If you're a native St. Louisan, or even Midwesterner, like me, you probably were met with a lot of grief about your heartland home from the mouths of your friends from other regions. To many, being off the coast and away from the mountains can seem quite boring. Many think of the middle of the country as a wide expanse of no man's land, what possibly could there be to do there over summer vacation? Admittedly, even as a proud St. Louisan, I felt a little apprehensive leaving my new home on the east coast for the summer, wondering what I'd do with out the beach and the charms of the South. However, it did not take me long after my return to remember the plethora of hidden gems my home town have to offer- and more thane enough to keep me, and you, occupied for the summer.

1. Found by the Pound thrift shop

If you're looking to spend the afternoon going on a shopping spree, but don't have the funding to hit the mall, check out found by the pound in Berkeley MO. It's an old warehouse decked in it cool graffiti art and chock full of used clothing. And the best part, they sell clothes for $3 a pound!

2. Sky View Theater in Belleville

Sick of sitting in your basement watching TV or going to the same old movie theater? Try out one of the drive in theaters in the St. Louis area, specifically the Sky View theater in Belleville! They show any movies now showing in theaters with snacks and drinks galore.

3. Lone elk park

Looking to unleash your wild side? Instead of visiting the St. Louis Zoo try driving out to Lone Elk park by Six Flags. There's bison and other indigenous animals in this haven for Midwestern wildlife.

4. Graffiti wall

In the mood to gaze at amazing, intricate art work? Check out the mile long stretch of the flood wall downtown that's covered in murals painted by graffiti artists from all over the country. This destination will have you in awe and definitely makes for some fantastic Instagrams!

5. Cave tours

In the mood to explore the world below our feet? Missouri is full of expansive caves throughout the state, many of which are open to the public for fun, interactive cave tours. You won't have to drive for long to find a cave, whether it's north, south, or just west at Meramec caverns.

6. Creve Couer park

Feeling active? Beautiful Creve Couer park is just west of the metro area and has a beautiful lake and plenty of trails to explore. And if you're feeling very adventurous, you can try biking or even paddle boarding!

7. Food Truck Friday

If you consider yourself a "foodie", going to Food Truck Friday in Tower Grove Park is a must. There's a variety of food trucks to choose from there each Friday evening, certainly something for everyone's taste buds!

8. Movies on Art Hill

Got no plans on a Friday night? Now you do, check out the movie showings on Art Hill every Friday night in July! This year's films include Top Gun, Rocky, ET, and Forest Gump. Just grab a blanket and snacks and pick out a spot on the hill behind the Art Museum in Forrest Park anytime before sunset.

9. Lemp Mansion

Feeling brave? If so, stop by one of the most historic and haunted spots in St. Louis l, and maybe even Missouri. You can dine in the Leno mansion and take a tour to learn about the twisted history of the famous Lemp family. And if you're a really thrill seeker, oh can even check in and stay the night!

10. Elephant Rocks State Park

Like rock climbing? Take it to the next level and visit Elephant Rocks State Park. You can climb all over the ancient rocks and feel what is was like to live back in the days of the dinosaurs.

11.Eat, drink, and have a good time

If nothing else on this list appeals to you, you can't go wrong with just exploring the hundreds of fantastic bars and restaurants in the St. Louis area. From ballpark village, to the loop, to the central west end, St. Louis is full of fantastic night life and world class cuisine.