We want to thank the businesses and Explore St. Louis for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

1) They Embrace Other Cultures

Saint Louis is a city filled with an amazing amount of history. Over the centuries, this region has been the home of Native American Indians. Prior to becoming a territory of the United States, after the Louisiana Purchase, it was also claimed by Spain and France at times. These various influences can be found in the architecture and names of places throughout the metropolitan area. With all of the various ethnicities, that abound inside the city limits, it is no surprise to see the almost unending desire to learn more about foreign cultures. This was most apparent to us during a visit to the St. Louis Art Museum in Forest Park. The wide range of artistic pieces is a good draw for locals and travelers alike. What was really pulling them in was a temporary exhibit about the recently discovered sunken treasures in Egypt. Like so many of the locals, we became fixated with learning as much as we could about these ancient people. As Nehru once said, “Culture is the widening of the mind and spirit.” (You can read more about the Art Museum here>)

2) Want To Know Their Own History

While learning other cultures is vital, it is just as important to understand our own pasts. A stop at the Missouri History Museum gave us a great insight into the past of the city. History is who we are, so learning the history of St. Louis helped us better understand its people. Our visit allowed us to see the tail end of the temporary exhibit on the Civil Rights struggle, in this city’s past and present. It was a reminder that no matter how far we have traveled, there is still plenty of road before us. We also spent a good deal of time learning about the 1904 World’s Fair and its impact on the future development of the city. It was quite eye-opening. (You can read more about the History Museum here>)

3) Quietly Honor The Fallen

The Jefferson Barracks is an area unlike any we have in our hometown of Kansas City. It amazes us that even though these two cities share a state, they have such varied historical paths. Driving through the cemetery reminded us of all of the Americans who have fallen during times of war. A stop at the Missouri Civil War Museum highlighted one of the most divisive events in the history of our country. What was the most poignant part for us, was that the museum presents the conflict simply by the facts. It attempts to avoid pushing one or the other sides agenda, and is simply there to honor those that fell fighting for something they believed in. This showed us the true compassion of the people of St. Louis and their ability to rise above the ongoing squall to show respect to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. (You can read more about the Civil War Museum here>)

4) They Will Never Stop Learning

One of the keys to life is to learn something new each day. We have found travel to be a great education since we get to sample so many new things. It is always kind of funny to us when we include a place like the St. Louis Science Center in our itinerary. Almost every time we hear the same thing from the tourism team that we are working with. “You realize that place is designed for kids, right?” Well, yes we do. By the way, we will be two of the biggest kids in attendance that day. Places like this exist so that the locals and travelers can dive deeper into the cause and effects of the world around us. We dove in headfirst to the various exhibits. So much to see and do spread out through this facility. Somewhere along the way, we heard the shriek of happy kids and had to wonder if it was us that we were hearing. (You can read more about the Science Center here>)

5) Are Never Too Old To Enjoy Playing

Speaking of playing, we cannot say just how surprised we were during our visit to the City Museum. When we heard the suggestions from our readers, we had to wonder just what the real draw was to this place. Less of a museum and more of an adult-sized playground is the only way to describe it. When we pulled into the parking lot, we were already getting giddy. Tubes, chutes, ladders, walkways, tunnels, caves, and numerous slides are found inside and out of this engaging attraction. Be sure to stop in the gift shop and grab a pair of knee pads to aid in your exploring. Our only disappointment was that we went too early in the year, so the rooftop portion was not yet open. Oh well, it gives us a reason for a return trip. (You can read more about City Museum here>)

6) Not Afraid To Stand Out From The Crowd

Being unique is becoming more difficult to find these days. It seems that many people want to just blend in, and not draw any attention to themselves. While this may seem to be a safe approach to life, it leaves a person with a higher potential for regrets in later years. An old proverb says, “If you are too busy to laugh, you are too busy.” Sometimes we need to just cast off worrying about others’ impressions of us and do something that makes our heart sing. These are the moments that we will look back on fondly. St. Louis showed us plenty of people who weren’t afraid to step out of the shadows and let their lights shine. Seeing others act on their impulses certainly brought smiles to our faces.

7) They Love Their Musical Heritage

So many people associate ragtime, blues, modern gospel, and even hip-hop with big cities like New York, L.A., or even Chicago. Would you be surprised to find out the wide variety of musicians got their start or honed their crafts in the clubs and bars of St. Louis? Ragtime icon Scott Joplin moved to “Mound City” (An old St. Louis nickname) in 1901 to ply his trade. At that time, ragtime was so new that many publishers were unsure how to write the sheet music for some of his pieces. Many of the blues musicians that made Chicago famous were still playing primarily in St.Louis until the 1930s. Rock and Roll legend Chuck Berry got his start in St. Louis playing country riffs. This twang would remain a piece of his style even as he transformed into this new genre of music. Even current musical stars like Nelly (Cornell Haynes, Jr.) have hometown ties to the Gateway City. If you want to see a great selection of nostalgic memorabilia, including musical pieces, stop in Blueberry Hill on the Delmar Loop for a tour or better yet, a meal.

8) They Want More For Their City

Now that the Delmar Loop has been mentioned, let’s spend a little time on this historic avenue. The Loop, as it is referred to by locals, is a six block-long section of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. In the early days of the city, (Think the 1904 World’s Fair time-frame) Delmar Street was serviced by a streetcar that offered city dwellers a chance to escape the heat and head to the outskirts. As the city transformed, this area was abandoned and became blighted. In the 1970’s a leader stepped from the sideline to help begin a decades-long process of reviving the Loop to grandeur. Joe Edwards started with a single new business, but continued with time to revitalize many of the historic buildings along the route. The addition of the Moonrise Hotel brought a boutique lodging option to an area starved for places to host travelers to the city. These days, the Delmar Loop is recognized as one of the “Ten Great Streets in America”. After staying at the Moonrise and spending ample time on the Loop, we can only imagine the amount of dedication required to transform the area. (You can read more about Moonrise here>)

9) Recognize Greatness In Others

As we wandered the Loop, we noticed an array of stars and plaques placed in the sidewalk. At first it was just a passing glance, but soon we would find ourselves recognizing the famous names. Many of the names were easy to place, but some were more obscure and caused us to pause to learn more about them. With over 140 separate plaques, visitors will surely find plenty to hold their attention. It is also a great way to learn about the ties that many famous people have with St. Louis.  So many facts that we never knew.

10) Are Hooked On Space

A reoccurring theme we found during our travels around the Gateway City was space travel. We expected it at the Moonrise Hotel but were a little surprised to find hints of it throughout the Delmar Loop. In many stops along the way, we would see a homage to this dreamy desire. There are even signposts that give interesting perspective on each of the planets in our solar system. Just when we had decided it was specific to the Loop, we made a visit to the St. Louis Science Center. Here we found an entire section of the building dedicated to space travel. Wow! Saint Louis really likes their space.

11) Welcome Guests With Great Attractions

Having claimed to America’s Top Free Attraction is nothing to take lightly. Saint Louis holds that distinction with their world-class zoological park. The St. Louis Zoo sees around 3,000,000 visitors each year. That is more than the entire metropolitan population of the city it lies within. With over 16,000 animals on display, it takes a highly organized staff to keep everything in tip-top shape. We can tell you from an outsider view, that the zoo is an amazing asset for the St. Louis community. During our visit, we tried to cover as many of the 90 acres that we could. Even on a brisk day the crowds were out in force to observe the animals in action. Being zoo lovers, we have no problem suggesting the St. Louis Zoo to anyone planning a visit to the Gateway City. It’s that good! (You can read more about the Zoo here>)

Well, those are some of our observations of the people of St. Louis. Obviously, we only had time to meet a few of them, but we were quite impressed by the welcoming spirit we felt from those we did interact with. Hopefully, this article has piqued your own interest in visiting the Gateway to the West and maybe doing some of your own observing’s. Be sure to look for the little things that make these Midwestern dwellers stand out. Enjoy your stay and travel safely!

