12 Things To Do In St. Louis In October

As the leaves turn to shades of red and gold, and the crisp fall air sets in, St. Louis is the perfect place to be in October. From spooky events to harvest festivals, this vibrant city has plenty to offer. Whether you're a local or just visiting for the season, here are 12 must-do activities to experience in St. Louis this October.

Visit the Missouri Botanical Garden for their Garden Glow event

If you're planning a trip to St. Louis in October, one event that you shouldn't miss is the Missouri Botanical Garden's Garden Glow. This enchanting event features thousands of lights and festive displays that transform the garden into a winter wonderland.

Running from mid-November through the end of December, Garden Glow is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. The event is open from 5-10pm every night, giving visitors plenty of time to check out all of the dazzling displays. The lights are strategically placed throughout the garden, illuminating trees, shrubs, and other botanical features. There are also a number of interactive displays and games that are perfect for families with kids.

Another highlight of Garden Glow is the Gardenland Express Holiday Flower and Train Show. This show features a model train display set against a backdrop of hundreds of poinsettias, amaryllis, and other seasonal flowers. It's a great way to get even more immersed in the holiday spirit.

In addition to the Garden Glow event, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a must-visit attraction in St. Louis all year round. The garden covers 79 acres and features a variety of themed gardens, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a Chinese garden. There are also several indoor exhibits, including a tropical conservatory, an herbarium, and a library.

Overall, if you're looking for something fun to do in St. Louis in October, or during the holiday season in general, Garden Glow at the Missouri Botanical Garden is definitely worth checking out. The event is sure to put you in a festive mood and give you a new appreciation for the beauty of the garden at night.

Attend a Cardinals baseball game at Busch Stadium

If you're planning a trip to St. Louis in October, catching a Cardinals baseball game at Busch Stadium should definitely be on your to-do list. With the crisp fall weather and the excitement of postseason play, there's no better way to experience the city's sports culture.

First things first, you'll want to check out the Cardinals' schedule to see if there are any home games during your visit. During the month of October, the Cardinals may be playing in the postseason if they secure a playoff spot. If that's the case, you can expect the stadium to be packed with die-hard fans and a lively atmosphere.

Assuming there's a game during your visit, it's important to plan ahead and purchase your tickets in advance. You can do this online through the Cardinals website or through third-party vendors like StubHub. Depending on the game and seating location, tickets can range from affordable to quite expensive, so it's best to review your options carefully.

On game day, get to the stadium early to soak up the pre-game festivities. Tailgating is a popular activity for Cardinals games, so you may want to join in on the fun before heading inside. Once you're in the stadium, be sure to grab a cold beer and some stadium food like hot dogs, nachos, or peanuts.

As for the stadium itself, Busch Stadium is a modern and comfortable venue that offers great views of the downtown St. Louis skyline. The stadium also has plenty of amenities like a team store, multiple bars, and fan experiences like batting cages and interactive games.

If you're lucky enough to attend a Cardinals game during the postseason, the atmosphere will be even more electric. Playoff games bring out the best in fans, with rousing cheers, chants, and a palpable sense of excitement. There's truly nothing like experiencing the intensity of playoff baseball in person.

Overall, attending a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium is a quintessential St. Louis experience that you won't want to miss. Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan or just looking to immerse yourself in the city's sports culture, a Cardinals game is a perfect way to spend a fall day in St. Louis.

Explore the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery

St. Louis in October is a great time to visit Anheuser-Busch Brewery. The Brewery, which was founded in 1852, is a landmark in St. Louis and is known for its iconic Budweiser beers. The Brewery offers a range of tours that take visitors through the brewing process, the history of the company, as well as its unique architecture. Below are some reasons why you should explore the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery in St. Louis during your visit in October.

Beautiful Autumn scenery

October in St. Louis brings beautiful autumn foliage that makes it a perfect season to visit the Brewery. The historic architecture of the Brewery and its surroundings offers a picturesque view of the changing colours of the trees and fall leaves. The serene atmosphere with the scent of autumn in the air and the sounds of nature is a perfect way to unwind and enjoy a great day out.

A perfect time to learn about the brewing process

October is also considered a perfect time to learn about the brewing process of Anheuser-Busch Brewery. The fall season is when the beer industry transitions into brewing seasonal beers like Oktoberfest, Fall Harvest and Pumpkin Spice Ale. The tour guides take visitors through the entire brewing process from the beginning to the end. Visitors can see how the ingredients are mixed to create unique flavours of beer, and how it's fermented and packaged.

