St. Louis Christmas Spectacular Tour

A Festive Walk Through St. Louis: The Christmas Spectacular Tour

If you’re looking for a holiday outing that combines sightseeing with the warm glow of Christmas cheer, the St. Louis Christmas Spectacular Tour offers a neat way to see some of the city’s most iconic sites decorated for the season. For around $258 per person, this roughly 2-hour guided walk takes you through a selection of the city’s most photogenic and festive landmarks, from historic architecture to lively holiday markets. The tour is designed to be a fun, easy way to soak in the season without the hassle of planning—especially if you’re pressed for time or simply want a taste of St. Louis during its most festive period.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to see the city’s key sights beautifully adorned with holiday lights and decorations—no need to hunt down the best spots yourself. Plus, the stops at places like the Old Post Office Plaza and City Hall provide genuine local flavor, blending historic architecture with lively seasonal markets. The tour’s duration is just enough to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed, making it a practical choice for families, couples, or even solo travelers eager to get into the holiday spirit.

However, a word of caution: some reviews suggest that the experience might not always meet expectations, especially regarding the authenticity of the Christmas theme. One reviewer noted, “This was not a Christmas Tour and we were overcharged,” highlighting the importance of clear communication about what’s included. If you’re expecting a truly Christmas-focused experience, it might be worth checking in with the provider beforehand.

This tour suits those who want a quick, scenic, and festive overview of downtown St. Louis, especially if you enjoy holiday lights, architecture, and local markets rather than formal performances or detailed historical insights.

Key Points

• Iconic Landmarks: The tour covers major sites like the Wainwright State Office Building and City Hall, offering memorable photo opportunities.
• Festive Atmosphere: Seasonal decorations, lights, and markets create a lively holiday ambiance.
• Accessible and Convenient: With a 2-hour duration and a private group setting, it’s easy to include in a busy holiday schedule.
• Free Admission Stops: Most sites, including the Old Post Office Plaza and Poelker Park, are free to visit, making this a budget-friendly option.
• Limited Inside Access: Expect mostly exterior views; the tour doesn’t include inside visits or performances.
• Mixed Reviews: While some travelers appreciate the views and markets, others share concerns about the tour’s authenticity or value.

A Closer Look at the St. Louis Christmas Spectacular Tour

Starting Point: Wainwright State Office Building

We begin at the Wainwright State Office Building, a marvel of early steel-frame construction and a true architectural landmark. Its impressive façade is already dressed up for the holidays, and it’s a striking way to kick off your holiday stroll. As the first stop, it sets the tone with its historic significance and visual appeal. You’ll appreciate the brief 10-minute visit, which provides just enough time to admire the building’s impressive structure and perhaps snap a few photos.

This site is accessible and free to the public, making it an easy start to your holiday walk. Its design and historical importance remind us that St. Louis has long been a city of innovative architecture and engineering—something to keep in mind as you admire its festive decorations.

Old Post Office Plaza

Next, you’ll be taken to the Old Post Office Plaza, a true urban oasis that has transformed from a parking lot into a lively holiday hub. Here, the buzz of seasonal activity is palpable with Christmas markets, entertainment, and shoppers browsing holiday crafts and gifts. The 25-minute stop offers a chance to soak up the cheerful atmosphere, browse local vendors, and perhaps pick up a holiday gift or two.

One reviewer remarked, “A Christmas market is held at this location for you to stop and shop,” which captures the essence of what makes this spot special during the holiday season. It’s a great place to enjoy the sights and sounds of local vendors, but keep in mind that the market’s offerings can vary from year to year.

Poelker Park

The tour then heads to Poelker Park, one of six parks in the city. During the holiday season, the park is transformed into a glittering display of lights with the giant Christmas tree illuminating the space. The 25-minute stop allows visitors to take photos, enjoy the festive ambiance, and marvel at the twinkling lights. It’s a simple but stunning scene that captures the essence of a community coming together to celebrate the season.

The park also offers various activities, though the specifics aren’t detailed, so you might find yourself simply enjoying the view and the crisp winter air. It’s a quiet contrast to the bustling market, providing a peaceful spot to absorb the holiday spirit.

Stifel Theatre

From the parks to the Stifel Theatre, the exterior is a sight to behold, especially during the holidays when it’s often decorated festively. Though you won’t be attending a performance, the outside view combined with a small pop-up Christmas market makes this a lively, visually appealing stop. The 10-minute visit is short but sweet, giving you a chance to appreciate this historic venue.

For those interested in the arts, the theatre’s classical architecture and its role as a cultural hub add a layer of local character. The market outside offers holiday treats, crafts, and souvenirs—perfect for a quick browse.

End at St. Louis City Hall

The final stop is City Hall, another historic building finished in 1904, with its marble and gold trim beautifully decorated for Christmas. The 26-minute visit gives ample time to take in the impressive holiday lights display, one of the most photogenic scenes of the tour. It’s a fitting conclusion, as City Hall is an instantly recognizable symbol of downtown St. Louis.

This part of the tour provides a chance for some last-minute photos and reflection on the city’s holiday decorations. The building’s grandeur and festive display encapsulate the tour’s spirit of combining history, architecture, and seasonal cheer.

What the Tour Means for You

This experience is best suited for visitors who want a quick, curated glimpse of downtown St. Louis during the holiday season. The stops are carefully chosen for their visual appeal and local significance, making it ideal for those who enjoy festive architecture, markets, and lights without the commitment of longer visits or inside tours. If you’re traveling with family, a partner, or even solo and want a manageable way to enjoy holiday sights, this is a solid option.

However, be aware that the tour doesn’t include inside performances or detailed historical commentary—the focus is on exterior views and festive atmospheres. The reviews highlight some dissatisfaction, particularly regarding the authenticity of the Christmas theme, so managing expectations is wise.

Final Thoughts

The St. Louis Christmas Spectacular Tour offers a picturesque, if somewhat brief, window into the holiday spirit of a city that takes pride in its architecture and community celebrations. For the price, you gain a guided experience that covers the highlights of downtown decorated for the season, complemented by festive markets and stunning lights.

If you’re in St. Louis during December and want a straightforward way to enjoy the city’s holiday decorations without hassle, this tour can be a good choice. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate architecture, outdoor markets, and light displays but aren’t expecting a deeply immersive Christmas experience.

While the value depends on your expectations—some travelers find the views and markets delightful, others wish it was more themed or included inside experiences—it remains a practical, family-friendly holiday outing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s short duration and outdoor stops make it suitable for families, especially those who enjoy holiday lights, markets, and outdoor sightseeing.

Does the tour include inside visits or performances?
No, this tour mainly features exterior views of landmarks and seasonal markets. It does not include inside visits or performances.

Can I participate if I don’t have a lot of time?
Absolutely. The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable option for a quick holiday highlight.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point at Wainwright State Office Building is near public transit options, making it easy to access without a car.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, and a camera are recommended to fully enjoy the outdoor sights and photo opportunities.

What’s the cost, and is it worth it?
At $257.89 per person, it’s a fair price for a guided tour covering key downtown sights during the holidays. Its value depends on how much you enjoy outdoor decorations, markets, and festive views—many find it a charming, easy way to get into the holiday mood.

This tour offers a light yet charming way to experience St. Louis during the holidays, blending history, architecture, and seasonal joy. Whether you’re after picturesque lights, lively markets, or just want to soak in the festive atmosphere, it makes for a cheerful and convenient outing during your city visit.