33 Cute Date Ideas in St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis is more than just the Gateway to the West—it’s a city filled with charm, history, and endless opportunities for fun. Finding the perfect date spot or activity can make all the difference. This guide will help you plan the cutest and most quintessentially St. Louis dates!
St. Louis is more than just the Gateway to the West—it’s a city filled with charm, rich history, and endless opportunities for fun. If you’re planning a first date or looking for new ways to keep the spark alive, St. Louis has something special for every couple. From scenic parks and free activities to unique experiences like candle-making and riverboat cruises, the city offers a wide range of memorable, and most of all fun, cute date ideas.
Date ideas don’t come to all of us naturally, and finding the perfect spot or activity can make all the difference. It’s not just about where you go, but how you can make the experience unique to you two.. This guide will help you plan the cutest and most quintessentially St. Louis dates!
Photo: Bryson B Photo
What Makes a Good Date?
April 25th is the perfect date - It’s not too hot, not too cold, and all you need is a light jacket (for you Miss Congeniality fans)!
In all seriousness, a great date is more than just an activity—it’s an opportunity to build deeper connections and spend quality time together. The best time spent together creates lasting memories, sparks meaningful conversations, and brings joy to both people involved.
St. Louis offers an incredible variety of things to do, catering to all kinds of couples. Whether you’re into nature, food, culture, or adventure, the right setting can enhance your time together. A thoughtful, well-planned date shows effort and consideration, but just having something to look forward to on both of your calendars can be enough!
33 Cute Date Ideas in St. Louis
We’ve put together a list of the cutest and most romantic date ideas in St. Louis. No matter the season or occasion, these experiences are a great way to spend time together - to let the stress of daily life melt away and to focus on each other.
1. Stroll Through Missouri Botanical Garden
Enjoy a romantic walk through one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the country. Explore impeccably manicured gardens, serene water features, and impressive artwork and sculptures throughout. Our favorite area HAS to be the Japanese Garden. It’s at the back of the gardens, so the journey to get back there is just as good as the destination. The Climatron dome offers a tropical escape with diverse plant life, making it a perfect date spot all year round. Visit during seasonal events like the Garden Glow for an extra magical touch.
St. Louis Gateway Arch | Bryson B Photo
2. Ride to the Top of the Gateway Arch
A St. Louis staple! If you haven’t yet, take your date to new heights—literally—by riding to the top of the Gateway Arch. The 630-foot-high observation deck offers breathtaking views of downtown St. Louis and the Mississippi River. Plus, Gateway Arch National Park is the country’s smallest national park, so it’s an easy one to check off your list. It’s a simple yet unforgettable way to share an afternoon together.
3. Visit the City Museum
Climb, slide, and explore the whimsical world of the City Museum. This giant interactive playground is full of surprises, and every floor is an amazing mix of wildly fascinating art, spectacular engineering, and a ton of fun. We love the mirror tunnel and the Skateless Park!
4. Watch a Cardinals Game at Busch Stadium
For sports-loving couples, nothing beats cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, delicious ballpark food (you gotta get the ballpark nachos), and the thrilling action of America’s favorite pastime.
5. Visit the Saint Louis Art Museum
Stroll hand in hand through world-class art exhibits at the Saint Louis Art Museum. From Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary works, there’s plenty to admire and discuss. Plus, the museum is free, making it a great budget-friendly date option. Don’t forget about the back courtyard of the museum! The sculpture garden is a beautiful and lesser-known area of the museum!
St. Louis Art Museum | Bryson B Photo
6. Take a Riverboat Cruise on the Mississippi
Set sail on a romantic riverboat cruise along the Mississippi River. Enjoy stunning skyline views (with the Arch of course), live music, and delicious dining options. Opt for a sunset or evening cruise for an extra touch of charm. The St. Louis skyline absolutely glows at sunset!
7. Cocktails at Three Sixty Rooftop Bar
Sip cocktails and amongst an elevated dining experience at Three Sixty, a stunning rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city. The lively atmosphere, great food, craft drinks, and twinkling city lights from the lounge create the perfect date-night vibe.
8. Make Custom Candles at The Candle Fusion Studio
Get creative together by making personalized candles at The Candle Fusion Studio. Choose from over 100 fragrances to blend your own unique scent. It’s a fun and interactive experience that lets you take home a sweet-smelling memory.
9. Enjoy Courtyard Dining at Edera Italian Eatery
Savor a romantic meal at Edera Italian Eatery, a modern Italian restaurant with incredible ambiance in their private courtyard. Located in the Central West End, enjoy fine wines and expertly crafted dishes while soaking in the charming scenery (the Cacio e Pepe is simple yet SO good). Wanting a double date? Reserve a private chalet in their courtyard, with a minimum of 4 guests, for an unforgettable experience!