Experience the Historic Clydesdales

The historic Clydesdales horses are another attraction at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. These majestic horses were first introduced as a gift to August A. Busch Jr. on behalf of his father in 1933. Visitors can view the beautiful Clydesdales in their stables, learn about their history, and even watch them in a parade. In October, there are special shows featuring these amazing horses that visitors can attend.

Enjoy of Great Food and Drinks

Visitors can also enjoy a range of food and drinks while at Anheuser-Busch Brewery. Visitors can sample different types of beer in the tasting room. Additionally, there are different food vendors such as barbecue, gourmet pizza, and other local goodies that are available for purchase.

In conclusion, visiting the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery in St. Louis is a perfect way to experience the fall season and learn about the brewing process of one of the most renowned beer companies. October is a perfect time to visit and take advantage of the additional activities available during the fall season. From the beautiful landscaped grounds to the Clydesdales, food vendors and a diversity of beers, it's an ideal day out for everyone.

Enjoy live music and food at the Soulard Oktoberfest

Characteristic	Description
Name	Soulard Oktoberfest
Type	Event venue in St. Louis, Missouri
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	3.3 / 12
Address	1700 S 8th St, St. Louis, MO 63104
Hours	Thursday - Closed Friday - 5–11 PM Saturday - 11 AM–11 PM Sunday - Closed Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - Closed
Profiles

St. Louis in October is a great time to experience the city's vibrant and eclectic culture. With the arrival of fall, the weather is pleasant, and there are a variety of events and activities happening all around the city. One of the most popular events in October is the Soulard Oktoberfest.

Soulard Oktoberfest is a three-day festival held in the historic Soulard neighborhood of St. Louis. This annual event attracts thousands of visitors from all over the country to celebrate the Bavarian culture with food, music, dancing, and of course, plenty of beer.

If you love live music and delicious food, then the Soulard Oktoberfest is the perfect destination for you. There are multiple stages throughout the festival playing an array of music genres, from traditional German polkas to contemporary country. The festival has something to offer for every music lover out there.

The food scene at Oktoberfest is equally impressive, with vendors serving up authentic German dishes like bratwurst, sauerkraut, and pretzels, as well as classic American fair, like burgers and hot dogs. And of course, you'll find plenty of beer and other adult beverages to wash it all down.

One of the highlights of the Soulard Oktoberfest is the beer sampling tent, where you can try some of the best beers from local and national breweries. There are also beer stein-holding competitions and, of course, the traditional keg-tapping ceremony.

In addition to music and food, the festival offers a variety of activities and events, including carnival rides, a 5k run, a pet parade, and a wiener dog derby. There is something for everyone at the Soulard Oktoberfest.

Overall, the Soulard Oktoberfest is an excellent opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and community in St. Louis. The German-inspired festival brings together people of all backgrounds and ages to celebrate music, food, and of course, beer. If you're looking for a memorable experience this October, make sure to plan a trip to the Soulard Oktoberfest.

Visit the Saint Louis Art Museum for free

Characteristic	Description
Name	Saint Louis Art Museum
Type	Art museum in St. Louis, Missouri
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 6,856
Address	1 Fine Arts Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110
Phone	(314) 721-0072
Hours	Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–9 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM Sunday - 10 AM–5 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

If you are planning a trip to St. Louis in October, you should definitely consider visiting the Saint Louis Art Museum. What’s great about this museum is that it’s free to enter, so you can enjoy amazing works of art without breaking the bank.

The Saint Louis Art Museum is located in Forest Park, which is one of the biggest urban parks in the country. The park is breathtaking in the fall, with the leaves on the trees turning different shades of red, yellow, and orange. This makes it the perfect time to enjoy a walk through the park, taking in all the sights and sounds of the season.

The museum itself has a wide variety of galleries, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art. You can explore the art of ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, view decorative arts from Europe and America, and examine the works of modern artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh. There is always something new to discover at the Saint Louis Art Museum, no matter how many times you visit.

Other great exhibitions that run in October include the “Currents 117: Dave Hullfish Bailey” event, which takes a look at the works of this famous artist and his environmental and social concerns, as well as “Graphic Revolution: American Prints 1960 to Now”, which features groundbreaking prints produced since the 1960s.

