One of the great art museums in the nation, the Saint Louis Art Museum is home to a comprehensive collection spanning 5,000 years of cultures and genres. Constructed as the Palace of Fine Arts for the 1904 World's Fair, the museum was the exposition's only permanent building. Like most institutions in Forest Park, admission to the art museum is free every day.

The Saint Louis Art Museum is one of our favorite places in the city!

One of the largest urban parks in the United States, Forest Park offers 1,326 acres of outdoor enjoyment and cultural institutions. In addition to the art museum, Forest Park is home to the Saint Louis Zoo, the Missouri History Museum, and the Saint Louis Science Center (all with free admission).

The second largest botanical garden in North America and one of the oldest in continuous operation, the Missouri Botanical Garden is an oasis in the urban landscape of St. Louis. While admission isn't free, with 79 acres of beautiful display, the Garden is worth the $16 for entry.

While cliché, it is worth visiting St. Louis's most recognized landmark (and symbol) if you've never been. A trip to the top of the Arch gives the best views of the city and the Mighty Mississippi, while the newly renovated museum and park offers a great experience for all visitors. (And Kyle's mom helped with universal design of the renovations as a disabilities expert!)