Saint Louis

Whether it's cheering on your favorite collegiate or professional sports team or golfing on championship courses, Greater St. Louis offers some of the most exciting spectator events and outdoor adventures in the nation. Just beyond your back door is a wonderland of forests, alpine retreats, backpacking country, rolling rivers, and vast open space for every imaginable activity. Hiking, biking, boating, water sports, camping, off-roading, hunting, fishing, golfing, tennis, rock-climbing, and skydiving are just a few of the exciting ways to spend leisure time.

 

High-Speed Auto Racing Thrills

Missouri residents enjoy easy access to Illinois' Gateway International Raceway in Madison, the site of heart-pounding excitement in a variety of competitive events. As one of the highlights in the Craftsman Truck Series, the Missouri/Illinois Dodge Truck Dealers Ram Tough 200 draws enthusiastic crowds from both states to the track. Also featured at the track, the NHRA Powerade Drag Racing Series and the NASCAR BUSCH Series never fail to thrill fans with a star-studded field and racing surprises. Most of these premier events are accompanied by dazzling fireworks and live entertainment that showcases country-music superstars. Drag racing is another draw to the track, encompassing such diverse categories as Super Pro, Street ET, Pro Bike, Street Bike, High School, Jr. Dragster, and a 4 Wheel Drive & Performance Pro ET. Don't miss the action at one of the finest tracks in the Heartland. For more information, contact:

Downhill Skiing

 

Ski enthusiasts can take to the slopes when the snow flies, although Hidden Valley maintains 100 percent snowmaking as well as lighting for night skiing. Regardless of the seasonal snowfall, this capability ensures all the "white stuff" necessary for an average 70-day season. Beginners will enjoy Easy Street, while seasoned athletes can take advantage of the advanced terrain park for expert skiers and snowboarders only. A full 60 percent of the runs are intermediate, guaranteeing the right terrain and conditions for everyone. The spacious ski lodge, a ski school lesson center, and rental equipment make this a full-service winter retreat. For more information, contact:

 

Gateway Golf

 

Golf enthusiasts can chose from a wide selection of meticulously manicured greens, some of which are graced by waterfalls, lakes, and crystal clear streams. Visit the golf guide websites for a more comprehensive listing of public and private courses.

 

PARKS & SCENIC GETAWAYS

 

Vast state and county parks combine with regional and municipal resources to provide a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities throughout the St. Louis Metropolitan Area. Hiking and biking trails, bridle paths, campgrounds, hunting and fishing areas, wonderful botanical gardens, nature preserves, and lush forests are just a few of the amenities. In the case of Forest Park in St. Louis, recreational facilities combine with family entertainment and world-class museums or science centers, attracting throngs of regional residents and visitors from across the nation.

 

Regional Park Systems

 

Parks offer sweeping green space for relaxation and exercise as well as amenities like bike trails, playground equipment, fishing ponds, campgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields, and horse trails. Contact the nearest regional administration unit for more information or visit their websites for more extensive information.

 

Municipal Parks & Recreation

 

With the metropolitan area municipalities, lush parks are brimming over with sports facilities and other recreational amenities to provide a scenic backdrop and open space for leisure activities. Many of these parks and recreation departments have developed wonderful supervised programs that appeal to residents of every age and interest, from sports leagues to arts and crafts, summer camps, and field trips.

 

Missouri Wine Country

 

Traveling west from St. Louis along Highway 94 in the Mississippi River Valley, picturesque wineries on spectacular bluffs overlook the river valley. The sun-drenched hills of Missouri and the long growing season have enabled vineyards in America's Heartland to perfect their wine-making expertise for nearly a century and a half. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, picnics, and special events from concerts to festivals at the same time that they discover distinctive wines like Cynthiana/Norton, Vignoles, Sevval, and Chambourcin. To plan a getaway to one of the wineries contact the Missouri Grape & Wine Program for further ideas.

 

Missouri Grape & Wine Program

800-392-WINE

www.missouriwine.org

 

DAY TRIPS & GETAWAYS

 

Branson, Missouri

800-214-3661

www.bransonchamber.com

Thrilling entertainment and old-fashioned hospitality and excitement have made Branson world-famous as a family vacation destination. Three of America's most beautiful lakes and stellar attractions are designed to please every age.

 

Hannibal, Missouri

866-263-4825

www.visithannibal.com

Famous as the boyhood home of Mark Twain, Hannibal offers a carefree retreat. Traces of the legendary author can be found throughout the town in museums, his restored home, the nearby lake, and even the cave immortalized in his stories.

 

Hermann, Missouri

800-932-8687

www.hermannmo.com

Brimming with lush wineries, Hermann was founded in 1837 as the "German Athens of the West." This serene little village is famous for its rich heritage and hospitality, a place where charming streets and antique shops are surrounded by rolling green hills.

 

Lake of the Ozarks

800-386-5253

www.funlake.com

More than 54,000 acres of water enjoy a scenic backdrop of outdoor beauty, nestled in the rolling hills of central Missouri. Surrounded by expansive forests and enhanced by dramatic bluffs, the area offers a wealth of recreational opportunities.

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