Exploring St. Louis from the water and on the go offers a fresh perspective on this vibrant city. You can glide under the iconic Gateway Arch on a river cruise, get an adrenaline rush with a helicopter ride, or stroll through historic neighborhoods on a walking tour. These experiences highlight St. Louis’s rich history, stunning architecture, and lively riverfront. Whether you’re after a quick overview or an in-depth adventure, this guide compares the top cruises and boat tours so you can pick the perfect match.
In this article, you’ll find a variety of options, from small-group guided tours that include both the Arch and river cruises to more immersive experiences like helicopter rides. We’ll break down what each tour offers, how they differ in focus, and who they suit best. If you want to see St. Louis from the water, sky, or on foot, these tours deliver a memorable way to get to know the city’s highlights—all in a few hours or less.
Quick Overview
This guide covers four top-rated tours in St. Louis, including:
- Best of St. Louis Small Group Tour with St Louis Arch & River Cruise — a half-day with hotel pickup, Arch ascent, and seasonal river cruise.
- St. Louis: Guided Tour with Boat Cruise and Helicopter Ride — combining city sights with a boat cruise and an exhilarating helicopter tour.
- St. Louis: Guided Small Group City Tour with River Cruise — a four-hour tour passing major landmarks with a river cruise.
- St. Louis Arch and River Cruise Small Group Walking Tour — a more leisurely, walk-focused exploration of key sights, including the historic Basilica.
Each offers a unique way to see the city, whether you’re after the best value, an adrenaline hit, or a deeper dive into history and architecture.
1. Best of St. Louis Small Group Tour w/St Louis Arch & River Cruise
This popular tour costs $174.00 per person and offers a solid snapshot of St. Louis in about 3 hours. Starting with pickup from your downtown hotel, it provides a small group of no more than seven people, ensuring a more personalized experience. The tour hits the Gateway Arch, where you’ll ascend to the top for 360-degree views of the city, and then moves on to a seasonal river cruise along the Mississippi, giving you a different perspective of the riverfront.
What makes this tour stand out is its convenience and efficiency. The included round-trip hotel transit saves you from navigating the city yourself, and the guide shares intriguing stories behind the sights. The itinerary covers the arch museum, offering a quick history lesson before the ascent, which is especially helpful for first-timers. The river cruise, depending on the season, provides a relaxing view of the skyline and riverbanks—great for photos.
This tour is best suited for visitors who want a rundown in a short time, especially if you’re limited on hours or prefer a small-group setting. The price reflects the included admissions, transport, and expert guide, making it good value. Some guests note the tour’s fast pace, so those wanting a more in-depth experience may want to add extra time.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, efficient introduction to St. Louis, perfect for first-timers who appreciate small groups and a mix of top sights with river views.
2. St. Louis: Guided Tour with Boat Cruise and Helicopter Ride
At $449 per person, this 4-hour tour is a splurge, but it delivers a truly immersive experience. It begins with a hotel pickup and takes you on a guided visit to highlights like the Gateway Arch, then switches gears with a modern Mississippi River boat cruise. The real kicker? You end with a helicopter ride that offers sweeping, bird’s-eye views of St. Louis.
This tour is unique because it combines ground, water, and air perspectives. The boat cruise offers a peaceful, scenic view of the city skyline from the river, while the helicopter ride adds an adrenaline rush and unparalleled panoramic vistas. The guide’s storytelling enhances your understanding of local history, especially at the Basilica of Saint Louis, a spectacular religious site.
Great for travelers seeking a luxurious, multi-sensory experience, this tour is ideal if you want to see the city from all angles in one day. It’s especially suited for those interested in photography, history, or simply an unforgettable adventure. The price reflects the inclusion of multiple experiences, but some may find the helicopter ride the highlight—and worth the cost.
Potential drawback: The high price and shorter duration might not appeal to budget travelers. Also, check availability early, as helicopter rides are weather-dependent and fill quickly.