The post 11 Things That Make St. Louis The True Gateway City appeared first on Our Changing Life.

We want to thank the restaurants and Explore St. Louis for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Loving The Loop

We really enjoy our breakfasts, and not just because we get coffee. There are plenty of unique places that make the morning meal a little more special. Run of the mill cafes and diners are enjoyable, if the food is good, but toss in something extra and the visit becomes memorable. That would certainly be the case for our stop in Peacock Loop Diner.  We loved that they are open 24 hours a day, which means we don’t have to try to fit a visit in their schedule. Add to that their brightly colored decor and fun attractions, and you have a picture perfect opportunity. (You can read more about Peacock here>)

Coffee Lovers Unite

Sometimes we happen upon a spot that wasn’t on our original list. Blueprint Coffee began as a stop for an extra shot of caffeine, but after seeing their dishes, we knew a longer visit was in order. Luckily, we usually leave a little wiggle room in our itinerary for just this kind of occasion. A full blown breakfast turned out to be a wonderful way to meet some locals, as well as sample some true drip coffee. (You can read more about Blueprint here>)

All That Fizz

What do you get when you combine a local St. Louis craft soda bottler with a dining/dessert shop? Fitz’s Restaurant was a fun stop that draws huge crowds. We loved the high octane atmosphere of the place, as servers whizzed by with large trays of goodies. The sodas are SO good that it is hard to keep from chugging them. Fortunately, we had just enough will power to save some to accompany our meals. Next visit we have to try one of their over-the-top floats. You can make it with any flavor of soda. (Yes, mine will be Orange Creme.) (You can read more about Fitz’s here>)

It’s Alive!

Barbecue is like a lifeline for Kansas Citians, and we knew that we would need to see if we could find some in St. Louis. Sure enough, there are plenty of choices in the gateway City, and we settled in for a sample at Salt + Smoke. They had some options that we don’t see in KC, but when in Rome… The most important part of the meal was the delicious smokiness that was prevalent in the meat. That’s something that just can’t be faked. (You can read more about Salt here>)

A Sweet Treat

Life is always better with dessert. This could be our mantra. Just a short walk from our hotel we discovered Piccione Pastry. This family run bakery serves up a variety of sweet treats daily. We were fascinated watching the staff making cannoli and some other desserts. They also serve a breakfast and lunch menu, but who says you can’t just eat dessert for breakfast?

Eating In The East

There were a couple of stops that took us away from our home-base near Forest Park. In the Jefferson Barracks region we uncovered Cafe Telegraph. This local favorite is home to one of the largest dishes we saw in St. Louis. The Fred Flintstone is an immense pork steak that can easily feed two. (If not three or four!) We have to be honest and say just seeing one scared us away from ordering it. Being out-of-towners, we will use the excuse of not being able to deal with doggy bags. If you decide to tackle this monster, you will want to bring your “A” game. (You can read more about Telegraph here>)

Happy Hour Munchies

Sometimes we find ourselves needing a quick pick-me-up between meals. During our visit to City Museum, we became a little parched. Fortunately, I had planned a little rendezvous at a Mexican cantina just a couple blocks away. Rosalita’s offers a nice Happy Hour food menu, and some delicious $4 margaritas. We sampled a couple of their tamales, as well as a huge plate of Chicken Fajita Nachos. Add to that the chips and salsa we munched on, and we were refreshed and ready for some more play time.

A Missed Opportunity

Back at City Museum, we discovered that they have some dining options, as well. While we didn’t end up eating there, it appeared that those who did were truly enjoying it. We saw sandwiches, snacks, and even an outdoor grilling station going gangbusters. A short stop at Beatnik Bob’s provides a rest break from exploring to satisfy any liquid cravings. The day of our visit the roof wasn’t open, but we heard a rumor that they have their own little cantina up there. Once again, another visit will be required. (You can see more fun photos of City Museum here>)

Rest assured that a visit to St. Louis will not leave you hungry. With so many great eateries, you will find something for everyone in your group. (We barely scratched the surface.) Be sure to try some toasted ravioli, which the city is known for. So, pull up a chair, and come take a taste. We think you will be pleased. Bon Appetit!

The post Sample The Flavors Of St. Louis Dining appeared first on Our Changing Life.

We want to thank the St. Louis Zoo and Explore St. Louis for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Chilly Start

Our visit to the St. Louis Zoo occurred on the last weekend in March, so we knew going in that the weather would be a little unpredictable. The previous day had been cold and rainy, but on the morning of our visit the sun broke free of the clouds. While the temperatures started in the 50’s, the forecast was for a quick warm up, which we would certainly relish. We arrived just before opening time, so we could get some shots around the entrance. While the zoo is free, parking can be a little of a challenge. They have a couple of pay lots ($15 per car) or you can take your chance trying to find a spot on a nearby street. We decided that the cost of the pay lot was less than we would usually spend on admission, and it was quite convenient.

Creepy Crawlies

After orienting ourselves with the layout of the zoo, we decided that it would be best to locate some indoor exhibits. Fortunately, the St. Louis Zoo has a few to choose from. The zoo is broken into six main zones, (We are only focusing on five of them for this article.) and since we entered on the North side, we began our exploration in the Discovery Corner. The Insectarium offered a chance to get indoors, while exploring the life of the tinier species. The area is well designed and guides visitors on a discovery of the world of insects. We began by learning what designates a creature as an insect and eventually worked our way to the area that explains the important roles that insects play in our ecosystems. The whole exhibit is presented in a way that is appealing to all ages with many displays set at heights that allow younger guests eye level viewing.

Braving The Wild

Back outside, we discovered that the temps were still on the chilly side. (Fortunately it wasn’t windy!) We doubled back toward the entrance to visit The Wild. This zone was very popular with the other guests who were beginning to flow in.  We viewed the outside of the penguin exhibit, but decided to skip a visit inside. We have been through it recently and knew the crowds would make for a slow procession. A few of the birds were lingering around the outside pool, so we watched them preen themselves for a few minutes, before moving along.

A flurry of commotion signaled it was time to head to the polar bear exhibit. Sure enough, a crowd had gathered to watch the antics of one of the local residents. We aren’t quite sure which is more entertaining, watching the bear or the crowds reaction. Both made for some enjoyable moments, which we relished for a while. As some in the crowd would depart, new visitors would join the throng of eager viewers. Cell phones and cameras snapped shots of the splishing and splashing entertainer. Every once in a while we would hear someone remark about the massive size of the bear’s paw. To be honest, it is quite entrancing to watch the interaction between species.

Heading Up The Hill

We walked past the grizzly exhibit, and caught a quick view, before deciding to look for more indoor exhibits. Crossing the railroad tracks led us on the path to the Historic Hill area. At this point it is worth mentioning that obviously not everything at the zoo is free. There are a variety of snack and dining options available, which we found to be priced in line with most zoological parks we have visited. There are also a few special events and shows throughout the day that come with an additional fee. You can check the zoo’s website for a list of these. (The link is near the beginning of this article.)

Back To The Beginning

The St. Louis Zoo can trace its origin to the 1904 World’s Fair. While much of the original construction has been revised, Historic Hill remains the most historic portion of the zoo. Seeking warmth, we headed for the herpetarium, since we were sure it would be quite tropical. Sure enough, the crowds had also sought out this climate, so we decided to embrace them into our exploration. (It works well, since we like to people watch.) The herpetarium is broken into four distinct zones; desert, tropical, temperate, and montane (mountain forests). As we passed through the exhibits we noted the large number of families using the experience for education. It was fun to watch the looks of discovery on the faces of the kids, as they pointed out an interesting tidbit about a creature they were observing.

