Calling all foodies! There’s a new festival coming to St. Louis, and it promises to be one of the most delicious festivals in the Show Me State.

From 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. on both days, all of the best food trucks and restaurants in the St. Louis Area will be at the festival.

Over 20 vendors are going to be out and about!

The best part about this festival is that all food items will be priced at $5.00 or less!

This gives you the opportunity to sample a wide range of food without breaking the bank.

Come for the food, and then stay for all of the fun and games.

Think you could outlast your competition in a stein-holding contest? The winner gets $100, so it may be worth your while to enter!

The two-day festival is jam-packed with activities, live music, a general vendor market, cooking demonstrations, and more.

There will be an axe-throwing trailer, mechanical bull riding, all sorts of crazy eating challenges, and plenty of activities for our youngest festers in the Kid’s Fun Zone.

Want to elevate your experience at the festival?

A VIP ticket gets you early bird access to the festival, four drink vouchers, access to an exclusive VIP Area with private bathrooms, and a VIP swag bag to take home. These VIP tickets are extremely limited, so get your VIP tickets now, before they sell out.

In case you need just another nudge, VIPs will also have access to the VIP chocolate fountain from 12 p.m. until 2 p.m.

Chocolate fountain? Say less.

Tickets are selling out quickly for this food festival in St. Louis, so be sure to snag yours soon.

Tickets to the St. Louis Street Fair Festival are on sale now. Be sure to follow the St. Louis Street Fair Festival on Facebook so you don’t miss any special announcements as the event gets closer.

The post A Street Food Festival Is Coming To St. Louis And You Won’t Want To Miss It appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. The first successful parachute jump was made in St. Louis.

The first successful parachute jump was made in St. Louis County on Kinloch Field at Jefferson Barracks on March 1, 1912.

2. Prior to the adoption of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, slavery was abolished for the first time.

On January 11, 1865, Thomas C. Fletcher, the Governor of Missouri, followed a state convention-approved ordinance abolishing slavery with his own "Proclamation of Freedom" ending slavery in St. Louis and the entire state of Missouri. Missouri was the first slave state remaining loyal to the union to abolish slavery prior to the 13th Amendment.

3. The very first kindergarten opened in September of 1873 by Susan Blow.

Susan Blow opened the kindergarten in Des Peres School in Carondelet. Not only was this an amazing moment in St. Louis history, but it also speaks volumes about the type of woman Susan Blow was. She did not receive a paycheck for 11 years and worked for free.

4. In 1904, St. Louis hosted the first Olympics on U.S.A. soil.

St. Louis hosted the 1904 Olympics for the first time in our country. The Olympics of 1904 included many rich and unusual tales from St. Louis history, but that is for another article.

5. The first Build-A-Bear Workshop opened in St. Louis.

In 1997, Maxine Clark founded Build-A-Bear Workshop with its first store in the St. Louis Galleria. The store sold more than 50 million bears and opened 400 stores worldwide by 2010.

6. Peanut butter wasn't invented in St. Louis, but...

In 1894, George Bayle, a St. Louis businessman, became the first to produce and sell peanut butter as a snack. A Canadian named Marcellus Gilmore Edson of Montreal, Canada was the first to patent it in 1884.

7. The world's first purpose-built gas station opened in St. Louis.

In 1905, the world's first purpose-built gas station opened in St. Louis, meaning a store solely for selling gas. The station was located at 420 South Theresa Avenue.

8. The world's largest arch is in St. Louis.

The St. Louis Gateway Arch is 630 feet tall and the world's largest arch. It's also the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere.

9. St. Louis was the first home rule city in the nation.

In 1876, St. Louis established its boundaries separating it from St. Louis County, making it the first home rule city in the nation.

10. The first African American woman to serve in the Missouri Senate lived in St. Louis.

Gwen B. Giles was an amazing figure in St. Louis African American history. She was the first African-American woman to serve in the Missouri Senate and the first to be appointed St. Louis City Assessor. She worked hard to improve the quality of life for African Americans in St. Louis, and she was active in democratic politics and the civil rights movement.

11. The St. Louis Cardinals' experienced a grand slam home run record.

On April 23, 1999, in Los Angeles, Cardinal Fernando Tatis hit two grand slam home runs in the same inning. Both home runs were against Shan Ho Park of the Dodgers. He simultaneously broke a record for most RBI in a single inning. The odds that someone will ever be able to break that record are slim to none.

