20 Attractions to Explore Near National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows

GCS Credit Union Ballpark is a massive venue for recreational activities and entertainment. The capacity of 8,000 makes it the largest minor league baseball park in the country and provides enough room for all members of the community to attend family-friendly events. The ballpark has hosted a number of sporting competitions, concerts, and other events for residents to take part in over the years. It is also home to several retail stores and offers space for dining and leisurely activities.

The National Building Arts Center is a unique destination that combines education and hands-on workshops with rich local history. Featuring rotating exhibitions and interactive activities for all ages, the Center seeks to promote both traditional building practices as well as innovative technologies in architecture and construction. Established in 2018, this family-friendly stop on the Great Rivers Heritage Trail has already provided educational programming to more than 3,000 visitors.

Jarrot Mansion is a spectacular display of 19th-century architecture. Originally constructed in 1815-1817 by French settler William Jarrot, the mansion has been restored to feel like its original glory days. The exterior boasts ornate classical detailing including gabled dormers and snowball wood trim. Inside, visitors are dazzled with the welcoming atmosphere and grand décor of the Federal-style house; complete with hardwood floors, original artworks, and furnishings from the 19th-century era.

Cahokia Courthouse is a prominent icon of American history. Built in 1858, the structure is of Italianate style featuring rich trim and an impressive cupola. The grounds are adorned with historically significant statuary, such as Lewis and Clark, Tecumseh, Marquette and LaSalle. Inside the building one can find an elaborate rotunda along with an original stained glass window depicting Cahokia's Native American heritage.

The Katherine Dunham Museum is an incredible tribute to one of the most influential African American dancers and choreographers of the 20th century, Katherine Dunham. Located in East St. Louis, the museum houses a priceless collection of rare photographs, music recordings, costumes and memorabilia that allow visitors to get an up close look at Dunham's life and legacy. Additionally, visitors can also enjoy educational programming such as lectures and workshops.

The Spivey Building is an iconic structure on the banks of the Mississippi River. It boasts a beautifully curved facade and an impressive portico with six columns at its entrance. Inside, the building contains various spaces and amenities, including courtrooms and offices for attorneys, judges, staff members and other personnel related to the legal profession. The Spivey Building is also home to many arts organizations such as theaters and galleries affiliated with performing arts.

The Martin-Boismenue House State Historic Site offers a glimpse into the past. Built in 1840, the original structure underwent modifications in 1906 and more recently was restored to its original appearance. This site offers a unique look at historical architecture, and visitors can explore many of the period features such as 19th century wallpapers, woodworking patterns and interior finishes. The grounds feature expansive gardens and two orchards full of native fruit trees.

Malcolm W. Martin Memorial park offers visitors an array of interesting amenities, from scenic walking trails alongside the Mississippi River to interactive educational displays attuned to the region's Native American heritage. Other attractions include the Observation Center situated atop the 300-foot tall Gateway Geyser that offers panoramic views of downtown St. Louis, as well as hockey and ice skating rinks alongside basketball courts and a two-acre golf course.

The Mississippi River Overlook is a must-see destination! With its panoramic views of the mighty Mississippi river, hikers and photographers alike can enjoy breath-taking shots of the wildlife that inhabits the area. From cedar trees and tall grasses to migrating hawks and blue herons, one can easily find wonder in its serene landscape. Access to the overlook is made easy with its roughly two kilometer long trail filled with gravel pathways, perfect for leisurely walks or spirited jogs.

The MacArthur Bridge connects St. Clair County, Illinois, to Missouri via the Mississippi River. Construction on the bridge began in October of 2017 and at a cost of $26 million, it was opened for general public use in April 2019. Spanning 4,280 feet across the mighty Mississippi, the bridge has been named after General Douglas MacArthur to honor his achievements and contributions to American military history during World War II.

The Mural Mile in St. Louis City, Missouri, is a visual treat for art enthusiasts. The mile-long stretch boasts over 40 murals that are spread across historic buildings and walls. These murals capture the essence of the city's cultural and social heritage and feature vivid and vibrant artwork that will leave visitors spellbound.The Mural Mile project was initiated in 2013 to revitalize neglected areas of the city and breathe new life into underutilized spaces.

St. Clair Square is the regional shopping hub located conveniently off of Interstate 64, this shopping destination has something for everyone! Featuring more than 130 shops and eateries, it provides an ideal location for both retail aficionados and casual shoppers alike. From fashion, beauty, home goods and more, you're sure to find what you need at St. Clair Square. For those looking for a bite to eat after a long day of shopping, there are plenty of dining options.

World Wide Technology Raceway is a premier motor sports complex. Located just 25 miles east of St. Louis, it has long been a favorite destination for racers and spectators alike. The track features a three-quarter-mile tri-oval dirt track for stock car racing and a half mile drag strip for speed events. With 14,000 grandstand seating, the Raceway is capable of hosting numerous fans from all over the Midwest region.

Eads Bridge Built in 1874 by James B. Eads, it remains the oldest steel bridge over the Mississippi River, having been declared a National Historic Landmark in 1964. Spanning nearly 2,500 feet across the Missouri-Illinois border and resting on massive limestone piers topped with Corinthian columns and black granite coping stones, Eads Bridge has remained an impressive feat of engineering for over 140 years.

CathedraI of Saint Peter, is a Roman Catholic church and parish community dedicated to the patron saint of fishermen and sailors. Built in 1899, it has been iconic for over a century, and with its twin steeples, commanding brick facade, and historic bow-style stained glass windows it certainly is both beautiful and imposing. This cathedral offers a range of programming including Masses, Baptisms & Confirmations services all year round as well as hosting summer picnics.

Gateway Arch National Park is one of the premier vacation spots in the Midwest. Located on the banks of Lake Hornholm and surrounded by rolling hillsides, It provides stunning views for visitors to take in at their leisure. The lake offers fishing, boating, hiking, and camping pursuits while nearby woodlands are home to an array of native wildlife including deer, foxes, and raccoons. Guests can take advantage of yearend activities such as a 4th of July parade or special holiday festivities.

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is one of the most important archaeological sites in North America. it stands as a testament to the sophisticated civilization that once thrived more than 1,000 years ago. Spanning two and a half square miles, it was the largest pre-Columbian community north of Mexico, boasting an estimated residential population of 20,000 people who engaged in maize cultivation and long distance trade networks.

The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Saint Louis City is a fascinating archaeological site that dates back to the pre-Columbian era. Covering over 2,200 acres, it contains the remains of a vast city that was once home to an ancient indigenous civilization. With its towering earthen mounds, complex ceremonial structures, and intricate artifacts, the site offers a glimpse into a civilization that flourished between 800 to 1400 CE.

The Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, is a prominent landmark in Saint Louis City that is steeped in history and religious significance. Located in the heart of downtown Saint Louis, this stunning basilica has been a symbol of Catholic faith for over a century.Constructed in the late 1800s, the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, was designed by George Barnett to resemble the grand cathedrals of Europe.

The Gateway Arch is a historical symbol of the state and its rich geography. Rising as an impressive landmark along the banks of the Mississippi River, it memorializes our connection to this great river and its past. While being constructed in 1947, one could gaze upon its magnificent structure from miles around. Now, The Gateway Arch stands proudly as not only an honored representation for the surrounding community, but also a significant point of interest for travelers and tourists alike.