Sometimes, it is best just to take a moment to pause and reflect. Clearly these kids found the slow and purposeful motion of this snake to be entrancing. Throughout the building this theme repeated itself over and over. It was nice to watch the engagement and know that this was a learning exercise disguised as well as a fun activity.

More Learning Opportunities

One of our favorite things about zoos is their desire to help educate the public about a variety of topics that affect our planet. Some exhibits are designed to showcase a specific region’s ecosystem, like this area we discovered in the River’s Edge region of the park. The signage helps explain the species that can be found in and around the water’s edge. Many of the displays sprinkled around the park are obviously there primarily for these educational chances, and are designed to draw visitors in and spark conversations. By creating a desire to learn more about the other creatures that inhabit our world, it may foster a more caring attitude about our daily activities, and how they affect our planet.

We were pleased to see many families using these displays to help bring a better understanding to the next generation. In this base camp style setup, we watched a father share some of his knowledge with his daughters. Even though we were not accompanied by our kids or grandkids, we could still relate to this style of parenting. I’m sure there may have been a few “dad jokes” interspersed in the lessons, but that’s what makes them so memorable.

Public Education

It is important for people to understand the role of zoos. They are a public education institute focused on the survival of species. Many zoos are breeding places for endangered species or host rehabilitation services for animals that have suffered injuries. Most zoos also serve the role of endearing foreign species to the public in an effort to help create an attitude of preservation. The St. Louis Zoo includes many informational placards describing the steps they take, as well as the ones we can take, to help perpetuate our planet’s native species.

They don’t just focus on the animals that we see everyday, but also the ones that we have no interaction with. The River’s Edge area has a lot of African species. Obviously, this takes up a lot of space, since many of these animals are huge. As we passed hippos, rhinos, and elephants we thought about how well their exhibits are designed to reduce stress on the animals. At the same time, the designs also allow visitors some amazing views of creatures they will unlikely see in their natural habitat.

Wrapping It All Up

After examining the map, we realized we had overlooked an important section of the zoo. Red Rocks is home to many of the hoofed animals that populate the planet. We made our way over to the zone and observed giraffes, zebras, gazelles, and one of our favorites, the okapi. Our closest encounter with an Okapi occurred at Tanganyika Park near Wichita, Kansas. (You can read more about that park here>) With the day beginning to warm up, we decided to fast forward through these exhibits and make our way to the big cats. We have to limit our time at each stop, since we try to fill our itineraries with as many possible articles, as possible. As we came up to the cat section, we found a jaguar out and about. These are amazing creatures to watch, as they move so fluidly. He stayed outside for a little while, and we even got to see it rolling around in the leaves. Too soon it moved back inside to escape the rising temperatures and glaring sun.

We moved over to the other exhibits, but found the occupants had already come to the same conclusion. Clearly, it was nap time! With all of them taking their midday breaks, we decided it was time for us to make our exit. Lunch was calling and we still had plenty of St. Louis to explore before our chance to sleep. Have you ever visited the St. Louis Zoo? Which area of the park is your favorite? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments section below. Thanks!

The post Five Zones Of Free Fun At The St. Louis Zoo appeared first on Our Changing Life.

We want to thank the Missouri History Museum and Explore St. Louis for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Humble Beginnings

The Missouri History Museum is broken into galleries that focus on various topics or time frames related to the region’s past. On the second floor there are a pair of galleries that cover the historical span of the last 200 years. Currents showcases the perspective from the original visitors and early settlers of St. Louis. As we viewed the exhibits, we learned about the hunters and trappers who first came to the area in search of the wildlife that was so plentiful near the river. A fur trading post was first established in the area around 1764 by French trappers. The lands stayed mainly under French control until the Louisiana Purchase in 1803.

A River Runs Through

This newly gained territory attracted a horde of settlers to the city. The Mississippi River  was the commercial highway of the time and businesses flourished due to the city becoming a jumping off point for settlers heading west. Paddle-boats plied the muddy waters and along the shoreline docks were built to handle the steady stream of supplies coming from the south and east. St. Louis incorporated in 1823, and continued to thrive as a center for commerce and trading. The two decades leading up to the Civil War saw a surge in population for the city, as many immigrants poured in from Germany and Ireland. This was in part due to the German Revolution and the Irish Potato Famine, which both caused upheaval in their homelands. By 1900, St. Louis had matured into a manufacturing center, which was well positioned and serviced by rail and river.

The City On Display

A monumental highlight for St. Louis was being chosen to host the 1904 World’s Fair. In those days, this event was not to be missed. In addition to this celebrity filled extravaganza, the city was also hosting the 1904 Olympic Games. In a seven month span, St. Louis would play host to over 20 million visitors from around the globe. The construction of lush gardens, new thoroughfares, and around 1500 buildings was a monumental task.

To this day the event is still immortalized in movies, songs, and articles. The Missouri History Museum has a collection of over 250 artifacts from the event including; furniture, carriages, trophies, and awards. It was so interesting for us to see all of these pieces of a short moment in time that touched so many lives. Be sure to read some of the stories behind the lives of the people who helped make this event a rousing success.

Flying Into The Future

Air travel has long been associated with St. Louis. We would hazard to guess that almost every child has read about Charles Lindbergh and his plane, the Spirit of St. Louis. It’s a little surreal to actually be reading information placards about its construction, as well as seeing a replica of it hanging from the ceiling of the museum.

An exhibit called Panoramas of the City contains a variety of images collected from around St. Louis during the first half of the twentieth century. These panoramic shots show a good cross section of life in the Midwest. More than 50 images are displayed in supersized detail, which allows visitors a glance into the past. We were especially excited to see a couple of panels that mention a connection to our hometown of Kansas City.

The sister gallery to Currents is located just across the way, and is named Reflections. In this exhibit hall we found that the focus moved from the founding of the city, to the personal stories that shaped it to what we know today. Music has been a large part of St. Louis’ history and is well represented in the Missouri History Museum. Famous names like Scott Joplin and Chuck Berry have local connections to the city. In this gallery we also found lots of information on the sports teams that are synonymous with the Gateway City, and offer many hours of entertainment and frustration to sports fans across the nation.

Rotating Exhibits

Like many museums, the Missouri History Museum has a gallery that is used for rotating or traveling displays. During our visit it featured an exhibit titled #1 in Civil Rights: The African American Freedom Struggle in St. Louis. The exhibit ran for a year, but ended its run on April 15, 2018. St. Louis has often been on the forefront of the civil rights movement, and quite often grabbing attention in local and national news.

The exhibit was well organized and laid a good groundwork of information for those visiting from beyond the city limits. It was easy enough to follow along with the changes in atmosphere over the decades. The informational placards included many personal stories, which help drive their messages home with museum visitors.

Poignant Reflection

The day of our visit we found this gallery to be quite popular. The majority of guests were couples or small groups who slowly proceeded through the exhibit. At each display they would pause to take in the significance of the event being described. The entire set of displays was a powerful tool that helped bridge the gap from the issues of the past and show that while many advances have been made, there is still a vast amount of room to improve community relationships.

One of the most fascinating features of the exhibit was the timeline, which led us all through the years of protests and marches designed to cast a light on the inequality that a portion of our population faces every day. Here we learned the names of many who are not as well known, but served an important role in molding the changes that have occurred. The temporary exhibit also highlighted the four Supreme Court civil rights cases that originated in St. Louis.

A City Evolving

Throughout the Missouri History Museum the resounding theme was that St. Louis is a city that is ever changing. The skyline has evolved to add new structures, as the growing population push the boundaries of the city’s limits. With all of the services of any major metropolis, St. Louis has blossomed into a major destination for travelers. With service from air, rail, and a cross section of highways, many oaths across the nation pass through the city.