What a great list of St. Louis firsts! Did any of these St. Louis firsts surprise you? If so, let us know in the comments below.

In addition to St. Louis firsts, there were many more firsts in Missouri.

The post Some People Don’t Know That St. Louis Was The First To Do These 11 Things appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Steelville, Missouri

Called by some "The Floating Capital of Missouri," Steelville is known for its great springs and rivers. The Huzzah, Courtois, Yadkin, Whittenburg, and the Meramec River are all accessible in Steelville for floating, swimming, and boating. But it is the great float trips that bring people here. And there are still plenty of warm days to get in one more float trip before summer ends. This is one of the best day trips near St. Louis you can take.

Learn a little more about the lovely town of Steelville, Missouri in this video from Missouri Life:

2. Sandy Creek Covered Bridge State Historic Site - Hillsboro, Missouri

Built in 1872 and still standing today, this red bridge was one of six built to give passage to St. Louis from Jefferson County. This is a perfect place to plan a romantic day getaway or spend the day viewing history firsthand. You can find more information on the official website: Missouri State Parks. It's one of the most beautiful getaway spots near St. Louis.

3. Purina Farms - Gray Summit, Missouri

On a visit to Purina Farms, you will see cows, horses, pigs, and many more traditional farm animals. But it is the dog shows that set Purina Farms apart from other interactive farm adventures. Held in a huge arena, the event is a must-see for dog lovers everywhere. They also feature a petting zoo, hay rides, cow milking demonstrations, and much more. You can find more information about a visit here: Purina Farms. It's one of the most unique things to do near St. Louis.

4. Alton, Illinois

Alton, Illinois has so many attractions to see on a day trip that it is hard to highlight only a few. The Great River Road is beautiful this time of year and a perfect sightseeing trip. But Alton has something else that can only be seen there: it is the Piasa Bird drawn on the bluff side. Created by the Native American people who once lived in the area, it has been fully restored to its original greatness. Find more information about the Piasa Bird and visiting Alton on the official website: Visit Alton.

Take a closer look at the fascinating Piasa Caves and the Native American Piasa Bird in this video from K-Brew:

5. Hannibal, Missouri

You can learn all you ever wanted to know about Mark Twain on a visit to Hannibal, Missouri. There is a museum dedicated to Mark Twain's early life and tours of his boyhood home. Hannibal also offers a haunted house, ghost tours, steamboat rides, and trolley sightseeing trips. You can also view Steve McQueen's motorcycle at the Karlock's Kars & Pop Culture Museum. Read our previous article to learn more about Hannibal, Missouri.

6. Fort de Chartres - Prairie Du Rocher, Illinois

Built in 1753, this fort was one of the last forts built by the French in the area. Completely restored and preserved by the Illinois Department of Resources, this old relic will take you back to colonial times. You can view artillery of the day, take walking tours of the grounds, and outside the fort area there is a picnic shelter and barbecue grill. It's one of the most historic day trips near St. Louis. For more information about a visit to Fort de Chartres, read our previous coverage.

7. Meramec State Park - Sullivan, Missouri

A short drive down Highway 44 will take you to the amazing Meramec State Park. Beautiful and peaceful, this park is worth the drive just for the river views. But this natural oasis has so much more to offer! You can tour a cave, go canoeing, camp overnight, or hike along the 13 miles of trails in the park. Visit Missouri State Parks for more attractions offered here. You can also learn about one of the many extraordinary hikes in Meramec State Park in our previous article. This state park is one of the best day trips near St. Louis.

Head to Meramec State Park with A Sunny Adventure to enjoy one of the best day trips from St. Louis for nature lovers:

Are you ready to embark on one of these day trips from St. Louis? Are there any day trips near you in Missouri that we should all make sure to take? Share your experience and photos with us in the comments.

State parks are a wonderful way to get out of the city and connect with nature. Check out these 10 amazing state parks near St. Louis for your next outdoor adventure.

The post The 7 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take Around St. Louis appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

The Wentzville Flea Market in Wentzville is open every Sunday, rain or shine, and is operated by the Community Club of Wentzville. They use the proceeds of the operation to fund charitable causes in the area. It is one of the best flea markets in Missouri and is a great place to find treasures! Read below to see how amazing this place is.

