Store Your Luggage Around St. Louis With Bounce

There’s always a complex story behind the names of United States cities. St. Louis, Missouri borrows its name from Louis IX - the only French King to ever be considered a Saint by the Catholic Church. Earning recognition is no small feat; a person must be pious, philanthropic, and kind to others regardless of one’s social standing. These traits weren’t exactly associated with many of France’s old rulers - just look to Marie Antoinette or Louis XVIII for proof. Nevertheless, Louis IX inspired millions of people during his reign. Centuries later, Auguste Chouteau and Pierre Laclède would travel to a distant land called North America, establish a city in 1764, and name it after Saint Louis the IX. 

St. Louis’ history only becomes much more complicated over the years. Suffice it to say that many major historical events occurred before the city became what it is today. Now, St. Louis is a popular tourist destination, a pivotal sports and entertainment hub, and a key historical center. What St. Louis is, and what the city has to offer, has to be seen to be fully appreciated. By the time you’ve finished visiting St. Louis, you’ll see why people call this city “the Gateway to the West.”

Back in the day, St. Louis nearly had 1 million residents. However, the city’s population gradually declined as the years went on. By 2019, St. Louis’ population has shrunk to around 300,000 or so permanent residents. However, the massive influx of tourists that visit each year more than make up for that decline. Visitors mainly come around when the St. Louis Cardinals are playing. During times like those, guests should use Bounce to store their things. The city and the stadium where the Cardinals play will be busy and crowded. It is much nicer to move around hands-free and lightened of baggage burdens.

Sports are really big in St. Louis, particularly baseball and football. The St. Louis Cardinals have fans all around the world who come in droves to see them play. However, football teams like Chelsea and Manchester City also frequent the city. Whenever they come to town, Busch Stadium is where they get active. Actually, Busch Stadium isn’t only frequented by baseball and football players; bands like Metallica and artists like Paul McCartney hold concerts there all the time. St. Louis also has a bevy of amazing landmarks to visit, a la the world-famous Gateway Arch. Case in point, there are plenty of things to do in “the Lou.”

Naturally, St. Louis houses more than a few sports museums; the Cardinals Hall of Fame alone gets a lot of traction each year. However, the Lou also houses several music-themed museums and at least one National Landmark that’s been featured in tons of shows and movies.

Cardinals Hall of Fame: The Cardinals Hall of Fame is housed within Busch Stadium’s Ballpark Village. Visitors can find tributes to some of the Cardinals’ all-time greats: Stan Musial, Bob Gibson, Ozzie Smith, and many, many more.

The Gateway Arch: You can’t really talk about St. Louis without discussing the Gateway Arch. This fantastic landmark was built in 1965 after an arduous, two-year-long construction phase. Guests can access this monument via the Gateway Arch National Park. However, visitors should Bounce away their baggage before they stop by.

World Chess Hall of Fame: St. Louis isn’t just the home of many great baseball players. Several Chess champions also hail from the Lou. That’s why the World Chess Hall of Fame was relocated to St. Louis in 2011. Guests are welcome to visit this intriguing space most days of the week.

St. Louis’ shopping scene is very robust and distinct. Sure, the city has its fair share of malls and shopping centers. But St. Louis also has a smorgasbord of family-owned shops and boutiques. These sorts of places are some of the best places to find nifty souvenirs.

Dictate Never Accept: Dictate Never Accept, more commonly known as DNA, is a family-owned business that recently opened in 2012. DNA sells items designed by smaller, up and coming brands as well as larger, well known brands. DNA has style, great prices, and a great motto. Check it out!

Grooming Lounge: The Grooming Lounge is the one-stop shop for men’s grooming supplies and clothes. A fella can buy a slick pair of loafers here after getting a haircut. The Grooming Lounge features an impressive stock of colognes, hair care products, and clothes.

Saint Louis Galleria: Mallrats rejoice - the Saint Louis Galleria has arrived. Actually, it’s been a popular shopping center since 1984. The Galleria has only aged like fine wine over the years; new stores are continually opening at the Galleria. Dillard’s, Macy’s, and Nordstrom’s are the Galleria’s anchor stores, however.

There’s nothing like American Midwestern cuisine; between Beer Brats, Chicago-Style hot dogs, and Cincinnati Chili, Midwestern dishes are varied and delicious. St. Louis has plenty of fantastic restaurants that serve everything from Midwestern dishes to Italian food and more.

Salt + Smoke: As the name implies, Salt + Smoke is a St. Louis barbeque restaurant. Steaks, barbecued chicken, and baby back ribs are on the menu. Don’t sleep on Salt + Smoke’s sides and desserts either. 

Sardella: Sardella offers a Midwestern take on the Italian cafe experience. Ravioli, Eggs Benedict, and Parmesan Aioli are some of Sardella’s best dishes. This restaurant also serves brunch all day! 

Vicia: Vicia’s menu is not only fresh and exciting, but it’s also very eco-friendly. A big part of Vicia’s mission is promoting “sustainably raised meats.” The care that’s been put into every meal is truly what makes this restaurant stand out.

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Your Ultimate Guide to Mardi Gras St Louis 2024

St. Louis Mardi Gras beckons! Known for its vibrant energy and colorful festivities, Mardi Gras in St. Louis is an experience not to be missed. The celebration takes place in Soulard, a famous neighborhood with a French name that translates to 'drunkard'. As an insider, this guide provides all the essential information and tips to ensure a memorable time in Gateway City.

