Posted in Missouri August 15, 2017 by

Here’s Why Missouri’s Little Italy Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination

Missouri’s Little Italy is in a small neighborhood, south of Forest Park, in St. Louis. The area is known for having exceptional Italian restaurants, groceries, and bakeries. With endless opportunities for great dining, unique architecture, and rich history, The Hill is one of St. Louis’ best destinations! So grab your friends and head to Missouri’s Little Italy for the perfect day trip destination.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
The Hill - named after the neighborhood's location near the highest point in the city - was created by Italian immigrants who moved into the area during the 1830s.
Paul Sablemann/Flickr
More than half of the neighborhood's population are of Italian descent. The neighborhood is notoriously close-knit and homes rarely go on the market.
Paul Sableman/Facebook
The Hill is home to some of Missouri's most famous and well respected eateries making it a great place to visit.
The Missouri Baking Company is one of The Hill's most iconic establishments.
Crystal R./Yelp
Be sure to stop in for some sweet treats for breakfast and get a box of goodies to take home!
Jolena S./Yelp
Just try not to eat them all in the car on your dive back.
A great way to get a taste of The Hill is to take the 3 hour EAT St. Louis food tour.
Mai G./Yelp
This tour showcases the unique history of the neighborhood as well as highlights the many distinct foods that have originated from the St. Louis Hill. To register for the next tour, visit their website here.
You can't visit St. Louis with out getting some toasted ravioli. This popular dish originated from The Hill.
Mai G./Yelp
St. Louis style pizza is often credited to the Italian neighborhood as well. You can find this amazing thin crust square cut pizza at many of the great neighborhood establishments.
Sally S./Yelp
Many of the local shops have served this St. Louis community for multiple generations.
Sally S./Yelp
You'll love visiting the local shops, groceries, and bakeries. These family run, neighborhood staples are truly what makes The Hill such a unique and timeless neighborhood.
EAT Saint Louis Food Tours, Inc./Yelp
Getting an authentic Italian deli sandwich is a must when visiting The Hill.
EAT Saint Louis Food Tours, Inc./Yelp
Milo's Tavern is a great place to have a beer and try your hand at Italy's most popular recreational sport...
Mai G./Yelp
Bocce ball leagues, tournaments, and open play take play year round at Milo's.
Jessica H./Yelp
Play at game of Bocce ball at Milo's located at 5201 Wilson Ave., St. Louis.
Zia's is one of the most popular restaurants on The Hill.
Zia's "On The Hill"/Facebook
Their Italian salad is considered one of the best in the area with their sweet and tangy house dressing.
Zia's "On The Hill"/Facebook
You can find their salad dressing and pasta sauces in the aisles of local grocery stores or at their restaurant.
The pasta is always delicious. Their portions are very generous so you can usually take home enough for lunch the next day!
Zia's "On The Hill"/Facebook
Zia's is located at 5256 Wilson Ave., St. Louis.
You can get authentic Italian gelato from Gelato Di Riso on the tour or just pop in on your own.
Mai G./Yelp
Find Gelato Di Riso at 5204 Wilson Ave., St. Louis.
EAT Saint Louis Food Tours, Inc./Yelp

Have you taken the EAT St. Louis food tour or visited any of these amazing Italian eateries? Let us know in the comments below!