Vendor spots are first come, first serve here. Vendors can (and do) spend the night to get the spot they want.

The flea market opens at 6:00 a.m. and closes at 1:00 p.m. There is a main building that also hosts many vendors. Inside the main building, you will find the Blue Pitcher Cafe, which serves great home-style cooking, restrooms, and an ATM.

Some vendors go beyond tables, setting up enough merchandise to fill a store.

You know vendors are serious about their merchandise when they bring a whole trailer!

Homegrown fresh fruits, vegetables, and plants are always for sale here.

Many vendors sell handmade goods. You can find soap, dresses, jewelry, and more on any given Sunday here.

It is best to wear good walking shoes to this event!

Bringing a rolling cart to hold all your awesome finds is also a great idea.

Established in the 1930s, the Wentzville Community Club is a completely volunteer organization.

The club has been been hosting this flea market since 1973 and know how to take care of both vendors and guests. There are many volunteers on the flea market grounds, should you need assistance or directions.

A day at the Wentzville Flea Market in Wentzville is perfect when it’s pleasantly warm outside, but even in the cold of our winter months, you can find vendors ready to introduce you to your next favorite thing.

The Wentzville Community Club hosts the flea market each Sunday, as well as bingo twice each month. They help many charitable organizations with revenue raised at the community club, and even provide scholarships to local high school students! You can find more information and directions on their official website: Wentzville Community Club.

Have you visited the Wentzville Flea Market? If so, do you think it’s one of the best flea markets in Missouri? Share your neat finds and experiences with us in the comments below, and don’t forget to nominate your favorite flea markets for the chance to see them featured in an upcoming article! Do you love flea markets in Missouri? Check out more of the best flea markets in Missouri.

The post Everyone In St. Louis Should Visit This Epic Flea Market At Least Once appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Cascades/Flegal Falls

The Cascades were built in 1937 and designed to mimic the World’s Fair Cascades that once flowed down Art Hill. The Cascades are located in Forest Park.

2. Kiener Plaza Waterfall

Kiener Plaza is a 1.9-acre park located between the Gateway Arch in downtown St. Louis and the Gateway Mall. It is an enormous waterfall and fountain that is dyed different colors for special events. It is named after the amateur boxer, wrestler, and swimmer, Harry J. Kiener.

3. Missouri Botanical Garden Waterfall

This waterfall is located in Missouri Botanical Gardens, one of the three largest botanical gardens in the United States. The Gardens occupy 75 acres in the heart of the city and are truly a beautiful and amazing place to visit.

4. Citygarden Waterfall

The Citygarden Waterfall is a beautiful six-foot waterfall dumping into a 180-foot-long pool. It is located on 2.9 acres right in the heart of downtown St. Louis.

5. Dripping Springs Waterfall

Dripping Springs Waterfall is in Creve Coeur Lake Park. It is a beautiful waterfall close to the lake. The lake was named after the Indian girl who jumped from the top of the waterfall to her death. She was distraught because she was not allowed to marry the boy she loved. In French, Creve Coeur means "Broken Heart."

6. Climatron Waterfall at Botanical Gardens

This waterfall is at the Botanical Gardens in a tropical dome covering a half-acre in the heart of the city. The Climatron Conservancy houses more than 160,000 tropical plants.

7. St. Louis Zoo South Entrance Waterfall

The best waterfalls in St. Louis are at our amazing St. Louis Zoo - so much so that they take up the rest of the list! The zoo is in Forest Park and is free to visit. It is definitely worth the visit. The St. Louis Zoo is one of the best in the country.

8. St. Louis Zoo Animal Habitats

Many of the exhibits include beautiful waterfalls to help the animals feel more at home. The animals are an added bonus and they make the St. Louis Zoo waterfalls better than the rest!

9. St. Louis Zoo Waterfalls

There are amazing waterfalls around every corner of the St. Louis Zoo. Housing 18,000 animals, many spectacular waterfalls, and beautiful scenery, the zoo is the best place to see a great waterfall in St. Louis.

