10. Schlafly Bottleworks - Schlafly proudly boasts (ok, more like tongue in cheek) that they are the second largest brewing company in St. Louis, but they are far from second best. Free tours are conducted at their factory in Maplewood, and people over 21 can sample 3 different types of their kraft beers, such as Hefeweizen, Pale Ale, and Oatmeal Stout, compared to the paltry two down the road. There's also a restaurant located on the premises, but the beer garden is the real attraction here. For more information go to www.schlafly.com

9. Grant's Farm - OK, so Grant's Farm isn't exactly overlooked, but more under appreciated. Whereas the Zoo often gets the most publicity, this sprawling animal reserve in suburban St. Louis will make you think you've walked out of the city and straight into the great plains. The tour includes a trip along a open air shuttle, which brings you incredibly close to free roaming buffalo, yak, deer and other gentle herbivores. There's also a petting zoo, and a larger zoo area with more exotic animals. At the end of the tour is a nice open air area where people can see the AB Clydesdales (AB is a major sponsor of the park) and receive two free samples of their beer (for those over 21). And did I mention it's almost free ($6 fee to park)?

8. Custard Station - Ted Drewes gets all the hype, while this little custard stand by the Kirkwood train station is the little store that could. Locals swear by it, and there's little wonder why. The custard (made with egg and not to be confused with ice cream or frozen yogurt) is fantastic, and the environment is top notch, located right in the heart of downtown Kirkwood. Plus, unlike Ted Drewes you won't be mobbed by thousands of teenagers if you go.

7. Pointer's Pizza - A hole in the wall if ever there was one, Pointer's Pizza is the pizza place the nearby college kids at Washington University swear by. It's New York Style at its finest (no provel cheese here), and you'd better come hungry: Pointer's serves up pizzas as large as 28 inches! There's also the Pointasaurus challenge, where if you and a friend can eat an entire 28 inch 2 meat topping pizza in one hour, you win $500 - though to this day no one has been able to win it. It's mostly a take out and delivery joint, as there's only 3 tables in the entire joint, but if you're looking for a great pizza at a good price, Pointer's is it.

6. The Moolah Theater - The days of the single screen movie theater may be long gone to some, but not to those who frequent the Moolah Theater in Midtown.  The Moolah is a converted Masonic Temple, and boasts one of the largest single screen movie theaters in the area.  You movie watching experience is complemented with concessions that include wine or beer, and high-backed chocolate leather couches to relax on.  And who says you can't have a romantic outing at the movies anymore?  For those looking to compliment their time at the theater, there is a cafe and a bowling alley on site on the lower levels.

5. The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra/Powell Hall - The St. Louis symphony is often neglected by local St. Louisans, and it's a shame.  The symphony is one of the best and most respected in the world, drawing big name conductors and performers alike.  In addition, they play in one of the nicest venues in the nation, at Powell Hall, a glorious early 20th century facility with remarkable acoustics.  If you're looking for a bit of culture and want something a bit different, check out the symphony.

4. The Jewel Box - Even though it's smack dab in the middle of Forest Park, the Jewel Box is often overlooked by visitors and locals alike who find themselves heading over to the equally impressive Botanical Gardens. However, for those who manage to stop by during the awkward opening hours (9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday), the Jewel Box is a magnificent treat. Built in 1936, the Jewel Box a gorgeous greenhouse, filled with beautiful flowers and potted trees, and a flowing waterfall. It's extremely popular with wedding parties, especially in the summer, so call ahead to make sure they're open (314-531-0080).

3. The Residences on Lindell Boulevard - Its hard to find a more visible stretch of gorgeous homes in the country than along Lindell Boulevard, from Skinker to Kingshighway along the western edge of the city. Beautiful turn of the century mansions front Lindell and Forest Park, making for one excellent view and front yard. While these homes are all private, people can walk along the sidewalk and snap pictures of homes incorporating Italianate, Second Empire, Romanesque, Gothic Revival, Queen Anne, and even Moderne architectural features. The whole walk from end to end takes about 30 minutes, ending at either the Central West End or Washington University, depending on where you start. However, none of these homes are as grand or spectacular as...

