If you’re considering a day in St. Louis and want to get the most out of your visit without the hassle of planning every detail, a private tour like “StL’s Best Sights and Bites” might just be the ticket. This experience promises a tailored mix of city landmarks and beloved local foods, perfect for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and culinary treats. Based on the reviews and descriptions, it seems to deliver a well-rounded, engaging way to explore the Gateway City.
What we love about this tour is how flexible it is—you get to pick your favorite attractions and foods, which makes it feel personalized rather than cookie-cutter. Plus, the guide—who’s notably knowledgeable—adds a layer of insight and friendliness that can really enhance your experience. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour duration is around 4 to 6 hours, so if you’re tight on time or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might want to plan accordingly.
This experience is well-suited for travelers who want to see the highlights but also taste some of the best local eats, all while enjoying the comfort of private transportation and expert guidance. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just curious about the city, you’ll likely find this tour hits the right notes.
Key Points

- Personalized Experience: You choose your top attractions and culinary stops, making it tailored to your interests.
- All-Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, guide, and food samples are included, streamlining the day.
- Flexible Duration: Around 4 to 6 hours, ideal for fitting into a busy schedule or a full day.
- Great for Food and Sightseeing Lovers: Combines iconic landmarks with delicious local flavors.
- Knowledgeable Guide: From reviews, it’s clear Wayne is courteous, informative, and easy to chat with.
- Good Value: For $159 per person, you get a mix of cultural, historical, and foodie experiences plus transportation.
Gateway Arch National Park
Starting at the Gateway Arch, it’s hard not to feel a sense of awe. This towering symbol of westward expansion is a must-see, and you’ll get to explore the grounds with plenty of photo opportunities. The park also features a museum, offering context about the city’s history. Visitors often appreciate the free admission, making it a budget-friendly highlight.
One reviewer mentions, “We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the Arch and showed us spots for perfect photos.” It’s a great starting point, setting the tone for the day and giving a solid dose of classic St. Louis.
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Forest Park
Next up is Forest Park, which packs in a ton of attractions—like the St. Louis Zoo and the Art Museum—and was the site of the 1904 Worlds Fair. The park’s green spaces and historic vibe make it a relaxing stop. Expect about 45 minutes here, with free admission to many attractions.
Guests have said, “The historic site of the 1904 Worlds Fair and the zoo are a must-see if you love outdoor spaces and history.” It’s a nice contrast to the urban sights and a chance to stretch your legs.
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis
This stop is a real standout—The Cathedral Basilica is renowned for its stunning mosaics, which cover over 41 million tiles. The visit is brief (about 30 minutes), but the visual impact is impressive and a bit different from typical tours. It’s a quiet, beautiful moment amid the busy day.
A guest shared, “The mosaic collection is one of the largest in the world and truly breathtaking.” If architecture and art interest you, it’s worth the quick stop.
Anheuser-Busch Brewery
The Anheuser-Busch Brewery offers a peek into one of America’s oldest breweries, home of Budweiser and the famous Clydesdales. The 30-minute tour is free, and it’s a chance to see brewing in action while soaking in some local culture.
Reviewers mention that the guide’s knowledge adds depth to this stop, making it more than just a quick look at beer-making. If you’re into breweries or just curious about local industries, this is a fun highlight.
Pappy’s Smokehouse
Food lovers will be particularly excited for Pappy’s Smokehouse, known for award-winning ribs. The 45-minute stop allows for tasting a true St. Louis barbecue favorite. The food here is highly praised—some reviews call it “the best ribs in America,” awarded by Food Network.
We loved how the stop includes a sample size, giving everyone a taste without committing to a full meal. Just a heads-up—if you’re planning to indulge in more, you’ll need to handle additional purchases yourself.
Anthonino’s Taverna & Ted Drewes
Next, you’ll sample St. Louis Toasted Ravioli at Anthonino’s Taverna. This dish is iconic locally and has been featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. The 30-minute visit is a tasty introduction to a regional specialty.