Hopefully, you’ll find some time to take one of these waterfall hikes near St. Louis. We hope our list of the best hidden waterfalls – and not so hidden waterfalls – in St. Louis will help take your mind off of things and enjoy nature for a while. Did we miss any? If so, leave a comment and let us know! Speaking of waterfalls, this waterfall swimming hole in Missouri is perfect for a hot summer day.

The post These 9 Breathtaking Waterfalls Are Hiding In St. Louis appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

The following information is for the year 2017 through the end of June. I found the data in a current St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Crime Report. Please keep in mind I am not encouraging anyone to avoid these neighborhoods or attractions in these neighborhoods. With any big city, you should always be aware of your surroundings and be safe. Lock your car doors, don’t pick up strangers, don’t drive through neighborhoods you are unfamiliar with, and be aware of your surroundings when walking to your car.

The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department reported the following places as the top 13 St. Louis neighborhoods you don’t want to get caught in after dark.

1. Downtown St. Louis

First on the list of dangerous parts of St. Louis is its downtown. It is listed with a total of 672 crimes so far this year. Included in this tally are two homicides, two rapes, 27 robberies, 37 aggravated assaults, 26 burglaries, 542 reports of larceny, and 36 stolen vehicles. Downtown St. Louis is currently not a good spot to be once the sun goes down.

2. The Central West End

The Central West End is listed with a total of 549 crimes so far this year. Included in this tally are one homicide, two rapes, 26 robberies, 29 aggravated assaults, 37 burglaries, 412 reports of larceny, and 41 stolen vehicles. It seems like a the Central West End of St. Louis is not a safe place to be at night.

3. Dutchtown

Dutchtown is listed with a total of 536 crimes so far this year. Included in this tally are two homicides, five rapes, 47 robberies, 132 aggravated assaults, 88 burglaries, 211 reports of larceny, and 49 stolen vehicles. Dutchtown is a place you might want to steer clear of in the evenings.

4. Downtown St. Louis West

Downtown St. Louis West is listed with a total of 484 crimes so far this year. Included in this tally are one homicide, six rapes, 42 robberies, 56 aggravated assaults, 16 burglaries, 311 reports of larceny, and 51 stolen vehicles. Downtown St. Louis West is one of the most dangerous parts of St. Louis.

5. Tower Grove South

Tower Grove South is listed with a total of 363 crimes so far this year. Included in this tally are one homicide, one rape, 35 robberies, 25 aggravated assaults, 49 burglaries, 216 reports of larceny, and 35 stolen vehicles. When it comes to areas to avoid in St. Louis, Tower Grove South is fairly high on the list.

6. Baden

Baden is listed with a total of 342 crimes so far this year. Included in this tally are four homicides, four rapes, 30 robberies, 58 aggravated assaults, 81 burglaries, 110 reports of larceny, and 50 stolen vehicles.

7. Wells and Goodfellow

Wells and Goodfellow neighborhood is listed with a total of 321 crimes so far this year. Included in this tally are 8 homicides, four rapes, 17 robberies, 93 aggravated assaults, 64 burglaries, 99 reports of larceny, and 33 stolen vehicles.

8. Carondelet

Carondelet is listed with a total of 315 crimes so far this year. Included in this tally are no homicides, four rapes, 15 robberies, 47 aggravated assaults, 41 burglaries, 165 reports of larceny, and 40 stolen vehicles.

9. Bevo Mill

Bevo Mill is listed with a total of 308 crimes so far this year. Included in this tally are two homicides, one rape, 12 robberies, 48 aggravated assaults, 58 burglaries, 151 reports of larceny, and 35 stolen vehicles. It's best to be careful when you're around Bevo Mill, Missouri after dark.

10. Tower Grove East

Tower Grove East is listed with a total of 302 crimes so far this year. Included in this tally are no homicides, no rapes, 21 robberies, 19 aggravated assaults, 40 burglaries, 194 reports of larceny, and 24 stolen vehicles. Like all of the towns on this list, Tower Grove East features some cool hidden gems.

11. Gravois Park

Gravois Park is listed with a total of 271 crimes so far this year. Included in this tally are no homicides, five rapes, 38 robberies, 47 aggravated assaults, 45 burglaries, 104 reports of larceny, and 27 stolen vehicles. Gravois Park does have some interesting sites. In fact, it is considered one of the most historic neighborhoods in St. Louis.

