Host of the very first Summer Olympic Games in the Western Hemisphere in 1904, St. Louis has long embraced all manner of sports. From world-class meetings-ready venues to active team-building options, Catherine Neville, vice president of communications at Explore St. Louis, shares some sports-related highlights in the city.

Why does St. Louis stand out as a destination for sporting events?

St. Louis lives and breathes sports, and meeting planners can tap into that energy. From championship-caliber venues to passionate fan culture, the city offers a dynamic backdrop for corporate team building and high-impact events. Centrally located with top-tier transportation and hospitality infrastructure, St. Louis makes logistics easy while delivering the authenticity and excitement that sports fans crave. Whether it’s the roar of the crowd at Busch Stadium, the boisterous buzz of Energizer Park or the electric energy of Energizer Stadium, our sports scene can scale to fit your vision.

What’s new for sports in St. Louis that is especially relevant for meeting planners?

The biggest game-changer is Energizer Park, the new world-class soccer stadium in the heart of downtown. Home to St. Louis CITY SC, it’s not just a sports venue, it’s an architectural centerpiece designed with flexibility in mind. The stadium and adjacent plaza are open for private events, receptions and activations, offering planners a high-energy, design-forward setting just steps from America’s Center.

Also worth noting: recent renovations at The Dome at America’s Center have upgraded both the experience and the tech, keeping it competitive for everything from esports to cheer championships. With the city hosting high-profile events like the Frozen Four and the Olympic gymnastics trials, St. Louis is on the national radar in a big way.

Do you have a sports-related recommendation that WEC attendees should consider checking out?

If you’re looking for something active, social and easy to fit into your schedule, check out Puttshack at City Foundry and Topgolf Midtown, both just a short ride from downtown and perfect for networking with a competitive twist.

Puttshack puts a high-tech spin on mini golf with automatic scoring, crazy creative holes and a full-service bar and menu. It’s fun, fast-paced and ideal for small groups or spontaneous outings. Plus, it’s located inside City Foundry, a vibrant dining and retail district that shows off St. Louis’ local flavor.

Topgolf Midtown offers skyline views, climate-controlled bays and a high-energy vibe that makes it feel more like a party than a driving range. It’s a solid pick for groups looking to relax and play—no golf skills required.

Both venues double as potential off-site event spaces, so for planners scouting future receptions or team-building spots, they’re worth experiencing firsthand.