Known for its unique music and gastronomic scene, as well as its large sculpture gardens and diverse population, the city of St. Louis, MO, is a popular tourist destination among visitors from all over the United States and beyond. If you are looking for an exciting destination full of local attractions and activities for your entire family, St. Louis is always a great idea. These are some of the spots you should not miss while in town.
The Top 3 Local Attractions for Visitors to St. Louis, MO
1. The Gateway Arch
Featured in almost every postcard of the city, the Gateway Arch is the most famous symbol of St. Louis, and a place every visitor should check out at least once. Constructed in the 1960s with stainless steel, and boasting a height of 630 feet, this is considered the largest arch in the entire world, as well as one of the tallest structures in the state of Missouri and the Midwestern United States.
Located along the banks of the Mississippi River, the Gateway Arch can be easily reached on foot from most other attractions in the downtown area. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987, this local attraction welcomes over four million visitors each year. The observation deck, located near the top of the arch, offers the best views of downtown St. Louis and can be accessed via an elevator that connects it with the underground visitor center.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
Boasting a greenhouse dome and almost 80 acres of horticultural display, the Missouri Botanical Garden is another excellent spot you should visit while in St. Louis. Located about five miles west of the Gateway Arch and the downtown area, it can be reached in about 10 minutes by car from most other local landmarks. Open Tuesday through Sunday between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm, this botanical garden regularly hosts guided tours and events organized by local volunteers.
Although it is possible to buy tickets for the Missouri Botanical Garden on the spot, we recommend you organize your visit in advance and get your passes online. This place charges an entry fee of $14 for adults aged 13 and older, or $6 for St. Louis city and St. Louis County residents. Some of the spots you should not miss include the Tower Grove House, the Gladney Rose Garden, and the Grigg Nanjing Friendship Chinese Garden.
3. Pere Marquette State Park
If you are looking for a destination to take your family on a scenic drive in your brand-new 2023 Mazda CX-50, visiting Pere Marquette State Park is an excellent idea. This nature reserve covers an area of over 8,000 acres and is located just 45 miles northwest of downtown St. Louis, making it a great day trip destination for locals and visitors to the city. This place offers great opportunities for outdoor sports and activities, including hiking, birding, and hunting.
Are you looking for a new or used vehicle for you and your family in the St. Louis area? Stop by Bommarito Mazda South County today and check our extensive inventory and flexible financing plans.
5 Amazing Day Trips You Can Take Near St. Louis, MO
Sitting on the banks of the glistening Mississippi River, St. Louis, MO is an energetic, entertaining city full of budget-friendly family attractions. The surrounding area is also rich with intriguing natural attractions and charming towns to explore. Here are five of the finest day trips to take close to St. Louis.
5 Amazing Day Trips You Can Take Near St. Louis, MO
Meramec Caverns
For a mysterious, unforgettable venture beneath the ground, why not visit the Meramec Caverns? Here, you can explore vast caves full of fascinating, visually-stunning mineral formations, guided by knowledgable rangers.
Apart from enjoying the visual treat of such strange rock formations, you’ll also learn a great deal about geology. Wooden walkways and beautiful light displays highlight the 7-Story Mansion and Wine Table formations, as well as many more. All the while you’ll be told in detail how these formations evolved over the millennia.
Six Flags Theme Park
Prepare for a thrilling day of heart-thumping rollercoasters. At Six Flags Theme Park, they have plenty of world-class rides, including Brave American Thunder, Reverse Blast, and Justice League: Battle for America. For sweltering summer days, you can cool off in the pools of Hurricane Harbor and spend hours enjoying the waves, rivers, and water rides.
If you have younger kids, you’re still spoilt for choice. You can take them on the Foghorn Leghorn Train, the Bugs Bunny Train Station, the Flume, and plenty more suitable activities for youngsters. And all day long they also have spectacular live performances to enjoy.
Shaw Nature Preserve
For a day of escape into the great outdoors, head to the lovely Shaw Nature Preserve, which is only 30 minutes outside town. This exceptional preserve is a sprawling wonderland of botanical gardens, elegant feats of landscaping, excellent hiking trails, and wildlife habitats.
The preserve serves as a perfect outdoor classroom for curious children and adults alike. Hikers will find a near-endless abundance of prairies, woodlands, and wetlands to roam through, with plenty of benches and picnic spots for breaks.
Hannibal, Home of Mark Twain
Lovers of literature might prefer to visit the charming nearby town of Hannibal, which was the childhood home of legendary author Mark Twain. Here you can explore the very same riverside walks and scenery that inspired the classic tales of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn.
