Free Things to Do in St Louis for Families

A Child's St. Louis: Memories Made Here

Got kids? This town offers winning and illuminating escapades for all – from swaying toddlers to hard-to-impress teens. The diverseness of retentivity-creating experiences makes St. Louis an unrivaled choice for vacations for all kinds of families. Then factor in that so many of our attractions are free, and a weekend or week-long stay is especially appealing!

Local Dad and blogger Kevin Mitchell gives us his top v picks for kids of all ages!

Nowhere Else

These one of a kind St. Louis attractions are always favorites with the kids, and you aren't likely to find a similar experience anywhere else.

Metropolis Museum

Whatsoever you're expecting, it's not this. Be prepared to take your heed blown at one of the near unusual, imaginative, coolest places ever, Metropolis Museum. Artists with a bent sense of play repurposed pieces of old city buildings into miles of tunnels, slides, climbers, bridges, and—yep—castles in a century-old warehouse. Waiting to be discovered are secret passages, a circus, a railroad train, playgrounds, ball pits, and chiliad galleries. There's a 24-foot-tall metal praying mantis, a funhouse mirror, and the globe'due south largest pair of underwear. On the roof, there'south a Ferris wheel that is peculiarly thrilling considering it's x stories off the ground. How to get down from the roof? How about the ten-story slide?

As you'll desire to climb outside through the maze of metallic wire and into the one-time airplane hanging off the edifice, you must clothing closed-toed shoes. To take advantage of everything, total-length pants or jeans are also recommended. While toddlers will find a lot to await at and activities to burn down off some energy, this is really prime for the vii- to xv-year-olds. Everyone volition enjoy the Everyday Circus that performs on the tertiary floor. At that place are several spots to eat and drink (including adult beverages), then actually plan on at least three hours if not six! Information technology is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, only Fridays and Saturdays it's open until midnight. How serious is this place about exploring? The museum shop sells knee pads. Not a bad thought.

Gateway Arch & Museum

There is no doubt that this once-in-a-lifetime feel must exist had, just we're going to tell parents how to exercise it the smart way. Know that the entire grounds have been redesigned and include a new museum and stroller-friendly walkways.

Standing at 630 feet alpine, the Gateway Arch is our nation's tallest man-made monument, and it anchors Gateway Curvation National Park. It is the city's most pop tourist allure. Visiting on a weekday is ameliorate than a weekend, but in either example arriving right when it opens is your all-time bet. Buying tickets online is likewise wise, but yous tin also purchase by phone or at the ticket center located inside the new metropolis-facing entrance.

Effigy in some await time, starting with at least 30 minutes to go through security. But once within, your tram ticket is assigned a time—you can savor the Museum with lots of child-friendly interactive elements while you wait. Once in line for the tram, there are a lot of screens to look at and fun facts to keep you all entertained while you lot await. At the tram, you'll leave your stroller behind and get into the 5-person "pod" and begin your rising. Yous'll be rewarded at the meridian with nifty views, and for an extra thrill, on windy days information technology even sways a little! The windows are small-scale and little kids will demand to be lifted upwardly to come across out, but yous have enough of time to comfortably relish the feel and take plenty of selfies.

Afterwards it all, head north to Laclede's Landing for restaurants and brewpubs with children's menus where parents can appreciate that draft beer or glass of wine and relax over a good meal.

Gateway Curvation Riverboats

History and fun are served in equal parts on the Gateway Arch Riverboats, and so take your kids and relive the days when steamboats ruled. These 19^th-century replicas (cull between the Becky Thatcher or Tom Sawyer) offer the all-time views of the city. Considering the cruises are narrated past a helm of the National Park Service, you'll acquire the of import part the Mississippi had in our country's history in general and our town's in particular. In add-on to the ane-hour cruises that are especially proficient for the little ones, the older ones might enjoy a three-hour dinner cruise at nighttime.

