WHERE TO STAY:
Originally built in the 1920s, the Chase and Park Plaza hotels were combined in 1956 to form the Chase Park Plaza, one of St. Louis’ most renowned luxury hotels and residences. A $100 million renovation in 1999 gave the 202-room landmark a facelift and updated the amenities to include a movie theater, several restaurants, shopping, and an 18,000-square-foot fitness center. When business hours are over, go for a swim in the Mediterranean-style pool, get a spa treatment, or take a stroll through the surrounding Central West End neighborhood (212-232 N. Kingshighway Blvd., 877-587-2427, www.chaseparkplaza.com). Just a short drive away in nearby Clayton, the 23-story Clayton on the Park feels more like a home away from home than a hotel. The all-suite hotel features spacious rooms, king-size beds, fully equipped kitchens, and washer/dryers to ensure guests’ comfort and convenience. Book a suite on the 11th floor “Preferred Zone” for extra bonuses, such as in-room wine service. As the name suggests, the Clayton sits along Shaw Park, a 16-acre park that offers tennis courts, walking paths, pools, and an ice-skating rink for cooler months. Health-conscious guests will no doubt appreciate the personal trainers and registered dieticians employed at the fitness center as well as the hotel’s no-smoking policy (8025 Bonhomme Ave., 800-323-7500, www.claytononthepark.com).
WHAT’S GOING ON THIS MONTH America’s Center September 9: September 27-28: |
WHERE TO EAT:
For a reliable rib eye or a five-star filet, Lucas Park Grille is a striking alternative to the traditional steakhouse. Located on recently revived Washington Avenue, it’s one of many hip restaurants popping up in renovated buildings that were part of the downtown garment district 100 years ago. Beautiful, glittering décor; a large outdoor deck; and cozy fireplaces make for a fantastic and filling evening (1234 Washington Ave., 314-241-7770, www.lucasparkgrille.com). The Hill is a quaint, 50-square-block, historic Italian enclave famous for its authentic cuisine and charming shops. And for more than 20 years, Zia’s on the Hill has been serving up some of the area’s best toasted ravioli (a St. Louis original) and other delicious pasta dishes. Comfortable and casual, diners are made to feel like family (5256 Wilson Ave., 314-776-0020, www.zias.com). Truffles is an American bistro with an extensive menu and inviting atmosphere. Good for a quick lunch or an extended dinner, Truffles achieves elegance while avoiding stodginess with colorful décor and live entertainment on weekends (9202 Clayton Rd., 314-567-9100, www.trufflesinladue.com). Make a reservation early at Vin de Set and enjoy a creative, French-meets-American menu. The architecturally detailed space—formerly a brewery—features exposed-brick walls, French doors, an elevated loft overlooking the main bar, and sky-lit, cathedral ceilings. But the restaurant’s main attraction is its 4,000-square-foot rooftop deck, where patrons can enjoy a view with their meal (2017 Chouteau Ave., 314-241-8989, www.1111-m.com/vindeset).
WHAT TO DO:
If heights have nothing on you, take a trip to the top of the famous St. Louis Gateway Arch. Trams allow you to get a bird’s-eye view of the city and the Mississippi River atop the tallest national monument (50 N Leonor K. Sullivan Blvd., 877-982-1410, www.gatewayarch.com). The residential French neighborhood of Soulard is a perfect place to stroll, shop, and sightsee. There’s a bar or pub on nearly every corner, which makes the annual Mardi Gras festivals and Oktoberfest celebrations quite lively affairs. If you prefer to see where your beer is made before sampling it, take a tour of the Anheuser-Busch brewery. For nearly 150 years, the St. Louis-based beer company has invited lager lovers into their headquarters to view the brewhouse, aging cellars, packaging facilities, and, of course, the famous Clydesdale horse stables (12th and Lynch St., 314-577-2626, www.budweisertours.com). Then, see the house that Bud built and take in a game at Busch Stadium. Grab a hot dog and—what else—a brewski and watch the defending World Series-champion Cardinals make a playoff push (700 Clark St., 314-345-9000, http://cardinals.mlb.com). Finally, stop into the revitalized Union Station, a century-old rail station that has been converted into a mixed-use entertainment destination. High ceilings, gothic detailing, and stained-glass windows make this a unique place to shop, eat, or catch a concert (1820 Market St., 314-421-6655, www.stlouisunionstation.com).
