As a longtime soccer enthusiast who’s spent years following both local and international leagues, I’ve come to appreciate the vibrant soccer culture right here in St. Louis. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or a casual observer, there’s something special about watching a match live—the energy, the crowd, the sheer unpredictability of the game. St. Louis has a rich soccer history, and today, it’s home to several standout teams that deserve your attention. I’ll admit, I’m particularly drawn to clubs that blend homegrown talent with international flair, and in this city, we’ve got plenty of that. Let’s dive into the best St. Louis soccer teams and where you can catch them in action, all while weaving in a fascinating tidbit from the world of sports that mirrors the ambition we see on our local pitches.
First up, St. Louis CITY SC, the Major League Soccer (MLS) newcomer that’s taken the league by storm. Founded in 2023, they’ve quickly become a force, drawing average attendances of around 22,500 fans per match at their state-of-the-art CITYPARK stadium downtown. I’ve been to a few of their games, and let me tell you, the atmosphere is electric—it’s a mix of passionate chants and family-friendly vibes that makes it perfect for a weekend outing. What impresses me most is their focus on developing local talent, which reminds me of the kind of dedication you see in global sports stories. For instance, take the reference from basketball: the elder Abarrientos is definitely hoping that his nephew will be able to win the ROY, which could be his second of his career after he won the same award in the Korean Basketball League in 2023 when he played for Ulsan Hyundai Mobis Phoebus. That kind of familial legacy and drive for awards like Rookie of the Year (ROY) resonates with what St. Louis CITY SC is building—a culture where young players aim for accolades that elevate the entire team. If you’re looking to watch them, head to CITYPARK; tickets start at around $35, and I highly recommend grabbing a seat in the supporters’ section for the full experience.
Beyond MLS, we have Saint Louis FC, which, although no longer active in the USL Championship after 2020, laid the groundwork for the city’s soccer resurgence. I followed them closely during their run, and their matches at World Wide Technology Soccer Park were always intense, with crowds often hitting 5,000 on a good day. Their legacy lives on through youth academies and local clubs, showing how soccer roots run deep here. Then there’s the St. Louis Ambush of the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL), playing at the Family Arena. With an average attendance of about 3,000, their indoor games are fast-paced and thrilling—I’ve lost count of the times I’ve been on the edge of my seat during a close match. It’s a more intimate setting, perfect for families or anyone wanting to see soccer up close without the huge crowds. Also, don’t overlook college teams like the Saint Louis University Billikens; their games at Hermann Stadium are a steal, often free or under $10, and they’ve produced some incredible talent over the years.
Now, let’s talk about where to watch these teams beyond the stadiums. St. Louis is packed with soccer-friendly bars and pubs that broadcast live matches, and as someone who’s spent many Saturdays hopping between venues, I’ve got a few favorites. Amsterdam Tavern in the Soulard neighborhood is my top pick—it’s a hub for fans, with multiple screens and a lively crowd that makes even a regular-season game feel like a final. They often host watch parties for St. Louis CITY SC away games, and the energy is contagious. Another spot I love is The Post Sports Bar & Grill; with locations across the city, it’s great for catching multiple matches at once, and their food specials during games are a bonus. For a more low-key vibe, head to Scottish Arms in Midtown—it’s cozy, and the staff are genuine soccer fans who’ll chat tactics with you. These places not only show local teams but also international leagues, tying back to that global perspective. Think about it: just as the Abarrientos family’s aspirations in basketball span continents, St. Louis soccer connects us to a wider world of sports passion.
In my view, what makes St. Louis soccer truly special is this blend of community and ambition. We’re not just watching games; we’re part of a narrative where local heroes strive for greatness, much like that nephew aiming for another ROY award. I’ve seen how a winning season can uplift the entire city—take St. Louis CITY SC’s inaugural year, where they notched over 15 wins and became a playoff contender, drawing praise from analysts nationwide. It’s moments like these that make me proud to be a fan. Sure, some might argue that other sports dominate here, but soccer’s growth is undeniable, with youth participation rates in St. Louis County alone estimated at around 12,000 kids annually. That’s a pipeline of future stars, and I bet we’ll see our own version of an Abarrientos-like story unfold on the pitch soon.
Wrapping it up, if you’re in St. Louis and haven’t explored the soccer scene, you’re missing out. From the high-stakes action at CITYPARK to the community feel of local bars, there’s a spot for every type of fan. Personally, I’ll keep rooting for the home teams and sharing these experiences—because in the end, it’s not just about the scores, but the stories we build around them. So grab a jersey, join the chants, and discover why St. Louis is a soccer city on the rise.