Grant'southward Farm

Grant's Farm is absolutely a must for toddlers and large kids. This St. Louis treasure was one time President Ulysses S. Grant'south farm, but it is now so much more than that. You offset off with a curt tram ride where you drive past the four-room, 2-story motel Grant built himself in 1855. And so you better keep your eyes open or you'll miss the free-roaming animals that include bison, antelopes, zebras, and more. You lot'll hop off at the primary zoo surface area where immature ones love to feed the goats (alert: those piddling guys can exist ambitious). A short walk takes you by giant tortoises, wallabies, lemurs, camels, parrots, and more. Plus there are a couple of brusk creature shows.

Parents with younger kids peculiarly similar this place because it's and then like shooting fish in a barrel to walk (they rent strollers too). Y'all're done in less than an 60 minutes or two, and and then y'all stop upwards in the High german-inspired old-world square where … look for it … wait for it … parents become two costless beer samples. Have a snack or tiffin, just make sure y'all also walk through the little museum and see turn-of-the-last-century cars and carriages plus see some of the horses.

A couple of things to go along in mind, though: While access is free, parking is $fifteen. And if it's a nice Saturday in the summer, you would be wise to be there equally close to the 9 am opening as possible. If yous try to go at apex or two pm, the long line into the parking lot will be a killjoy. Information technology is seasonal, likewise, closed during late autumn and winter. But information technology is a must for visiting families!

Laumeier Sculpture Park

If anyone in your family is itching to get exterior for a hike while others want to explore our city's many art galleries, practise nosotros have the identify for yous, Laumeier Sculpture Park. There is nothing quite similar this 105-acre park that features more than than lx works of big-calibration outdoor sculpture. Hike one of the many trails and exist dazzled past what modern sculpture you come upon. Encourage your kids to hunker or lie down, so stand far away and up close, and and so circle effectually the art; ask them what they meet, think, or experience. Then ask them to invent their own titles for the work—and possibly an interpretive dance is in order?

Even if it's hot, the thick tree embrace will make information technology then your younger ones can savor the walk. When you get there, pick upwardly a park map from the kiosk located near the upper parking lots. If you lot're vacationing with your pet, Fido and Princess are welcome. Best part? It's gratis!

The Magic Firm, St. Louis Children's Museum

The Magic Firm rocks. Zagat named it the country'southward best attraction for children, and it regularly makes national "best of" lists. Once inside, y'all'll understand why. There are hands-on interactive exhibits appealing to preschoolers and younger children, especially the Children's Village where they can grab a tool and set up a car, climb upwardly to a treehouse, do some grocery shopping, fish, bank, and serve pizza in a restaurant.

Upstairs is dandy for bigger kids, with an electrically charged ball, 3-D printer, giant kaleidoscope cycle, three-story slide, and so much more. In the Star-Spangled department there's a national treasure hunt, a voting berth, and the chance to sit at a replica of the president of the United States' desk. In that location'south so much more—and that's not even counting the special exhibits. It'due south all located 15 minutes from downtown in the quaint suburb of Kirkwood, which is a jewel of its own filled with parks and restaurants.

Those with the littlest kids will want to become there at opening, as afternoon tends to be for older kids, and later 2 pm information technology tends to be the least crowded. Let at least 4 hours.

National Dejection Museum

At that place'southward simply ane National Dejection Museum in the country, and you lot'll observe it on Washington Ave. in downtown St. Louis. Your kids know the blues even if they call back they don't, as it is the foundation of all modern American music, from rock to soul, jazz to rap. This museum educates while entertaining, and kids really get engaged with the 16,000 square anxiety of engineering science-driven experiences. There's even the opportunity to write your own blues vocal and add a guitar track (no guitar playing skills needed).

In add-on to the "cool" cistron for older kids, tweens, and teens, it's also an important part of the African American experience and offers a rich, conversation-inducing understanding of their vital contribution to American history. Plan on spending under two hours here.

St. Louis Aquarium

Located in what was ane of the busiest passenger rail terminals in the globe, the St. Louis Aquarium takes your family on an aquatic journey that dazzles and entertains. From alligator snapping turtles to zebra sharks, more than than 13,000 animals hang out in and around 250,000 gallons of water. The behind-the-scenes tour takes a one-half hour and is totally worth it, and little ones will actually enjoy the personalized animal encounters.