Read the rest of this entry »Taking a Closer Look at the 2021 Mazda CX-3
Do you want an excellent deal on an intriguing new car? Discover the potential of the 2021 Mazda CX-3.
Basics About the 2021 Mazda CX-3
The 2021 model represents a continuation of the first-generation CX-3s that debuted in 2016. In fact, the model may take its final bow after this edition. The crossover SUV is Mazda’s capable offering to the subcompact market. The smaller size does not detract from the big driving experience you’ll get, though.
The Car Lover’s SUV
Maybe you want to try out an SUV but still fancy the size and performance of your sedan and hatchback cars. If so, the CX-3 is truly the perfect way to cross over. The 14-feet-long size, the snappy four-cylinder, 148-horsepower engine, the hopping chassis, and the fine suspension tuning give you the athletic, zippy handling and precision steering of your traditional sport auto. You’ll also get your choice of rear-wheel drive or all-weather all-wheel drive.
The smaller seats won’t make you feel overwhelmed either. Behind the wheel, you might not even know the difference between this SUV and your old favorite car. And the fuel economy rivals the most efficient regular autos, with an EPA-rated 29 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway.
Impressive Safety Features
Driving safely on the roads is an increasing priority for many consumers. Mazda takes all your worries into account and answers them with a solid suite of safety tools. LED headlights and automatic wipers keep your visibility high in even the darkest, foggiest, or stormiest conditions. The Institute of Highway Safety has ranked this model year a top safety pick with its impeccable crash-test results.
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The 2021 Mazda6 is the most beautiful midsize sedan on the market. Its streamlined shape, soft curves, and aerodynamic body deliver elegance with an air of practicality. The sophisticated style carries through to the interior of the car as well, boasting high-tech components and high-end finishes that make this vehicle functional, attractive, and modern.
See Why Car Experts Love the 2021 Mazda6
Convenient Amenities
Drivers love all of the amenities that come standard throughout the lineup of the Mazda6. Even the base model, the Mazda6 Sport, comes with a full array of standard features. The daily grind has become much more convenient with the technology upgrades in the cabin. Modern drivers will appreciate the use of smartphone app integration through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which comes standard throughout this lineup.
This sedan is brimming with features, like the dual-zone automatic climate system, which keeps the interior at the perfect temperature while keeping certain allergens out of the cabin with its unique pollen filter. Remote entry, cruise control, power windows, and a push-button start are a few of the little conveniences that make a big impact every day. Each model above the Mazda6 Sport comes equipped with an Advanced Keyless Entry System.
Advanced Safety Package
This year’s Mazda6 not only has convenient features but is also packed with advanced safety components. Every model comes fully equipped with the ever-popular rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, and a rearview camera, all of which increase the driver’s awareness of their surroundings.
Many systems have also been put in place to help minimize the potential of frontal collisions, such as smart brake support, pedestrian detection, and a collision warning system. Lane departure warning and lane-keep assist help you to stay centered within your lane’s marked lines, while other features, like adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams, also assist in optimizing the driver’s awareness. The popular Signature model now includes rear automatic braking and a driver-attention program.
Two Strong Engine Options
Mazda has equipped the Mazda6 with a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder base engine that provides good power while generating 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. This engine is a solid choice and satisfies many drivers with its capabilities and fuel economy.
Drivers who consider themselves to be thrill-seekers may want to push their limits with the available 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. This engine is available on the Grand Touring model and above. It generates 227 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. This engine creates a Mazda6 that feels responsive and fast, especially when the driver uses 93-octane fuel.
This year’s lineup of the Mazda6 has a lot to offer. Overall, it’s an excellent value with its modern features and sophisticated style. This sedan is sporty and fun, while still managing to be a practical choice. With several trim levels to choose from and two available engine options, every buyer will find something that suits their budget and their driving style. Come visit us at Bommarito Mazda South County to take the new Mazda6 for a test drive.
5 of the Best Fishing Spots Near St. Louis, MO
Wherever you go in this world, you’ll find a love for fishing that no other sport can seem to match. It isn’t hard to guess why the sport is so beloved. Fishing’s versatility as an activity lets both families and pros get full enjoyment out of casting a line. Whether you’re a thrill-seeking athlete or a casual hobbyist, this list of our favorite fishing spots local to St. Louis, MO is sure to inspire your next trip out to the water.
5 of the Best Fishing Spots Near St. Louis, MO
Chouteau Island Fishing Area
Accessible from the Riverview neighborhood of St. Louis, Choteau Island technically resides in the state of Illinois. Thankfully, Missouri and Illinois have a special agreement that allows you to fish on both sides of the Mississippi with just a Missouri fishing license. This spot offers seclusion close to home, excellent bank fishing opportunities, and scenic views of the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge.
