I'm visiting St. Louis May 15th to the 19th, what to do? what to avoid? (St. Charles: neighborhoods)

[SouthCali4LifeSD]

Hello, I will be going to St. Louis from May 15th to May 19th and I wanted to know what I can do there, and what I should avoid? I have a general vision of a map of St. Louis in my mind, and I hear that East and North St. Louis are bad? What does this incorporate? I'm guessing East St. Louis is on the east side of the mississippi?

I will be staying half a mile from the airport in a motel. What's cool in the area? Are there any events that may be happening at that time? Let me know, I'm excited to visit the city. Thank you in advance!

[Brickmama]

Go Downtown, Central West End, The Loop, and all the other great neighborhoods in South City. There isnt a whole lot of fun to be had up by the airport.

[RickMG]

Judging from your profile, you are going to have nothing much to do by the airport, but lucky for you, everything is close an easy to get to from there (especially being from So. Cal. )

The Cardinals are in town that week, maybe take in a game, then party in and around Laclede's Landing. Many hoppin places all around there including a great new casino called Lumiere, be sure to check it out. If you're into fancy nightlife for singles, just west of where you're staying by a few minutes is Ameristar Casino with the nightclub called 'Home' (there's also one in Vegas). Plan on dressing sharp if you're going to get in, but I'll tell you, the women dress to kill so it's well worth it.

Westport is another night place, with some good restaurants and fun spots. If you're into walking a pretty neat area on the Saturday, go to Main Street St. Charles (again only a few minutes) and walk it. There are many shops of all kinds and some good restaurants, bars, wineries and other stuff. Like mentioned, the Central West End is always a good choice.

On the other hand, I'll be on a cruise that week so the town could be dead.

[stepka]

That will be a perfect time to see the Botanical Gardens, and we have a really good one.

[aragx6]

It'd be pretty hard to accidentally get into a bad neighborhood. Driving into the city on I-70 from the airport you'll see some pretty rough areas off of the freeway, avoid that area as well as East S. Louis (which you're right is on the Illinois side) and you'll be fine safety wise.

RickMG had some great suggestions, though I'd skip Westport if you're younger. These days it's more of a cougar area full of divorcees.

[SouthCali4LifeSD]

i appreciate all responses thus far, and the ones to follow. i will be placing many of these ideas in my itineary. have a great weekend all!

[therewego]

I have never been there but we may be moving there (all speculative right now). It would be great to hear from you after you have visited to see how your visit went.