10. Visit the Neon Museum of Saint Louis
Step into a world of vintage neon lights at the Neon Museum. The glowing signs and colorful displays make for a nostalgic and picture-perfect date night. It’s a unique way to explore a piece of St. Louis history together.
11. Go Swing Dancing at the West Coast Swing Dance Club
Turn your date into a lively and fun experience by taking a swing dance class! Hosted by STL Rebels, annual memberships are super affordable and could be a very fun regular activity for you and your partner. Even if you’ve never gone swing dancing before, the upbeat energy of this specific style of West Coast Swing will have you enjoying every step.
12. Go Chocolate Tasting at Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate
Take a delicious tour of this local chocolatier and indulge in handmade, artisan chocolates. Learn about the chocolate-making process and enjoy free samples along the way.
13. Go Beer Tasting at Schlafly Brewery
Explore the flavors of St. Louis by visiting Schlafly Brewery for a beer-tasting session. Try locally brewed craft beers and learn about the brewing process. The casual and cozy atmosphere makes it a great low-key date idea. We love getting a flight at Schlafly - make sure to include a couple of their seasonal brews!
14. Try a roaring 20’s Speakeasy Experience at Thaxton Speakeasy
For a date with a little mystery, visit the Thaxton Speakeasy. This hidden bar recreates the Prohibition-era experience with vintage decor and secret entrance passwords. Pro Tip: Check their social media for hints on how to enter the bar!
15. Paint and Sip at Pinot’s Palette
Unleash your creative side at Pinot’s Palette in Webster Groves, where you can paint a masterpiece while sipping wine. It’s a relaxed and entertaining way to enjoy each other’s company.
16. Have a Sweet Treat at Strange Donuts
Start your day with quirky and delicious donuts from Strange Donuts, with locations in Maplewood, Creve Coeur, and Kirkwood. The donuts may have funky names, but we have yet to try a donut from them that we haven’t absolutely wanted 2nds of!
17. Explore Lone Elk Park on a Driving Safari
Go on a mini safari by driving through Lone Elk Park. Spot elk, bison, and deer up close in their natural habitat. Across their over 540 acres of managed wildlife habitat, it’s a peaceful way to get out and enjoy nature together.
18. Visit Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Creamery
Enjoy gourmet, all-natural ice cream with fun boozy and classic flavors. The cozy shop setting and delicious treats make for a perfect sweet date.
Clementines Creamery | Bryson B Photo
19. Take a Ghost Tour in Lemp Mansion
For the horror fan in your life, take a ghost tour through the historic Lemp Mansion. Rich with St. Louis history and allegedly haunted by members of the Lemp family, learn about its eerie past and experience a night full of spooky stories. Afterwards, grab some dinner at the Lemp Mansion Restaurant!
20. Have a Picnic at Forest Park
Pack a cozy blanket, your favorite snacks, and a bottle of wine for a picnic in one of the largest urban parks in the country. Find a quiet spot near the Grand Basin or Art Hill and enjoy the fresh air. After your meal, take a romantic walk along the scenic trails or rent a paddleboat. There are tons of amazing spots in the park, but the waterside views on the aptly-named Picnic Island make it a great choice for this specific date idea.
21. Enjoy a Sunset at Art Hill
Are you leaving the Art Museum around sunset? Well, stick around and sit on Art Hill in Forest Park to watch the sun set behind the Grand Basin. It’s one of the most picturesque spots in St. Louis, with an amazing view of the city under the iconic Saint Louis IX statue.
22. Stroll Through City Garden and Kiener Plaza Park
Some of our favorite places to enjoy an afternoon in downtown STL, City Garden and Kiener Plaza are two parks that are virtually right next to each other. City Garden has dozens of beautifully unique sculptures and Kiener Plaza has amazing views of the Arch and the old St. Louis Courthouse. In the winter, Kiener Plaza is host to the Winterfest Ice Rink! Skate under the Arch and try not to slip!
23. Go On a Hike At Castlewood State Park
With stunning views, challenging elevation changes, and a diverse collection of trails, Castlewood State Park is home to some of the best outdoor recreation in the area! This park is widely considered one of the best mountain biking locations around St. Louis, but you don’t have to be a full-blown trail rider to enjoy Castlewood. Great fishing, lush meadows, and tons of scenic views are accessible even to the outdoor novice! The River Scene and Castlewood Loop trails are beautiful and very popular!
