A Festive Thanksgiving Weekend

By Kathy Barnett: Managing Editor

From the bustling city of St. Louis to the serene beauty of the Ozark Mountains, this holiday journey promises a delightful blend of traditional festivities and extraordinary experiences.

Day 1: Thanks giving Day Extravaganza

Thanksgiving morning dawns with the enchantment of the St. Louis Thanks-ForGiving Day Parade, a vibrant spectacle of floats, music, and giant balloons that fill the streets with color and cheer. Afterward, relish a traditional Thanksgiving feast at a charming Missouri inn, where the warmth of hospitality meets the heartiness of home-cooked delights.

In the afternoon, wander amid the serene beauty of the Missouri Botanical Garden. Embrace the tranquility of nature and appreciate the seasonal blooms, an ideal prelude to the evening’s festivities. For dinner, elevate your dining experience at the St. Louis Gateway Transportation Center’s rooftop restaurant. Against the city’s glittering backdrop, savor exquisite cuisine, creating lasting memories on this special day.

As the holiday weekend begins, St. Louis welcomes you with open arms and a spirit of adventure. Dive headfirst into the extraordinary at the City Museum, a peculiar fusion of art installation, playground, and architectural marvel. Experience the Magic of the Season at City Museum’s Enchanting Holiday Event, Weirdly Wonderful Holidays

Step into a winter wonderland of joy and delight as City Museum transforms into a festive paradise from Thanksgiving through the entire month of December. From twinkling lights that illuminate the night to heartwarming encounters with Santa and his merry helpers, there’s something for everyone at our Holiday Event!

Dazzling Holiday Lighting: Be mesmerized by the breathtaking display of holiday lights that will adorn City Museum’s historic façade. Every evening, the museum comes alive with a captivating dance of lights, filling the air with the spirit of the season.

Warm up your winter with specialty cocktails at the cozy Yeti Bar. Step into a realm of frosty delights and savor the taste of the season at the Yeti Bar, a pop-up experience nestled within City Museum’s Weirdly Wonderful Holidays event. Embrace the chill and unwind in the company of friends and family while indulging in our exquisite range of specialty cocktails.

You can also step out onto the patio and roast some s’mores! Have your wishes heard by the man himself, Santa Claus! Bring your little ones to meet Santa to share their dreams and wishes. Santa’s jolly laughter and warm heart will make this a memory to cherish.

Gather ’round as Mrs. Claus spins heartwarming tales of holiday cheer and tradition. Her soothing voice and captivating stories will transport you to a world of magic and imagination, leaving you filled with the warmth of the season.

Weirdly Wonderful Holidays is a whole month of winter holiday fun! With larger-thanlife light displays outside on MonstroCity and throughout the museum, City Museum will be sure to dazzle all holiday visitors.

This event is included for Member Passholders and General Admission. A culinary odyssey awaits at lunch, where the smoky aroma of authentic St. Louis barbecue beckons. Indulge your taste buds with succulent ribs and other smoked delicacies, savoring the unique flavors of the region.

Day 3: Ozark Mountains Adventure

Venture southward to the Ozark Mountains, a picturesque three-hour drive from St. Louis. Explore the natural wonders of Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, a haven of waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic trails. Embark on a guided cave tour at Fantastic Caverns, a mesmerizing subterranean realm where history meets geology, providing a fascinating glimpse into the Earth’s depths.

A unique and exhilarating experience awaits as you soar above the Ozarks in a hot air balloon. Drifting serenely amidst the clouds, witness the landscape’s breathtaking beauty, creating an unforgettable moment that will forever be etched in your memory.

Day 4: Departure with Lasting Impressions

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely brunch at a local café, indulging in hearty breakfast delights before bidding farewell to the captivating Ozarks

As you leave Missouri behind, take with you not just souvenirs but a heart full of gratitude for the unique experiences and unusual adventures that made this Thanksgiving weekend extraordinary.

In Missouri, Thanksgiving transcends the traditional, embracing the extraordinary and the unconventional. It’s a celebration of not just the holiday but of the spirit of exploration and discovery, leaving travelers with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the remarkable surprises this charming state has to offer.