In addition, the museum is hosting a number of events throughout October, including lectures, gallery talks, and interactive workshops. You can attend these events and engage with other art enthusiasts to deepen your appreciation of art and maybe even learn something new.

Finally, it's worth noting that the Museum has taken a number of precautions to ensure that visitors can safely enjoy the art on display. This includes a mask requirement, social distancing measures, and timed tickets. So, whether you are a local or a visitor, be sure to take advantage of the Saint Louis Art Museum's free admission and enjoy the beauty and wonder of art this October.

Experience the Halloween-themed Magic House

St. Louis in October is a great time to experience all the spooky fun of Halloween. If you're looking for a family-friendly activity, the Magic House is a great place to start. This children's museum offers plenty of Halloween-themed activities throughout the month of October.

One of the highlights of the Halloween season at the Magic House is the "Not-So-Haunted House" exhibit. This spooky exhibit is designed to be just scary enough to get kids in the Halloween spirit, without being too frightening for younger children. Kids can explore a haunted mansion with a spooky music soundtrack and ghostly decorations.

Another fun activity is the Halloween Magic Show, which takes place on weekends throughout the month. This interactive show features a magician and a haunted house theme, and is sure to delight kids and adults alike.

In addition to these special activities, the Magic House also has all of its regular exhibits open during the Halloween season. Kids can explore the Children's Village, a play area designed to resemble a small town with a grocery store, post office, and bank. They can also visit the Star-Spangled Center, a hands-on exhibit about the American flag and its history.

Throughout the month of October, the Magic House is decked out in Halloween decorations, making it a fun and festive destination for families. Tickets are available online or at the door, and discounts are available for members and groups. Don't miss out on the Halloween-themed fun at the Magic House this October!

Take a spooky ghost tour of the Lemp Mansion

St. Louis in October is the perfect time to visit the city as the weather is mild and there are plenty of activities to partake in, especially for those who love a good scare. One particularly exciting activity is taking a spooky ghost tour of the Lemp Mansion, a historic site known for its eerie past and alleged paranormal activity.

The Lemp Mansion was built in the mid-1800s by the wealthy Lemp family, who were prominent beer barons in the city. However, the family suffered a string of tragedies, including the deaths of several family members by suicide, which has led to speculation that the mansion is haunted by their ghosts.

Taking a ghost tour of the Lemp Mansion is not for the faint of heart. Visitors are taken through the mansion's various rooms and told stories of the strange occurrences that have happened there. The tour guides are knowledgeable and engaging, making the experience all the more chilling.

One of the most famous ghost stories associated with the mansion is the ghost of William Lemp Jr., who allegedly shot himself in one of the mansion's bedrooms in 1922. Visitors have reported seeing his ghostly apparition in that same room, sitting on the bed or standing by the window. Others have reported feeling cold spots or feeling like they are being watched by an unseen presence.

Another standout feature of the Lemp Mansion is the impressive architecture and decor. The mansion has been meticulously restored to its original glory, with ornate woodwork, striking stained glass windows, and antique furnishings. The combination of the mansion's haunting history and its stunning aesthetic make it a must-visit for any aficionado of the macabre.

In conclusion, taking a spooky ghost tour of the Lemp Mansion in St. Louis in October is an experience that horror fans won't want to miss. The mansion's eerie past and alleged paranormal activity, coupled with its impressive architecture and decor, make it a standout attraction in the city. So, if you're feeling brave enough, gather your courage and prepare for a scare at the Lemp Mansion!

Attend the annual Taste of St. Louis food festival

As the leaves turn to brilliant shades of orange and gold and the weather begins to cool down, it's clear that October has arrived in St. Louis. One of the best ways to indulge in the flavors of the season and celebrate the vibrant culinary scene in the city is by attending the annual Taste of St. Louis food festival, which takes place each year during the first weekend of October.

The Taste of St. Louis festival offers something for everyone, from foodies looking to sample the latest and greatest dishes to families seeking fun and entertainment. Over 30 local restaurants and food vendors set up booths at the festival, offering a range of delicious and diverse options to satisfy every craving. Whether you're in the mood for gourmet cuisine or classic comfort foods, you're sure to find a dish that hits the spot.

If you're interested in experiencing some of the most innovative and exciting flavors in St. Louis, be sure to check out the Food Fight competition, where top chefs from around the area compete to create the most impressive dishes. You can also attend cooking demonstrations and workshops led by some of the city's most talented chefs who will be sharing their culinary secrets and techniques.