Bottom Line: For thrill-seekers and those craving a comprehensive, sky-high view of St. Louis, this tour offers a rare, all-in-one package that’s hard to beat.
3. St. Louis: Guided Small Group City Tour with River Cruise
This small group tour costs $174 per person and lasts about 4 hours. It begins with a guided exploration of the Gateway Arch and the Gateway Arch National Park, giving you a thorough look at the city’s most iconic landmark. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a relaxing Mississippi River cruise with scenic views of the city skyline and riverfront.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of in-depth city touring and a leisurely river cruise. The guide, Mark, is praised for his personal insights, making the experience feel friendly and authentic. The tour covers major points like Busch Stadium, City Hall, and Botanical Gardens, providing a broad overview of St. Louis’s neighborhoods and history.
This tour is perfect for visitors who want a more immersive, yet manageable experience that balances sightseeing and storytelling. The cost offers good value considering the admissions, guide, and cruise are included. Reviewers appreciate the personal touch and the opportunity to see multiple sights without feeling rushed.
Potential downsides: Slightly longer than some tours and may require moderate walking, so those with mobility issues should check the itinerary.
Bottom Line: A balanced tour that combines highlights, local insights, and river views—ideal for travelers who want a fuller picture of St. Louis without spending all day.
4. St. Louis Arch and River Cruise Small Group Walking Tour
For $144 per person, this 4-hour walking tour offers a more leisurely, in-depth look at St. Louis’s downtown. Starting at the historic Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, your guide will lead you past landmarks such as Busch Stadium, the Magnolia Hotel, and the Federal Reserve building. The highlight is ascending the famous Gateway Arch for incredible panoramic views.
What makes this tour appealing is its focus on walking and local history. It’s a great choice if you enjoy exploring on foot and want to get a sense of the city’s architecture and neighborhoods up close. The small group size ensures personalized attention and plenty of chances to ask questions. The tour ends with a river cruise, providing a scenic break from walking and a different vantage point of the skyline.
This option is well-suited for those who prefer a more relaxed pace and enjoy learning about history from a knowledgeable guide. The price is quite reasonable considering the attractions, and reviews praise the guide’s local knowledge and flexibility—although one noted a late start.
Potential drawbacks: Less time spent on the river compared to longer boat cruises, and the walking may be tiring for some.
Bottom Line: A good choice for history buffs and those who like to explore at a gentle pace, combining on-foot sightseeing with a relaxing river cruise.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, time available, and what type of experience appeals most. If you want a quick, high-energy overview, the Small Group Tour with Arch & River Cruise is perfect. For those seeking a luxury experience with helicopter views, the Guided Tour with Boat and Helicopter fits the bill—though it’s pricier.
The Small Group City Tour with River Cruise offers a more comprehensive and relaxed exploration, ideal if you prefer a balance of walking and sightseeing. Meanwhile, the Walking Tour is best for travelers who enjoy history and architecture on foot and want a more intimate look at the city’s core.
Booking early is wise, especially for tours with limited spaces or weather-dependent activities like helicopter rides. Wear comfortable shoes for the walking tours and prepare for seasonal weather, as some experiences are outdoors.
Final Thoughts
St. Louis’s diverse tour options make it easy to tailor your visit to your interests and pace. The Best of St. Louis Small Group Tour offers a quick, engaging introduction, perfect for first-timers. If you’re after a thrilling, all-in-one experience, the guided tour with boat cruise and helicopter delivers an adrenaline-pumping perspective. For those who prefer a deeper dive into local sights and history, the small group city tour shines. And if a relaxed, pedestrian-focused experience appeals, the walking tour provides a memorable stroll through the city’s iconic sites.
No matter which tour you choose, booking ahead and dressing for the weather will help you enjoy your adventure. These tours capture St. Louis’s spirit—its history, its skyline, and its riverfront—making your trip both fun and meaningful.