Planning Touristy Times in My Own Town

Some days may not feel like it, weather-wise, but summer is on its way to Saint Louis! I can't wait for hot days and balmy nights. Sipping wine on patios, outdoor festival, fireworks, vacations (I have at least one small one planned with my family!), and so much more! While thinking about the things I can't wait to do this year, I also thought I should do some research on some activities or sites that I have yet to experience in my lovely city! The first two make sense, but the last one might surprise you!

1) Brush Up on My History Skills at the Missouri Civil War Museum
Opened only two years ago, the Missouri Civil War Museum is housed inside the historic Jefferson Barracks 1905 Post Exchange Building. Although I haven't kept up with my learning, I was a huge Civil War buff in grade school. I devoured book after book, and focused on it for papers required for school assignments. I could name all the major generals and many of the most important regiments by number and famous battle. It's never too late to start learning again, so I really can't wait to make a day trip down to Jefferson Barracks. I'd love to do a picnic day: Visit the museum, and then have lunch on the grounds. Both of my grandfathers are buried at Jefferson Barracks, so it would be a nice day to learn history and visit with them. If you can't make it to the museum's location, but are still interested in brushing up on your Civil War knowledge, the museum's Facebook page offers almost daily factoids about Civil War era events and people.

image courtesy of www.stlmag.com/ — image courtesy of www.stlmag.com/

2) Catch a Nighttime Flick at the Saint Louis Art Museum Art Hill Film Series
Although I've been to the Saint Louis Art Museum (SLAM) more times than I could ever count, I have yet to visit after-hours for its summer movie series. I hear food trucks will be involved, and there is plenty of time to party and picnic before the movie fires up at 9pm. Apparently furry friends are allowed, and there will be an art-making station for youngsters or creative types to check out. The first movie night is July 10, and features Back to the Future!

3) Take a Classic Brewery Tour at Anheuser-Busch
Yep! I've lived here all my life, and can't recall if I've actually taken one of the classic complimentary tours that the Anheuser-Busch brewery location downtown offers. On breezy summer nights I can actually smell the hops wafting all the way into my neighborhood. The basic tour even takes you to visit with those famous four-legged beauties - the Budweiser Clydesdales! The other more in-depth tours are incredibly affordable, so I might have to check one of those out, too. I'm not going to argue with a beer on a hot day in Saint Louis, and learning more about this locally-based brewing legen.

After testing out new places, you can bet I'd be ready to head to my favorite tried-and-true spots to relax. If you know me much at all, you'll be keen on the fact that I have a massive sweet tooth. That sweet tooth was raised on Ted Drewes, and let me tell you - that is definitely one of my biggest summer traditions. A favorite date spot, or meeting ground to catch up with some friends over a frozen custard - this little Saint Louis company has made a name for itself over the years. My favorite item on their menu is their Fox Treat - vanilla custard with hot fudge, raspberries, and macadamia nuts. Mmmm! Also, you probably have figured out by now I just sort of love food, so it shouldn't surprise you that I frequent the Tower Grove Farmer's Market during the summer. The Farmer's Market not only offers an amazing variety of local produce and grocery vendors, it also features food trucks, crafters, free QiGong (moving meditation, associated with the more familiar practice of T'ai chi ch'uan) and free yoga. Hitting the farmer's market is one the best (in my opinion) ways to start off the weekend. I live in the neighborhood, so I can either walk or bicycle over to the location, pick up the yoga class at 9am, and then shop for my groceries for the upcoming week. If you're interested in joining me some Saturday morning, let me know! I love buddies at the market.

I've been so excited about planning my summer in Saint Louis because I've been so excited to be in the running for the Official Explore St. Louis Summer Ambassador position! I made it into the top five, and I cannot wait to see who wins! I have some incredible, beautiful, inspiring competition, and I know whoever wins will rock the heck out of that title and job! But, you know, I'm pretty sure I would have the best summer EVER in Saint Louis if I snapped up the prize. I wouldn't let you down, city friends!

To join the party, and be there with me when the winner is announced, meet me at the Be A Tourist In Your Own Town event this coming Thursday, April 30th! Representatives from some of the area's biggest and best attractions will be present, and there will be refreshments and lots of fun.

See you there!