Missouri Botanical Garden
- Considered one of the top three botanical gardens in the world, the 79-acre complex offers a wide range of attractions, including The Climatron, the first geodesic dome to be used as a conservatory; the George Washington Carver Garden, which honors the Missouri-born scientist; and the Herbarium, a major plant research facility. The many indoor and outdoor event spaces include the Victorian-era Spink Pavilion, which accommodates up to 125. www.mobot.org
- With more than 70 locomotives, the Museum of Transportation is said to have the largest collection of American rail power in the world. It’s also known for its displays of vintage automobiles, streetcars, buses, aircraft, horse-drawn vehicles and riverboats. Restored railcars serve as dining venues for groups of 25 or less, while the Roberts Pavilion, a converted train shed housing railroad engines, accommodates up to 280 for a reception. The Earl C. Lindburg Automobile Center offers indoor and outdoor areas for groups of 50 to 175.
www.transportmuseumassociation.org
- Two classic paddle-wheelers, the Tom Sawyer and Becky Thatcher, conduct hour-long sightseeing tours and two-hour dinner cruises along the Mississippi River that accommodate groups of 125 to 250. Groups can also charter the boats for brunch or lunch cruises. www.gatewayarch.com
- Dating from 1847, Stone Hill is the oldest winery in Missouri and was once the second-largest winery in the U.S. Located an hour west of St. Louis in Hermann, the hilltop winery offers tours of its underground cellars and the chance to sample its award-winning wines. The on-site Vintage Restaurant specializes in German fare as well as steaks and seafood. Facilities for groups include the Carriage House dining room, which seats up to 50, and an open-air pavilion seating up to 300. Customized gift baskets with or without wine are available. www.stonehillwinery.com
- Located in an historic 1853 Greek Revival mansion, the Museum of the Dog is filled with canine-related works by famous artists from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, bronzes, photographs and porcelain figures. The museum’s Constellation Room, which is adjacent to an outdoor courtyard, accommodates up to 240 guests for receptions and up to 200 for seminars. www.museumofthedog.org