Things To Do
in Maryland Heights

Picturesque lake, boardwalks and marshland—excellent for sunrise/sunset shots, wildlife and reflections on calm days.

Capture large concert crowds, stage lighting and venue architecture during events; arrive early for good vantage points.

Scenic overlooks along the river provide wide landscape photos, especially at golden hour and for riverboat activity.

Urban-suburban plaza with historic architecture, string lights and fountains—good for street photography and evening shots.

Thin, cracker-like crust topped with Provel cheese and cut in squares; find it at pizzerias across the St. Louis area and in nearby neighborhoods.

Must-Try!

Breaded, deep-fried ravioli served with marinara—common as an appetizer in many local Italian eateries and taverns.

A dense, sweet cake invented in St. Louis; bakeries and cafes in the region offer slices or whole cakes.

Smoked ribs and brisket with regional rubs and sauces—look for local BBQ joints and food trucks.

One of the oldest farmers markets in the U.S.; a short drive from Maryland Heights and a great place to sample local produce, baked goods and prepared foods on weekends.

During events and warm months Westport Plaza and nearby venues host food trucks offering tacos, burgers, BBQ and desserts—good for casual, festival-style dining.

People are generally polite and conversational. A brief greeting or 'hello' when entering shops is common.

Maintain a respectful distance in queues and public places; be punctual for reservations or meetups.

Sports loyalty (especially to the St. Louis Cardinals) can be strong—avoid heated debates if unsure of someone's fandom.

Casual attire is acceptable for most occasions; dress smart-casual for nicer restaurants or events.

Tipping is customary: 15–20% in restaurants for table service, $1–2 per drink at bars or 15% for bar tabs, and $2–5 for valets or hotel staff. Tip taxi or rideshare drivers modestly for good service.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Small cash is useful for markets, tips, and places that are cash-preferred.

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; lakes and outdoor concerts are popular—bring sunscreen, insect repellent and light clothing. Expect busy weekends at outdoor venues and parks.

Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage make this an excellent time for hiking and outdoor photography; pack layers as mornings can be cool.

Cold with occasional snow and ice—some trails may be muddy or icy. Many indoor attractions remain open; drive carefully during storms.

Variable weather with warming temperatures and seasonal rain; wildflowers and migrating birds return—great for outdoor activities but bring a rain jacket.

Wooded trails through rugged terrain with glades and oak-hickory forests—excellent for a moderately challenging hike and nature photography.

Famous for scenic bluffs overlooking the Meramec River, steep hills and well-maintained trails; popular for hiking and trail running.

Gentler loops around the lake, good for walking, running and birdwatching; family-friendly and accessible.

Offers longer, rugged trails and opportunities to experience Missouri’s native woodlands away from urban centers.

The primary airport serving the St. Louis region, about a 20–30 minute drive depending on traffic; offers domestic and some international flights, rental cars and ground transportation.

Located near Mascoutah/Scott Air Force Base, northeast of St. Louis; smaller commercial airport with limited scheduled service—useful as an alternate or for certain charter flights.