After a fairly easy day trip across Missouri from the western border (Kansas City) to the eastern border (St. Louis), we set up camp just inside Illinois and were blessed by having son Ben join us to take in a St. Louis Cardinal baseball game.
Weather was warm but “iffy,” with persistent rain both before and after the game. But fortunately we managed to squeeze the game into a dry and delightfully pleasant late April afternoon.
As many of you know, my goal is to go to all 30 major league ballparks. At 15, this one marks the half-way point in the quest. It was a very good game, won by the home team, 6-3, and featured several home runs and exciting moments. As a Mariner fan, I was envious of the long Cardinal record of baseball excellence. They have 11 World Series titles in around 20 appearances. The Mariners, although a newer franchise, have never been to the Series.
One of the great surprises and pleasures included being able to park within a block of the stadium for $20, and have almost no traffic delay leaving the park. This is only the second time (Anaheim being the first) when this has happened. Kudos, St. Louis!
The pictures below show some scenes of the game and the downtown area around the park. As you can tell, it was a delightful day. I failed to get pictures of the excellent (but pricey) food — made to order Asian stir-fry and “hot out of the fryer” mini-donuts. Another “A” for this park.
The Gateway Arch, which is about 50 years old now, is visible from much of the downtown area. 
But it is almost as if someone said, “Take your iconic Arch picture here.” 
Downtown also had a park devoted to art sculpture. The “empty suit” is one of the most famous pieces. 
It was fun to see them roll up the tarp before the game. Takes an impressive bit of teamwork. 
Used Ellen’s camera to get a panorma shot from our seats 
Here’s a live action shot. The ball is in the picture, heading back toward the pitcher. 
This is the view from our $40 seats. 
I LOVE the retro socks. 
Ben took this close-up with his point and shoot Canon. You can clearly see the team logo at the ankles. 
Thanks, Ben, for the memorable day! We are planning a possible second game with Ben and Cate in Milwaukee.