12. West End

The West End in St. Louis is listed with a total of 241 crimes so far this year. Included in this tally are three homicides, four rapes, 16 robberies, 50 aggravated assaults, 33 burglaries, 101 reports of larceny, and 31 stolen vehicles.

13. Jeff Vander Lou

Finishing up the list of neighborhoods to avoid in St. Louis is Jeff Vander Lou. Jefferson, Vandeventer, and St. Louis Ave - Jeff Vander Lou - is listed with a total of 241 crimes so far this year. Included in this tally are three homicides, one rape, 17 robberies, 69 aggravated assaults, 28 burglaries, 92 reports of larceny, and 27 stolen vehicles.

Even though these are the realities of the world we live in today, there are steps you can take to keep your family safe. Many of these neighborhoods are also the best neighborhoods to live in. The culture and history cannot be beaten and there are many really great people in St. Louis.

The numbers are high and disturbing when broken down, but don’t give up yet. Join your local public meetings and become a part of the solution. Our city is worth saving. If you think you won’t make a difference you are wrong. The more people who are involved in our neighborhoods, the bigger difference we can make.

Want to see more on dangerous towns? Check out the 10 Most Dangerous Towns in Missouri to Live In.

The post Here Are The 13 Most Dangerous Places In St. Louis After Dark appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. We're a "20-minute city," thanks to our travel systems.

Thanks to the transit system and the well-planned layout of city streets, it is a breeze to travel to just about any major attraction in the city quickly.

2. St. Louis was the site of the first modern-day fair.

The Louisiana Purchase Exposition, also known as the World's Fair, was the birthplace of modern festival icons. At this celebration, attendees were introduced to waffle cones, cotton candy, Dr. Pepper, and hot dogs. Can you imagine a fulfilling trip to the fairgrounds without a hot dog and cotton candy?

3. At the heart of our city is a fairy tale park.

Forest Park mesmerizes and enchants visitors, just as it did a century ago. Interestingly enough, its 1904 debut helped us get selected to host the first Olympic games in the United States! The honor was originally meant for Chicago, but Forest Park and the World's Fair changed everything.

4. Our cityscape is home to the tallest man-made monument in the nation.

Measuring an impressive 630 feet, the Gateway Arch overlooks its surrounding landscape. This stunning monument is the crown jewel of the city, and locals and visitors alike are moved by its beauty.

5. There is artwork everywhere the eye lands.

From the intricate statues of Citygarden to the incredible sunrises and sunsets painted across our sky, our landscape is purely mesmerizing.

6. We are one of the most affordable destinations in the country.

St. Louis is overflowing with free and affordable attractions, making it an ideal place to go for vacation... or live here permanently!

7. St. Louis is really a playground for adults.

There are so many incredible places in St. Louis that will bring our the kid in you. City Museum, for example, is truly an oddball attraction that challenges the limits of imagination.

8. We are a big city with a small town attitude.

Friendly Midwestern attitudes abound in this charming community. Many of our neighborhoods are tightly-knit, and native St. Louisans are well-mannered— the kind of people that smile and hold the door for you.

9. The city is overflowing with history.

St. Louis was established in 1764 as a French fur trading post. The influence of the 1904 World's Fair can still be found in St. Louis culture, and the traditions of our many immigrant communities have been preserved in architecture, art, and food. The entirety of the city is a story waiting to be read.

10. The social scene in St. Louis has always been lively.

Purportedly, the first-ever cocktail party was hosted right here in town by a Mrs. Julius S. Walsh Jr.! St. Louisans are also known for being welcoming and for our municipal equality, as this is one of the most LGBT-friendly cities in the nation. Plus, the city streets are super walkable, making the city an ideal place for families and pet owners to get out and about.

11. Our baseball games are truly unlike any other.

If you want to see St. Louisan passion being thrown in your face, you might want to catch a Cardinals game. It might be an overwhelming experience at a Cards-Cubs game, as we also host one of the most bitter rivalries in Major League Baseball, but we're unbreakably loyal and supportive of out team.

12. We're the place to go if you wish to experience all four seasons in a week.

Sometimes, if you're visiting on a really special day, you can experience all four seasons in a mere 24 hours. Though we may complain about our unpredictable weather, it is truly something to experience and keeps life interesting.

