills, and lost wages. They should also take you through the car accident claims process when claiming from insurance companies.
TorHoerman Law advises approaching a personal injury law firm offering a free consultation to start legal proceedings.
Now that we've discussed the ground rules, let's check out three places less than a few hours' drive from the big city
#1. Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Fresh air and camping on the brain? Then you should visit Ozark National Scenic Riverways.The national park was the first “scenic riverways” in the U.S., four years before the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. It protects 134 miles of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers in southeast Missouri's Ozark Highlands.
The clear, clean waters offer johnboating, canoeing, swimming, fishing, tubing, hiking, and birdwatching. Diverse camping options, including traditional campgrounds and riverside sites, are perfect for camping enthusiasts and novices.
#2. Kirkwood
A charming suburb in St. Louis County, Kirkwood is one of the safest places to live in the area.Come Halloween, the Magic House at St. Louis Children's Museum is transformed into a kid-friendly trick-or-treat adventure for the young and the young at heart.
How about visiting a vintage candy store to satisfy your sweet tooth? The Sugar Shack has a vivid display of gumball jars and old-fashioned candy dispensers.
One of the shop's most charming features is its affordability. A few coins can buy a sweet treat, embracing the nostalgic idea that a quarter goes a long way.
#3. Brookdale Farms
Bring the kids along and they'll beg you not to leave. Brookdale Farms is a year-round adventure, spread across nearly 300 acres of farmland along the river.Saturdays at the Farm Farmers Market is Eureka's premier summer market, drawing locals and visitors alike. Or, experience stunning acrobatics, aerial artistry, and exotic horses under the grand Italian Big Top.
The biggest attraction is the largest corn maze in St. Louis, an exciting part of the farm's fall festival. Brookdale Farms also hosts 'Light Cycles', a nighttime walk featuring captivating lights, immersive soundscapes, and dynamic digital art.
Beyond the City Lights
Despite the safety issues and motor vehicle accident stats, St. Louis has many redeeming qualities, including natural attractions only a few miles away.Ozark National Scenic Riverways has fresh air and breathtaking river scenery. Pack an overnight bag, camping supplies, and a tent.
Kirkwood offers a family-friendly environment where you can indulge your inner kid at the Magic House and the Sugar Shack.
Brookdale Farms in Eureka has a plethora of activities to keep the little ones entertained. Don't forget to book your tickets for the 'Light Cycles' event well in advance.
The city is itching to invite visitors to experience its sights and sounds. Mardi Gras and Festival of Nations are only a few drawcards on the annual events calendar set to attract the crowds.
And, if crowds aren't your thing, all you have to do is jump in your car and follow the road less traveled.
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