20 Attractions to Explore Near Katherine Dunham Museum

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge located in St. Clair County, Illinois. Spanning the Mississippi River it connects St. Louis, Missouri and East St. Louis, Illinois and is the first highway suspension bridge in Illinois with six lanes of traffic. The main span measures 835 feet and consists of two towers each rising 243 feet above the road deck which sit on foundations driven 25 to 39 feet into bedrock below the riverbed.

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.

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.

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 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 Old Courthouse is a historic landmark located in the heart of St. Louis city, Missouri. Built-in the 1830s, this magnificent building served as the seat of the local government for many years and witnessed several significant events in American history.The Old Courthouse played a pivotal role in the landmark Dred Scott case, in which a slave named Dred Scott sued for his freedom.

The National Blues Museum is a cultural attraction located in the heart of St. Louis city, Missouri, dedicated to the rich history and legacy of blues music. The museum opened its doors in 2016 and spans across 23,000 square feet, with interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and artifacts that showcase the evolution of blues music.Through its various exhibits, the National Blues Museum offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors.

Kiener Plaza Park is a popular public space located in the heart of St. Louis city, Missouri. The park was recently renovated and reopened in 2017, and has since become a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike.Spanning across 1.9 acres of land, Kiener Plaza Park features a variety of amenities and attractions that cater to a wide range of interests. The park boasts a spacious lawn area, perfect for picnics, lounging, and outdoor events.

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.

Citygarden Sculpture Park is a unique urban oasis located in St. Louis city. This beautiful park covers 2.9 acres of land and features a stunning collection of modern and contemporary sculptures, as well as a variety of lush gardens and greenery.The sculptures in Citygarden Sculpture Park are spread throughout the park, creating an immersive and interactive experience for visitors. The collection includes works by some of the most renowned sculptors from around the world.

The Shrine of St. Joseph is another notable landmark in St. Louis City, Missouri. Located in the LaSalle Park neighborhood, this majestic church was built in 1843 and has since been a hub for Catholic worship and devotion. The Shrine of St. Joseph is dedicated to St. Joseph, the foster father of Jesus Christ and the patron saint of workers.The church's exterior features Romanesque Revival style architecture, with a grand bell tower and a red brick facade.

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.

Art Saint Louis is a well-known art institution located in the city of St. Louis, Missouri. The organization was founded in 1986 and since then has been dedicated to promoting contemporary art in the region. Art Saint Louis has a diverse collection of artworks from numerous genres, styles, and mediums. The institution provides opportunities for artists to showcase their works in various exhibitions, competitions, and educational programs.

The Soldiers Memorial Military Museum, located in the heart of St. Louis city, is a historical landmark that serves as a tribute to the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces throughout history. The museum features an extensive collection of military artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, letters, photographs, and other memorabilia that showcase the rich history and legacy of the American military.

City Museum is a unique and innovative attraction located in St. Louis. This one-of-a-kind museum offers a truly immersive experience for visitors of all ages, with its interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and eclectic collection of artifacts.The City Museum is housed in a 10-story former shoe factory, which has been transformed into a surreal wonderland of art and sculpture. The museum features a vast array of exhibits, ranging from giant sculptures made from reclaimed materials.