Travel tips · St. Louis · United States
St. Louis travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Sam valadi, CC BY 2.0
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Quick answer
St. Louis is a city of strong neighbourhood and parish identities, French and German heritage, and deep Black musical history from ragtime and blues to jazz. People are friendly and proud of their local foods and teams, especially the Cardinals and Blues.
Key facts
- Language
- English
- Currency
- USD
- Plugs
- Type A and B sockets, 120 V, 60 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water is safe to drink.
- Emergency
- 911 (police, fire, ambulance)
Things to know
- Locals often ask 'Where did you go to high school?' to place you socially; it is a friendly question.
- Wear red on Cardinals game days if you want to join in.
- In historic neighbourhoods, respect residents' homes and private streets.
- Arrive early for popular free attractions such as the zoo, where parking fills quickly.
- Tip at sit-down restaurants and bars.
- Book Gateway Arch ahead: Tram tickets often sell out on summer weekends and holidays; buy timed tickets online in advance.
- The zoo, art museum, history museum and science centre in Forest Park are free.
Tipping
Tipping is expected: about 18–22% at sit-down restaurants, a dollar or two per drink at bars, and 15–20% for taxis and rideshares.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Where did you go to high school? | Classic local icebreaker |
| Provel | The processed cheese on St. Louis pizza |
| Concrete | A very thick frozen custard |
| T-ravs | Toasted ravioli |
What to wear
Casual everywhere. Bring light clothing for hot, humid summers and warm layers for cold winters.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type A and B sockets, 120 V, 60 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water is safe to drink.
- Emergency number
- 911 (police, fire, ambulance)
- Phone and internet
- US SIM cards and eSIMs are easy to buy; free Wi-Fi is common in cafés, libraries and at the airport.
- Time zone
- America/Chicago
Main visitor areas are generally fine with normal precautions, but conditions vary from block to block, so stay in busy areas at night and use rideshares between neighbourhoods. Car break-ins happen, so keep valuables out of sight. Summer heat and spring storms are the main weather risks.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check United States's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in St. Louis?
Tipping is expected: about 18–22% at sit-down restaurants, a dollar or two per drink at bars, and 15–20% for taxis and rideshares.
+Can you drink the tap water in St. Louis?
Tap water is safe to drink.
+What plugs are used in St. Louis?
Type A and B sockets, 120 V, 60 Hz
+What language is spoken in St. Louis?
English.