Lake St. Louis

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Lake St. Louis's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive at Lake St. Louis and get settled into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful lakeside and soak in the scenic views. Grab a cup of coffee from a local café to energize your day.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby St. Louis Premium Outlets for some shopping and find great deals on your favorite brands. Afterward, enjoy lunch at one of the many eateries in the area, savoring the local flavors. Spend some time at the Lake St. Louis Park, where you can enjoy walking trails and playgrounds.

evening
:

Dine at a picturesque lakeside restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views as the sun sets. Consider taking a paddleboat ride after dinner for a romantic evening on the water. Cap off your night with a walk along the lakefront, basking in the peaceful ambiance.

day 2
Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a charming local diner. Head to the nearby Lake St. Louis Nature Preserve for an immersive hiking experience surrounded by nature. Enjoy birdwatching and the vibrant flora and fauna as you explore the trails.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the serene surroundings of the preserve. After lunch, take part in a guided nature tour to learn about the area’s ecosystems and wildlife. Throughout your adventure, capture the breathtaking scenery with photos.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation and freshen up for dinner. Choose a cozy restaurant downtown that specializes in farm-to-table dishes, ensuring a responsible dining experience. After your meal, enjoy a lively evening at a local bar with live music or entertainment.

day 3
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Start your morning exploring local art galleries and boutiques in Lake St. Louis’ vibrant downtown. Visit the nearby St. Charles Historic District to admire its stunning architecture and learn about the area's history. Enjoy breakfast at a café known for its artisanal pastries and coffee creations.

afternoon
:

Visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center to gain insights into the historic expedition. Participate in interactive exhibits that showcase the region’s rich heritage. After your visit, take a scenic walk along the Missouri River, reflecting on the history you've just learned.

evening
:

Find a fine dining establishment for dinner, where you can enjoy a fusion of classic and modern cuisine. Afterward, catch a play or musical performance at a local theater to immerse yourself in the cultural scene. Wind down with a dessert at a local ice cream shop, wrapping up a culturally rich day.

day 4
Recreational Activities
morning
:

Start your day at the Lake St. Louis Park Recreation Center, where you can enjoy a morning workout or join a fitness class. Afterward, have breakfast at a nearby café that serves hearty and healthy meals. Consider renting a bike to explore the scenic trails around the lake.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon trying out water activities such as kayaking or paddle boarding on Lake St. Louis. If you prefer land activities, partake in a round of golf at one of the local courses. After a fun-filled day, grab a casual lunch at a lakeside café.

evening
:

As the day winds down, enjoy a BBQ dinner at a communal grill area at your accommodation. Share stories and connect with fellow travelers around a warm fire pit under the stars. If the weather permits, indulge in stargazing and enjoy the tranquility of the natural setting.

day 5
Day Trip to St. Louis
morning
:

Take a short drive to St. Louis and start with breakfast at a famous local diner known for its hearty portions. Visit the iconic Gateway Arch and take the tram to the top for panoramic views of the city. Stroll through the park surrounding the Arch and take in the beauty of the landscape.

afternoon
:

Explore the City Museum, a whimsical blend of playground and art installation that is fun for all ages. Have lunch at a nearby food market featuring a range of delicious local cuisines. Spend the afternoon learning at the Missouri History Museum or the St. Louis Science Center.

evening
:

Return to Lake St. Louis for a relaxing evening at your accommodation. Consider dining at a stunning restaurant with outdoor seating, enjoying the warm ambiance of the summer night. Conclude your day by watching the stars reflect off the lake.

day 6
Shopping and Pampering
morning
:

Treat yourself to a leisurely breakfast at a local café before hitting the shops. Spend your morning exploring boutique shops and artisanal craft stores in Lake St. Louis. Enjoy browsing unique souvenirs and gifts to remember your trip.

afternoon
:

Refuel with lunch at a restaurant that offers a variety of health-conscious options. Afterward, indulge in a spa afternoon, where you can enjoy a massage or facial treatment. Relax and unwind in a serene atmosphere, taking time for self-care.

evening
:

For dinner, celebrate your day with a fabulous meal at a steakhouse, enjoying a perfectly cooked dish paired with fine wine. After dinner, take a scenic sunset stroll along the waterfront, basking in the bliss of your relaxing day. Conclude with a movie night, either at a local cinema or from the comfort of your accommodation.

day 7
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Begin your family fun day with a hearty breakfast at a kid-friendly diner. Spend the morning at a local amusement park or water park, filled with rides that cater to all ages. Enjoy laughter and excitement as you create lasting memories together.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in the park with fresh sandwiches and snacks to keep everyone energized. After lunch, join in on fun activities such as mini-golf or go-kart racing to satisfy the thrill-seekers in the family. Take lots of pictures to capture the smiles and thrills throughout the day.

evening
:

After a busy day, return to your accommodation for a relaxed dinner together. Order take-out from a family-friendly restaurant, giving everyone their meal of choice. Wind down with a family game night, enjoying playful competition and fun together.

day 8
Nature Retreat
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing breakfast filled with fresh fruits and wholesome grains. Take a leisurely hike along one of the nature trails in the area, immersing yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. Consider bringing along a journal to document your thoughts on this serene experience.

afternoon
:

Settle down for a packed lunch surrounded by nature, listening to the sounds of wildlife. Spend the afternoon exploring the lake via canoe or kayak, where you can paddle peacefully and connect with nature. Feel the stress of the week wash away as you embrace the calmness of the water.

evening
:

Come back to shore and prepare a simple dinner at a picnic area, enjoying the gorgeous sunset over the lake. Spend your evening by the water, perhaps with a cozy bonfire and s'mores. Reflect on your nature-filled day as stars begin to twinkle overhead.

day 9
Farewell Day
morning
:

Enjoy your final breakfast at a favorite café you discovered during your stay. Take time for a leisurely stroll around the lake, soaking in the views and peaceful atmosphere one last time. Visit any spots you may have missed during your trip, capturing more memories with photos.

afternoon
:

Pack your bags and check out of your accommodation without rush, keeping in mind to take home all the wonderful experiences. Grab lunch at a local eatery to enjoy a final taste of the local cuisine. Depending on your travel schedule, visit a nearby attraction for a last-minute adventure.

evening
:

As your journey comes to an end, reflect on your time at Lake St. Louis and the memories you’ve created. Depart for home with souvenirs and heartfelt moments from your stay. Plan to return to this beautiful destination, knowing there’s always more to explore.

Discover Lake St. Louis

Read more in our Lake St. Louis 2025 Travel Guide.

Lake St. Louis Travel Guide