Fun For All Ages

With all of the history swirling in our heads, we almost overlooked one last gallery. The History Clubhouse is a place designed to engage the younger set, as well as their parents and grandparents. (Of course, we consider ourselves big kids!) Here you can experience much of the history of the city, but on a smaller scale. Many of the buildings are recognizable, but stand at a more manageable height. Kids can dress up in period clothes, fish from a canoe or put on a puppet show for friends and family. It’s a great place to let your imagination soar. Unfortunately for us, the time was approaching for the museum to close, so the activity of the day had subsided. We took a few minutes to do a little exploring, before making our way back to our car. With plenty of new knowledge under our belts, we were ready to explore more of the Gateway City.

The post Evolution Of A City – Missouri History Museum appeared first on Our Changing Life.

We want to thank the Salt and Smoke and Explore St. Louis for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Bustling Crowds

A common theme of the restaurants on the Loop would be that they all seem to have a good draw. While some are busier than others, everywhere we went we still found bustling business. While some may not like this, we actually enjoy the opportunity to people watch while we dine. When we first entered the space, we found ourselves near the bar area. In various cities we are beginning to find more spots that focus on whiskeys. We aren’t sure if this is a new generational thing, but it applies to a wide range of cuisines. At Salt +Smoke, they have a substantial menu of rye, bourbon, malt and corn whiskeys to choose from. We passed on these, but noticed quite a few testing out that menu.

Even though the place was fairly crowded, it only took a few minutes before we were seated. With a table near the window, we had perfect viewing of the indoors and outside. A steady stream of shoppers passed along the sidewalk just outside our window. Inside the lively chatter created a fun atmosphere that was fed by the delightful aroma of the smoked meats we were eager to sample.

It’s All About Presentation

Our server arrived, and we discussed the menu. After walking us through the choices, and even telling us her favorites, we finally came to an agreement and placed our order. Now we just had to wait for our dishes, while we sat and watched others eating. To help keep my mind off of the delicious aromas, I decided to capture a few photos of the place, as well as this interesting tablescape. There was just something about the shapes and colors that made this pic one of my favorites.

A St. Louis Requirement

Every restaurant we visited in St. Louis seemed to have their own spin on toasted ravioli. This appetizer staple has a slightly mysterious beginning, even though we heard a couple of logical explanations. However they were discovered, they have now become a must-try when visiting the Gateway City. At Salt +Smoke, theirs are stuffed with shredded burnt ends. A tangy dipping cheese sauce is a perfect compliment to this appetizer dish. The unique flavor combination meant that these tasty bites were added to the endangered list and quickly disappeared.

Let’s Get It On

In short order our main attraction arrived. The menu calls out a Bestie Combo, which can be ordered with two, three or four meats. We are slowly learning our limits, so we went with the two meat choice. The platter includes two sides and one of their signature popovers. Our meat choices were ribs and pulled pork. The ribs had a delicious crust and a perfect smoke ring. The pulled pork was tender and juicy, so no extra sauce was required. (This is how we rate good BBQ.) The choice of sides was difficult, since so many sounded good. Our server helped guide our choice and we ended up with the Pit Beans with Smoked Bacon and the White Cheddar Cracker Mac. The beans had a wonderful smoky richness that kept us coming back. The mac and cheese is made with a slightly sharp white cheddar (nice tang) and the addition of crumbled Ritz crackers. This was one of those sides that catches you off guard and you end up sparring over who gets the last bite. The popover was another added bonus that offers a slight bacony-cheese flavor in an airy, eggy treat. The meal was a perfect fit for two and we left the restaurant assured that barbecue is alive and well in St. Louis, Missouri. What are some of your favorite BBQ joints in St. Louis? Share yours in the comments section, so we can add them to our next visit!

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We want to thank the Moonrise Hotel and Explore St. Louis for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Storied Beginnings

The Moonrise Hotel is the brainchild of Joe Edwards, who is somewhat of a St. Louis hero. Dubbed the “Duke of Delmar”, he led assorted efforts to revitalize this decaying section of the city. After decades of work, the Loop is now a vibrant section filled with entertainment, dining, and shopping options. It has even been recognized as one of the “10 Best Streets in America”. Amid all of this development, he realized the need for a hotel that would serve the visitors to this new destination hot spot. Opened in 2009, the Moonrise Hotel quickly became the choice lodging of those wanting to be near the action while visiting St. Louis.

Joe Edwards has an affinity for all things space related. It becomes quite apparent as you stroll through the hotel lobby and further into the interior hallways. Even on the outside we found display cases filled with toys, scientific displays, jewelry, and various space memorabilia. This same theme resounds in some of the other businesses he is associated with along the Loop. It certainly makes great eye candy, and we enjoyed examining the cases to see which pieces we could recognize. Entering the lobby, we were greeted by the bright, vivid colors that are found throughout the building. It certainly made the place cheery.

Dancing in the Dark

Over the top decor is certainly a mainstay at the Moonrise Hotel, but it is done in a way that ties it all together. Chief among these unique decorations is the lobby staircase. The colorful lights play across the stair risers inviting guests to explore. The staircase leads to the second floor meeting rooms, which include some fun sitting areas overlooking the lobby. Be sure to explore this vantage point during your stay.

After checking in, we made our way to the guest elevators for this quirky eight-story hotel. Along the wall we found more of the space display cases to peruse. Inside one of these were some rare autographed pieces with names of astronauts we have heard of from the past. The Moonrise Hotel almost pulls double duty as a miniature museum with all of the artifacts. We can almost bet these types of displays are on every floor, but time didn’t allow us the luxury of checking. If you do explore in more detail, please let us know what you find.

Home Away From Home

We finally made it to our room, and immediately fell in love. On occasion we have had the opportunity to stay in boutique hotels, and always leave satisfied. The recurring theme to them is elegant comfort. This applied to the Moonrise Hotel, as well. The bed was super comfy and the bathroom offered all the conveniences with a sleek, modern design. There were even some space decor touches in our room. We were fortunate enough to get a view of the Loop from our windows and could stake out our path of exploration for later.

Up on the Roof

To get an even better view of the surrounding area, we made our way up to the St. Louis Rooftop Terrace Bar. This space is open from April through October. Stepping off of the elevator, we were deposited in the main bar area, which has a roof enclosure for inclement weather. Here is where you order your drinks, before heading out onto the roof for some one-on-one time with the outdoors. As we strolled around, we stopped to watch the iconic moon sculpture rotate. This was our first chance to see the dark side of the moon, even if it was just a model. The iridescent glow from the colored lighting sets a tone of casual intimacy, which is perfect for a romantic nightcap.

You All Come Back Now

As the sun sank into the Midwestern landscape, we watched the sky turn to its familiar coloration. The sunsets in the Central U.S. are some of the most beautiful we have found. There are a few places that compete with them, but for consistent beauty we have found few to match. With darkness setting in, it was time to head off to explore and taste our way along the Loop. Dinner was calling and we knew dessert wouldn’t be far behind. Fortunately, we knew we had a comfortable space to come back to at the end of our day. Have you ever stayed at the Moonrise Hotel? Tell us about your experience!

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We want to thank Explore St. Louis for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Hopping Busy

We usually keep at least one meal spot open for surprises like this and it happened to be a breakfast. Blueprint Coffee was only a couple of blocks from our hotel, so it made an easy walking target. When we arrived they were not too busy, but this would change by the time we left. Being early risers has an advantage, especially when it comes to beating the morning rush.

The previous visit had opened our eyes to their amazing pastries that are kept in plain view when ordering. Pretty sneaky, since it certainly made me crave one of these delicacies. When it came our turn to order, we discovered that they offer more than just these snacky type starters. Clearly this was going to take longer than we imagined. We ordered our coffee drinks and sat down to preview the menu.

Heady Aroma

It isn’t often we find our way into a coffee shop that also roasts their own beans. When we do, the aroma is heavenly. The mix of various beans add layers to the smell and made us even more eager for our hot drinks.

