Ep 5. St. Louis

In Off Limits season 2 episode 5, viewers are taken on a journey to St. Louis, Missouri, to explore some of its most intriguing and unusual locations. Host Don Wildman guides audiences through the hidden gems of this historic American city, uncovering its most fascinating stories and legends.

The episode kicks off with a visit to the City Museum, a massive multistory playground filled with whimsical sculptures and interactive exhibits. The museum was created by artist Bob Cassilly, who repurposed a 600,000-square-foot industrial building to create a wonderland of tunnels, slides, and climbable structures. Wildman chats with museum curator Rick Erwin, who explains the philosophy behind this unique attraction. According to Erwin, the museum is designed to encourage play, creativity, and exploration, and to connect visitors with the industrial history of the city.

Next up, Wildman visits Crown Candy Kitchen, an old-fashioned soda fountain and candy store that has been in operation since 1913. He meets with third-generation owner Andy Karandzieff, who shares the history of the shop and shows off some of its signature treats, including the famous BLT sandwich and the world's largest box of chocolate-covered cherries. Karandzieff also gives Wildman a behind-the-scenes look at the kitchen where the candy is made, including the enormous copper kettles used for cooking the syrup.

Another highlight of the episode is a trip to the Lemp Mansion, a historic home that has been converted into a bed and breakfast, as well as a popular destination for ghost hunters. The Lemp family was once one of the wealthiest in St. Louis, thanks to their brewery business, but tragedy and scandal plagued the family, leading to several suicides and mysterious deaths. Wildman investigates the ghostly sightings and eerie happenings at the mansion, including strange noises and movements recorded by paranormal investigators.

The episode also delves into the history of the Gateway Arch, the iconic monument that towers over the St. Louis skyline. Wildman takes a tram ride to the top of the arch and explores its engineering and construction, including the challenges of building such a massive structure in the 1960s. He also interviews historian Robert Moore, who shares the story of the arch's symbolic significance as the "Gateway to the West," representing the country's pioneering spirit and expansion westward.

Other locations visited in the episode include the Fabulous Fox Theatre, a stunning Art Deco landmark that has hosted numerous performances over the past century; the Missouri Botanical Garden, a lush oasis of flora and fauna that is home to some of the rarest plant species in the world; and the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, where Wildman witnesses the brewing process of some of the most popular beers in the country.

Overall, Off Limits season 2 episode 5 provides a fascinating glimpse into the culture, history, and quirks of St. Louis, showcasing the city's diverse and eclectic attractions. From playful playgrounds to haunting ghost stories to iconic landmarks, this episode has something for everyone to enjoy.