Then, it’s time for a sweet treat at Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, a Route 66 roadside classic. As one reviewer put it, “The ice cream is a must-try, and the setting gives you that nostalgic feel.” Perfect for a cool-down and some Instagram-worthy photos.
Busch Stadium & Guido’s Pizzeria
The tour wraps up with a quick stop at Busch Stadium for a photo op—especially fun if you’re a baseball fan. It’s just about 15 minutes but offers a chance to capture some iconic shots.
Finally, you get to enjoy St. Louis-style pizza at Guido’s Pizzeria & Tapas. This local favorite offers a hearty, cheesy slice that many guests rave about. It’s a fitting end, combining the city’s love for good food and lively atmosphere.
From the reviews and the itinerary, it’s clear that “StL’s Best Sights and Bites” offers a nice balance of history, culture, and cuisine. The guide, Wayne, is frequently highlighted as courteous, knowledgeable, and flexible—adding value to the experience.
The inclusion of transportation and food sampling at each stop simplifies the day, allowing you to relax and focus on enjoying the sights and tastes. For $159 per person, this tour offers a pretty good deal—covering top landmarks, local eats, and insider insights.
The Authentic St. Louis Experience
A common thread in reviews is how much guests appreciated the personal touch. The guide’s ability to customize the tour to your interests means it’s not just a checklist but a genuine look at what makes the city special. Whether it’s history, food, or architecture, the itinerary can be tailored to your preferences.
Practical Considerations
One of the reviews notes how the walkability and terrain are easy, which is helpful if you’re traveling with less mobile guests or just prefer a comfortable pace. The tour starts at 9:30 am, giving you a full day to explore, and ends back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward.
Price and Value
While $159 might seem steep for some, the price covers multiple food tastings, transportation, a guide, and a curated list of top attractions. If you were to visit these sites and eat out independently, the cost could add up quickly. Plus, the guided element means you get context and stories you might not discover on your own.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of St. Louis, combining sightseeing with local flavors. If you enjoy guided tours that are customizable, it’s perfect. Families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a manageable, fun-filled day will all find value here.
However, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or don’t enjoy scheduled stops, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re allergic to or dislike certain foods, keep in mind that the tastings are pre-selected.
“StL’s Best Sights and Bites” – Your Private Tour in St. Louis
“Knowledge level was great of the city and the food choices rated very well with my family!!”
Final Thoughts

“StL’s Best Sights and Bites” offers a compelling way to discover St. Louis through a blend of iconic landmarks and regional cuisine, all wrapped in the comfort of private transportation and guided insights. The tour’s flexibility, combined with a knowledgeable host and delicious samples, makes it a solid choice for those wanting a balanced, engaging day in the city.
The high praise from past guests — especially regarding the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, as well as the quality of the food — suggests it’s a carefully curated experience. While it’s not a budget tour, the value of having a personalized, all-in-one day out could be well worth it for many visitors.
If you’re in St. Louis and want to see the highlights without the fuss of planning, this tour seems to deliver a friendly, flavorful, and memorable way to experience the city.
Is the tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is generally designed for most travelers and includes walking and sightseeing. However, since specific family accommodations aren’t detailed, it’s best for families with older children who enjoy walking and eating out.
What’s included in the price?
For $159 per person, you get transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and samples at each of the three culinary stops. Photography services are also included, making it easy to capture your day.
Can I customize which attractions or foods I want to visit?
Yes, the tour is described as customizable. You can select from various attractions and culinary experiences, so it’s tailored to your interests.
How long is the tour?
The typical duration is around 4 to 6 hours, allowing enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Budweiser Brewery Experience and ends back at the same location, with pickup and drop-off included from central St. Louis hotels or homes.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.
Overall, if you’re after a guided, flexible way to explore St. Louis that mixes sightseeing with tasting the city’s best bites, this private tour is definitely worth considering.