2. The Cathedral Basillica -Visible from Highway 64 and towering over Lindell Boulevard is the Cathedral Basilica. The Byzantine-styled Basilica boasts a gorgeous internal display of over 83,000 mosaic tiles, making it the largest display of mosaics in the world. The mosaic construction was so intricate that even though building construction was completed in 1912, the mosaics weren't done until 1988! Pope John Paul II also delivered a Mass here when he visited in 2001. Guided tours are provided for a dollar donation, though you can walk around on your own at no charge when Mass is not being held, and people of all faiths are welcome.

1. The International Bowling Hall of Fame and Museum - Located downtown across from Busch Stadium, the building is about as non-descript as the sport itself, but the Bowling Hall of Fame and Museum is most certainly worth a visit, no matter if you're in town for two days or ten. Most people laugh when they hear that bowling has a hall of fame, but it's no laughing matter. The facility boasts a wonderful educational element about the history of the game of bowling from its earliest conception, to the gambling problems and its prohibition, to the game we play today. It also includes the mens and womens hall of fame, but the painted portraits of the womens bowlers are the show stealer here. With admission comes four free frames of bowling, on your choice of automated or manual pin set lanes. Also attached is the more frequented Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum, and you can get a reduced admission if you attend both at the same time. Both are wonderful, if you have the time.

If you're hungry...

Arthur Clay's: At this small bistro-style restaurant, you can enjoy an ever-changing menu as well as upscale entrees. One thing I always enjoy about this place is the perfect-sized portions they serve...go home feeling satisfied, not stuffed full with a doggie bag in hand.

Monarch: My favorite restaurant in St. Louis. You have to try this one. Gourmet international cuisine, an amazing wine list, a superb staff - from the hostess to the chef to the bartender - and excellent tastes make it (I'll say it again) my absolute favorite restaurant in the city.

Maya Cafe: Pan-Latin restaurant serving dishes from Spain, Portugal, the Caribbean, Central and South America. They have a killer margarita, and even better sangria. Try this place out when it's warm and enjoy the patio - with a real tug boat and train caboose, it's something to see.

If you're thirsty...

Schlafly: St. Louis' very own microbrewery, stop here for a tour and a brew. Try the sampler platter - which will cover all of the standard greats like Pale Ale and American Lager, and will also include a seasonal variety - like a Raspberry Hefeweisen. Order an appetizer too, the food is as good as the beer.

Boogaloo: Another that boasts great food also (Cuban and Caribbean variety), but the bar is where the action's at. Instead of standard bar stoools, patrons sit on swings hoisted from the ceiling (don't worry, they are satefy strapped from underneath to the floor) while they sip a cocktail.

Schottzie's: Again, they cook up a damn good pizza...but enjoy this traditional St. Louis bar. Hit it up while the Cards are playing, and you're in for a treat with the crowd.

If you're bored...

Saratoga Lanes: If you don't know how to keep your bowling score with paper and pencil, you'll have to try out one of those new-fangled alleys with computers. If you're an old-schooler at heart, you'll just love Saratoga. The interior looks like it was installed in 1957 and hasn't been touched since. Bring cash, they don't even have credit card machines.

Elizabeth House: A European-style boutique, this feast for the eyes offers antiques, home accessories, decor and gifts. You'll walk in feeling like you're in a museum, and leave feeling like you left your mom's house. Owner Elizabeth Maxson is truly gifted at decorating, selecting products and making you feel at home.

Penzey's Spices: Not a traditional shopping stop, but I can't get enough of this truly unique spice shop. You can find anything from cardamom to pepper to epazote to garlic salt. And the best part is, you can purchase in small amounts - so if you only need a teaspoon for a new recipe, you won't be stuck with a whole jar to go bad in your pantry.