13. This is one city that is really passionate about food.

Sure, there are plenty of foodie communities all across the nation, but St. Louis goes a step beyond that, fusing particular foods with local lifestyle. We indulge in Provel cheese, gooey butter cake, and irresistible toasted ravioli— all of which are St. Louis specialties. We're known for our incredible barbecues and we consume more sauce per capita than any other city in the nation! Oh, and did I mention that St. Louis is the birthplace of peanut butter?

With so much to love, it’s no surprise that St. Louis boasts a population of around 315,000 across only 66 square miles. The city is endlessly charming, and it is truly one-of-a-kind.

Did you enjoy reading about these things unique to St. Louis? Which features do you think make our city stand out from others? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below — we would love to hear from you!

Love St. Louis culture? You’ll adore these coveted and time-tested restaurants.

The post 13 Reasons Why St. Louis Is The Most Unique City In America appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. The Fountain on Locust

The vibrant Art Deco interior of The Fountain on Locust attracts tons of photographers, but the real star here is the ice cream! While you could go for a classic sundae, malt, or milkshake, The Fountain on Locust has a truly unique specialty: ice cream cocktails! While the Signature Ice Cream Martini is definitely a favorite, you’ll also find fun adult dessert drinks like beer and champagne floats, and reimagined retro cocktails, which are truly out-of-this-world! You'll quickly discover that it might just be the most whimsical restaurant in St. Louis.

The Fountain of Locust isn’t just an ice cream parlor-bar hybrid; they also have a super delicious food menu offering amazing made-from-scratch soups (the menu rotates between 47 different recipes!), excellent salads, tasty sandwiches, and several interesting entrees. While you can pick from several different sides, we suggest trying their amazing hand-cut chips!

The Fountain on Locust is located at 3037 Locust St., Saint Louis, MO.

2. Winslow’s Table & Bakery

Winslow’s Table & Bakery is a unique little place; it’s part restaurant, part general store, but all-around fun! The kitchen focuses on classic comfort food, prepared using the freshest, locally-sourced produce and meats. The menu changes seasonally with the growing seasons, so you always know that you are getting the best quality, freshest food around. In fact, much of it is grown at the Winslow’s Farm!

Brunch at Winslow’s Table & Bakery just can’t be beat. Sure, there can be a long line to get it, but that just goes to show how many people are willing to wait a few extra minutes in order to enjoy and out-of-this-world breakfast! The homemade baked goods are downright incredible (and you will definitely want to take a few home for later!) The outdoor patio space is an excellent spot to spend a warm day enjoying the fabulously fresh food at Winslow’s Table & Bakery!

Winslow’s Table & Bakery is just only two blocks from the Delmar Loop, so if you are out and about on the loop, you definitely need to stop by!

3. Crown Candy Kitchen

We have a sweet tooth. We just can’t help it. Crown Candy Kitchen gives us cavity-inducing dreams. This spot is one of those old-fashioned sweet shops with bright, colorful treats taunting you from behind glass cases and filling large glass jars. It’s everything you ever wanted in an retro soda fountain and candy shop. There’s an old-school jukebox, vintage Coca-Cola signs adorning the walls, and tray after tray of homemade chocolates just waiting to be devoured. Crown Candy Kitchen is the real deal. The classic milkshake mixers and soda fountains aren’t just for show; this little local shop has been around since 1913 and is one of the oldest of its kind.

Do not make the mistake of thinking that there is only candy to be had here; Crown Candy Kitchen also has an outstanding diner-style menu and serves up comfort food classics like nobody else. Just look at this this sandwich. That’s the BLT. That much bacon should be illegal... but we’re really glad it isn’t, because this mouthwateringly delicious monster is amazing!

Crown Candy Kitchen is located at 1401 St Louis Ave., Saint Louis, MO. If you're looking for the best candy store in St. Louis, this is it!

4. Fox & Hounds Tavern (in the Cheshire Inn)

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to take a trip back in time to the days when upscale hunting lodges dominated the social scene in eras past, you will absolutely love Fox & Hounds Tavern. It’s located inside The Cheshire Inn and is fully decked out in cozy, overstuffed chairs, rustic dark-wood furniture, paintings and trophies adorning the walls, and an incredible stone fireplace. You can’t get much more authentic than this. It’s the perfect place to warm up on a cold fall or winter night, but there’s also a patio and pool to take a dip in when the weather heats up!

