An exciting part of traveling is the shopping! Ok, I know all the guys out there may not agree, but the important thing is keeping the women happy, right? When visiting St. Louis, you should consider taking a day and shopping at some of these venues. Remember that shopping isn't just for vacation; it can be great for student tours as well. Older students especially, will welcome the opportunity, and it can be an ideal evening activity. So what are you waiting for? Get started!

St. Louis has several large shopping malls with all the typical brand name stores, movie theaters and food courts. If outlet malls are your thing, try the St. Louis Mills Mall, located a short distance from the city near St. Charles. Shoppers will find discount stores such as Off Saks Fifth Avenue, Gap Outlet and various other bargain stores. For a ritzier experience head to Plaza Frontenac. This shopping site features more upscale stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Tiffany & Co.

Another great place is Union Station. This building contains many name-brand clothing and fashion store, but it is also a historical landmark. At one time, Union Station was the busiest train station in the world, and today it still retains the architecture with sweeping archways, detailed frescos, and even a stained glass window. A personal favorite of mine is the Fudgery. Every half hour or so, there is a demonstration where a staff member shows the gathered audience how the fudge is made. It give onlookers a glimpse into the world of fudge, and as extra incentive, free samples are handed out. There are also several specialty stores, and popular restaurants such as the Hard Rock Café.

If malls are not really appealing, try a visit to downtown St. Charles. This experience is a little more unique. Located along the banks of the Missouri River, this picturesque shopping district contains a historic air created by cobblestone streets and an old trolley. Most of the stores are privately owned, and include antiques, bookstores, novelty shops, toy stores and more. There are old fashioned candy stores, wineries and several restaurants that provide those much needed breaks, student groups might even have time for a history lesson. The Lewis and Clark Museum is located on Main Street and contains exhibits and maps that follow these two men on their travels through untamed America. Group tours can be arranged.

For another unique shopping experience, see if you can find something on the Delmar Loop. This street is truly distinctive, and usually features street musicians, specialty cafés and a crowd that is just a little more eclectic than most. There are some fun shopping experiences to be had, my personal favorites being Vintage Vinyl, which is a store that buys and sells CD's, tapes and records, and Rag-O-Rama, which is a trendy thrift store-type shop. Art galleries, book stores and fashion shops line the streets as well, and you can expect to come away with anything from a trendy handbag to a skirt from the 80's. Definitely one of the best experiences in St. Louis.

Here are a few options for some great shopping. Have fun!