St. Louis Blues Hockey

If you're visiting us in wintertime, heat things up with a visit to the Enterprise Eye for a St. Louis Dejection hockey experience. It's been particularly exciting since nosotros took home the Stanley Loving cup in 2019.

St. Louis Cardinals Baseball

If yous tin can, a trip to St. Louis should include a mean solar day catching a St. Louis Cardinals game every bit an honorary fellow member of "Cardinal Nation." Home games happen at 1 of the nation'due south almost beautiful ballparks, Busch Stadium. Designed to requite virtually every seat a not bad view of the St. Louis Arch, there'south also the food, the fun, the baseball excitement, and the inevitable spotting of our team's mascot, Fredbird. Make sure you visit the Cardinals Hall of Fame and see 1-of-a-kind stadium models that showcase the squad'due south habitation going dorsum to 1920s. Also hold an bodily Cardinals bat in the "Property History" area. Don't miss family unit fun and eats at Ballpark Village.

St. Louis Union Station

At that place's a lot to exercise inside this National Celebrated Landmark. Just walking through it, looking at the architecture, and imagining what it was like in the early 1900s when 100,000 travelers a day went through is enough … well, at least for united states adults. Meanwhile, St. Louis Union Station has something for kids of all ages: a archetype old school carousel, mini golf, a mirror maze, and a rope grade. Oh, and there's a Build-A-Carry, among other fun shops. Daily on the lake outside its grand entrance is a fire and low-cal prove that dazzles. (Annotation: this is also where the Aquarium is and it's next to the St. Louis Wheel).

St. Louis Wheel

The 200-foot-high St. Louis Wheel is a must. It became an firsthand hit with locals and visitors alike. Accept your kids for a 15-minute perfect skyline view. And for the tape information technology'due south not a Ferris wheel only an "observation" bicycle because instead of open-air seats in that location are enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas—and so they are perfect for the littlest ones. Whew.

Want to splurge? Sign up for the VIP climate-controlled gondolas, which offer opportunities for the kids to learn concepts in math, engineering, and geography. Oh, and leather helm chairs. Oh, and a glass floor.

World Chess Hall of Fame

If you or your kids are remotely interested in the globe's about popular and challenging game of all, a trip to this chess mecca is a must. Ane floor of the World Chess Hall of Fame explores the connectedness of chess to art, civilisation, and history, and the others display thought-provoking exhibits. If it's a nice day, play a game with the toddler-sized pieces exterior!

Possibly unexpected is the splendid gift shop, which is filled with interesting games and, of course, fascinating chess boards and pieces! It's open seven days a calendar week, and there's a suggested donation.

Go Exterior, Go Active

Whether information technology's a leisurely cycle ride, coming face up to face up with wild animals, exploring an underground cave, or a thrilling ride on a zip line, St. Louis has the perfect manner to go your family outside and active.

Hazard Valley Zip Line

While officially piddling kids only need to be potty trained and fit into a harness, it's the bigger kids, tweens, and teens who will most dearest this 10-zipline canopy tour and paintball park. We are talking ane.5 miles of ziplines including a unmarried one that is ane,100 anxiety long and gets you lot flight up to 50 mph. (If that makes parents squeamish, in that location's a ride in a 6-seater for them and the little ones.) The Gamble Valley guides get in all fun, and no worries, the condom standards are stringent. The paintball park has open play on Sabbatum and Sundays for those 12 and older. Actually, this is a largely underappreciated gem of a place that offering experiences kids will call up for a lifetime!

Citygarden

Citygarden was blueprint specifically for you lot and your family unit, and whatever downtown visit should include it. This haven of interactive art, gardens, and dancing fountains for kids (including toddlers) to run through is a perfect hour-long terminate between visits to the Curvation or the ballpark – both within walking distance. The winding path takes the family through 24 conversation-inducing sculptures. Then there are six rain gardens, a children's spray plaza, and a 180-foot-long shallow pool with a six-foot waterfall, all especially popular on a hot afternoon (Annotation: you lot'd be wise to have a towel handy).