Bee Tree County Park
This spot is located south of St. Louis along the Mississippi River. This slice of verdant parkland offers up classic lakeside and dock fishing on its 9-acre fishing lake. Trout populate the lake seasonally and you can catch ample bluegill and catfish here year-round. In addition to the fishing lake, this park’s amenities also include five different hiking trails, covered picnic shelters, and barbecue pits.
Carondelet Park
Carondelet Park is located in southern St. Louis just west of Interstate 55. This park boasts two fully stocked fishing lakes, Horseshoe Lake and Boathouse Lake. Boathouse Lake sizes up at 5 acres and maintains a good population of bass, carp, and trout. Horseshoe lake is the smaller of the two at 2.4 acres and tends to be stocked with mostly catfish and sunfish.
Columbia Bottom Conservation Area
This local hotspot of natural wonder is best known for its sunflower fields, but it also provides a few excellent boating spots along the meeting point of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. Whichever river you set up on you’ll find a plentiful population of sturgeon, freshwater drum, and buffalo. This conservation area also provides accessible pier fishing on the Missouri River.
Spanish Lake Park
This park located in northern St. Louis features over 65 acres of fishing bliss. Casting here gives you access to prolific populations of bass, crappie, and sunfish. Visitors are free to fish lakeside anywhere they can make a clean cast, but a boat launch is only available on the largest of the two lakes available at this park. If you decide to bring the boat, be aware that gasoline-powered boats are not permitted on the water here.
Living in St. Louis means you’re always a short hop away from some of the best freshwater fishing in the country. Before you head out on a trip to one of these great spots close to home, be sure to visit us at Bommarito Mazda South County. No matter what you’re looking for, our skilled and kind staff will find you a vehicle that you can rely on.
Meet Your Next SUV: The 2021 Mazda CX-9
There’s lots to love about the 2021 Mazda CX-9. Offering drivers good looks, lots of space, and plenty of features that are sure to delight you, you’ll quickly see why this is such a popular vehicle. Take a look at this guide to the new CX-9.
Meet Your Next SUV: The 2021 Mazda CX-9
The Basics of the New CX-9
This incredibly stylish and reliable 7-passenger SUV might just be your dream car. With a great engine, some a seriously bold and sporty aesthetic, and several features to make driving fun and convenient, it won’t take long for this car to impress you.
There are a few major changes for the ’21 Mazda CX-9 this year. The first is that the infotainment system gets a big update. Some features that were only available on higher trims are now available on lower trim levels as well. The highest trim level also gets several new features.
Pricing
The ’21 Mazda CX-9 offers drivers the choice of five trim levels. The base model is the Sport which starts at just $34,160 and provides you with the essentials. One step up from the base level is the Touring that goes for about $35,950. You’ve also got the Carbon Edition starting at $41,280.
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St. Louis, MO is a vibrant city located on the Mississippi River. Sometimes known as “The Gateway to the West”, the city is famous for the Gateway Arch monument and its many art festivals. This cultural hub is also home to a growing food scene and has some of the best frozen dessert spots in Missouri. If you enjoy top-class frozen treats, this is the place for you!
6 Sweet Spots for Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt in St. Louis, MO
1. Ices Plain and Fancy
It doesn’t get much cooler than the nitro-churned treats at this popular dessert spot. With gelato being mixed at temperatures of -321 degrees, you are sure to get silky-smooth ices that are perfect to balance out that summer heat. Their menu is constantly updated, and everything is made to order, so you can relax knowing these goodies are as fresh as they can get!
2. The Island Frozen Yogurt
If you want to enjoy some frozen yogurt in a relaxed and fun atmosphere, look no further than The Island. With frozen yogurt, smoothies, and even frozen alcoholic drinks there is something cold for every tastebud. If you do try one of their boozy beverages make sure to drink responsibly, enjoy in moderation, never drink and drive and remember, alcohol is intended for adults of legal drinking age.
3. Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
No list of frozen desserts in Missouri would be complete without mentioning the famous Ted Drewes Frozen Custard. Its frozen custard might be a little different from the usual iced treats, but this parlor draws huge crowds of eager sweet-seekers. A St. Louis staple, the Drewes family have been serving up their signature custard for 80 years and are loved for good reason. So, make your way to one of their walk-up windows and order a cup!
4. Tower Grove Creamery
Tower Grove Creamery stocks products from the popular Central Dairy, which is one of Missouri’s best-loved businesses for frozen desserts. Boasting a mixture of gluten-free, gluten-containing, and Alaskan flavors, this parlor is not one to miss. Grab a Bear Claw and check out some nearby tourist hotspots.
