A “bucket list” is more than just a list of things you want to do. It is a promise we make to ourselves to realize our ambitions large and small. It holds the dreams, moments and experiences that make your heart feel awake, alive and fulfilled. It could mean traveling somewhere beautiful, learning something new, reaching a goal, or simply creating memories with the people you love. In many ways, a senior bucket list is a reminder that life is precious and fleeting, and that your deepest hopes deserve more than being postponed for “one day.” It invites you to be intentional, to choose joy and meaning, and to honor the life you have by filling it with things that inspire you, challenge you, and make you feel fully alive.
St. Louis seniors live in the perfect place for achieving the goals on their bucket list. If you’ve ever wanted to truly explore the St. Louis experience, these are the assignments many have identified.
St. Louis Senior Bucket List Ideas
The Essentials
- Ride to the top of the Gateway Arch — the view is amazing, and the tram ride is its own little adventure. It’s the ultimate place to start any tour of St. Louis.
- Catch a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium — bonus points for a summer night game with fireworks. If you’ve already accomplished this, upgrade to the advanced version by attending Opening Day.
- Visit the St. Louis Zoo — consistently ranked one of the best zoos in the country, you haven’t seen St. Louis if you haven’t been here. And it’s free!
- Explore Forest Park — bigger than New York City’s Central Park, it’s packed with museums, trails, lakes and history. The perfect place for a summertime picnic!
- Check out the City Museum — part playground, part art installation, there’s nothing else like it. And if you are less agile, enjoy the art gallery, 21+ bar space, and fun events like Jazz Sunday and Oktoberfest.
Culture, History and “Only in STL”
- Tour the Anheuser‑Busch Brewery — Learn about the interesting history of how St. Louis became a can’t-miss beer destination in America as you tour the majestic campus in south St. Louis. Seeing the world-famous Clydesdale horses up close and personal is a treat in itself.
- Visit the Missouri Botanical Garden — When you’re there, the Climatron is a must-see.
- See a show at The Fabulous Fox Theatre — Viewing the spectacular interior of the building alone is senior bucket list worthy. But why not see a world-class show while you’re there?
- Walk the Delmar Loop — See the Walk of Fame, grab something tasty at one of the highly-rated restaurants, sample a fresh root beer in a frosty mug at Fitz’s and catch some live music.
- See Grant’s Farm – There you’ll see the former log home of the legendary Civil War commander and later U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant. You’ll see exotic animals, the beautiful vintage Bauernhof courtyard, and much more.
A St. Louis tour for the taste buds
- Try toasted ravioli on The Hill — Maybe you’ve had toasted ravioli before. But have you ever enjoyed it where the St. Louis delicacy was born, on The Hill neighborhood? If you haven’t, you owe it to yourself to do it at least once.
- Have a concrete from Ted Drewes — Don’t be intimidated by the line, it’s part of the experience and moves along a lot faster than you think it will. Besides, it’s more than worth the wait for this St. Louis ice cream delicacy.
- Take a tour of St. Louis BBQ — Pappy’s, Salt + Smoke, Sugarfire, Bogart’s Smokehouse—the list goes on and on! You’ll hear lots of different opinions about which place is the best. The only way to find your favorite is to try them all.
- Visit the historic Soulard Market – Yes, they have farm fresh produce, freshly made breads and pastries, and a wide selection of meats and cheeses. But there are also several booths with ready-to-eat treats, local artisans, and much more!
- Go to the Crown Candy Kitchen – They’re famous for their milkshakes and their sandwiches, and a must-see for any true St. Louisan with a senior bucket list.
Outdoors & Adventure
- Hike Castlewood State Park — Experience some of the greatest scenery in the St. Louis area by taking in the majestic views of the Meramec River while you get some exercise.
- Walk across the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge — Another stunning St. Louis vista comes with a healthy dose of history as you can reminisce on a landmark part of the legendary Route 66.
- Visit the STL Riverfront — Watch the barges roll by, one of the most peaceful and underrated experiences in the area. It’s fun to imagine how the site used to hustle and bustle with steamboat traffic as paddle wheelers shifted cargo in what was once one of the busiest ports in the world.
- See Cahokia Mounds – Travel the short distance just across the Mississippi River to explore one of the most significant historic sites in the United States.
Seeing and experiencing all St. Louis has to offer can keep you busy for awhile! Hopefully this St. Louis senior bucket list will help to fill your summer with fun and leave you feeling fulfilled and proud to call St. Louis home.
Explore Bethesda’s Health and Wellness blog for engaging ways to live out your golden years.
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