I hate to cut this list so short - because there are so many more great shops, restaurants and things to see...so you'll just have to stop in Maplewood to check them out for yourself!

Place: Maplewood, MO
Location: 10 minutes from downtown
Contact: www.cityofmaplewood.com or 314.645.3600

1.  St. Louis Union Station
Union Station is the former hub of St. Louis where 300 plus trains arrived and departed daily with thousands upon thousands of passengers.  The St. Louis Union Station is now inhabited by speciality stores, restaurants and the Hyatt Regency Hotel.  Built in the 1890s for $6.5 million dollars and then later restored in the 1980s for $150 million this is the jewel of St. Louis.  The Grand Hall of the Union Station is an amazing sight to behold so you do not want to miss this wonderful piece of history architecture.

2. Central West End
The Central West End begins at Euclid and McPherson Avenues to the Forest Park Parkway.  There are clothing shops, boutiques, antiques shops, coffeehouses and restaurants all along Euclid and branching off surrounding streets like Maryland.  It is a great place to stroll and its scenery is breathtaking with all of the historic homes and buildings. It is a definite must see!

3. Staint Louis Galleria
The newer of the 3 top shopping places in St. Louis is the St. Louis Galleria Mall.  It is west of the city area at the Intersection of I-64 and Brentwood Boulevard.  The Galleria has 180+ speciality stores including Macy's and Dillard's and restaurants like the Cheese Cake Factory and California Pizza Kitchen.  There's also a Regal Entertainment Movie Theatre and food court located on the lower level.  Also, right across Brentwood Blvd. is a mini-mall with more shops and fine dining.

Other Surrounding Area Malls:
Chesterfield Mall - I-64 & Clarkson
Crestwood Mall - Watson & Sappington Roads
Jamestown Mall - N. Lindbergh & Old Jamestown Road
Northwest Plaza - N. Lindbergh & St. Charles Rock Road
Plaza Frontenac - Lindbergh & Clayton Road
West County Mall - I-270 & Manchester Road
South County Mall - S. Lindbergh & Lemay Ferry Road
St. Louis Mills Mall - SR 370 & St. Louis Mills Blvd.

Mike Shannon's: If you've heard him on the radio, you know he's a good time. With a new location (as of Summer '06), Shannon's has amazing food, Anheuser Busch products, and a view right in the stadium. That view won't be around forever, if the city gets to their planned "Ballpark Village", so enjoy it now. It's a classic here, so you have to experience it.

Al Hrabosky's: Don't be fooled by the fact it looks like an auto body shop, this pre-fab building is a great time before or after a game. Grab a bucket of beer, socialize with the other game-goers, and check out the two-way mirror in the men's bathroom. Yes, you read that right. Along the wall where women wait in line for the restroom, is a large mirror, where the women primp and check themselves out, which looks directly into the men's urinal area. It's worth seeing, really.

Lefty's: It's small, cramped and usually crowded, but a true local joint to drink and carry on. Locally owned by my high school classmate's father, I have to say I've never had a bad time here. With a good mix of young and old, everyone's sure to leave happy.

Broadway Oyster Bar: You'll only have to walk a few seconds from Lefty's to get there, and it's a nice change of scenery. A little taste of St. Louis' French sister city, New Orleans, their patio is unparalleled. Grab a brew and enjoy the live music. Or you can hit this place up before the game for creole Cajun cuisine.

This list should probably do you in, since you'll have a few locally-brewed Bud Lights at the game...but feel free to check out any other places the crowd is heading.