But the festival isn't just about food. You can also enjoy live music performances, beer tastings, and other activities, including a Kid's Kitchen where children can participate in cooking classes and other educational activities. Vendors will offer a variety of merchandise and crafts as well.

One of the biggest benefits of attending the Taste of St. Louis festival is that you'll be supporting local businesses and giving back to the community. Many of the restaurants and food vendors participating in the festival are small or family-owned businesses that rely on community support to sustain their operations. By attending the festival and showing your support, you can play an important role in helping to keep the local culinary scene thriving and vibrant.

Overall, the Taste of St. Louis food festival is a must-attend event for anyone who loves great food and community engagement. Mark your calendar for the first weekend of October and get ready to indulge in the very best of St. Louis's rich culinary heritage.

Visit the Gateway Arch National Park

Characteristic	Description
Name	Gateway Arch National Park
Type	National park in St. Louis, Missouri
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 8,785
Address	St. Louis, MO 63102
Phone	(314) 655-1600
Hours	Thursday - 5 AM–11 PM Friday - 5 AM–11 PM Saturday - 5 AM–11 PM Sunday - 5 AM–11 PM Monday - 5 AM–11 PM Tuesday - 5 AM–11 PM Wednesday - 5 AM–11 PM
Profiles

St. Louis in October is a wonderful time to visit, with the weather cooling down and plenty of exciting events happening in the city. One must-visit attraction during your trip to St. Louis is the Gateway Arch National Park.

The Gateway Arch National Park is the centerpiece of St. Louis and is a stunning symbol of the city's role as the Gateway to the West. The arch is an iconic monument that stands 630 feet tall and offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and the Mississippi River.

There are many different ways to experience the Gateway Arch National Park. For the adventurous, there is the Journey to the Top tram ride, which takes visitors to the top of the arch for incredible views. The tram ride is not for the faint of heart, as it involves a steep incline and small, enclosed spaces. However, the breathtaking views from the top are worth it.

If you're looking for a more laid-back way to experience the park, there are many hiking trails and scenic overlooks that offer stunning views of the arch and the surrounding area. You can also take a riverboat cruise to see the arch from a different perspective.

One of the great things about visiting the Gateway Arch National Park in October is the fall foliage. The trees in the park are beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow, making for a picturesque backdrop to your visit. Plus, the weather is cooler, making it the perfect time to explore the park on foot.

When you're done exploring the Gateway Arch National Park, there are many other attractions in the area to check out. The City Museum is a must-visit for families, with its interactive exhibits and climbable sculptures. The St. Louis Zoo is another great attraction, with free admission and a wide variety of animals to see.

In conclusion, visiting the Gateway Arch National Park in October is a fantastic way to experience one of St. Louis's most iconic landmarks. With its stunning views, exciting tram ride, and beautiful fall foliage, it's an experience you won't soon forget. Be sure to add it to your itinerary when planning your next trip to St. Louis.

Explore the City Museum, an interactive and eclectic museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	City Museum
Type	Museum in St. Louis, Missouri
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 18,081
Address	750 N 16th St, St. Louis, MO 63103
Phone	(314) 231-2489
Hours	Thursday - 10 AM–5:30 PM Friday - 10 AM–6 PM Saturday - 10 AM–9 PM Sunday - 10 AM–6 PM Monday - 10 AM–5:30 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5:30 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

If you're looking for something fun and unique to do in St. Louis during the month of October, exploring the City Museum should be at the top of your list. This interactive museum is a true hidden gem in the heart of the city, and it's sure to provide an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

The City Museum is not your typical museum. It was founded by artist Bob Cassilly in 1997 and is a mix of art installations, playgrounds, and interactive exhibits that encourage visitors to climb, crawl, and explore. Cassilly believed that the museum should be a place for people to interact with art in a way that breaks down traditional barriers and allows visitors to fully engage with the exhibits.

One of the reasons that the City Museum is so unique is that it uses recycled and reclaimed materials throughout the space. The museum is housed in a former shoe factory and the exhibits are constructed from salvaged objects such as old airplanes, fire trucks, and building materials.

