St. Louis in December
Not the best time
December transforms into a winter wonderland, especially around the holidays. The cold keeps crowds away, making it peaceful if you can handle the weather. Holiday decorations make the city genuinely magical.
Weather
December embraces winter with cold temperatures and occasional snow that makes downtown look magical around the holidays. The cold is real but not usually extreme, and humidity mercifully disappears. Expect gray skies and that crisp winter air.
6°C high-2°C low6 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$120/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Holiday lights at Missouri Botanical Garden
- •New Year's Eve at the Arch
December Tips
- •Pack serious winter clothes - the wind off the river is brutal
- •Holiday lights displays are genuinely spectacular, especially at the Botanical Garden
- •Hotel rates drop significantly except around New Year's Eve
All Months
April through June brings perfect weather and blooming flowers in Forest Park. The humidity hasn't kicked in yet, and outdoor festivals start picking up steam. September and October deliver crisp air and fall colors — ideal for walking the riverfront or exploring neighborhoods on foot.
Summer gets sticky. July and August see temperatures pushing 90°F with humidity that makes it feel worse. But this is when the city comes alive — outdoor concerts, baseball season, and festivals every weekend. Just pack light, breathable clothes and plan indoor activities for the hottest part of the day.
Winter can be brutal with ice storms and temperatures dropping below freezing. January through March sees fewer crowds and lower hotel rates, but many outdoor attractions close or reduce hours.
St. Louis Scores
Solo
6/10
Couples
6/10
Families
8/10
Adventure
5/10
Budget
8/10
Luxury
5/10
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