5. Clementine’s Naughty and Nice Creamery
This creamery has two types of delicious scoops, naughty (infused with alcohol) and nice (without alcohol) and both have proven to be big hits with tourists and locals alike. Using only the best natural ingredients, it’s easy to see why this has become a staple in the St. Louis snacking scene.
6. The Gelateria Coffee Company
If there’s one country that comes to mind when thinking of frozen desserts, it’s Italy and this company serves up the best of Italy right here in St. Louis. Delicious home-made gelato, freshly roasted coffee, and tasty pastries are just some of the goodies you can look forward to when visiting the Gelateria Coffee Company.
This city has a sweet spot to suit every taste and budget and with so many delicious options, the only thing left to figure out is how to get there! Stop by Bommarito Mazda South County and ask our award-winning customer service team to test drive a vehicle today.
Thank you for visiting the “Gateway to the West,” here in St. Louis, MO! We’ve got everything you could possibly want right in America’s heartland. And when you’re in the mood for some of the best Mexican food in the city, look no further than just around the corner. With so many to choose from, we’re happy to share a few of our favorites.
1. Lily’s
This family-run eatery serves fresh, traditional Mexican meals and margaritas in a cozy environment. You’ll often notice your servers wear a smile, which we appreciate. Everything is homemade, and the owner, Salvador, prides himself on making sure your meal is nothing short of exceptional. Great portions, good prices, and delicious meals await. Please remember to drink responsibly and in moderation. Do not drink and drive. Alcohol is for adults of legal drinking age only.
2. Mariachi’s II
For a quaint dining experience, visit this establishment. They serve typical dishes, such as burritos, enchiladas, and fajitas. Sip on a housemade margarita as you make your choice. We suggest the steak tacos, any of the burritos, and the nachos are perfect for sharing with your table as your tasty food is being prepared. Also, enjoy the housemade chips and salsa along with your meal. Tip—don’t fill up on those—you’ll want room for your yummy dish!
Top 4 Reasons Drivers Love the 2021 Mazda3
If you’re looking for a dependable car that still has plenty of sporty style and pizazz, then the 2021 Mazda3 is the choice for you. Drivers love the latest iteration of the Mazda3, which has a high-end luxury feel without the gigantic price tag to match. Plus, you get the choice between a sedan or a hatchback, whichever you prefer. Between the comfortable seating, impressive technology, and great amenities, Mazda has really outdone themselves this time.
1. Available Engine Options
The first reason why drivers love the brand-new Mazda3 is because of the three available engine options it comes with. The first level, which is the 2.0 sedan, has a 2.0L four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing (VVT). This gives you a quick and responsive 155-horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque.
The next level is the 2.0S sedan, which also has a four-cylinder but is paired with a 2.5L engine instead. If you really want to go fast, opt for the turbocharged engines, which are 2.5L with a thrilling 227-horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
2. Streamlined Exterior
Another great feature of the new Mazda3 is its streamlined exterior, which has a sporty, fun vibe whether you pick the sedan or the hatchback. You get super-bright LED headlights, an aggressive matte finish front grille, and 16-inch rims.
If you want even more flash and personality, upgrade to the signature LEDs, get the rear spoiler and a glossy-black front grille, and top it off with spectacular 18-inch alloy wheels with a dark black finish. The curves and swerves on this car give it a streamlined, ergonomic exterior and bold style, too.
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5 of the Best Pizza Joints in St. Louis, MO
The next time you’re craving pizza, you might settle for the average pies the big chain restaurants can serve you. Or you can get the best pizza around by stopping at any of the amazing pizzerias that made our list below. These spots serve up the tastiest slices that Saint Louis, MO has to offer, each one bringing their unique take on the classic dish. Check out any of these spots for a meal that won’t disappoint.
1. PW Pizza
A lot of the produce that goes into the creations PW Pizza comes up with are grown right in their urban farm and hydroponic greenhouse, giving you the freshest flavors imaginable. You’ll taste that freshness when you start your meal with a bowl of their Farmer’s Garden Soup. As for your pizza, we love the tangy BBQ taste of their Pulled Piggy pie, with melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork on top of it with gruyere cheese and caramelized onions.
2. Pizza Head
The NYC-style pies they serve up at Pizza Head give you the authentic flavors of the Big Apple right here in our city. They have different options for what flavors of pie they have available every day of the week, so you’ll be in for something fresh and new each time you visit. For those on a plant-based diet, or just looking to try something new, their Vegan Pepperoni pie tastes every bit as good as the original.
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