St. Louis isn’t just the Gateway to the West -- depending on where you’re coming from, it’s also the gateway to the east, north and south. For this year’s annual Summer Guide, our writers went off in all four directions looking for fun. They found that a quick road trip will get you to wine country bliss, a hiking (and slip-sliding) adventure, a bucolic dairy farm and even Lincoln’s tomb. Their handy guides will take you on four very different journeys.

For those who’d rather staycation than vacation, we’ve got a roundup of 50 things to try in St. Louis right now, plus a shorter list of the season’s best arts, cultural and outdoor festivals. Mark your calendars now.

Road Trips to the North, South, East and West

-- For History Buffs, Drive North to Springfield

-- For Wine Lovers, Drive West to Hermann

-- For Curiosity Seekers, Drive East to Greenville, Illinois

-- For Outdoor Enthusiasts, Drive South to Elephant Rocks

Plus, Fun in the City

-- 50 Things You Haven't Done in St. Louis -- But Should

-- 12 Summer Festivals to Put on Your Calendar Now