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One of the most popular attractions in Missouri is actually under Missouri. Meramec Caverns, a 26-mile labyrinth of subterranean rooms and passages, was formed and shaped over the course of 400 million years (give or take a million years) and the caverns and a surrounding park have been a public tourist attraction since 1935. Today, Meramec State Park boasts all sorts of modern amenities to make the caving experience a pleasant one, including well-lighted walkways that wind past limestone formations such as an extremely rare three-legged natural "wine table," a sheet of limestone formations known as the "stage curtain," and a huge vaulted ballroom in which concerts and events are held several times a year.

Throughout history, Meramec Caverns has served several different purposes. Local Native American tribes used the cave as a shelter and revered it as the home of their god, while outlaw Jesse James and his gang used it as a hideout from the law. Today, however, visitors from nearby St. Louis and across the Midwest come to admire the spectacular limestone formations and seemingly endless passages. But it's not all stalagmites and stalactites: up at ground level, Meramec State Park offers canoe and raft rentals, riverboat rides on the Meramec River, and even the chance to pan for gold. Maybe you'll strike it rich like a 19th century prospector. Meramec is a one-hour drive from the Westin St. Louis.

The city of St. Louis, Missouri was founded by in 1764 as a frontier trading post by Pierre Laclede, a Parisian businessman who exported pelts to Europe. As the Louisville Courier-Journal points out, St. Louis has come a long way since those humble beginnings, but the French influence can still be found in food and culture, if you know where to look. The St. Louis Art Museum will host an exhibition on Napolean Bonaparte this summer, including his armor and weaponry as well as his stylish wife Josephine's dresses and accessories. The Missouri History Museum in Forest Park is a great place to learn all about the St. Louis French Connection, with exhibits highlighting French fur trading in the New World, as well as French fashions and customs. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis has an amazing portrayal of Saint Louis IX, the city's patron saint, on the walls of the vestibule. For some delicious French cuisine, have dinner at Chez Leon in the Central West End neighborhood. With appetizers like seared diver scallops in shallot beubrre blanc and entrees such as beef tenderloin medallions in roquefort and cognac sauce, you'll be glad that this is a walkable city. Guests at the Sheraton St. Louis City Center Hotel & Suites can enjoy the best of France in this classic American city.

[image via Louisville Courier-Journal]