Oh—and there are usually several food trucks dispensing snacks, drinks, sandwiches, and desserts.

Endangered Wolf Centre

Unique to St. Louis is the Endangered Wolf Middle, a nonprofit wildlife facility in Eureka (home to Six Flags and just a half hour from downtown St. Louis). It is dedicated to protection of the endangered wolves, and so it's a must for the piffling conservationist in your family unit. Some planning is recommended, and so telephone call for a reservation and check the event calendar. At that place's overnight camping hither, too!

Lonely Elk Park

It's non simply the deer and the antelope playing here  – there are besides bison, wild turkeys, waterfowl, and elk. Alone Elk Park has an interesting history: It was originally used for testing and storing ammunition during Earth War 2. After that, herds of elk and bison were brought in. Then the country was re-acquired by the government during the Korean War, and all the animals were moved elsewhere…except i who managed to non get defenseless. 1 lone elk. It makes for a beautiful hike that'due south non too strenuous, and there'south fishing likewise.

Mastadon Country Historic Site

Any hereafter archeologists in your family? Then check out the museum of Missouri's Ice Age animals and the Native Americans who hunted them more than than 10,000 years ago. Mastadon Country Historic Site offers an of import archaeological and paleontological site—the Kimmswick Bone Bed. Here, scientists discovered the first solid bear witness of the coexistence of humans and the American mastodon in eastern North America.

Meramec Caverns

Have some kids and teens who similar exploring? Take them to "America's Cave," because this iv.half-dozen-mile cavern organization was formed from large limestone deposits over millions of years ago just for you! The guided tour of Meramec Caverns is fascinating and filled with facts and urban legends. Hey, if it is good enough for Jesse James….  Tip: No thing the conditions, bring a jacket every bit going down the equivalent of five stories into the earth tends to make i a little dank. Also information technology's not conducive to strollers so maybe it's non a good idea for the very immature.

Now, when yous're out of the cave, check out the riverboat rides, canoe rentals, sluicing operation, and zipline. The zipline would exist a big hit for the large kids, tweens, and teens—only call ahead because it'southward not always open.

Missouri Botanical Garden

At a glance, you might see the words "Botanical Garden" and judge it to exist non "kid-worthy." With this one, that would exist a serious mistake. Sure, the word "horticulture" might make some teens and tweens coil their optics, but one of the coolest gardens in the country volition win them over. Here are a few specifics.

• The Climatron, the get-go geodesic dome to be used equally a solarium, is a tropical rainforest including plants and birds.
• The Japanese Garden features fourteen acres of carefully designed plantings, waterfalls, and an isle. Kids honey standing on the bridge feeding the huge colorful koi (carp).
• The Children's Garden, open from April to October, is a identify to explore, pretend, and climb (there'south an extra fee for this simply it's totally worth information technology).
• A maze!
• Many special events, like the summertime Whitaker Music Festival, where yous can pack a picnic and heed to some of the best local music later strolling the garden.

Myseum

A whole lot of fun for all, especially for those with little kids (it's for those two–12, just actually nether 10 savour it the most). This combination children'due south museum, science center, and indoor playground is a delightful mode to spend two to four hours. Myseum has over thirty diverse exhibits to explore, including a zoo vet dispensary, an interactive video wall, and a magnetic ball wall! Definitely go along this in mind if some other outdoor plan gets rained out.

Powder Valley Nature Eye

If you demand a suspension from theme parks or indoor activities, a perfect respite is Powder Valley, especially if you have little ones. There are hiking trails that are short (including one that is ADA accessible), and the nature center has two levels of exhibits related to backyard wildlife and conservation practices in urban areas—it's especially kid- and even lilliputian-child-friendly (play with the animal puppets!). Yous'll encounter deer, and the bird watching is exquisite!

