Winter Things to Do in St. Louis, MO: 5 Activities to Embrace the Chilly Season

Winter in St. Louis is a season of contrasts, with frosty mornings transitioning into cozy afternoons and lively gatherings. From exploring charming neighborhoods to immersing yourself in festive events and indulging in local flavors, the colder months highlight the city’s distinctive charm.

Whether you’re cozying up in a rental house in St. Louis, considering purchasing a home in the city, or enjoying the comfort of an apartment in the area, living here means embracing its chillier season. Let’s dive into all of the winter things to do in St. Louis.

1. Discover the heart of winter in St. Louis

Winter is a great time to explore St. Louis’ neighborhoods and take in their unique character. From cozy spots to seasonal touches, each area offers something different, making it easy to enjoy the city even in the colder months. 

As Lisa Lorenz, the owner of Never Enough Boutique puts it, “Winter in St. Louis can definitely be icy and cold, but we get so many mild, sunny days. Go outside, grab your mittens and a cozy hat to walk around a park or explore a new neighborhood. We love being in Webster Groves because there are sidewalks and loads of shops and restaurants to pop into to warm up.”

Explore the neighborhoods

Assassin Vintage recommends a trip to The Cherokee District. “Pay a visit to The Cherokee District, a historic district in St. Louis that is filled with local small, niche retail shops and an array of restaurants and coffee shops. No matter what you are looking for you will find something unexpected on Cherokee Street. It’s a gem in St. Louis.”

From there, head to the Central West End neighborhood. Tanner Steslow, partner of Square One Gallery shares how it is the perfect place to visit in the winter for a boutique experience. “Mom and Pop shops, family-owned restaurants and bars, as well as recognizable brand name stores abound throughout the picturesque, walkable streets. Dotted with century old mansions and charming architecture, the Central West End offers everything from design shops to dive bars. For art lovers, be sure to check out the numerous art galleries in the neighborhood to catch their latest exhibitions and events happening regularly throughout the winter.” 

2. Participate in winter festivities

As you explore the neighborhoods during the cooler months, it’s a must to participate in the winter festivities. The season brings a special energy to the city, offering plenty of opportunities to soak in its charm and enjoy the local atmosphere.

Celebrate and build traditions

For those looking for more active winter outings and to set traditions, there’s no shortage of seasonal fun. STL-Style shares the exciting winter things to do in St. Louis. “Winter in St. Louis means pop-up markets all over the city, ice skating at Steinberg rink in Forest Park (and sledding on Art Hill when it snows),the Anheuser-Busch Brewery Lights tour, Zoo Lights or the Garden Glow at Missouri Botanical Garden, and so many things in between. Catch some live music at a corner pub in Soulard, take a stroll through some of the city’s historic urban neighborhoods or take in the incredible Union Station Grand Hall light show.  No matter the weather, St. Louis always packs a punch.”

Pamela Sprecher of Introspectrum Events shares what she’s looking forward to doing this winter as a newer resident.  “I moved to St. Louis in 2023, so I’m still getting familiar with the local winter traditions. I’m looking forward to trying ice skating in Forest Park and exploring the Delmar Loop Ice Carnival on January 25th. I plan to take a sleigh ride at Grant’s Farm when there’s snow on the ground.  I’ve also been eager to visit the City Museum, which I’ve heard so much about—it seems like the perfect indoor activity for winter.”  

Get in on the winter action

Whether you’re a seasoned skater or trying it for the first time, speedskating is a sport for everyone. Join the Gateway Speedskating Club and get on the rink—you might just discover your new favorite winter activity. Volunteer coaches are ready to guide beginners and help experienced skaters refine their skills. It’s a fantastic way to gather with friends and enjoy a unique experience.

Prefer to watch from the stands? Don’t miss this year’s 62nd Annual Gateway Speedskating ST Championships at the Kirkwood Ice Rink. Skaters from Missouri, Illinois, and Wisconsin will come together for a day of thrilling, fast-paced competition. It’s the perfect opportunity to cheer them on and maybe even get inspired to try short track skating through local lessons.

Take a day trip to Grafton, Illinois, for more ice skating fun at The Loading Dock Ice Skating Rink. Located within the historic Boatworks building, this semi-outdoor rink offers scenic views of the Mississippi River. Every November through February, the spacious warehouse transforms into a magical Winter Wonderland. Grab your friends, warm up with hot chocolate, and roast s’mores in this cozy, picturesque setting—it’s the perfect way to make the most of a winter day along the river.

3. Bundle up and explore the outdoors

Among the winter things to do in St. Louis, embrace the outdoors with activities like running, walking, and hiking. The city offers plenty of ways to stay active, whether you join a local group or head out on your own to enjoy the season.

Walk around the city

Join the Saint Louis Walkers for a great walk through Downtown St. Louis, starting at the Pear Tree Inn near the St. Louis City SC stadium. Along the trail, you’ll find something interesting on every block, including museums, making it an easy and fun way to explore the city. Walks are hosted on Saturdays and new routes are regularly added, with detailed maps available for those who want to walk on their own or join a group.

Another great walking destination is The Missouri Botanical Garden. As Hannah Larson, owner of Living room Coffee & Kitchen, shares, “The Garden Glow event is a yearly tradition for our family, especially for my mom’s birthday, and it’s always perfect. With winter often bringing milder, rainier weather, the BOTAN is a peaceful spot for a quiet walk on a rainy weekday after work. You’ll have the place mostly to yourself, and the indoor gardens are stunning. The Japanese garden is equally beautiful in winter, trading flowering dogwoods for black pine niwaki, with rain adding to the serene atmosphere. It’s one of the wonderful winter things to do in St. Louis.”