Saint Louis Self Guided Driving and Walking Audio Tour

Discover the Saint Louis Self-Guided Driving and Walking Audio Tour, a budget-friendly way to explore the city’s most famous landmarks at your own pace. Priced at $16.99 per group (up to 4 people), this tour offers 1 to 2 hours of immersive storytelling, making it an ideal choice for those who want flexibility without sacrificing depth. Its popularity—being booked on average 15 days in advance—speaks to its value and convenience. The tour is designed for self-guided exploration, combining driving and walking segments that highlight st. Louis’s iconic sights and history.

What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive route featuring stops at the Gateway Arch, Forest Park, and other notable landmarks. The tour is accessible through the Tour Guide App by Action, which allows users to download the content before arriving, ensuring smooth, offline operation. It’s perfect for families, groups, or anyone eager to explore the city with audio narration that’s easy to follow. Keep in mind, this is not an entrance ticket; some stops such as Gateway Arch National Park require separate admission.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $16.99 per group for a flexible, self-guided experience
• Includes both driving and walking segments to cover key city highlights
• No need for a guide or group—explore independently with audio narration via app
• Downloadable content works offline, ideal for areas with poor signal
• Multiple stops include Gateway Arch, Forest Park, and the Saint Louis Art Museum
• Ideal for extended visits—you can use the tour for a year after purchase

Starting Point at 698 Chestnut Street

The tour kicks off at 698 Chestnut Street in downtown St. Louis. From here, it guides you through the city’s historic and cultural sites seamlessly. The app provides clear instructions and a unique password for access, which you should set up while connected to strong Wi-Fi or cellular. No physical guide or group meets you; this is a self-guided adventure designed for your convenience.

The end point is at the Dennis & Judith Jones Visitor & Education Center in Forest Park, making it easy to conclude your exploration and even plan to spend more time in the park. Parking at the visitor center is recommended if you wish to linger or continue exploring Forest Park’s attractions.

Exploring Gateway Arch National Park

The Gateway Arch is the centerpiece of this tour. Designed by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, the arch’s bold, unconventional shape was selected from over 170 design submissions. It symbolizes westward expansion and modern engineering. The tour discusses how the arch was conceived as more than just a monument, marking a new era.

While the arch’s admission ticket isn’t included, understanding its significance and viewing the structure from Gateway Arch National Park remains a highlight. The surrounding park offers beautiful views of the Mississippi River, and the narrative explains the history and design behind this iconic landmark.

The Basilica of Saint Louis

Next, the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, holds a special place in the tour. This historic church has been a fixture of the St. Louis community for many years. The Old Cathedral is included in the stops, emphasizing its role in the city’s history.

Visitors get a glimpse of the French roots of St. Louis, with the tour explaining its importance. The 15-minute stop is free to enter, allowing you to admire the architecture and stained glass windows. It’s a meaningful moment for those interested in religious architecture and the city’s colonial past.

Kiener Plaza Park and Local Sports Heritage

The tour highlights Kiener Plaza Park, a lively green space within downtown. It’s named after Louis Kiener, a native who excelled in boxing, wrestling, and swimming, even competing in the 1904 Olympic Games as part of the U.S. track team.

A quick 10-minute walk-through reveals the statues, fountains, and open areas that make Kiener Plaza a popular gathering spot. The narration offers stories about Kiener’s athletic achievements, adding a local flavor to your exploration. The park’s central location makes it easy to combine with other stops.

The French Second Empire Architecture Landmark

Just past the park, the tour takes you to a fortress-like building with twin pillars, showcasing French Second Empire architecture. Built in 1873, this structure was designed to restore civic pride after the Civil War, reminding residents of St. Louis’s French origins.

Its distinctive design may seem out of place, but it reflects the city’s effort to reconnect with its colonial past. The narration details the history behind the architecture, making it a fascinating stop for architecture enthusiasts or anyone interested in post-war city rebuilding.

The St. Louis Public Library’s Central Branch

The Central Library of the St. Louis Public Library system stands out with its grand stone facade. Opened in 1865, the library’s current building was established later, offering a beautiful example of civic architecture.

Located at the intersection of Locust and 13th, the library is a notable landmark. The 15-minute stop provides an opportunity to appreciate the architecture and learn about the library’s history within the city’s cultural scene.

The New Masonic Temple

A striking multi-layered stone building with large columns and bronze doors reveals the former Masonic Temple. Sold in 2017, it remains a symbol of St. Louis’s fraternal organizations.

The tour explains the Masons’ historical role and their influence in the city’s development. The 10-minute stop offers a glimpse into this secretive society’s architectural legacy, appealing to those interested in fraternal societies or historic buildings.

