Mississippi River Odyssey

Discover the “Gateway City,” a bit of historic Americana that is also a colorful immigrant hub and cultural jewel. This tour acquaints you with St. Louis’s main attractions: the Old Cathedral (officially, Basilica of St. Louis, King of France), the oldest church west of the Mississippi; the Old Courthouse; and the Eero Saarinen–designed Gateway Arch, a vast and uplifting homage to pioneering spirits that is the tallest arch in the world. Ride along Market Street to see the newly renovated Union Station, the St. Louis Wheel, Busch Stadium and many other landmarks. You will also get a sense of St. Louis’s immigrant heritage as you pass through Lafayette Square, where the Victorian homes of 19th-century German, French and Italian residents have been lovingly restored.

Visit the famous Anheuser-Busch Brewery, whose grounds include three National Historic Landmarks. The brewery is in the lively Soulard neighborhood—a location chosen for its access to the Mississippi River, large presence of German immigrants and the natural cave formations where beer could be stored prior to the use of artificial refrigeration. You will learn the history of beer brewing in America. And, through the stories of the Eberhard Anheuser and Adolphus Busch families, you will gain insight into the lives of St. Louis’s 18th-century German immigrant community. Along with a beer tasting, you will see the Budweiser Clydesdale stables, Beechwood Aging Cellars, the historic Brewhouse and Bevo packing facility.

Immerse yourself in nature’s beauty during a self-guided walk through the Missouri Botanical Garden. Founded by philanthropist Henry Shaw in 1859, this urban oasis is the nation’s oldest botanical garden in continuous operation and a National Historic Landmark. Committed to environmental stewardship, the center aims to inspire its visitors to learn and develop a deeper understanding of plant life. Upon arrival, you will have an opportunity to explore the 79 acres of horticulture displays on your own. You may choose to admire the tranquil beauty of the 14-acre Japanese strolling garden, view historic architecture or gaze at the glass sculptures created by Dale Chihuly. Alternatively, you can choose to investigate one of the world’s largest collections of rare and endangered flora, or enter the 70-foot tall Geodesic Dome Conservatory.

Explore St. Louis’s historic Italian neighborhood, The Hill, during a guided walk. Take a short transfer by motor coach, then set out on foot through charming streets lined with red-brick homes, bungalows and iconic Italian-flag-painted fire hydrants. Your local guide will share stories of the Italian immigrants who built one of the Midwest’s most enduring cultural enclaves. Along the way, sample local specialties including toasted ravioli, gourmet cured meats from a traditional salumeria, St. Louis–style thin-crust pizza and artisanal gelato, while visiting family-owned bakeries, cafés and neighborhood food shops. Meet passionate local proprietors and discover how generations of families have preserved their culinary traditions and strong sense of community, offering a behind-the-scenes look at daily life in this vibrant Italian-American neighborhood.