Castlewood State Park | Bryson B Photo
24. Rent a Private Game Room at Up-Down Arcade Bar
For couples who love gaming, Up-Down STL offers private rooms where you can play classic arcade games, skee ball, and pinball while enjoying craft beer and pizza.
25. Take a True Crime Walking Tour In Soulard
Dating a true crime junkie? Explore the historic Soulard neighborhood in St. Louis through a captivating True Crime Walking Tour. This guided experience delves into the area's rich past, sharing tales of armed bank robberies, voting riots, bloody duels, and prohibition-era gangsters. As you stroll past post-Civil War architecture and notable sites like the Soulard Farmers Market, you'll uncover the darker stories that have shaped this vibrant community.
26. See a Laser Light Show at the Saint Louis Science Center
Experience your favorite music like never before at the McDonnell Planetarium’s Laser Show Series, where stunning laser artwork, immersive lighting, and 3D atmospheric effects bring songs to life in a 360-degree spectacle. This is perfect if you’re looking for a music-focused experience that isn’t just a normal concert! Check their website for playlists on what music will be featured and when!
City Museum Mirror Tunnel | Bryson B Photo
27. Go on a Tour of the Iconic Budweiser Brewery
The Budweiser Brewery Tour in St. Louis offers a fun and memorable outing for couples. It’s a chance to explore the brewing process, see the famous Clydesdales up close, and enjoy a cold beer together in the Biergarten. This experience blends history, local culture, and relaxation, making it a great choice for a date.
28. Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride in Downtown St. Louis
For a classic and romantic experience, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic streets of St. Louis with St. Louis Carriage Company, passing by iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch, the Old Courthouse, and Laclede’s Lading.
29. Try a DIY Cooking Class at KITCHEN CONSERVATORY
Join a hands-on cooking class where you can learn to make gourmet dishes together. Experience the process of cooking something new together, from sushi rolling to pasta-making. Whether your foodie preferences come from Cherokee Street, the Hill, or anywhere else in St. Louis, Kitchen Conservatory may very well have a class for you two!
30. Explore Tower Grove Park’s Farmers Market
Start your weekend with a morning stroll through Tower Grove Park’s Farmers Market, picking up fresh pastries, coffee, and unique artisan goods while enjoying live music. This is one of the most lively Farmers Markets in the area and their awesome Saturday markets start in April as the weather warms up!
31. Catch a Show at The Fox Theatre
Dress up for a night out and enjoy a Broadway production or a live concert at the historic Fabulous Fox Theatre, known for its stunning architecture and world-class performances.
32. Paddle Boat on the Grand Basin
As if there isn’t enough to do in Forest Park, you both can rent a paddle boat from the boat house and explore the Grand Basin at Forest Park! It's a lovely way to spend an afternoon on the water while taking in the park’s scenic beauty. Our favorite part of the paddle boats is all the ducks!
33. Book a Photoshoot!
Cuddle up with your partner and have a photoshoot done! Hiring a professional photographer is a great way to create memories, get unique artwork created of you two, and capture your love! Bryson B Photo is a great photographer to check out for an experience like this!
Bottom Line
A great date can turn an ordinary day into something totally extraordinary. Whether you prefer intimate, adventurous, or creative experiences, St. Louis offers endless possibilities. Plan a memorable date and make every moment count!
Amanda + Alex - St. Louis, Missouri Engagement Session
This St. Louis engagement session was an insane amount of fun! Amanda and Alex are fantastic people. Check out this blog if you want to see some cool photos of a great couple and get some tips on how to plan a zoo engagement session!
St. Louis Forest Park and Delmar Loop Engagement Photography
This St. Louis engagement session was an insane amount of fun! Amanda and Alex are fantastic people. If you’ve been keeping your eye on the St. Louis culinary scene, you may have seen this feature that Sauce Magazine did on Alex’s work and career. So sick!
We took engagement photos in the St. Louis Zoo, the Steinberg Skating Rink, and finished the evening off with a lap around the Loop. If you’re wanting to do engagement photos at the St. Louis Zoo, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
First, because of COVID guidelines, the zoo is operating at a limited capacity so you need to make reservations in advance of your visit. I went ahead and did this in a few minutes for all 3 of us!
Second, keep away from busy paths and high-traffic areas. To take the photo, the photographer will likely want you two to take off your masks. Stay off the beaten path and respect your distance from others, and you’ll still make some great images.
Finally, make sure you call to clear the commercial shoot with management. Make your reservation, stay socially distanced, and call ahead to make sure you’re good to go!
