• Travel

    BEST Things to Do in St. Louis, Missouri

    Below is everything you need to know to make the most out of your time in STL!

    Contents of this blog post:

    • Youtube Video
    • Places to Eat
    • Things to Do
    • Ultimate St. Louis Checklist
    • Photo Ideas
    • Pin it for later

    CHECK OUT MY VIDEO RECAP:


    Best Places to Eat:

    1. Foundry Bakery

    Foundry Bakery offers a mix of traditional Taiwanese baked goods and Taiwanese-inspired products with a unique twist. Like their Portuguese-style egg tart, a treat popular in Taiwan. If you are looking to try something new, Foundry Bakery is the perfect place to go! On my first trip there, I was unsure of what to get and the employees were quick to help give recommendations and advice to a first-time visitor.

    2. Three Sixty – Rooftop

    Three sixty is one of my favorite places to eat in St. Louis! It is located on top of the Hilton hotel and it has amazing food and drinks as well as – you guessed it – 360 degree views of the city from above. We went as soon as they opened at 4PM so that we would be there for sunset and so we could have first dibs on seating! It is 100% seat yourself and you can sit anywhere unless the area is reserved. We were even able to sit in our own private patio because it was empty.

    3. Crushed Red

    We visited Crushed Red due to the great things we read about it online. Although they are most well known for their amazing salads, Crushed Red also has many customizable and healthy options perfect for any type of diet.

    4. La Bonne Bouchée

    La Bonne Bouchée, is an authentic French patisserie in Creve Coeur. They have so many amazing pastries with unique flavors that I have never seen anywhere else! With lots of indoor seating and dine-in or takeout options, you can make your trip short and sweet or sit and stay a while!

    5. Fratelli’s Ristorante

    Fratelli’s was a great spot for dinner! The menu includes Italian comforts crafted in small batches, & served in a rustic and cozy atmosphere. They also have an extensive wine list and a full-service bar. I got a special cocktail with lemon sorbet and mint with champagne poured over it!

    6. The Food Hall at City Foundry

    City Foundry Food Hall brings chefs from around the city and the region together for their biggest and most unique food ideas. Anything you want- the Food Hall’s got it. Pick from quick snacks or a gourmet meal. It is also a great place to grab a drink with a friend or dessert on the go. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert, you’ll find food to do the trick!

    7. The Soda Fountain

    The St. Louis Union Station Soda Fountain is a great place to stop by when you’re at Union Station! They have sweets, treats, and eats for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to try the massive milkshakes!

    8. Westport Social

    One of the best places for night or day drinks! They offer handcrafted cocktails as well as great food and to top it all off, you are surrounded by games from shuffleboard to basketball to ping pong to bocce ball. Live music is also an amazing feature of Westport social, but don’t worry the band isn’t there, you can sing in the karaoke suite. This is by far one of the best places to watch the game on tv or play a game!

    9. Picasso’s Coffee

    Picasso’s Coffee is a locally owned coffeehouse that has amazing coffee and two locations in the St. Louis area. There is a Main Street location, in historic St. Charles, Missouri or at The Streets of St. Charles on Beale Street.

    10. Mama’s on the Hill

    The hill is St. Louis’ historic Italian neighborhood and one of the biggest landmarks, Mamas on the hill, is certainly worth visiting. They have amazing Italian food and wines and it is the birthplace of STL famous toasted ravioli!

    11. Moonrise Hotel Eclipse Restaurant and Twilight Room Rooftop Bar

    Moonrise hotel eclipse restaurant and twilight room rooftop bar are definitely worth visiting if you are in the area. The moon on top of the boutique hotel initially drew us in and we decided to have some drinks at the rooftop bar after dinner and we were not disappointed.

    12. Blueberry Hill

    Blueberry hill is a St. Louis landmark where music history gets made. Walking around you will see all the photos of the great musicians that have been to Blueberry hill as well as tons of pop culture memorabilia. The jukebox inside had also been named the #1 jukebox in the world, oh and the food was great too!

