SWANA RCon™ 2026 St. Louis Announcement

Travel

Explore St. Louis is excited to host RCon® participants in The Lou! To help you prepare for your time in St. Louis, they created a microsite that includes information on getting around the city, restaurant recommendations, hidden gem attractions and things to do that are free! Check it out!

Airports: The St Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) is is widely considered to be one of the most historic airports in the United States. Named for Albert Bond Lambert, who learned to fly with the Wright Brothers, St. Louis Lambert International Airport was essential in bringing together the United States and beyond through modern air travel. Just a 20 minute drive from the RCon® venues, STL operates approximately 400 daily flights to 70+ non-stop destinations.

Weather: Late September usually leads to the start of fall-like temperatures in St. Louis. Anticipate average afternoon highs around 75°F (24°C) and crisp overnight lows near 53°F (12°C).

Dining: RCon® and the room block hotels are situated on Washington Avenue, a street housing a variety of restaurants and nightlife options. A list of some favorite options within an easy walk of the RCon hotels follows.

• Rooster - A unique European-style urban cafe specializing in sweet and savory crepes, sandwiches, and delicious brunch fare. (5 minute walk)
• Buddy's Wine Bar & Bistro - Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a relaxing glass of wine, or a place to catch some live music, Buddy’s has it all! (4 minute walk)
• The Moniker - The Moniker brings something fresh—and grown-up—to Washington Avenue. With lush emerald interiors, curated music, and a menu built around handcrafted cocktails and elevated small plates, it's a destination where mood meets meaning. (6 minute walk)
• Sugarfire Smoke House - St. Louis is known for its barbecue and Sugarfire Smoke House is one of the best. In this location, Sugarfire owners have taken inspiration from the blues music that St. Louis is also recognized for. While you chow down on some seriously good barbecue, the gods of blues music are pictured in murals, smiling down on you and enjoying some meat treats themselves. The music is always cranking, and you’ll probably feel like singing after a few of our boozy milkshakes and some pecan, apple, or key lime pie. This restaurant opens for lunch and closes once they sell out. (3 minute walk)
• Over/Under Bar & Grill - full service restaurant and sports bar (4 minute walk)
• Ballpark Village - located at Busch Stadium, Ballpark Village houses a variety of great restaurants and night life. (15 minute walk)
• Sauce on the Side - Grab-and-go calzones (2 - 4 minute walk)

Interested in exploring beyond the convention district? We've got you covered there as well. Explore St. Louis has a restaurant guide you can utilize and a few recommendations follow.

• Charlie Gitto's - An iconic restaurant nestled in the Italian neighborhood "The Hill," in the heart of St. Louis. With a rich history spanning over 40 years, it has become a beloved institution and a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike.  (11 minute drive)
• Brennan's - Located in the Central West End neighborhood, Brennan's describes itself as a meeting place for good food, drinks, cigars and conversation. An essential stop when visiting this vibrant neighborhood. Houses a cigar bar on the 2nd floor and a vibrant bar and dining scene on the 1st floor. (15 minute drive)
  

Looking for restaurants leading the way in sustainability initiatives? The Green Dining Alliance in St. Louis has curated a list of restaurants with sustainable operations. Visit their site to view restaurants in the area that meet the criteria.