If you’re looking to get some engagement photos done at the St. Louis Zoo, I hope this helped you a little bit. Other than that, keep scrolling and bask in the awesomeness of Amanda and Alex! BONUS if you can guess what their nicknames for each other are…
Josie + Cole - Alton, Illinois Engagement Session
I’m elated that I get to photograph such an amazing couple like Josie and Cole! They’re a blast to photograph, and take my weird and wonky instructions like TOTAL champs. We spent the evening taking their engagement photos in Alton, IL: both in downtown Alton and at Gordon Moore Park.
I’m elated that I get to photograph such an amazing couple like Josie and Cole! They’re a blast to photograph, and take my weird and wonky instructions like TOTAL champs. We spent the evening taking their engagement photos in Alton, IL: both in downtown Alton and at Gordon Moore Park. I took way more photos than I usually do at engagement sessions, but I had to! These two looked so good!
I’m loving the amount of blogging I’m doing lately. Though I often struggle to hit Google’s SEO word count recommendations (and may not even hit it here), I find so much value in showing shorter visual stories for each couple as opposed to the one or two photos they may get featured in my portfolio section. I feel like this is such a more accurate depiction of the couple and how they interact with each other.
For photographers: I used my Nikon 45mm f/2.8 tilt-shift lens pretty frequently in this shoot. It still was only on maybe 10% of the overall session, but that’s significant for a specialty lens like this one. It’s super sharp when you nail the plane of focus, and the color renditioning is top-notch. It’s definitely one of the pricer lenses in my bag, so I kinda need it to be as sharp as it is. The rest of the session was done with my 58mm 1.4G and my 24mm 1.4G lenses. These are what I shoot 98% of all my photos on. They get me in the action, they’re sharp, they’re reliable, and they render perfectly. Take a look, if you dare.
Getting engaged? Already engaged? Not engaged yet but thinking about it? I’m your photo guy!
The 5 Most Important Tips for Engagement Sessions
Being in front of the camera doesn’t have to feel foreign! Here are a photographer’s 5 best pieces of advice for those planning an engagement session.
Getting engaged is a really cool thing. You and your person are in love AND are ready to take that next step! Awesome!
But... you're kind of nervous about the session. You've never had real photos taken together, and your boyfriend/girlfriend has told you, "Just... let's not do any of those awkward pictures."
So, what do you do? How do you prepare? Never fear! Here are the 5 most important things to remember for your upcoming engagement session.
1. Wear simple, comfortable clothes
It may feel weird at first, and may even be weird to accept, but your engagement session is about you and your relationship with this other person. It's about the joy, the tension, and the nuance of your specific love for each other.
The more simple and comfortable your outfits are, the more comfortable you will both be, and the more REAL your photos will turn out.
2. The first 15 minutes are a wash
There isn't a sprinter in the world that can roll out of bed and set an Olympic record. By the same token, it's very likely that you're not going to come away with jaw-dropping moments straight out the gate.
Hopefully, by this point, you've spoken to your photographer, gotten to know each other, and hung out for at least a little bit. But there was one thing missing from all that interaction. A camera. Throwing that bit of metal and plastic into the mix adds a whole new element to the engagement session that a lot of people aren't used to.
Just relax, chat for a bit, and focus on the person next to you. All good!
3. Do what you and your person are comfortable with
This one is pretty simple. Your photographer should be the professional, and should know a ton about photographing couples. You know the most about your relationship with this other person. It's a partnership! Maybe you are uncomfortable kissing in front of the camera, or maybe your left ankle is sprained and that pose is killing you! Just let the photographer know so that they can adapt.
4. Communicate!
Not just with the photographers. With each other! Talk to each other during the session, recount great memories, or make fart jokes. Whatever your style is, let all parties involved with the engagement session know!
5. Trust Your Photographer
The person you entrust to take the photos at your wedding and engagement session is more than your uncle Gary who has a nice camera and a couple of lenses. This is an artist, whose work drew you to them in some way. You resonated with the way that they saw the world.
Trust that feeling, and that initial pull to that person. You are making an investment in them, and they are chomping at the bit to make you happy and comfortable every step of the way. So get comfy and get weird! You may just make some really cool art.
Interested in creating some cool stuff?
Katie + Kyle - Ballwin, Missouri Engagement Session
Katie+Kyle+Puppy = a great time. It's just simple math, guys.
So excited to share this session! Katie and Kyle are a fantastic couple and so much fun to hike with/photograph/hang out with. Yes, it was a bit chilly, and yes I am really bad at remembering how long the trails are, but I had a blast with them (and Jax, their puppy with boundless energy).
Ellie + Austin - St. Louis, Missouri Engagement Session
Check out Ellie and Austin's St. Louis engagement session!
Literally could not have asked for cooler people to take pictures of. An absolute dream of an evening with Ellie and Austin!