    13. Clementine’s Ice Cream

    For some of the most unique ice cream flavors, stop by Clementines. With both alcoholic and non-alcoholic ice cream as well as many vegan/dairy free options, there is something for everyone. Try the lavender ice cream in the lavender cone!

    14. St. Louis Bread Co.

    You might be thinking “wait isn’t that just Panera Bread?” and you would be right! Panera Bread is originally from St. Louis so be sure to try the original while you’re in St. Louis!


    Places to Experience

    1. The Gateway Arch

    The gateway Arch is a must-see attraction when visiting St. Louis! Be sure to buy your tickets to the tram ride to the top online before visiting since they typically sell out fast the day of. If you do not want to ride a tram to the top of the arch, there is an entire museum about the history of the arch as well as a gift shop and a cafe. If you do go to the top of the arch, you will ride up for about 4 minutes in a tram and then you will get to the top to see the view of St. Louis and the Mississippi River from 630 feet in the air!

    The best place to park Is the garage that says arch parking across from ballpark village on the corner!

    2. Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House

    The Sophia M Zach’s butterfly house is a great activity! This is an exciting and educational space with over 60 species of butterflies  and 100 species of tropical plants within the indoor enclosure. There are also interactive activities for children of all ages.

    3. Ballpark Village

    Ballpark village, located in downtown St. Louis, it is your one stop shop for all things cardinals baseball. With several restaurants and bars that have both indoor and outdoor seating as well as the cardinals hall of fame, there is fun for everyone. You can even watch a cardinals game from the rooftop of cardinals nation or Budweiser Brew House and feel like you are watching from the stadium. But if you really want the best view, head into Busch stadium and sit behind home plate! No matter how high up , you’re guaranteed to have a great view of the gateway arch and the skyline behind the outfield!

    4. Grant’s Farm

    Grants farm is an amazing hidden gem that you do not want to miss! After paying the $18 admission price to park, you will get on the tram where you will pass the free roaming animals such as zebra, water buffalo, and longhorns and you will arrive at the petting zoo! There is an area where you can give milk to goats for an added cost or just pet them! On top of that there is camel riding, a parakeet experience, cow milking demonstration – and for those 21 and older, you can get 2 free samples of Anheuser-Busch beer or seltzers while relaxing in the German inspired beer garden or looking at Anheuser Busch memorabilia. To end your trip to Grant’s farm, check out the stables by the exit of the parking lot to get up close and personal with the Budweiser clydesdales you may have seen in commercials!

    5. Anheuser-Busch Brewery

    Anheuser-Busch Brewery is a can’t miss destination when visiting St. Louis, regardless of whether or not you enjoy their products such as Budweiser, Stella Artois, or shock top. The brewery tour is a great opportunity to marvel at the 1850s architecture, enjoy the history, get educated about the brewing process, or even meet the world famous Budweiser clydesdales. The perfect way to end a visit to the anheuser Busch brewery is by heading to the brewhouse with your free sample – from your tour of course and grabbing an amazing meal.

    6. Laumier Sculpture Park

    A great activity for a sunny day is a visit to the Laumeier sculpture park with nearly 70 unique larger than life sculptures which is open daily and pet friendly.

    7. St. Louis Aquarium

    The aquarium is the perfect activity for visitors of all ages. With many interactive exhibits and different types of animals, we spent hours in the aquarium and enjoyed learning new things.

    8. Union Station

    One great place to stop during your time in St. Louis is Union station! Not only does union station have a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and a min golf course but they also have the St. Louis aquarium.

    9. St. Louis Zoo

    The Free St. Louis Zoo is a can’t miss! Yes, that is right, it is free to enter the zoo! Also, here is a quick money saving tip: park at forest park for free and walk over to the zoo to save on the $15 parking to spend on other goodies inside the zoo such as piña coladas served in a pineapple!

    10. Forest Park

    If you are in the mood for some fresh air, forest park is an amazing place to go! Forest park is 1300 acres and has a natural playground, walking paths and they also have bikes, canoes, kayaks and more to rent!