Purina Farms

We love our animals—in fact the Purina pet food company's roots started here in 1894. The company owns a really fun farm and visitor heart 40 minutes southwest of downtown, Purina Farms. The Incredible Dog Team is a hoot, peculiarly for immature ones, and the Pet Heart features a twenty-foot multi-level home for cats. There are likewise carriage rides, interactive exhibits, cow-milking demonstrations, a baby fauna petting surface area…information technology'southward a dainty respite from the sometimes hectic on-the-become aspects of other tourist attractions.

Raging Rivers Waterpark

A 40-minute bulldoze across the river takes you to Grafton, IL, where you lot'll notice the Raging Rivers WaterPark. Take a spin on Swirlpool, the cool water attraction that's three rides in one. Savour the giant wave puddle, body flumes, Tree Firm Harbor, an endless river, and a family interactive play area that is fun for all ages. This is 20 acres of wet n' wild fun for the entire family unit.

Saint Louis Zoo

No visit to our boondocks is complete without a end at the Saint Louis Zoo, consistently voted among the top zoos in the world. Notice more than 500 species in xc beautifully landscaped acres in historic Forest Park. You could easily spend the whole twenty-four hours hither, though that is taxing even on older kids. This means a trivial planning and prioritizing are likely in gild.

General admission is costless, but parking in one of the two zoo lots is pricy. During the week or very early or late in the afternoon y'all tin likely snag a spot on the park streets, specially if you don't mind walking a bit through the beautiful park.

In one case inside the zoo, some sections and shows toll money, just some are free during the commencement hour of operation. The Zooline Railroad is fun and saves on walking; a ticket comes with on/off privileges. The Ocean Lion Testify is certainly worth spending a piffling coin on. Otherwise at the top of your list should be Penguin & Puffin Coast, Large Cat State, Polar Bear Indicate, and the Primate House. Little kids will want to take a break with a ride on the colorful Carousel, and teens might virtually enjoy the River'south Edge. That involves a lot of walking only is a journey along a mythical waterway through four continents to discover how wild animals, plants, and people interact.

Going on a weekday is a proficient idea—only know that a lot of local parents bring their little kids in that location commencement thing in the morning. Otherwise on a Saturday and Lord's day, early mornings or later afternoons tend to be less crowded. Even at its about crowded, the zoo is yet a great time.

But wait! There's more! Across from the zoo is Turtle Park, where large sculptures of turtles (and a snake) wait to be climbed on. Especially not bad for picayune ones earlier or after a zoo visit.

Shaw Nature Reserve

Missouri is a beautiful state, and for the nature lovers in your family, these two,400 acres of Ozarks edge is a must visit. Office of the Missouri Botanical Garden, Shaw Nature Reserve is out in Grayness Meridian, 40 minutes from downtown (35 miles). Information technology's a place to walk and hike, and study nature.

Six Flags St. Louis

Since 1971, this popular theme park has been thrilling and entertaining kids of all ages, and if you have teens and tweens, it's pretty much a must. Half-dozen Flags St. Louis is the coaster capital letter of Missouri with nine eye-pounding roller coasters (three wooden and half dozen steel), and combined they feature over 22,700 feet of runway.

Located simply a half hour from downtown in Eureka, the park is adding attractions every year, so information technology just gets meliorate and improve. And if your mix of kids includes toddlers and piffling kids, no worries as they have Bugs Bunny National Park, a section with not bad rides for the picayune ones and a fun treehouse.

There's a keen waterpark, also, and then consider fitting that in, although unless yous have the stamina to do an all-solar day run, maybe just one or the other is more reasonable.

Information technology's a popular theme park, so the universal rules apply: Getting at that place during the week is meliorate than the weekend and getting there right when information technology opens is better than at 1 pm. Another option is later in the afternoon as the tired families are leaving, plus night riding is really fun. To save money, bring a picnic lunch, become your hand stamped, leave the park to go eat, and render. Otherwise, rumor has it that the vast bulk of those inbound the park go left, so going right and hitting a popular ride like Batman is easier. It is a clean, well-run park with fun shows too.

