Grand Tradition and Modern Magic: St. Louis Union Station

There is something special about pulling up to St. Louis Union Station. The sheer scale of the historic Romanesque architecture, with its 280-foot clock tower, makes you feel like you've stepped back into the golden age of rail travel. For our family, it’s the perfect blend of "old-world cool" and "new-world fun."

Fire and Light at the Lake

One of our absolute favorite traditions is finding a spot on the boardwalk to watch the Fire & Light Show. There is something mesmerizing about the way the music builds and the lights turn the water into a glowing curtain of color. But the real showstopper? The fire. Seeing those eight lotus-shaped pods on the lake shoot 25-foot flames into the air is a "wow" moment every single time. You can actually feel the heat on your face! It turns the whole pond area into a high-energy stage, and it’s the perfect way to kick off an evening or wind down after a day of exploring.

The Sweetest Stop

No trip to Union Station is complete without a visit to The Soda Fountain. We love the retro, 1950s-diner vibe—it’s the ultimate spot for ice cream. Whether we are going for a classic scoop or braving one of those massive "Freak Shakes" (which are basically a dessert and a toy store in one jar!), it’s the perfect treat. There’s nothing quite like sitting outside with a cold ice cream cone while the music from the light show plays in the background.

A Historic Gem

Beyond the food and the flames, we just love the atmosphere. We often take a stroll through the Grand Hall just to look up at the 65-foot barrel-vaulted ceiling and the Tiffany stained glass. Knowing that legends like Joe DiMaggio and FDR once walked these same floors adds a layer of history that makes the fun feel a bit more significant. Union Station has become our "home base" for St. Louis fun. It’s a place where we can grab a treat, see a spectacular show, and feel the history of the city all in one afternoon.