Celebrating the Holidays in St. Louis, Missouri: A Guide for Couples

Ah, Christmas time- a season of joy and togetherness. However, it’s no secret that the holiday season, while pleasant, can be hectic and stressful, especially with so many attractions and fun options to choose from. Fret not, my sweet couples, for I have got you covered! St. Louis, Missouri is home to an array of holiday festivities and traditions that will rekindle your spark and create unforgettable memories. From culinary adventures to outdoor activities, this guide aims to aid you in navigating the holiday season and enjoying each other’s company. So grab a warm cup of cocoa, bundle up, and let’s explore!

The Lights:

St. Louis is known for its displays of dazzling holiday lights. Some of the most popular spots to see these lights include The Way of Lights at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows and The Winter Wonderland at Tilles Park. The Winter Wonderland features over a million dazzling lights. You can drive your car through the park to see all the spectacular sights!

Don’t forget to grab your tickets for the Missouri Botanical Gardens, Garden Glow. It is a must-visit for a beautiful stroll along their lighted paths. Plus, you can stop by one of their fully stocked hot cocoa stands to warm up that belly.

And of course you won’t want to miss the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery Lights display. Some of the best as you take in the signature red brick all lit up in this old downtown brewery. Let me know if you spot the historic fox found on one of the buildings.

Get Your Skates On:

If the temperature permits, ice skating with the backdrop of the Gateway Arch and the Old Courthouse is an excellent way to connect with your loved one while channeling the Christmas spirit. You and your partner can enjoy and reminisce about your childhood days while skating hand in hand at the Winterfest downtown in Keiner Plaza.

There is also the option to get your skates on in Forest Park at the largest outdoor skating rink in the Midwest, Steinberg Skating Rink! It’s open through all kinds of weather so come and skate until you can’t skate no more.

Another place to lace up those skates is while you go see those lights at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. Stop on by the Bud Light Ice Rink and while there enjoy a light show, fire pits, hot cocoa and even get your picture taken with a Clydesdale! All while partaking in a beer sampling, if you so enjoy.

Decorate A Gingerbread House:

Decorating a gingerbread house is an excellent way to spend some quality time with your partner. Sharing laughs and indulging in sweet treats is all part of the fun. Explore many local shops selling gingerbread house kits in various sizes and patterns. Plan a cozy night in, playing your favorite holiday tunes while wrapping up your gingerbread house to gift to close friends or family for the holidays.

A Sweet Treat:

If you still need a Christmas tree and something sweet for your belly, head on over to Ted Drewes where you can tackle both in one stop. Grab your conifer friend and then a tasty concrete before they close it up until spring. It’s a great place to visit right along the old Route 66, if there are any history buffs out there that like to make a pit stop with a story.

Caroling and Visiting Santa:

The holiday experience in St. Louis is not complete without caroling and visiting Santa. Every weekend, the Delmar Loop is filled with the sound of Christmas music and carolers. It’s the perfect opportunity to bundle up with a cozy scarf and hat, join in on the singing, and experience the holiday spirit.

If the big man is who you are really looking for you can visit Santa at various locations throughout the city, some options include Union Station, The Magic House, the Saint Louis Zoo and the Galleria in Brentwood.

Additionally, the Union Station Holiday Light Show is also a great place to visit during the holiday season. The light show features a spectacular display of 14 million lights that dance along with holiday music.

Pop-up Bars

And lastly, if you are into pop-up bars St. Louis has a wide array of those to choose from too! St. Louis is home to some of the best pop-up bars during the holiday season. The Chalet is located on the deck of Le Meridien in Clayton. There you can try out your curling skills while sipping some mulled wine engulfed in twinkly lights.

Or check-out the Up on the Rooftop pop-up at Three Sixty on top of the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark. The fun part about this one is you’ll find a ton of fun things hanging from the ceiling….watch out for reindeer droppings!

And finally, one of my all time favorites LIT at Molly’s in Soulard. They have amazing décor, costumes and a holiday themed menu. With so many options to choose from even just from the 12 drinks of LitMas you are sure to find something you like.

The holiday season can be a truly magical time but also chaotic. So with a little bit of planning, St. Louis, Missouri can offer an abundance of festive activities and traditions that can make the season more joyful and memorable for you and your partner. From ice skating to gingerbread house decorating, from holiday lights to visiting Santa Claus there’s something for all couples to enjoy. I hope that this list of fun things to do in St. Louis during the holiday season inspires you to create unforgettable memories and get into the holiday spirit. So, don’t hesitate, pack a warm coat and scarf, and explore the city this holiday season! Go out there, create some unforgettable experiences, and celebrate your love!

Cheers!

And I look forward to keeping up with you all in 2024! Bring on those deeper connections.

-Katheryn