Fortunately, it didn’t take long for these to be prepared and we found ourselves sipping on them. We placed our meal orders and went back to sipping our delicious sunshine in a cup. Soon our meals were ready and it was time to dig in.

Breakfast Bites

Crystal was ready for a handheld, so she ordered one of their breakfast sandwiches. Made with egg and bacon on a toasted roll it was light yet filling. The addition of fresh fruit was a perfect compliment to the dish. Our morning schedule included a visit to the St. Louis Zoo and this sandwich was enough to fuel her for the entire visit.

Benny Bliss

I have been on a Eggs Benedict kick for a while and they had one that sounded promising. Made with eggs, bacon, some fresh greens all loaded on a homemade biscuit. The Hollandaise sauce was well balanced and added the perfect extra touch to the dish. My plate also included some fresh fruit, which added a nice sweet treat to the meal. My dish was just as filling as Crystal’s, so we were able to walk off four hours of animal viewing before heading to our next dining destination. In the end, it pays to leave a little wiggle room in your travel itinerary for that unexpected pleasure. What places have you stumbled upon during your travels? Share your best success stories in the comments section below.

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We want to thank the St. Louis Science Center and Explore St. Louis for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Heading Back In Time

After making our way through the crowd near the entrance, we headed downstairs to the lower level. As we descended the stairs, our attention was drawn to a large animatronic T-Rex, which was preparing to make a meal of an unfortunate triceratops. Nearby was a display that holds a recast of a T-Rex skull. It helps put the immense size of these creatures in perspective.

We stepped into the fossil prep lab, which was very popular with kids. Here they could inspect fossils and see where they were discovered. There is even an area for them to dig for their own fossils. A group of volunteers worked on restoration of specimens that had been brought to the Science Center. These staff members were happy to explain details of the work they were doing, as well as answering any questions by the curious crowd.

Brainiac

On the opposite side of the staircase we located the lockers, which were large enough to hold jackets and our camera bag. As we turned away from our locker, we noticed a crowd gathered around a long table. We decided it required a closer look. What we found was a game that pitted two contestants against one another. The goal was to move the ball closer to yourself than your opponent. This was done by relaxing your mind and lowering your brain waves. Observers could watch the wave signals of the two contestants on a digital display overhead. The funny part was that whenever they would try to concentrate on winning, there brain activity would increase. This is one game that it pays to just chill out!

Amazing Demonstrations

Everywhere we went we found the St. Louis Science Center to be filled with interesting displays. A large seating area is set around a stage used for science demonstrations. When we first discovered this area, one of the staff technicians was showcasing a robot. We watched as a young visitor helped program the robot through a series of trials and errors. It was nice to see how patient the staff member was with him, and soon the robot was performing as desired. Later, we passed by and noticed a show taking place. The same staff member was performing an assortment of science experiments that had the crowd engrossed.

Harnessing Power

These days it seems that power is always in the news. From alternate energy sources to conservation tips, electricity production is imperative to all of us. The St. Louis Science Center dedicates a large exhibit to this important issue.

When we first entered the building we saw this oversize hamster wheel that all of the kids were waiting to experience. It was set up to power a contraption that sent balls on this wild and wacky path around the atrium. We didn’t realize it, but it introduced the idea of alternate energy sources in a fun way.

Grasping The Basics

The energy exhibit does a good job of explaining the basics of energy production and distribution. It also includes displays that show why and how electricity is used in our daily lives. This information is presented in an easy to understand way, which is explainable to most ages. We noticed lots of parents interacting with their kids in this area, as it supplied a good education opportunity.

Like so many of the exhibits in the science center, this area had lots of interactive displays. One table was set up so that by adding the right pieces to the table you ended up building a power grid. It required some trial and error, but it was easy to tell when you had the circuit completed, since the pieces would light up. Nearby was a game where two people could compete to feed pieces of “coal” into the furnaces. LED displays kept track of the length of time that the “coal” would supply power. We aren’t positive, but the kids competing seemed more interested in throwing things than how much power they were producing. There were a lot more displays in this area, so plan on spending some time here.

The Space Race

The St. Louis Science Center has an interesting shape with an arm shooting off over the nearby Interstate highway. They have made the most of this space by adding displays all through the overpass. The bridge that crosses the highway has radar guns set up to see how fast traffic is moving (Not very fast during rush hour!) The next area is dedicated to the space race, which most of us remember from our youth. As we climbed a slight ramp, we inspected the timeline that highlighted notable events that occured during roughly two decades. Interspersed in the area were some display cases filled with various pieces of memorabilia from the period.

At the top of the ramp, we reached the start of the Mission: Mars exhibit. Some interesting posters advertised the need for explorers, which a couple of decades ago would have been comical. These days it is hard not to imagine that this type of exploration could be just around the corner.

Rough Riding

Even this area is packed with interactive displays. We also noticed a couple of pay-as-you-play rides that visitors could do. One was a virtual reality exhibit, which we had recently experienced at one of our local museums. The second one was a flight simulator that had created quite a buzz. We watched as a couple people entered and buckled up into one of the two capsules. Once the program engaged they were able to control the motions of their simulator. These things rotate 360 degrees, which seemed like something we wanted to skip for now. (Some of you also realize that gravity sucks!) We did enjoy watching them take the simulator through its paces, before exiting the craft a little wobbly.

Red Rover, Red Rover

Across the hall we found an exhibit focused on the Mars Rover. Visitors could program the robotic device to perform under extreme conditions. Participants went to another room and did the programming, then returned to see it in action. This simulated the delay that NASA programmers deal with on a regular basis. It certainly created a little frustration for some people, but another trial and error learning experience.

Past and Future Collide

This was the final area of the St. Louis Science Center for us to explore. Toward the far end we found a replica of Project Mercury, which was the first vehicle to put Americans in space. This reminded us of just how far we have come with technology in just over 50 years. As we moved back toward the entrance, we passed a model of the planet Mars. With our eyes set on this future destination, we look forward to watching the scientific breakthroughs that will aid human beings in crossing this next hurdle. The question is whether it happens in our lifetime. Do you think humans will ever make it to Mars? Let us know your thoughts!

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During the planning portion of our St. Louis trip, it was decided that we would make the Moonrise Hotel, on the DelMar Loop, our home base. With this in mind, we went to work looking for unique dining destinations within walking distance. When we happened upon the Peacock Loop Diner, it was obvious that a visit would be a requirement.

On our first evening in town, we took a stroll down the Loop after checking into the hotel. When we passed Peacock, we happily bathed in the neon glow of the animated sign that designates this uniquely St. Louis landmark. It was tempting to pop in for a bite, since the restaurant is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Since we were on our way to dinner at Fitz’s, we passed on this place knowing that we would be testing it for breakfast the next day.

Neon Glow

Bright and early the next morning, we made our way to the restaurant with our appetites in tow. Stepping inside, we found that neon continued to dominate. Our first sight was the bar area, which serves up adult milkshakes, as well as pretty much every type of mixed drink. It was a little too early to consider these, so we moved on to the seating area. Four U-shaped counters jut out into the room offering plenty of seating. We chose one of the booths that sit along the wall opposite the counters. A series of displays, set in the wall, are filled with various memorabilia associated with peacocks and dining.

Unexpected Extras

On our way to sit down, we passed a couple of interesting features. A special booth named “Peacock Carousel of Love” can be reserved for special occasions. It seats up to 8 people, and rotates to reveal a flat screen TV hidden behind a curtain. This was certainly something we had never seen before and we have visited a lot of restaurants. Nearby this booth was a seating area with a few tables. In one corner of the area stood two Skeeball games.  This is one of our favorite games, so we took time to play after ordering our food. Being early in the morning, the breakfast crowd hadn’t started flowing in yet. This meant that it wasn’t long before our food was ready.

