Your Ultimate Guide to the 2024 St. Louis Cardinals Home Opener: Where to Stay, Eat, Drink, and Have Fun in St. Louis

The St. Louis Cardinals' home opener is a beloved tradition for baseball fans, and the 2024 season is no exception. On April 4, 2024, Busch Stadium will come alive as the Cardinals take on the Miami Marlins. Whether you're a local or traveling to St. Louis, this guide will help you make the most of your experience. From the best places to stay and eat to top spots for drinks and entertainment, here’s everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip to the Gateway City.

Where to Stay Near Busch Stadium

Staying close to Busch Stadium ensures you’re right in the heart of the action and have easy access to all that downtown St. Louis has to offer.

1. The Westin St. Louis
   • Location: Directly across from Busch Stadium.
   • Vibe: Modern luxury with spacious rooms.
   • Why Stay Here? The Westin offers unbeatable convenience for Cardinals fans, with its location just steps from the stadium. The hotel features modern amenities and a stylish atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for game day.
2. Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark
   • Location: Adjacent to Busch Stadium, with views of the field.
   • Vibe: Classic elegance with a baseball theme.
   • Why Stay Here? This hotel is a favorite among Cardinals fans, offering rooms with views of Busch Stadium and Ballpark Village. The rooftop bar provides stunning views of the Gateway Arch and downtown, perfect for celebrating a win.
3. Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch
   • Location: A short walk from Busch Stadium, near the Gateway Arch.
   • Vibe: Upscale with a focus on comfort.
   • Why Stay Here? Located near the iconic Gateway Arch, this hotel offers easy access to both Busch Stadium and St. Louis’s top attractions. It’s ideal for fans who want to combine their love of baseball with sightseeing.

Best Places to Eat Near Busch Stadium

Fuel up for game day with a meal at one of these top restaurants near Busch Stadium.

1. Broadway Oyster Bar
   • Cuisine: Cajun and Creole with a St. Louis twist.
   • Must-Try Dish: The crawfish étouffée—rich, flavorful, and authentic.
   • Why Eat Here? A short walk from the stadium, Broadway Oyster Bar offers a lively atmosphere with live music and a menu full of delicious Cajun classics. It’s a great spot for a pre-game meal with a bit of New Orleans flair.
2. Pappy’s Smokehouse
   • Cuisine: Award-winning BBQ.
   • Must-Try Dish: The Memphis-style ribs—tender, smoky, and fall-off-the-bone delicious.
   • Why Eat Here? Considered one of the best BBQ spots in St. Louis, Pappy’s Smokehouse is worth the short drive from the stadium. It’s a must-visit for any fan looking to indulge in some of the best ribs in the country.
3. Charlie Gitto’s On the Hill
   • Cuisine: Classic Italian.
   • Must-Try Dish: The toasted ravioli—a St. Louis specialty.
   • Why Eat Here? Located in the historic Hill neighborhood, this iconic Italian restaurant offers a true taste of St. Louis. Enjoy a hearty meal before heading to the game.

Best Sports Bars for Cardinals Fans

Get into the Cardinals spirit by visiting these popular sports bars near Busch Stadium.

1. Ballpark Village
   • Atmosphere: High-energy with multiple venues and big screens.
   • Best Drink: A cold Budweiser, brewed in St. Louis.
   • Why Drink Here? Just steps from Busch Stadium, Ballpark Village is the ultimate pre-game and post-game destination. With multiple bars, restaurants, and big screens, it’s the perfect place to soak in the game day atmosphere with fellow fans.
2. Cardinals Nation
   • Atmosphere: Fan-centric with a museum dedicated to the Cardinals.
   • Best Drink: A classic cocktail or local craft beer.
   • Why Drink Here? Located within Ballpark Village, Cardinals Nation is the go-to spot for fans who want to immerse themselves in the team’s history. Enjoy a drink surrounded by memorabilia and fellow Cardinals supporters.
3. The Paddy O’s
   • Atmosphere: Casual and lively with an outdoor patio.
   • Best Drink: A cold beer or a refreshing margarita.
   • Why Drink Here? Situated near Busch Stadium, Paddy O’s is a fan favorite for its laid-back vibe and spacious outdoor area. It’s the perfect spot to gather with friends before or after the game.

Must-See Attractions in St. Louis

Enhance your visit to St. Louis with these top attractions before or after the game.

1. The Gateway Arch
   • What It Is: The tallest man-made monument in the United States.
   • Why Visit? No trip to St. Louis is complete without visiting the Gateway Arch. Take a tram ride to the top for breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River, or explore the museum at the base for a deeper understanding of the area’s history.
2. City Museum
   • What It Is: A quirky, interactive museum that’s fun for all ages.
   • Why Visit? The City Museum is unlike any other museum you’ve been to—filled with labyrinths, slides, and repurposed architectural objects, it’s a must-see for visitors looking for a unique and playful experience in St. Louis.
3. Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour
   • What It Is: A guided tour of the historic brewery that’s home to Budweiser.
   • Why Visit? Discover the history of one of America’s most famous beers on this free tour, which includes a visit to the Clydesdales’ stables and a tasting of freshly brewed beer. It’s a great way to start your day before heading to the ballpark.

Final Tips for Visiting Fans

Arrive Early: Busch Stadium and the surrounding area get lively on Opening Day, so plan to arrive early to enjoy the festivities.

Public Transportation: Consider using the MetroLink to avoid parking hassles. The Stadium station is conveniently located right at Busch Stadium.

Dress Comfortably: Early April in St. Louis can be cool, so bring layers to stay comfortable during the game.

Visiting St. Louis for the Cardinals’ home opener is a fantastic experience for any baseball fan. From the iconic Busch Stadium to the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, your trip to St. Louis promises to be filled with excitement and unforgettable memories. So grab your Cardinals gear, secure your tickets, and get ready for an epic Opening Day in St. Louis!