Place: Busch Stadium
Location: Downtown St. Louis
Contact: 314.345.9600 or stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com

for lunch:

-Amighetti's: "Often Imitated, Never Duplicated" is their tagline, and it's the truth. The Amighetti Special--ham, Genoa salami, brick cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickle, onion, pepperoncini and special sauce--is amazing. All sandwiches are on the classic Amighetti bread, which has been made fresh daily since 1921. Also on the menu is cheese garlic bread, after you try this, you'll never be satisfied by any other CGB again.  

for dinner:

-Zia's: As you walk in to Zia's, it feels like a classic Italian restaurant...not too upscale and very homey...complete with photos of Italian families from the early 1900's. You won't be impressed by the tables, chairs or dining accessories (you'll actually feel like you're in a cafeteria) but once they bring out your food, you'll forget all about the room. Choose from traditionals like Pasta Con Broccoli or their famous original Chicken Spiedini, you'll be happy with anything you choose. While you're here, try Toasted Ravioli, St. Louis' claim to fame, for an appetizer.  

for goods:

-J. Viviano & Sons: John Viviano, Sr. arrived in St. Louis in 1926 and began work at the macaroni factory downtown. As the depression worsened, his factory work couldn't support his family, and he began to make bleach in his bathtub to sell to friends. His business grew to include cheese and other food products, and he eventually opened his store (the current location has been open since 1950). Here you'll find fresh meats, cheeses of all kinds, a variety of pastas, sauces, olive oils and much more. Be sure to take home a brick of Provel cheese, another St. Louis favorite.  

for treats:

-Missouri Baking Company: Who doesn't love a bakery? Better yet, who doesn't love a superb bakery? This locally owned and operated shop is the mecca for sweets. Naturally, their specialty is Italian favorites - tiramisu, cannoli, pizza shells, biscotti - but their cookies, cheesecake, and freshly baked bread will not dissappoint. My personal favorites? Chocolate Top Cookies and an 8" Round Cheesecake.  

for drinks:

-Rigazzi's: Home of the Fishbowl Beer, stop in Rigazzi's and you'll feel like you're at the corner bar in the neighborhood. It's a little tricky to find if you're not from the area, so make sure you googlemap it. Seat yourself and order up a locally brewed Bud Light - heck, have a couple and close down the house.  

Buon Appetito!

Place: The Hill
Location: 10 minutes southwest of downtown
Contact: 314-647-2042 (for tours) or stlouis.missouri.org/thehill

The St. Louis Cardinals Opening Day is a huge deal for this baseball town.  You will see a sea of red all over St. Louis and especially at the MetroLink Stations.  Since the MetroLink has been running in St. Louis, Cardinals fans have been taking advantage of the cheaper method of going to the game.  There is a station right next to the stadium which cuts the cost for fans tremendously with this alternative to expensive parking and traffic.

I look forward to another promising season for the St. Louis Cardinals.  As far back as I can remember the St. Louis Cardinals have been a part of my life.  My grandmother loved baseball and Jack Buck too.  Throughout my grandmother's life she listened to KMOX Cardinals Radio (for over 45 years) and watched her favorite team on television also.  I was glad to share some of that quality time with her!  Now the St. Louis Cards can be heard on The Big 550 AM KTRS and the World Series Champions play at the new Busch Stadiumthis Sunday for the Home Opener.  I had been to many games at the old stadium and had an equally wonderful time at the new stadium last year.  At the new Busch Stadium I sat right behind first plate and I could actually see the players up close and personal.

The St. Louis Cardinals Home Opener will be great on Sunday from the tube or the stadium.  But if you have a chance to go to the game physically by all means go!  The new view of downtown St. Louis from Busch Stadium is phenomenal and there is fun for the whole family within the stadium too!

Well, this weekend, I finally got my chance to try it out. Located next door to Hank's Cheesecake, this small-but-quaint eatery is decorated with grapevines, gauze-draped lamps and mood lighting, creating a celestial ambience for diners. After sitting down to a white-linen-covered table, our waitress took our order for a bottle of wine, and listed their off-the-menu specials for the night. The menu itself changes seasonally, to ensure the best picks possible. 

I enjoyed scallops with root vegetable couscous (I had no idea what to expect of this, but it was amazing), and my dining companions tasted the fish special - a Hawaiian wahloo - the creamiest white fish I've ever had, and the pork tenderloin. All entrees were complete with something a little different to spice it up: wahloo with coconut lime sauce, tenderloin with a carmelized apple potato cake, scallops with citrus-watercress vinaigrette. Don't worry though, if you are unsure of anything listed, the knowledged wait staff will explain...or if you need more help, the chef himself, Stephen Gontram, will come out to give you details.