Mardi Gras St Louis 2024, a week-long celebration from February 6th to February 13th, is a fusion of history, culture, and revelry. St. Louis, MO, affectionately known as the "Gateway to the West," transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and flavors during this time. The city, rich in history and culture, offers a unique Midwestern twist to the traditional Mardi Gras festivities.

Why Mardi Gras 2024 in St. Louis is Worthwhile

The Mardi Gras Soulard in Saint Louis is the second-largest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States after New Orleans, making it a must-visit event. The festival is a melting pot of traditions, with a parade featuring vibrant floats, masked participants, and a premium open bar that keeps the spirits high. The atmosphere is electric, filled with laughter, and music.

The Bud Light Grand Parade, a highlight of the Soulard Mardi Gras season and one of the largest parades kicks off at Busch Stadium. The heart of the action winds its way through Downtown South and Soulard, culminating at the birthplace of your favorite brew: Anheuser-Busch Brewery. And the best part? It's completely free!

The Mayor's Mardi Gras Ball, hailed as the "social event of the season" is an elegant, charitable gala offering fine dining, cocktails, and diverse entertainment

The music is a delightful mix of jazz, blues, and zydeco, adding to the festive atmosphere. The events happening are a sensory feast, with the streets of St. Louis pulsating with energy and excitement.

Mardi Gras is synonymous with flamboyant costumes and masks. The more colorful and outrageous, the better! The festival is the time to don vibrant and bold attire. While there’s no strict dress code, festival-goers love to dress up in colorful beads, masks, and costumes, as they make half of the fun! Embrace the spirit by wearing outfits that reflect the joyous atmosphere of the event.

Remember, comfort is key. Choose outfits that allow you to move freely and enjoy the festivities without any problems.

Many local eateries and food trucks offer Mardi Gras specials. From savory snacks to sweet treats, there’s something to satisfy every palate. St. Louis’ Mardi Gras boasts a diverse food scene. Taste the enticing aroma of Creole and Cajun cuisine.

Indulge in St. Louis Style BBQ at places like SugarFire Smoke House or savor traditional Thai and Asian cuisine at Sen Thai-Asian Bistro. Don't miss the famous St. Louis Gooey Butter Cake for dessert! And don't forget to try the famous St. Louis-style pizza and toasted ravioli!

Bag Policy at Mardi Gras St Louis: Light and Secure

As you prepare for your visit to FIMA Agricola 2024, here’s a little insider tip about the bag policy to help you navigate the event with ease. Large bags and backpacks are a no-go. Wear clothes with deep, secure pockets to keep your essentials like cash, phone, and keys. This ensures both convenience and security amidst the crowded festivities.

It's wise to leave larger items or anything that might be seen as a safety risk at home, or at Bounce Luggage Storage.

Why Bounce Luggage Storage is Convenient at Mardi Gras St Louis 2024

Having a safe and secure place for your belongings while you enjoy the Mardi Gras festivities can make your experience even more enjoyable. This is where Bounce, the largest luggage storage platform, comes in. With over 10,000 short-term luggage storage facilities worldwide, including St. Louis, MO, Bounce offers a convenient and affordable solution for event-goers.

With Bounce, you can drop off your bag for a few hours or a few days, giving you the freedom to fully immerse yourself in the Mardi Gras experience. Plus, every item stored through our platform comes with $10,000 in BounceShield™ Protection. We're not just a luggage locker; we're a concierge service that saves you time and hassle. And with our flexible cancellation policy, you can book with confidence, knowing that we've got your back if plans change.

While in St. Louis for Mardi Gras, don't miss the chance to explore this vibrant city. Visit the iconic Gateway Arch, explore the St. Louis Zoo, or take a stroll through the Missouri Botanical Garden. And for the foodies, don't leave without trying the city's famous BBQ. There are many delicious Private Gastronomy Barbecue Tours to take part in.

Don’t miss out on exploring neighborhoods like Soulard for its historic charm, The Hill for its Italian heritage, and the Central West End for a mix of old-world elegance and modern vibes.

Chilly weather? It's the perfect chance to dive into St. Louis' arts scene! This city is bursting with cool exhibitions, cozy galleries, and performances that'll stir your soul. Even better, many are free! While you're here, make sure to swing by Grand Center – Forbes' pick for the top emerging arts district in the nation.

Beyond the main event, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, such as the Mardi Gras 5K, pet parade, and the Saturday, February 10th, Wiener Dog Derby. Remember to dress warmly as February in St. Louis will be chilly. Considering the unpredictable weather, it's wise to layer up.

Parking is scarce, so consider using shuttles, Uber, or the MetroLink.

Final Tip: Carry a printed map of Soulard Mardi Gras, as cell service can be spotty. And, always use the buddy system for safety.

As you plan your trip to Mardi Gras St Louis 2024, remember to soak in the rich history, vibrant culture, and electric atmosphere of this unique event. Embrace the spirit of Mardi Gras in St. Louis with this insider guide. From the vibrant parades to the delectable food scene, every moment promises to be an unforgettable experience! 

And with Bounce by your side, you can enjoy the festivities worry-free, knowing your belongings are safe and secure. See you in St. Louis for an unforgettable Mardi Gras experience!

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