While New York City, Chicago and Seattle grab top honors as America's most recognizable skylines, the Gateway Arch easily identifies the St. Louis Skyline. Finally, the folks that create these lists have made their way to Saint Louis. And its position as number one (according to the World Atlas) is well deserved after seeing this striking photograph, including a dramatic sky and pastel sunset.
   The St. Louis story began with two French explorers in 1764, and went on to achieve the status as the country's fourth largest city during the late 1800s. Founded by Pierre Laclede and assistant Auguste Chouteau, the city became a major port on the Mississippi River. Although development ground to a halt during the Civil War, by the end of the 19th century the city experienced another growth spurt. In 1904, the city grabbed the spotlight with the first Olympics held outside of Europe. In conjunction with the games, the city also hosted the 1904 World's Fair, utilizing one of the largest urban parks in the country. Established in 1876, Forest Park is nearly twice as big as New York's Central Park. Located in the heart of the city, Forest Park is now home to the city's major cultural institutions and a gathering place for people of all ages.
   Along with the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial and the Gateway Arch, other notable city parks include the Missouri Botanical Garden, Tower Grove Park and the City Garden, an urban sculpture park. Notable downtown landmarks also include the Basilica of St. Louis and the Old Courthouse, famous for the Dred Scott case in 1847. Along with the lighter side of attractions, such as the Schlafly Tap Room and tours of the Anheuser Busch Brewery, there's plenty of history in this mid-western city.

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