Now for dessert. This being a birthday dinner, we decided to get four desserts so everyone at the table could enjoy and sample a variety. I chose creme brulee, one of my favorites, that they offered with white chocolate flavoring. We also ordered their famous bread pudding with currant sauce, which deserves all of the rave it gets. Not to be forgotten were the exceptional spicy carrot cake with cream cheese fondue and ginger ice cream, and flourless chocolate cake with strawberry sorbet. There wasn't a crumb left on the table.

If you are looking for the perfect place for a romantic dinner for two, a special night for a larger group or just great food for any number of people, Harvest will definitely meet all of your expectations.

Place: Harvest
Location: 5 minutes west of downtown
Contact: 314.645.3522 or harveststlouis.com

for eats:
-Brandt's Cafe: if you like good food, you'll like Brandt's. if you like jazz and good food, you really like Brandt's. if you like good service, jazz and good food, you'll LOVE Brandt's. a top-notch restaurant and wine bar, this place brags the "Best Spinach Artichoke Dip" in St. Louis, and boy, do they mean it. enjoy a light appetizer, a full meal or just a drink while you listen to some jazz favorites (check their site for scheduled live performers).

for live music:
-The Pageant: established by our own Joe Edwards, this mid-size venue is a hip, quirky place to catch your favorite group. purchase reserved seats or--my personal choice--general admission, get there a bit early to snag a first-come-first-serve chair, and enjoy a drink before the show. you can also hit halo bar, located inside the club, for a different scene.

for entertainment:
-Pin-Up Bowl: an urban twist on an old-school bowling alley, this place won architectural awards for its design. sip a martini while you sport your stylish rented bowling shoes, and be sure to check out the restrooms in between frames. you've never seen cleaner potties at a bowling alley.

for drinks:
-Cicero's: also boasts live music in a somewhat sketchy "back room", but their bar outdoes any i've seen. brews from belgium, scotland, greece, holland, and even lithuania on tap, you could spend all day sampling their 30+ styles of beer. when a band is playing, it can be pretty loud, so save your intimate conversations for somewhere else.

for goods:
-Rag-o-rama: it's just a resale shop, but for some reason you can find the coolest items in this shop. much larger than any resale shop i've ever visited, you can find shoes, bags, tops, jeans - and even a costume or two if you're looking for one! fun to look even if you don't buy.

there's much much more to the loop than just these places, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to browse, dine and enjoy.

Place: University City - The Loop
Location: 15 minutes west of downtown
Contact: 314.727.8000 or ucityloop.com

The NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Midwest Regional Championship will have 2 semi-final games held on Friday and the regional final will convene on Sunday.  The Sunday game is crucial because the winner of that game advances to the Final Four which will be held in Atlanta, GA.  I had the pleasure of attending the Championship last year in St. Louis and you will want to be sure that you get to everything a little early.  Don't miss these games!  I had a great time and there is fun for the whole family!!  And just so you know there are many downtown hotels that you can book for this event.

There is a Hampton Inn on Market Street and also one on Washington in downtown St. Louis that are great places to stay and very close to the NCCA Midwest Regional Championship event.  Also, there are the Hilton, Residence Inn, Millennium, Westin St. Louis, Drury Plaza, and the Adam's Mark Hotels in the downtown area.  There are many accommodations near the St. Louis Lambert Airport and in the rest of the St. Louis Metro Area that are excellent places to rest your weary head as well!! 

I am sure that you'll want to visit the local restaurants all weekend and the area attractions on Saturday when the players take a break from the March Madness!!  Check out Union Station on Market Street which is loaded with shops and eateries or go for a stroll in nearby Forest Park and the St. Louis Zoo.  Enjoy the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship and explore St. Louis!!