Things To Do
in East St. Louis
East St. Louis is a city in Illinois, United States, located just across the Mississippi River from St. Louis, Missouri. It has a rich history as an industrial hub, but has faced economic decline and challenges in recent years. The city has a predominantly African American population and struggles with high rates of poverty and crime.
Efforts are being made to revitalize the community and improve the quality of life for residents.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner. Afterward, visit the Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park for stunning views of the St. Louis skyline.
Explore the nearby Gateway Arch and take a riverboat cruise to learn about the area’s history. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café with a scenic view.
Dine at an iconic restaurant and savor some local specialties. Cap off the night with a leisurely walk along the riverfront.
Visit the East St. Louis Historical Museum to dive into the city’s rich heritage. Grab coffee at a local café afterward.
Head to the City Park and enjoy a picnic or a peaceful walk. Explore local art installations and parks to engage with the local culture.
Dine at an iconic restaurant and savor some local specialties. Cap off the night with a leisurely walk along the riverfront.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural diversity
- Affordable housing options
- Close proximity to St. Louis, offering access to amenities and job opportunities
- High crime rates and safety concerns
- Economic challenges and limited job opportunities within the city
- Struggles with urban infrastructure and public services
Best Activities in East St. Louis
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
This park offers scenic views of the St. Louis skyline, with trails for walking, biking, and picnic areas. Additionally, it features a splash pad and a large amphitheater for community events.
A spacious park with walking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities, perfect for family outings and outdoor sports activities.
This community park provides recreational opportunities including walking paths, open green spaces for sports, and areas for community gatherings.
A scenic multi-use trail that runs along the waterfront, ideal for biking, jogging, and enjoying the views of the Mississippi River.
A multi-purpose facility that features outdoor sports courts, children's play areas, and space for community activities and events.
Tours
Uncover the best of East St. Louis with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in East St. Louis
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Gateway Arch and the Mississippi River.
Provides panoramic views of the St. Louis skyline and the Mississippi River.
Food in East St. Louis
East St. Louis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thin-crust pizza cut into squares and topped with Provel cheese, a unique blend of provolone, cheddar, and Swiss cheeses. It can be enjoyed at various pizzerias around the city, such as Imo's Pizza and Cecil Whittaker's.
Must-Try!
This iconic St. Louis appetizer features breaded and deep-fried ravioli stuffed with meat or cheese. It is a popular dish found in many local restaurants and bars, including Charlie Gitto's and Mama's on The Hill.
A grilled or barbecued cut of pork, often seasoned with a tangy marinade or barbecue sauce. It is a staple of St. Louis barbecue and can be savored at renowned BBQ joints like Pappy's Smokehouse and Sugarfire Smoke House.
Unique Experiences
Get to know East St. Louis better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the oldest farmers markets in the country, Soulard Farmers Market offers a vibrant atmosphere and a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, spices, and prepared food items. Visitors can also indulge in various street food options like brats, gyros, and tamales from local vendors.
This historic Italian-American neighborhood is renowned for its diverse food scene, featuring authentic Italian bakeries, specialty food shops, and street food vendors offering delicacies like cannoli, gelato, and gourmet sandwiches.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In East St. Louis, as in many communities, showing respect towards elders is highly valued. Addressing them politely and listening attentively to their stories or advice is a sign of respect.
Participating in local events and supporting community initiatives is important. Engaging in neighborhood activities demonstrates solidarity and respect for the cultural fabric of the community.
Be mindful of using appropriate tones and body language when communicating. Direct eye contact and a warm smile can convey sincerity and respect, while an overly aggressive demeanor may be perceived negatively.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of East St. Louis with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in East St. Louis
Ensure a smooth experience
In East St. Louis, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is generally regarded as an expected practice in the service industry. Common tipping rates are around 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants, and similar practices are observed in bars, salons, and other service-related businesses. Tipping is seen as a way to reward good service, and it significantly contributes to the income of service workers. However, some residents adhere to personal preferences and may tip differently based on their experiences.
Payment practices in East St. Louis reflect a mix of traditional and modern approaches. Cash is still widely accepted, especially in smaller local businesses, but credit and debit cards have become increasingly popular among consumers. Digital payment options, including mobile payment apps, are gaining traction, allowing for greater convenience in transactions. In restaurants and retail shops, it is common for customers to have the choice of paying the entire bill or splitting the tab with friends/family. Additionally, some service establishments may have policies about gratuity being included for larger parties.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into East St. Louis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities such as hiking and festivals.
Ideal for outdoor events, concerts, and festivals, but can be hot and humid.
Great for colorful foliage, moderate temperatures, and fall festivals.
Can experience cold weather, but ideal for indoor activities, holiday events, and festive decorations.
East St. Louis at Night
Hiking in East St. Louis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large urban park offering walking trails, scenic views of the St. Louis skyline, and access to the Riverfront Trail along the Mississippi River.
A recreational trail that provides a peaceful hiking experience along the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Located about 25 miles west of East St. Louis, this park offers numerous hiking trails through wooded areas, along cliffs, and beside the Meramec River.
This park features hiking trails along the historic Route 66, with beautiful scenery and opportunities for birdwatching and picnicking.
A state park in Wildwood, offering over 15 miles of trails through wooded areas, streams, and scenic overlooks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into East St. Louis through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach East St. Louis by plane.
The primary airport serving the St. Louis metropolitan area, located approximately 12 miles from East St. Louis, Missouri.
One of the busiest airports in the world, located about 300 miles northeast of East St. Louis, Illinois.
Another major airport serving the Chicago area, located approximately 290 miles northeast of East St. Louis, Illinois.
The main airport for Indianapolis, located about 200 miles east of East St. Louis, Illinois.
The airport serving the Kansas City metropolitan area, located approximately 250 miles west of East St. Louis, Illinois.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Represents the majority population in East St. Louis, significant cultural and historical influence.
A smaller percentage of the population, including various ethnic backgrounds.
Represents a growing demographic in the area, contributing to the cultural diversity.
A small but notable community, including individuals from various Asian countries.
Individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting the multicultural aspects of the population.
A very small percentage of the population, representing indigenous roots.
The Soul of East St. Louis
Discover the essence of East St. Louis through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is highly popular in East St. Louis, with many local schools and community programs promoting the sport.
American football has a significant following in East St. Louis, with local high school teams being particularly competitive.
Baseball is a traditional sport in the area, with youth leagues and community events fostering participation.
Soccer has been growing in popularity, especially among younger generations, with local clubs offering various programs.
Track and field events are supported through school programs, providing opportunities for athletes to showcase their talents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting East St. Louis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
East St. Louis boasts numerous eateries and cafes that cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering a wide array of plant-based dishes, including vegan soul food at SweetArt and vegetarian-friendly fare at Lona's Lil Eats.
Several restaurants in East St. Louis accommodate gluten-free diets by providing gluten-free menus and options. For example, Pizzeoli offers a dedicated gluten-free pizzeria experience for diners with gluten sensitivities.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of East St. Louis with these cultural adventures.