The museum's main attraction is the 10-story spiral slide that takes visitors from the roof to the basement. Other popular exhibits include the Enchanted Caves, which are a series of tunnels and caves that lead to secret rooms, the Skate Park, which features ramps and obstacles for skateboarders, and the MonstroCity, which is a massive outdoor playground that consists of towers, slides, and a giant ball pit.

In addition to the exhibits, the City Museum also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including concerts, dance parties, and art classes. If you're visiting the museum in October, you might be able to catch one of their Halloween-themed events, such as the Monster Mash bash or the Haunted City Museum.

Overall, the City Museum is a one-of-a-kind attraction that is not to be missed during a visit to St. Louis. Whether you're traveling with kids or just looking for a unique and interactive museum experience, the City Museum is sure to provide hours of fun and entertainment.

Go on a scenic fall hike in Forest Park

St. Louis is known for its natural beauty, and there's no better way to experience the city's autumn colors than on a scenic fall hike in Forest Park. This sprawling green space covers over 1,300 acres in the heart of St. Louis, making it one of the largest urban parks in the country. With miles of hiking trails winding through woods, meadows, and paved paths, there's no better destination for a fall hike in the area.

One of the best things about hiking in Forest Park in October is the changing foliage. As the weather cools and the days shorten, the leaves on the trees start to turn brilliant shades of orange, red, and gold. Walking among the colorful trees is a breathtaking experience, and it's one that only lasts for a few short weeks each year. So don't wait too long to plan your scenic fall hike – you don't want to miss the peak of autumn color in Forest Park.

One of the most popular hiking trails in Forest Park is the Grand Basin Trail. This 1.6-mile loop circles the Grand Basin, a picturesque lake that's surrounded by trees and greenery. The trail is paved and relatively flat, making it accessible for all skill levels. You'll get stunning views of the park's main landmarks, including the James S. McDonnell Planetarium, the St. Louis Art Museum, and the Missouri History Museum. The Grand Basin Trail is especially beautiful in the fall, when the trees are reflected in the still waters of the lake.

Another good option for a scenic fall hike in Forest Park is the Kennedy Forest Trail. This 1.4-mile trail weaves through a dense forest, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The trail is relatively flat, although there are some steep areas that will get your heart pumping. Along the way, you'll see towering trees, colorful leaves, and maybe even some wildlife – look out for birds, squirrels, and deer. If you're lucky, you might even come across a hidden waterfall or two.

No matter which trail you choose, make sure you wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. The weather in October can be unpredictable, so it's better to be prepared for all conditions. Bring a camera to capture the stunning fall scenery, and don't forget a water bottle to stay hydrated on your hike. With its tranquil beauty and breathtaking autumn colors, Forest Park is the perfect destination for a scenic fall hike in St. Louis.

Watch the Great Forest Park Balloon Race

St. Louis is a fantastic city to visit in October as it offers an array of activities and events to enjoy. Aside from indulging in its scrumptious food offerings and immersing yourself in its rich history, you can also witness one of its most exciting events, the Great Forest Park Balloon Race.

The Great Forest Park Balloon Race is an annual event that takes place in late September or early October. This year, it will be held on October 1st, and it is a free event open to everyone. It is a unique experience where you can watch a dazzling display of hot air balloons lighting up the sky.

The race is held in the Forest Park of St. Louis, which boasts of over 1,300 acres of open space. It is a great location for the race as it provides ample space for the balloons to take off and land safely. There are also designated areas for spectators to watch the event, which usually accommodates thousands of people.

The highlight of the event is the Balloon Glow, which is held the night before the race. Here, all the balloons will light up simultaneously, creating a beautiful spectacle of colors and lights. It is a great experience for both kids and adults, and the perfect opportunity to take some stunning photos.

On the day of the race, hundreds of hot air balloons take to the skies, and the event turns into a colorful parade of balloons. The pilots will compete for the long distance or closest to the target awards by navigating their balloons through the skies. The direction and distance of the balloons depend on the wind, which adds an element of unpredictability and excitement to the event.

Apart from the balloons, the Forest Park Balloon Race also offers various activities and entertainment for visitors. You can enjoy live music, food and drinks stalls, and kids' activities, including face painting and balloon artists, making it an excellent day out for the whole family.

In conclusion, if you’re visiting St. Louis in October, you don’t want to miss the Great Forest Park Balloon Race. You can witness a unique and beautiful display of hot air balloons, enjoy various entertainments, and experience the excitement of balloon racing. It is an unforgettable event that you will cherish for a long time.

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