by Larry Rahn

Created on: January 09, 2010   Last Updated: January 10, 2010

St. Louis, the "Gateway to the West", one of my favorite cities anytime of the year, but, especially summer months. If you are there for a prolonged stay I would suggest staying at the Drury Plaza. It is located on Market and 4th. Great service, rooms and you can park your car in their garage and walk to several places. You can get a hot itemized breakfast there every morning, which is included in your room fee, you won't have to leave the hotel. They also have an adjoining eatery which is very convenient as well. Be forewarned it can and sometimes does get awful hot during the summer months in St. Louis.

July is a good month to attend the Veil Prophet Parade and all the festivities. The parade passes right in front of the Drury which is really nice. One block away is the Arch and St. Louis' famous riverfront and Laclede's Landing. During 4th of July festivities the riverfront is filled with 3 stages of assorted music, food vendors from across the USA, and other assorted places to buy many different gifts and souvenirs. Right on the riverfront you also have a casino, and several paddlewheel boats to give you a ride on the mighty Mississippi River. They have a 1hour fireworks show every night for about 3 or 4 evenings shot off from a barge in the middle of the river that can be seen for miles around.You are also right at the foot of the Arch for that famous picture for yourself or grand kids. If you aren't afraid of heights take the elevator up to the top of the Arch and you can see for miles and miles, a fantastic view for young and old alike.

Approximately 2 blocks away is the famous Busch Stadium, home of the always exciting Cardnials baseball team. Take in a game and join the  excitement and all the great food vendors. The stadium is only 4 years old and has a wonderful park attached, the kids will have a ball. Three blocks from Busch Stadium is the famous Union Station. They have completely redone the outside and inside recently and you could actually spend a day in this area. Hard Rock Cafe headlines the eateries, along with several others, motel, picture taking, and many numerous things to do and see here. Within walking distance is Edward Jones domed NFL stadium which is home to the Rams football team. The St. Louis Zoo is a must see attraction when in town, it is one of the best in the country and worth spending a day there. You'll need your car for this trip from the Drury. Other interesting sites to taken in are, Budweiser Brewery, Botanical Gardens, Soulard District, The Hill, and other small attractions offered in this wonderful city. The interstate highways are right near the Drury and in 2 minutes you are in Illinois. St. Louis is an old riverfront town that has been preserved through the years and a city you must see if you are a traveler across our great nation. Kick back, relax, and enjoy some , laughs and memories that will never be forgotten for years to come.

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