    Bonus spots not to miss!

    • Meramec Caverns
    • The Missouri Botanical Gardens
    • City Museum

    Click here for a list of events happening in St. Louis!

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  • Travel

    Guide to a Perfect Weekend in Helen, Georgia

    Where to Shop, Eat, and Stay in Helen, GA!

    Below is a list of the best places to shop, eat, stay, and other can’t miss places in Helen!

    Prior to visiting Helen, I scoured the internet for the best places to go in Helen during the wintertime. I visited even more places than I originally intended (and even found some hidden gems) and I can’t wait to share my favorite places in Helen with you! I also have included a Helen Checklist to use during your time there as well as an option for a budget friendly cabin!


    Contents of this blog post:


    Places to Eat

    1. Old Heidelberg German Restaurant & Pub

    Eating dinner at The Heidelberg was one of the highlights of our trip! We sat on the balcony and ate bratwurst while enjoying the live music and the view of the town’s lights and King Ludwig’s Beer Garden! The food was delicious and the atmosphere was unbeatable.

    2. Hofer’s Bakery and Café

    We enjoyed Hofer’s for lunch. We split the Chicken Schnitzel Delight and were not disappointed! Hofer’s is perfect for when you are in the mood for authentic German food. In addition, they had a gift shop area that had candy and magazines from Germany, as well as pastries and beer on tap! There was also an outdoor seating area to enjoy.

    3. Mueller’s Fried Cheese Cafe

    One of the most unique restaurants in Helen is Mueller’s. They have a variety of options of German food in addition to those involving fried cheese. We were skeptical at first but we really enjoyed our meal. I recommend ordering from the “just something small” section on the menu! We split Mueller’s Famous Cheddar Appetizer and it was delicious.

    4. The Troll Tavern and Restaurant

    Perfect for outdoor dining right on the water! The pretzel was delicious and they had a large selection of German beer.

    5. Cowboys and Angels

    Although I did not eat at Cowboys and Angels, I have heard nothing but good things about it from friends who have visited before. They offer amazing steaks and a great drink selection.

    6. Village Crepe Haus

    One of Helen’s can’t-miss breakfast spots! Whether you’re in the mood for eating or drinking, you can’t beat their crepes or mimosas!

    7. Paul’s on the River

    One of the more high-end options offered in Helen is Paul’s. It is perfect for enjoying a steak with a view of the water and you can enjoy live music on the weekends! Bonus: check out their margarita deck!

    8. Cimmi’s Courtyard Café

    One of the highest-rated restaurants in Helen with a beautiful outdoor seating area. Perfect for enjoying breakfast or lunch on a sunny day!


    Places To Drink

    It’s no secret that Helen is known for Oktoberfest so I figured I should round up some of the best places to drink. From coffee to beer to glühwein (German hot mulled wine) these are some can’t miss spots!

    1. King Ludwig’s Beer Garden

    Perfect spot located in the heart of town! In the courtyard next to the Old Heidelberg German Restaurant & Pub there are many tables within the outdoor beer garden to enjoy beer, glühwein, or even coffee! People under 21 allowed before 8PM and dogs allowed all night!

    2. Yonah Coffee Company

    For some of the most unique latte flavors in town and small breakfast bites, head to Yonah Coffee Company! I recommend the toasted marshmallow (create your own) latte!

    3. Habersham Winery

    Located about 15 minutes outside of Helen, The Habersham Winery offers outdoor and indoor wine tasting as well as wine slushies and a gift shop.


    Places to Shop

    1. Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen

    Drawn in by the caramel apples displayed in the window, we had to check out the Hansel and Gretel Candy kitchen! They have a wide-ranging selection including beer brittle, many types of fudge, as well as chocolate or caramel covered cherries, apples, and pears! A great candy store for those looking to try something new!