As total literary nerds, we couldn’t help but comment on the cocktail list, which is filled with drinks named after famous authors and just as delicious as the written masterpieces they gave to the world. They have an impressive list of more than a dozen whiskeys (Irish, Scottish, and American) and the beer list features great pub-favorites. If you are feeling bold, you can even order a yard of ale! The menu is short, but features the classic dishes that you would most like to enjoy in an ambiance like this. The Bristol Sliders and tasty wings are always a good choice. Bonus: there’s live music every Friday and Saturday night!

Fox & Hounds Tavern is inside the Cheshire Inn, located at 6300 Clayton Rd., Saint Louis, MO. Truly, there's so much to love about this unique restaurant and pub in St. Louis.

5. Boogaloo

Did you know that you could temporarily travel to a tropical paradise in St. Louis? It's true! Your tummy will be doing a happy dance after just one bite of the awesome, authentic Creole-Cuban-Caribbean food at Boogaloo - which is the most perfect name ever for a place so tasty it will make your toes tap! Boogaloo serves up tapas and small plates, so bring along a few friends, order an array, and fight away over your favorites (luckily, most of the "small" plates are much more generous than those at other restaurants).

It’s not just the food that we love at Boogaloo; this restaurant is truly unique! The vibrant colors and quirky-cool decor inside make it impossible NOT to smile, and if you are lucky enough to grab a spot at the bar, you won’t be hanging out on a regular old barstool… the seats here are actually swings! Boogaloo has a fantastic drink menu, featuring both traditional mojitos and caipirinhas as well as some seriously creative in-house creations! Happy hour at Boogaloo is unbeatable (and award winning!), so come on down to the happiest spot in town!

Boogaloo is located about 15 minutes from downtown St. Louis at 7344 Manchester Rd., Maplewood, MO.

6. Fitz’s

Everyone in St. Louis knows that Fitz’s Root Beer is the best soda EVER, but did you know they also serve up some excellent food in their restaurant as well? If you are a true St. Louisan, you do! There are tons of amazing appetizers, gumbos, burgers, sandwiches, wraps, pizzas, and more… all to complement their incredible, one-of-a-kind craft sodas!

They’re always on tap… and they also can whip them up into pretty cool "adult beverages" as well! Learn more about how you can find the best soda in St. Louis.

Fitz’s is located at 6605 Delmar Blvd., Saint Louis, MO.

7. Blueberry Hill Restaurant

This St. Louis landmark is known for its fun, funky pop culture memorabilia and as a live music venue… not to mention the restaurant’s excellent burgers. There’s always something cool to look at while you are enjoying the fantastic appetizers and entrees, from the vintage posters and knick-knacks adorning the walls, to the quirky collections, including memorabilia from Star Wars, The Simpsons, Elvis, and even rare Pez dispensers! And let’s not forget the bright lights of the arcade, which features old-school games like Pac-Man, pinball, and darts.

Don’t miss out on the fried cheddar cheese balls and toasted ravioli, amazing homemade soups and, of course, the burgers (the breakfast wagyu burger is fantastic)! They also have tons of vegetarian and vegan options on the menu.

Blueberry Hill is located at 6504 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, MO.

8. Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is a St. Louis icon; there’s no doubt about that! This mom n’ pop shop opened up in 1930 and has become so ingrained in St. Louis culture that it would be impossible not to give a nod to the famous (and let’s be honest, the best) dessert. There are now three different Ted Drewes shops across the city, all serving up some of the finest frozen custard in the world.

Ted Drewes is most famous for the "concrete" - a milkshake or blended custard so thick that it can be held upside down without losing a single drop! Now THAT is rich custard! They offer dozens of fun flavor combinations and release new rotating styles all the time, or you can choose to build your own from the long list of toppings and add-ons available. Learn more about what just might be the most famous dessert in St. Louis -- if not all of Missouri!

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard has three locations in the St. Louis area:

4224 S Grand Blvd., Saint Louis, MO
6726 Chippewa St., Saint Louis, MO
10701 Lambert International Blvd., Saint Louis, MO.

Are you hungry yet? Grab your forks and knives – this is one unforgettable food journey. Bon appetit! 

