Summer in St. Louis

When it comes to seasons, I’m an autumn kind of person.  For me, the cool air, activities, and general vibe of a Midwest September thru November can’t be beat.  But while I sit here in late July looking forward to wearing light jackets and sipping on pumpkin beers, I am reminded that a St. Louis summer is also pretty special.  So, starting now, instead of counting down the days until Halloween and the start of a new NHL season, I’ve decided to embrace the rest of summer and focus on the reasons St. Louis gets it right.  Here are a few:

The Parks

In Forest Park, visit the world class St. Louis Zoo, take a paddle-boat ride in Post-Dispatch Lake, and have a drink at the Boathouse.  In Tower Grove Park, sample some of the best local food in the city during Food Truck Fridays.  Kayak around the lake in Creve Coeur Park, or, if you’re more adventurous, go zip lining at the Go Ape Treetop Adventure.

The Music

My favorite annual St. Louis summer music event is the RFT Music Showcase, which features a huge variety of local bands playing quality tunes.  The all day event usually takes place in a different part of town every year spanning several bars and venues.  LouFest in Forest Park seems to be getting better and better every year.

The Food/Drink

There is nothing more St. Louis than waiting in a long Ted Drewes line and eating a concrete in the parking lot.  The Anheuser-Busch brewery tour comes pretty close though.  The newish Biergarten is a solid addition to the brewery and makes for a nice place to kick back and enjoy a cold one on a warm summer night.

The Lakes

Both the Lake of the Ozarks and Table Rock Lake in southwest Missouri have been a staple of my summers for as long as I can remember.  It’s a different kind of summer fun that you can’t get in the city.

The Wineries

I’m not much of a wine drinker but I’ve heard several times that Missouri is one of the most underrated wine areas in the country.  While I don’t necessarily appreciate the taste of good wine as much as others do, I’m always on board for a trip to Augusta for the good times and incredible views.

The Baseball

In St. Louis, every night the Cardinals play is an event.  I’ve never seen anything like it in any other city.

So there a few of my reasons for enjoying summer life in St. Louis.  What are yours?  Please tell us in the comments section below.