Diner Eats

Our day’s schedule included a visit to the St. Louis Zoo, so Crystal was looking to fuel up before our visit. The entire menu is available all day, so the choices were numerous. After a little hesitation, she ordered a fairly standard breakfast of eggs, bacon and hash browns. The Build Your Own Breakfast lets customers assemble the meal of their choice with a nice set of options. It provided plenty of food to load her up for a long morning of exploring.

Not My Norm

In most cases, I would have doubled up and ordered the same dish as Crystal. Being in an exploration mood, I chose to try something we don’t run across very often. The  Finals Breakfast Sandwich is made with fried egg, cheddar cheese, and a meat of choice (Mine was bacon) all loaded between  waffle wedges. syrup and sriracha sauce accompany the dish to bring a little sweet and spicy. While it was different than Crystal’s choice, I still ended up having plenty of fuel to hold me through the entire time at the zoo. We finished a little early, so we sat and enjoyed an extra cup of coffee. The morning crowd was beginning to filter in, so we decided to head off to our next destination. Our visit to the Peacock Loop Diner offered us a cheery start to our second day of exploring in St. Louis. Have you ever dined in the “Peacock Carousel of Love”? Tell us about your experience.

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We want to thank the St. Louis Art Museum Museum and Explore St. Louis for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

The Museum

St. Louis founded its art museum in the late 1800’s, which is around the same period that many large cities were doing the same thing. The original building that housed the museum was on the old Washington University campus. It moved to its current Forest Park home after the 1904 World’s Fair. Built for the fair, the building was originally named the Palace of Fine Arts. A statue of King Louis IX still stands watch over the fairgrounds in front of the museum.

We arrived at the museum and checked in to get our ticket for the Sunken Cities exhibit. These are doled out by time slots to limit the number of patrons in the gallery at any one time. Later we would appreciate this detail. With a little time to wait, we decided to check out some of the nearby rooms. Over the years the St. Louis Art Museum has amassed a collection of over 30,000 pieces of artwork. It has especially strong collections of modern art by European artists.

The St. Louis Art Museum is a free attraction, so there was a steady stream of visitors filing in. We passed through a few galleries checking out the various pieces. It was a rainy day, so we guessed it made a perfect outing destination for many of the city’s residents.

A First

The newly arrived Sunken Cities exhibit is making its first North American stop in St. Louis. A massive amount of artifacts are on display. While most are held in the special exhibit area, there are a trio of pieces that wouldn’t fit. These 16 foot tall statues are housed in a larger gallery, and offer a peek at the wonders we were in for when it was our turn.

In this area we found a pharaoh, his queen and the Egyptian deity Hapy. All are carved from pink granite and have been reassembled. The mighty Nile River cuts through the deserts of Egypt, supplying the waters of life to the area. Egypt’s history and destiny are tied to the river. While the mention of Egypt usually conjures images of pyramids and sand, the area where the Nile meets the Mediterranean Sea is especially fertile. Flooding and receding has occurred for centuries and claimed many coastal communities. Such was the case for the coastal port cities of Canopus and Thonis-Heracleion.

Our Turn Arrives

With only minutes left for our time slot, we made our way back to the exhibit entrance. Before long the announcement was made for our group to enter. We passed into the gallery and were immediately surrounded by the unbelievable collection. The crowds were large, as the time slot before ours was also sold out. The artifacts are spaced out enough to allow viewing from multiple angles, so there was plenty of room for everyone. Informative placards help denote the story behind many of the pieces found in the gallery.

The draw of this exhibit is obvious, by noting the wide range of visitors ages. Everyone seemed to be intrigued, as they checked out the artifacts. In one of the rooms a film was running that shows the underwater recovery operation. This is on a loop, so if you come in part way through, you can catch the part you missed after the film finishes. As we inspected each of the pieces, we were amazed to think that they have held up so well after centuries buried in the sea bed. Some look as though they were just created, and the condition is unbelievable. The level of detail in the pieces hints to the knowledge and skills of the artisans who created these artifacts.

Osiris Awakened

To be honest, we are not that familiar with ancient Egyptian culture. Visiting the Sunken Cities exhibit gave us an opportunity to learn a little more about some of these ancient people’s beliefs. So many of the artifacts on display represent the deities that these people worshiped. Osiris, who was their god of the afterlife, is prominent in many of the pieces on display. He was associated with granting all life, including the cycles of nature. This would even include the annual flooding of the Nile, which brought a rebirth of vegetation to the areas that had dried out when the waters receded.

The collection that travels with the Sunken Cities exhibit is astounding. We have read that it includes over 300 pieces, and that is an easy number to believe. With so many artifacts, it would be futile for us to try to pick our few favorite photos. We decided to include a gallery of shots from our visit to the museum. We hope you enjoy them and it spurs you to visit St. Louis to see these wonders for yourself.

Limited Timeframe

The St. Louis Art Museum will host the Sunken Cities exhibit until September 9, 2018. You have an entire summer to witness this spectacle for yourself, before it moves to its next destination. Of course, this exhibit is not the only good reason to visit the museum. Being one of the free attractions in this metropolitan city, you have tons of reasons to plan a trip to St. Louis. The art museum is a wonder on its own, and the site where it resides offers some beautiful vistas to enjoy. We have even heard that many locals will use the hill out front for sledding in the winter. Clearly St. Louis is a “Gateway” to fun. Do you plan to visit this exhibit? We’d love to hear your feedback, so drop a line in the comments section below. Thanks!

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Popular Destination

Upon arriving, we found a huge crowd waiting to be seated. Evidently, most were bigger groups, because we were seated immediately. Fitz’s Root Beer first appeared in St. Louis in the late 1940s. It became a hit and flourished inside and out of the city. Even though it disappeared for a period, its rebirth in 1993 was a welcome sight. The operation is similar to a microbrewery, only for soda.

The seating is mainly tables, but there is a small counter with a handful of stools. The building also affords a second-floor seating option, much to the chagrin of the wait staff. The place was buzzing during our visit. The noise level can be high, as groups are generally in a jovial mood. Keep a watchful eye on servers carrying large trays filled with sweet libations and generous plates. We are used to being the only ones in the place using a camera to capture the moment, but not at Fitz’s. It seemed that lots of people wanted to capture a picture of their favorite soda flavor or one of the immense ice cream floats. (Sorry, but we didn’t have room for that after our meal.)

Flavorful Assortment

Our first choice had to be our soda flavors. Fitz’s offers 16 different choices, and we are betting they are all delicious. Sweetened with pure cane sugar, they reminded us of our youth when a bottle of soda was a special treat. (Yeah, we are getting old.) Crystal chose the Berry Pomegranate, which was absolutely refreshing. The sweetness of the berries added a nice accent to the tart pomegranate flavor. I was originally going to test out their flagship root beer. After perusing the menu, I landed on the Orange Cream. The flavor reminded me of the Dreamsicle bars we used to eat on hot summer days. It was hard keeping myself from drinking it all before my dinner arrived.

Bottler Extraordinaire

Our timing didn’t allow us to watch the bottling in action. The equipment is contained in a room that is viewable from the main dining area. The machines are from the mid-1900s period and are authentic bottling lines. Most of the time they bottle on Thursday through Saturday from 11:00 am until 8:00 pm. They have a schedule on their website, so you may wish to consult it before a visit. I’m guessing it would be an interesting sight, but we enjoyed people watching instead.

Getting Our Feed On

Our server showed up with our meals, after a short wait. Crystal had chosen the Smoked Turkey Reuben, which was a substantial sandwich. Imagine a Reuben where they substitute turkey and that is what you get. She seemed to enjoy it, but my bite left me wanting corned beef instead. I guess I’m just too old school. She ordered the Fitz’s Kitchen Sauce on the side and ended up using it to dip her fries.