Forest Park’s Green Heart

The massive Forest Park is a central feature of the tour, covering 1,300 acres—more than New York City’s Central Park. Established in 1876, it offers ample space for museums, a zoo, and recreational activities.

The 10-minute walkthrough introduces the park’s size and significance, setting the stage for nearby attractions. As the heart of downtown, Forest Park is easily accessible and provides a peaceful backdrop for the day’s exploration.

The St. Louis Zoo and Art Museum

The tour includes stops at the St. Louis Zoo and the Saint Louis Art Museum within Forest Park. The zoo was originally created for the 1904 World’s Fair and has since grown into a free-entry attraction known for its exotic animals.

The Art Museum, featuring a replica of King Louis IX’s statue, displays the city’s commitment to cultural institutions. The 10-minute stops at each site allow for quick appreciation and photo opportunities, making them perfect for a flexible tour.

Emerson Grand Basin and the World’s Fair Legacy

The Emerson Grand Basin was the focal point of the 1904 World’s Fair, with many exhibits surrounding this water feature. It offers panoramic views of the park and is a picturesque reminder of the event’s grandeur.

The 10-minute stop provides a chance to admire the basin’s architecture and its historical importance. The tour narration shares stories about how Forest Park was transformed for the fair and its ongoing role as a cultural hub.

Final Stop at the Visitor & Education Center

The tour concludes at the Dennis & Judith Jones Visitor & Education Center. Here, visitors can park easily, pick up maps, and plan to spend additional time exploring Forest Park or visiting nearby attractions.

The 15-minute final stop is a practical and informative way to wind down the tour, offering a convenient exit point and an invitation to continue enjoying everything Forest Park has to offer.

Practical Details and User Experience

The Tour Guide App by Action enhances the experience, providing audio narration that plays automatically based on your location. The app allows easy pausing and resuming, making it perfect for flexible exploration. Download the tour content in advance while connected to Wi-Fi to ensure offline usability.

This tour is designed for groups in a single car, with one purchase per vehicle. It’s not an entrance ticket—some sites like the Gateway Arch require separate admission. The self-guided format offers a personalized pace and the freedom to explore side streets or attractions as desired.

Who Will Love This Tour

This tour suits families, couples, or groups looking for an affordable, flexible way to explore St. Louis’s highlights. It’s particularly appealing to those interested in architecture, history, and landmarks, as well as travelers who prefer self-paced exploration without the constraints of traditional guided tours. The price point and app-based format make it accessible for extended visits or repeat trips within a year.

Saint Louis Self-Guided Driving and Walking Audio Tour: Final Thoughts

The value of this tour lies in its combination of driving and walking, affordable price, and easy-to-use app, making it an excellent choice for personalized sightseeing. Its stops at key landmarks like the Gateway Arch, Forest Park, and historic buildings deliver a well-rounded experience that balances history, architecture, and local stories.

While it does not include entry tickets to attractions, the tour’s narration and route ensure you gain context and background that enrich your visit. Its flexibility and offline functionality mean that both first-time visitors and returning fans will find it a worthwhile companion for exploring St. Louis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers, with no specific physical requirements indicated. It’s accessible and flexible for families, seniors, and individuals.

Do I need to download anything before starting?
Yes, you should download the Tour Guide App by Action and the tour content while connected to Wi-Fi or cellular. The app then works offline during your exploration.

Are attraction tickets included?
No, the tour does not include entrance tickets for attractions like the Gateway Arch. Some sites may require separate reservations or tickets.

How long does the tour typically take?
Most routes last about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each stop and your pace.

Can I pause and restart the tour?
Absolutely, the app allows pausing and resuming at any point, giving you full control over your schedule.

Is this tour available all year round?
Yes, the tour is accessible from September 2024 to June 2026, within the hours of 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

What makes this tour a good value?
With just one purchase per vehicle, the tour can be used for up to a year, making it especially cost-effective for multiple days of sightseeing or return trips.

What if I face technical issues during the tour?
Support is available, and the app is designed for smooth operation. Restart the app or contact support if needed.

Is this tour suitable for exploring off-route attractions?
Yes, since it’s self-guided, you can explore side streets or additional sites at your own pace, beyond the planned route.

Can I use this tour for special occasions?
While not explicitly marketed for events, its personalized nature makes it a flexible option for weddings, family outings, or special celebrations.

How does the tour compare to guided options?
This self-guided tour offers the convenience, flexibility, and personalization that guided tours may lack, all at a lower price point and with offline access.