Winter Classic postcard

ST. LOUIS -- St. Louis is not among the most-visited cities on my personal travel itinerary but that is changing for the better.
I first came to St. Louis to see the 1985 World Series between the Kansas City Royals and the St. Louis Cardinals at the old Busch Stadium. I had just turned 17 years old and came out with my father for Games 3, 4 and 5 of that series. It was a magical trip, from the famous Arch to John Tudor's shutout in Game 4, to our stay at the historic Missouri Athletic Club.

I didn't return for 30 years, making it back last spring for the first two games of the Western Conference Final between the Blues and the San Jose Sharks. It was a whirlwind three-night stay with two games and tons of work and little opportunity to explore the city, other than the path between the hotel and the rink and a few select dining options.
So when I found out I would be spending five days here to help cover the 2017 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic at Busch Stadium, I was over the moon. I can't wait to explore all the city has to offer and relive the magic of seeing a big event at Busch Stadium, although it will be a different sport in a newer venue.
Upon arrival Thursday, I took in the new ballpark. What a job they have done with that facility. I can't wait to see it filled this holiday weekend with passionate hockey fans.
Until then I want to see everything I can.
With my free time yesterday I took a long walk through the downtown core. The architecture of the older buildings is simply breathtaking. I also spent some time at City Garden, checking out the sculptures. The statue of Pinocchio wearing white gloves (Big White Gloves, Big Four Wheels) and the headless man in a suit (Big Suit) were among my favorites.

No city tour, though, is complete without hitting its restaurants. Arpon Basu, managing editor of LNH.com, was my dining companion for lunch and dinner Thursday and to say we hit two home runs would be an understatement.
Lunch was at Sugarfire Smokehouse BBQ because you better have barbecue when in St. Louis. Dinner was at Bailey's Range, a craft burger and ice cream restaurant downtown. Don't worry, we had some Brussels sprouts to get our greens in.
The Blues host the Nashville Predators on Friday (8 p.m. ET; SN1, TVA Sports, FS-MW, FS-TN, NHL.TV) in the final game before they take it outside for the weekend. Can't wait.
Catch up with you on Saturday.