I’m a lover of a little kick, so I ordered the Black and Bleu Burger.  The patty is cooked with a Cajun blackening seasoning and topped with bleu cheese crumbles. A couple of onion rings are placed on top of this and then served with the standard garnishes. While I was able to finish my meal, it came with a price. After leaving the restaurant the fullness hit me. It ended up being larger than I had gauged, but fortunately, we were walking it off. In hindsight, we could have split a dish and left room for one of their signature Root Beer Floats.  I guess we will have to keep this in mind for future visits.

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We want to thank the City Museum and Explore St. Louis for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

1) Is It a Museum?

The name City Museum could be a little misleading. Upon hearing it, one may have visions of displays on the founding fathers of the community or early events that shaped the life of the citizens. Well, it’s not that kind of museum. We would describe it as an eclectic collection of re-purposed salvaged materials. When we arrived at the site, we were fortunate to find a parking spot on the museum grounds. If you aren’t as lucky, there are multiple lots nearby. We paid our $10 parking fee (cash only) and prepared for our experience. Our visit to St. Louis was in March, and we happened to hit a good weather day. The place was already literally crawling with guests. Admission is $14 per person, but drops to $12 after 5 pm on Friday and Saturdays. They give you wristbands, which allow for guests to leave and return. This was handy, as we did take a break during our visit for a dinner run. More about that later.

2) It’s Massive

Even as we were heading inside to the admissions area, we could already see the huge scale of this place. It is really hard to take it all in, and even when you think you have, there are surprises around the next corner. With the warming sun making a rare appearance this day, we decided to spend the first part on the outdoor structures. As we were making our way around the back and forth catwalks, we would suddenly get a new vantage point that showed us the true intent of the piece we just scaled. This dragon is a prime example. It is mixed into the jumble of tunnels, tubes, and cross-overs. Periodically we would come to a spot where we would look out and realize that there was a true theme to the piece we just explored.

3) Lots of Physical Activity

While City Museum tries to be as accessible as possible, there is no denying that exploring this place requires a good deal of physical exertion. Staircases lead off on a new adventure that may end with an upwards climb or a quick downward slide. Bridges and cross-overs aid in moving from one structure to the next. There are some spaces that can become quite cramped when busy. The castle in the top set of photos has a small tower that will accommodate about half a dozen guests comfortably. To get to it requires climbing a tiny spiral staircase that is only large enough for one at a time. This caused a traffic jam when you have some wanting up and others needing to go back down. Even with all of this congestion, everyone seemed hospitable to each other. After all, there are plenty of other spots to explore.

4) Heights – Lots of Them

Did we mention that there is a lot of climbing? While there are plenty of catwalks throughout the structures, there are some places that require a leap of faith to reach. In my younger days, I spent a short stint as a window cleaner, so heights are not my biggest concern. Crystal has her own ideas about that subject, but surprised me by being willing to explore beyond her comfort zone. Be warned that if you decide to scale to the highest heights, you may find yourself hanging out in a lofty space for a period of time. Some areas have tubes that cross, and traffic congestion will slow down progress. There are also spots, like the airplanes, where you can take a short break from climbing to catch your breath.

5) Lots of Slides

The old saying of what goes up must come down is certainly true at City Museum. Of course, they like to offer some entertaining ways to make the journey. There are an assortment of slides outside and inside for guests to enjoy. During one portion of our outside exploration, we were following a line of people along a predetermined path. As we filed along, we struck up conversations with some of our fellow guests. Amazingly, we found out that the couple in front of us had a connection to our hometown. As a matter of fact, the lady attended school with our daughter. We had a few minutes to chat before we realized that the path was leading us to a three-story slide. Next thing we know we are hurtling down to lower levels. Later we would discover a series of slides on the inside of the building. These included a five-story, which I rode, and a ten-story that we both took. By the way, the entrance to these slides is found through the indoor caves on the first floor. Be prepared to climb the stairs to the height you want to ride.

6) There is More Inside

Eventually, we decided to see what the inside held. We knew from our time at the admissions area that there was more to explore. The City Museum’s interior is just as wild as the outside. We quickly noticed that many of the structures were also designed to represent various creatures. A huge snake for a slide. An enormous whale, which allowed entrance through the mouth, and a multi-story dinosaur were just some of them. The first floor is home to the Caves. As the name would imply, it is a series of darker passageways that criss-cross each other. In the gift shop guests can purchase knee-pads and flashlights to aid in their explorations. We spent some time wandering through and saw lots of people crawling in and out of tunnels that were found all over this area. We noticed one kid attempting to squeeze through a hole that was quite tight for him. I made the suggestion that he attempt the hole right next to him, which was obviously larger. A friend of his chimed in that they were playing a game to see who could fit through the smallest hole. Clearly a game for people younger than us.

7) Hands-on Activities

City Museum has a couple of spaces that appear to be designed for engaging the younger crowds. In one room we saw various artwork stations where kids were creating their own masterpieces. Another enclosed space was designed to look like a circus tent. Here is a chance to catch a show, as an assortment of acrobatic endeavors are performed for guests watching from ringside seats. On the third floor is an area named Toddler Town. The same eclectic design is used here, but on a scale that is more appropriate for smaller tykes. Also on the third floor is the Skateless Skate Park. An interesting take on what has become an urban activity, this is set up with a series of ramps and half-pipes. Guests run the ramps, instead of skating. We watched for a moment, but quickly decided it was just a little more cardio than what we wanted.

8) Art Abounds

As we explored, we kept stumbling across various pieces of art. Some were large and obvious, while others were almost hidden. A series of bronze statues are scattered about, and we would see one in some of the most unique locations. Of course, almost every structure inside and out is a form of artwork. Whenever we would have to wait in a line we would have a moment to look at the detail of the pieces around us. It is then that we would realize the wide variety of found objects that were used in construction. What appears as a normal balcony rail ends up being a collection of heavy duty chisels and tools all welded into a new purpose. During your visit you will want to take a few moments at times to really look at the pieces around you. You will be amazed at what you discover.

9) Architectural Salvage

A common theme of City Museum is recovery and re-purpose. As we made our way from one level to the next, we would see architectural pieces that had been salvaged from other buildings. It was nice to know that many of these were rescued from the wrecking ball. While we have seen this type of reuse in other buildings we have visited, it was nothing on this scale. It really requires this type of attraction to be able to incorporate so many varieties into the collection. We found the best pieces on the third and fourth floors, but there are others scattered about the two lower levels. This is another thing you will want to keep an eye peeled for during your wandering. It would be easy to make a game of seeing who can find the oddest items. Trust us that it would be hard to pick a winner. (Think huge hornets nest or bug collection.)

10) There are Refreshments

I mentioned earlier that the wristbands come in handy. In most cases, we would have found something on-site to satisfy any cravings. Since we were on a blog trip, we had actually arranged a Happy Hour dinner at a nearby restaurant. The in-out access allowed us to head down and return later without having to pay again. For those not wanting to leave, don’t fret. There is some sort of refreshment available on most of the floors. The first floor has a snack shop that doubles as a coat check area. Sandwiches, pizza, and cookies can be found on the Mezzanine level. On the third floor, the Baby Elephant Cafe serves up circus fare. When the rooftop is open, (We were too early in the season) there is a cantina serving up some Mexican food options. There is even an outdoor grill zone where guests can order up some BBQ specialties. An adult beverage lounge named Beatnik Bob’s is located on the third floor. Here you can check out an assortment of old-school pinball machines, while taking a break from exploring. They even have a pair of the world’s largest tighty-whiteys. (You have to see them for yourself.)

