Visiting St. Louis in January

As winter wraps St. Louis in its chilly embrace, January unveils a unique charm for those willing to explore the city's frost-kissed treasures. In this guide, we'll unravel why January is a captivating time to visit St. Louis, sharing enticing reasons, weather insights, and a curated list of must-do activities to make your winter trip unforgettable.

Is January a Good Time of Year to Visit St. Louis?

Undoubtedly! While January might not be the peak tourist season, it offers a distinctive St. Louis experience. Embrace the colder temperatures and discover a quieter, more intimate side of the city. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or art lover, St. Louis in January has something special for everyone. 

Reasons to Visit St. Louis in January

Unique Winter Charm:

January unveils a quieter, more intimate side of St. Louis, allowing visitors to embrace the city's winter charm.

Festive Ice Skating:

Glide through the festive atmosphere of Steinberg Skating Rink in Forest Park, a popular winter destination surrounded by scenic beauty.

Celebrating Holidays:

Enjoy the festive spirit of New Year's Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day, adding a touch of celebration to your January St. Louis visit.

Diverse Attractions:

Explore iconic landmarks such as The Gateway Arch, Saint Louis Zoo, City Museum, Busch Stadium, and the Missouri Botanical Garden, each offering a unique experience.

Engaging Events:

Attend diverse events like the Harlem Globetrotters, Mardi Gras celebrations, Monster Jam, and more, adding excitement to your winter itinerary.

Cultural Exploration:

Dive into cultural experiences like live Broadway shows, orchestral performances, and dynamic reflections at venues like The Fabulous Fox and the Pulitzer Arts Foundation.

Things to Do in St. Louis In January

1. Enjoy Some Sledding at Art Hill: 

Channel your inner child and indulge in some snowy fun at Art Hill in Forest Park. Grab a sled, feel the rush, and make winter memories at this popular sledding destination.

2. Gateway Arch Adventure:

Brave the cold for a tram ride to the top of the iconic Gateway Arch. Witness panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River, accompanied by the fascinating tales of St. Louis' rich history in the Arch's museum.

3. Birdwatch at Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary:

Nature lovers, rejoice! Head to Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary to witness a plethora of migratory birds, including majestic bald eagles, creating a picturesque scene for birdwatchers.

4. Embrace the Missouri Botanical Garden Illumination:

Experience the enchanting transformation of the Missouri Botanical Garden into a winter wonderland. Thousands of light displays and festive decorations create a magical atmosphere for a serene stroll.

5. Ice Skating at Steinberg Skating Rink:

Lace up your skates and glide across the ice at Steinberg Skating Rink in Forest Park. Surrounded by winter scenery, it's a festive and enjoyable way to embrace the chill.

6. See Automotive Marvels at the St. Louis Auto Show:

Kickstart the year with the latest automotive marvels at the St. Louis Auto Show. Explore interactive displays, test drives, and special exhibits showcasing the epitome of automotive technology.

St. Louis January Weather

Prepare for a crisp St. Louis experience in January. The average temperature ranges from a high of 39°F (4°C) to a low of 22°F (-5°C). It's undeniably cold and breezy, creating a winter wonderland for those eager to embrace the chill. Layer up, pack your favorite winter gear, and get ready to explore the city's delights in comfort.

Weather and What to Wear

With temperatures averaging 39°F (4°C) during the day and dropping to 22°F (-5°C) at night, dress warmly in layers. A cozy jacket, gloves, and a hat will keep you comfortable as you venture into the winter wonderland of St. Louis.

Best Attractions for St. Louis in January

1. The Gateway Arch:

A symbol of St. Louis, the Gateway Arch in the Gateway Arch National Park offers breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River. Take a tram ride to the top for an unforgettable experience.

2. Missouri Botanical Garden:

Even in winter, the garden dazzles with its orchid show. Wander through the Victorian home, greenhouse dome, and 79 acres of botanical beauty.

3. City Museum:

Immerse yourself in this constantly evolving art installation and discovery center made from found objects. This family-friendly St Louis area is perfect for those seeking an eclectic and interactive experience.

4. Missouri History Museum:

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the state's past at the Missouri History Museum. This free historical museum offers a captivating exploration of Missouri's history, complemented by insights into broader American and Western themes.

5. Saint Louis Zoo: 

Explore the 90-acre zoo, featuring diverse wildlife. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a train ride through this animal haven.

6. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis:

Explore a historic Catholic cathedral featuring a distinctive green-tiled dome, bell towers, and a grand interior adorned with intricate mosaics.

7. Saint Louis Science Center:

Immerse yourself in scientific wonders at the Saint Louis Science Center, home to a planetarium since 1963. Enjoy live star shows and interactive exhibits for an engaging experience.

8. Saint Louis Art Museum:

Marvel at the Saint Louis Art Museum, housed in a grand beaux-arts building with a modern extension. Discover over 30,000 works of art, all with the bonus of free admission.

9. Old Courthouse:

Step into history at the Old Courthouse, where the landmark Dred Scott case unfolded. Take guided tours and explore exhibits that delve into the courthouse's rich history, including Dred Scott's fight for freedom.

10. Forest Park:

Experience the vastness of Forest Park, established in 1876. Spanning 1,300 acres, it boasts three museums, a zoo, athletic fields, and golf courses, providing a diverse and enriching recreational environment.

11. Busch Stadium:

Baseball fans, tour the home of MLB's St. Louis Cardinals. Enjoy stadium tours and views of the iconic Gateway Arch.

12. The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum:

Dive into the world of exploration at The Magic House, an expansive children's discovery and education center. Offering interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and lively events, this museum ignites curiosity and fosters creativity among young visitors.

Events in St. Louis in January

1. Harlem Globetrotters (January 6):

Witness awe-inspiring basketball wizardry, dunks, and the famous four-point shot as the Harlem Globetrotters showcase their skills at Enterprise Center.

2. Mardi Gras Celebrations (January 6 to February 13):

Join the vibrant Mardi Gras festivities in the Soulard neighborhood, featuring parades, colorful beads, and the world's largest parade of costumed pets.

3. St. Louis Auto Show (January 18 to 21):

Rev up your excitement at the annual St. Louis Auto Show, taking place from January 18 to 21. Discover the latest in automotive marvels, engage with interactive displays, and even take a test drive. A must-visit event for car enthusiasts and those intrigued by cutting-edge automotive technology.

4. Jagged Little Pill Broadway Show (January 19 to 21):

Immerse yourself in the thrilling and fearless Broadway production, "Jagged Little Pill," from January 19 to 21. Based on Alanis Morissette's groundbreaking music, this electrifying musical, directed by Tony Award-winner Diane Paulus, promises an emotional journey through love, heartache, wisdom, and life. Don't miss the chance to experience this Tony Award-winning sensation at The Fabulous Fox.

5. Monster Jam (January 27 and 28):

Experience the adrenaline-pumping motorsports event at The Dome at America's Center, where world-class drivers and monster trucks take center stage.

Conclusion

St. Louis in January beckons with a unique blend of winter wonders and exciting events. Whether you're captivated by panoramic views from the Gateway Arch, enchanted by the Missouri Botanical Garden's winter illumination, or seeking thrills at Monster Jam, this city has something special for every traveler. Embrace the chill, explore the attractions, and make your January visit to St. Louis a memorable winter escapade. If you're looking for a guide to exploring St. Louis in Winter, we've got you covered!