    2. Betty’s Country Store

    Betty’s offers an outdoor eating/drinking area with German beer on tap as well as everything you could possibly need inside. Decorated with antique appliances, Betty’s shelves are full of all types of groceries, specialty beer, wine, and cookies as big as your head!

    3. Tim’s Wooden Toys

    From wooden toys to custom wooden ornaments (for only $10) this store is definitely a great stop for those traveling with or without kids. I mean, when is the last time you saw handmade wooden toys? I love getting an ornament from every place I travel, and getting it customized was an added bonus!

    4. The Village Peddler

    For some casual shopping for cute clothes, handmade candles, unique quilts, and more head to The Village Peddler right next to Betty’s. Bonus: they had an outdoor seating area (perfect for exhausted boyfriends or kiddos)!

    5. The Glass Blowing Shop

    An amazing glass blowing shop with live demonstrations! There was even the option to have a glass piece customized. They sold grab bags at varying prices (starting at $2) that had mystery glassblown pieces inside!

    6. Kopper Kettle Fudge Shop

    Stopping in Kopper Kettle was a great way to end the day! We indulged in milk chocolate eggnog truffles as well as chocolate-covered strawberries.

    7. Windmill Dutch Imports

    Head to Windmill Dutch Imports for authentic Dutch souvenirs!

    8. The Wildewood Shop

    An outdoor shop with a wide variety of local goods to browse!


    Places Not to Miss

    1. Babyland General Hospital

    About 15 minutes outside of Helen is Babyland General Hospital. I’ll admit, the name threw me off but I loved reading about the history of Cabbage Patch Kids and lookinh around at the displays. Babyland is where the Cabbage Patch Kids are “born” and is fun for visitors of all ages. Bonus: Babyland has free admission.

    2. Georgia Mountain Coaster

    The coaster is $16 per person and two people can ride together as long as their combined weight is under 350 lbs. Even if you don’t want to ride the self-controlled coaster I would still recommend heading up the steps for the amazing views of downtown Helen. You control the coaster’s brakes with levers while you travel through the forest of Helen.

    3. Charlemagne’s Kingdom

    A miniature mountain town with every scene you could imagine including bungee jumping, a swimming pool, a horseracing track, a gondola, and mini windmills!

    4. Nora Mill Granary

    The Nora Mill Granary makes their own grits and sells many other local goods!

    5. Alpine Wedding Chapel

    An interesting spot and if nothing else, a fun photo-op for couples!

    6. Nacoochee Village Antique Mall

    Antique lovers, head over to the Nacoochee Antique Mall for every antique you could ever imagine! They have postcards from the 60s, steins with different themes, old fashion prints, as well as old soda bottles, and much much more!


    Where We Stayed

    We found the cutest (and very affordable) cabin on the water! It was the perfect location and we walked to everything! We stayed at Riverbend Hotel and Cabins and it was great. We were able to check in early and loved drinking our morning coffee on the back porch while watching the water flow by. Watching Christmas movies next to the fire (on the futon) was an awesome way to end our nights. Having a futon downstairs and a king bed upstairs made this cabin great for either two couples or a family! Two cabins are connected by stairs so if you are traveling with another group this is also a great option with a lot of privacy from the cabin next to you!

    Sophia’s Ultimate Helen Checklist:

    Tip: save this list to your phone or Pinterest Board and check off the boxes during your trip to Helen!

    Disclaimer: All opinions are mine and none of these messages were sponsored.

  • Welcome

    Welcome to my Blog!

    Welcome to Souphia.com! I’m glad you’re here!

    I just wanted to start out by introducing myself. My name is Sophia and I am a junior at Clemson University.

    I have been navigating life as a twentysomething during the COVID-19 pandemic and the main lesson I learned is that life can change in the blink of an eye. This is why I am starting my blog now.

    I have wanted to make a blog ever since I could remember and I decided this was my year. As soon as finals week ended for my fall semester, I opened up my laptop and started designing my blog and I am not looking back!

    Check out my About Me page to learn more about who I am and what I am passionate about!

    I can’t wait to start this journey with you!