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around the block can give that energy-boosting latte from St. Louis Coffee Cartel. St. Louis is actually home to many independent coffee shops so an at-home-tourist doesn't have to just depend on Starbucks for the brown libation.

A student isn't a student without a stop to Left Bank Books. This independently owned bookstore has a wide selection of literature, magazines, book club selections, and a very impressive downstairs used book store. The staff is friendly and helpful and one can linger over a handful of books while trying to decide how to fit in one of the author readings.

Spring Break can happen just in the Central West End. Lunch can feature a quick walk to Einstein's Brothers for a sandwich, but with all the many diverse restaurants, why choose a chain? One can be adventurous and try Bar Italia Ristorante on Maryland Plaza, St. Louis' own Pasta Company, or the best quesadilla ever at Tortillaria on Euclid. Everything about the historic neighborhood makes the Central West End a must-do for spring break.

Other things to do include a drive over to Clayton and a walk among the many, many shops. Companion Bread Company has great bakery and lunch items. The unique shops promise to offer great souvenirs and located not far on Brentwood is the traditional mall like the Galleria or the open shops of The Boulevard. A must-do lunch and latte is a Nadoz! One will not be short of food choices in St. Louis.

If driving is the thing to do, a drive west on I-44 with a quick exit on Elm can land one in the heart of Webster Groves. This diverse little suburb is home to Webster University and great little areas like Old Webster and Old Orchard. An entire afternoon can be spent at Yucandu Art Studio just off Lockwood Avenue. This do-it-yourself artist haven is for the amateur and the expert. A nominal fee and one can walk out with a painting, jewely box, or beaded mirror. Lunch or dinner is not far away and even grocery shopping at family-owned Straub's is a must-do.

Books, books, and more books from returned-home shop owner Nikki is what one will find at Pudd n' Head Books on Old Orchard just off Big Bend Boulevard. This little spot sits on the corner of this shopping district that even has an old fashioned Ben Franklin. The bookstore, independently owned by Webster native returned home from Brooklyn ex-lawyer, features real literature and an awesome kids section. Her coffee bar features local roaster, Chauvin Coffee and her excellent lattes include Oberweis milk, another local favorite. She serves loose teas and has cookies from local bakeries.

Just down the highway, off the Big Bend exit will land one in historic Kirkwood. This inner-ring suburb is all about old homes, sidewalk charm, local restaurants, independent shops, and friendliness. Have a latte at Kaldi's and walk over to Dewey's Pizza for the best pie in town!

A simple google search for the biggest city close by, the home city, or a short drive can yield an entire week's worth of fun and inexpensive things to do. Fun can be had at home with a simple search, a map, and a willingness to be a tourist at home.

Happy Spring Break 2009!

Learn more about this author, Taye Foster Bradshaw.
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