There’s something deeply exciting about spontaneous road trips with old friends — the kind of journey that starts with simple plans and ends in unforgettable memories. In early April 2025, I found myself on an adventure in the vibrant, historic city of St. Louis, Missouri.
It all began with a multi-leg reunion — I traveled from Harrisburg to Chicago, where I met my friend flying in from Atlanta. Our third musketeer, who lives in Peoria, picked us up from O’Hare International Airport, and the next morning, we hit the road to St. Louis for a quick yet fulfilling day trip.
The Drive to St. Louis: Rolling Through the Heart of America
We left Peoria early — coffee in hand, playlists set, and hearts buzzing with excitement. The drive to St. Louis took us around 2.5 to 3 hours, and the landscape slowly shifted from quiet Illinois farmland to the dynamic energy of Missouri’s urban sprawl.
As we approached the Gateway Arch rising in the distance, it felt like the city was calling out, ready to share its stories.
Our St. Louis Itinerary: What We Packed into One Day
1. Gateway Arch National Park
Our first stop was the iconic Gateway Arch — you can’t go to St. Louis and miss it. Standing beneath this 630-foot marvel, I was reminded of how architecture can reflect ambition. We took the tram ride to the top (highly recommended if you’re not claustrophobic!) and were rewarded with sweeping views of the Mississippi River and downtown skyline.
Pro Tip: Book your tram tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.
2. Old Courthouse
Just across from the Arch is the Old Courthouse, a significant site in American history where the Dred Scott case began. The architecture alone is worth a quick visit, and the exhibits inside give a somber but powerful glimpse into civil rights history.
3. Citygarden Sculpture Park
After descending from the Arch, we made our way to the Citygarden Sculpture Park, just a short walk away. This beautifully designed urban green space blends art, landscape, and play in the middle of downtown. We wandered through larger-than-life sculptures, fountains, and blooming spring gardens — it was like stumbling into a quiet, open-air gallery surrounded by skyscrapers.
This spot is perfect for a relaxed walk and a few Instagram-worthy photos!
4. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis
Next, we headed to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, and I can confidently say — it took our breath away. The towering structure hides one of the largest collections of mosaics in the world. The interior glows with intricate artwork, deep silence, and sheer grandeur. We spent some time simply sitting and absorbing the peaceful ambiance. Whether you’re spiritual or not, the basilica is a must-see.
St. Louis in a Day: Reflections from the Road
There’s a special kind of magic in day trips. With no pressure to “see it all,” we simply followed our curiosity. St. Louis surprised me — it’s a city of contrasts: old and new, gritty and polished, fast-paced yet laid back.
The best part? Sharing it all with close friends, with spontaneous laughs, shared playlists, and pit stops along the way.
Quick Travel Tips for a Day Trip to St. Louis
- Start Early: Leave Peoria (or your nearby base) by 6:30–7:00 AM to maximize your time.
- Book Arch Tickets Ahead: Visit gatewayarch.com to reserve your tram ride slot.
- Dress for Comfort: You’ll be walking a lot. Good walking shoes and layered clothing are key, especially in spring.
- Parking Tip: Use mobile apps like ParkMobile for easy downtown parking.
- Citygarden & Cathedral Basilica: Both are free and great additions to your downtown route!