Bonus Tip

So you may have noticed that there were not a lot of people in the pictures with cameras. City Museum is not exactly what we would call camera friendly. Don’t get me wrong, they don’t mind people taking pictures. It is just that this attraction is more of a hands-on experience that requires both hands. We knew this going in, so we first took our Canon DSLR in to get some good shots, before heading off to dinner. When we returned, we switched to our Nikon point-and-shoot, which has a better shock-resistance. Of course, that means we gave up some of the better chances for good shots in the darker areas of the interior. As a matter of fact, after a little while, I just put it in my pocket and enjoyed the place like a non-blogging human. (Yeah, that is a little weird to me.) In the long run, I was satisfied with what we were able to capture, and feel it gives an overall sense of the magnitude of City Museum. The rest of you will just have to see for yourself. If you have visited City Museum tell us in the comments what your favorite part was. We will be sure to check it out on our next visit.

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We want to thank Cafe Telegraph and Explore St. Louis for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

A City of Many Neighborhoods

When we sent out our request for suggestions, it was quickly apparent that St. Louis has many similarities to our own hometown. The various neighborhoods of the city have their own flavors, and the local residents help make them unique. On a rainy Spring day, we pulled into the busy parking lot, and lucked out finding a spot opening up right by the door. We dashed inside and found it to be quite roomy. The seating is divided between two bar areas and a large dining room. We were seated in the dining room, and began to review the menu.

Food Show

Our server arrived and we spoke about the menu options. We had heard lots of suggestions, but wanted to know what were some of the most popular choices. Cafe Telegraph is well known for its smoked meats. Being from Kansas City, we are always ready to test out some local ‘cue. Bill, the General Manager, came by our table and introduced himself. As he hustled and bustled, he would swing by and show us some of the dishes that make Cafe Telegraph a local favorite.

Our Choices

Many of the dishes on the menu are named after local parish schools, and the one we chose was the St. Andrews Pulled Pork sandwich. This was Crystal’s choice, and she decided that onion rings would make a good side. When it was delivered, we were both surprised at the size of the dish. It was a sandwich large enough for a couple of people. They serve it with sauce on the side, and the meat was so tender and flavorful that we decided it didn’t need any. (She used the sauce to dip her rings.) By the time we had taken a few bites, we decided that it was as good as any pulled pork we had tasted in KC. That is saying a lot!

Or server had clued us in on a dish that doesn’t appear on the menu, but is well liked by many. We always enjoy hearing about these “hidden gems” and tasting special dishes. At Cafe Telegraph, it is the Fish and Chips, which includes four good-sized filets and an extra side. I chose the Cole slaw, which had a nice tang to it. Both of us loved the house-made tartar sauce that comes with this meal. This was another dish that had more than enough for one. By the way, those who suggested the Fred Flintstone are just plain ornery. We saw one of these gigantic pork steaks, and would have been dining on that for a few days. Now we are no slackers at eating, but there was no way we could finish all of this food. Keep this in mind when you plan your visit to Cafe Telegraph, and be sure to bring your biggest appetite. You are sure to need it.

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We want to thank the Missouri Civil War Museum and Explore St. Louis for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Introductions

Upon entering the museum, the visit begins with an orientation film. Here, guests will get a base knowledge of the Jefferson Barracks, and its historical significance to St. Louis and the nation. The museum is housed in the 1905 Post Exchange and Gymnasium. Over time it has served as barracks, an overflow hospital wing, and an Infantry quarters. It fell out of use in 1946, and sat vacant for 60 years. Restoration began in 2002, and continued for 10 years. Almost all of the interior was meticulously recreated, and the museum is proud to claim no federal or state funding was required.

Throughout the building we found multiple films available. Some tell more of the general history of the area, while others focus on the events that occurred during the Civil War period. We enjoyed these, as they helped us better frame the history of the region in general. Jefferson Barracks has played an important role in the area since its founding in 1827. Named after Thomas Jefferson, the installation saw its first military action during the Black Hawk War in 1832. It has served as an induction center for many of the military events that have involved U. S. troops.

Growing Frustration

The Missouri Civil War Museum does a good job at explaining the atmosphere in the area during the period leading up to the armed conflict. Missouri was considered one of the border states, which meant that it was hotly contested by both the Union and Confederate sides. A slave state since entry into the Union, Missouri was considered on the edge of the frontier. This made the region prime for confrontation. The Mississippi River, and the port city of St. Louis, were considered vital to both sides for transportation of troops and goods. The political atmosphere of those days ensured that the region would continue to be an area of contention throughout the war.

Border War

Across the state, battles and skirmishes were ongoing. The area that would become Kansas was being contested by abolitionists and bushwhackers. (Read more about the Border War in this article>) The Missouri Civil War Museum has plenty of displays detailing the localized issues and how they reflected the national attitudes. One of the films available for viewing is about 25 minutes long and focuses specifically on Missouri’s role in the war. Plenty of comfortable seating is available in the gallery, so be sure to catch this one.

Main Gallery

On the entry level is where we found the Main Gallery. What was most certainly the area that originally held a basketball court is now home to an extensive collection of artifacts. The center section holds an open display which draws your immediate attention. The pieces are well preserved and information placards provide detailed explanations of the exhibit. All around the perimeter is a series of cases which hold smaller pieces and collections.

Ordnance

Missouri was the scene of neighbor-against-neighbor fighting during the Civil War. By the end of the war, around 140,000 Missourians will have fought on one side or the other. No portion of the state would escape the cloud of war, and it would take decades for some areas to recover. Artillery was becoming more commonplace and deadly. The museum displays a variety of styles of ordnance. We had never seen an assembled grapeshot canister before this visit. It is obviously apparent the damage that such an shell could inflict.

The Missouri Civil War Museum also displays a wide selection of personal firearms, as well. While the ever growing armies were issuing stock pieces, it was still commonplace for many soldiers to carry their own sidearms. The variety is astounding, and would have certainly caused plenty of issues in supplying the various ammunition requirements. Cartridges were just beginning to be used, so many were still armed with black powder weapons. It was interesting to see the artistic touches on the powder flasks on display.

Other Duties

Soldiers didn’t just focus on their armaments. The role of drummer was often assigned to the younger soldier. Sometimes these were merely boys who had told recruiters that they were eighteen. During a battle it would have been difficult to make out vocal commands, but the sound of the drum could carry over the ruckus. Various rolls were used to signify assembly, attack, and retreat. When not drumming, many would have served as stretcher bearers for the wounded.

Field Medicine

The drawn-out conflict created a series of medical issues for both armies. Camps were breeding grounds for illness and disease. Of the approximate 620,000 lives that were lost during the war, nearly two-thirds would be from disease. Hygiene and sanitation were not commonplace in this era. Treatments were aggressive and would often lead to death. The war would create a demand for improvements, which would become apparent towards the end. Technology quickly improved conditions in the hospitals, which were unprepared for the constant onslaught of the injured at the start of the war.

Jefferson Barracks Cemetery

With so many skirmishes and battles being fought in the region, the need for a national cemetery became quickly apparent. Even before being officially declared one in 1866, Jefferson Barracks was already the final resting place for Union and Confederate troops. The grounds began being used as a cemetery shortly after its creation in 1826. The on-site hospital, at Jefferson Barracks, would hold up to 2500 patients, but even this would be challenged at times. Steamboats anchored along the shoreline would serve as overflow hospitals. There were times during the war that Jefferson Barracks would be treating more sick and wounded than any other hospital in the nation. Many of those who passed were interred on the grounds.

The Missouri Civil War Museum has plenty of other videos to watch when you want a break from the displays. The lower level includes more exhibits, including some that span other military conflicts. Our schedule limited our available time to visit, so be sure to mark off a little more for yourself. It’s a great place to get an impartial view of a war that pitted family members against each other. We believe you will come away with a new perspective on the causes and effects of the Civil War on the region, in and around Missouri. Be sure to say Hi to Mark when you visit. He will be happy to share his passion with you.

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