What are some of your go-to fun places to eat in St. Louis? Feel free to share them with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you!

The post These 8 Unique Restaurants In St. Louis Will Give You An Unforgettable Dining Experience appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Steelville, Missouri

A weekend destination for many people in St. Louis, Steelville is known for its hospitality... and float trips. With a population just under 2,000, it is spread out over 4.42 square miles, meaning there is plenty of room for new arrivals here.

2. Kimmswick, Missouri

Hosting some of the most popular events in the Greater St. Louis area, Kimmswick is known for their festivals and friendliness. With a population of 158 in the actual town, they draw residents to work from the surrounding county. Kimmswick offers a great mix of a peaceful town setting, with exciting activities each weekend.

3. Waterloo, Illinois

With a population just over 10,000, Waterloo would seem to be on the brink of becoming a bigger city. But one visit here and you will know that life here will always be the picture perfect small town life. People are friendly, there is no rush hour, and everyone helps each other.

4. Elsberry, Missouri

Elsberry, Missouri has been a town since 1879. At that time the population was 816 people and has never gone above 2000 in the town's history. It is a mix of a modern town with new stores, and old small town, with many structures having been preserved through the years.

5. Red Bud, Illinois

Home to one of the larger community colleges in Illinois, Red Bud is all parts charming small town and bustling education center. Life is not fast here though, you can still enjoy all the perks of a country small town life while getting to know most of the 3,559 residents in time.

6. Festus, Missouri

Festus was founded as a glass making town along with Crystal City in the 1800s. No longer reliant on one industry, Festus is a growing small town, with the largest population on this list of 11,602. But like other towns on this list, Festus will always be a place where you can hear the crickets sing.

It can be tempting to trade in the hustle and bustle of St. Louis city life, for a quieter place where you’ll know just about everyone in town. Have you thought about leaving the city for a simpler life in a small town? Share with us in the comments below.

Take a drive to this resort in Missouri for a refreshing city break!

The post 6 Slow-Paced Small Towns Near St. Louis Where Life Is Still Simple appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

Note: Many of these abandoned places are located on private property and are not open or accessible to the public. Trespassing is a crime and the deteriorated state of these buildings makes them unstable and dangerous. Use your noggin, and do not attempt to enter – explore them vicariously through these photos instead!

Many of these abandoned places become home bases for criminal activities and vandalism.

The redevelopment of school buildings, like the old Carr School, is often a very hard fit.

There are not that many other options that a former school building can be turned into, after all.

Even places of worship are not saved from lack of care and complete abandonment.

What was once affordable apartment housing is now an empty unkempt space.

Deserted locations often become dumping grounds for trash.

Many abandoned buildings in St. Louis are left untouched and are full of items that add to the cleanup cost.

These long-forgotten abandoned places nestled among our communities can create unsafe environments in neighborhoods.

This once-grand theater space on our Illinois side sits weathering to decay.

Sometimes the problem goes beyond money and redefining a space, as was the case with Carter Carburetor Corporation.

This abandoned St. Louis site required special federal intervention once it was declared an EPA Superfund site. Cleanup of hazardous Superfund sites can add years to the renovation process.

An old stately home now sits as an eyesore in its neighborhood.

These properties will eventually just fall apart if left uncared for long enough.

When properties are abandoned, the biggest problem often isn't money - it's time. Every day that a home or business sits untended it becomes a little less usable. Quicker action in choosing whether to save or demolish a structure could help with the unseemly blight caused by deserted properties.

Luckily, not all abandoned buildings in St. Louis have fallen into this state.

Two great examples of saving both St. Louis's history and buildings of high-quality architecture are the Wainwright Building and Union Station (pictured above). Both of these buildings could easily have been lost if not for the time, money, and - most importantly - community support as they were remodeled for a new century.

Take a look at more abandoned areas of St. Louis:

Have you explored any of these abandoned places in St. Louis? Let us know what they were like in the comments. If you haven’t yet seen them, book a trip to St. Louis and see them for yourself, with permission and from a safe distance, of course. For a more upbeat side of St. Louis life, check out these photos that highlight the positive changes our city has experienced over the years.

The post These 13 Abandoned Places In St. Louis Are Absolutely Haunting appeared first on Only In Your State ®.