Sophia Yard. Sachs Butterfly Business firm

You actually haven't lived until you've been in a glass room where butterflies swarm around you … so bring your family to the Butterfly Business firm in Faust Park. Role of the Missouri Botanical Garden, the advisedly controlled environment houses nearly ii,000 tropical butterflies in flight, and they dazzle and hum around the 150 tropical plant species. It's magical for all, merely the littlest will really love it. Also for them is the "Lopatapillar," a 30-foot long caterpillar sculpture only exterior the firm suitable for climbing on. Oh, and an eye-popping old-fashioned carousel!

Steinberg Ice Rink

For those who visit in the winter, a stop at Steinberg Skating Rink in Wood Park is a must. Information technology is the largest outdoor rink in the Midwest, and it's open to the public all twenty-four hour period, everyday. A pause at the Snowflake Café right on the premises for hot chocolate is definitely going to happen, and they also sell hot dogs, burgers, and beer and wine. They accept enough of skates to rent, so all you have to do is bundle up.

Suson Park Animal Farm

This cute park in the county, due south of the city, is always a joy on its own. Only also go on in listen it's the perfect fallback if Grant'south Farm and/or the Zoo are besides much/too crowded. This working brute farm lets you get up close and personal with cows, horses, donkeys, pigs, chickens, turkeys, and sheep. Suson Park Animal Subcontract is specially perfect for petty ones and toddlers. There are two take hold of and release lakes for the fisher folks in your family, or just stroll the grounds. Finally, there's a great playground.

Earth Bird Sanctuary

The World Bird Sanctuary is both a distinctive St. Louis allure and an entertaining environmental education opportunity. Featuring over 305 acres and over 200 animals, they offer a ane-of-a-kind wildlife experience. World Bird Sanctuary strives to preserve and safeguard bird species as role of the global customs for futurity generations. It is a nice, relaxing style to spend a couple of hours in nature. Plan ahead to get into a guided tour.

Get Smart, Go Fine art

Visit museums about rivers, transportation and toys or encounter what information technology was like living in the St. Louis area hundreds of years ago. Learn well-nigh the explorers Lewis & Clark and the role St. Louis played in their expedition, or try some hands-on science experiments.

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

One of the greatest cities in the history of the world flourished but beyond the river, and information technology is a must for whatsoever history buff or budding archaeologist. In 1250, Cahokia was larger and more advanced than London, and was the about sophisticated prehistoric native civilization north of Mexico. The Mississippians who lived here were accomplished builders who erected a broad variety of structures from practical homes for everyday living to monumental public works that have maintained their grandeur for centuries. Then it quickly vanished—and no one is sure why!

Left behind, though, is the 2,200-acre tract that is still the site of archaeological digs every bit well as the Cahokia Mounds Country Historic Site interpretive centre/museum that is equally intriguing equally information technology is educational. In June, July, and August they offer public tours; register on the website. If the timing doesn't work, don't let that discourage you from this amazing feel because even in winter it is always a corking place to accept the family.

Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis

The Contemporary Art Museum is an important terminate for any burgeoning artist in your family. The building itself is impressive. Created by Brad Cloepfil in 2003, it received the American Academy of Arts and Messages Award for Architecture in 2018. Check the website for what exhibits are there during your visit, but they will likely be fascinating and conversation-inducing. Definitely all-time for tweens and older kids.

Daniel Boone Home & Homesfield Hamlet

A brisk 50-minute bulldoze from downtown takes y'all to the Boone Dwelling house, nestled in stunning hills and overlooking a gorgeous valley. Yes, while mostly associated with Kentucky, this pioneer, explorer, and all-effectually folk hero settled in Missouri in 1799, before it was a state, and spent his final years here. The nearly 300-acre site includes the Historic Daniel Boone Home and bordering village. The dozen buildings in the hamlet include the general store, schoolhouse, and grist factory, and offering curious minds a peek into life on the Missouri frontier. It's a great learning experience and fun to imagine what life was like for Colonel Boone. Definitely do a little planning and grab a guided tour.

Field House Museum

Start of all, kids will think this house is cool. It was built in 1845 and was habitation to Roswell Field, a lawyer for the Dred Scott example. Roswell's son, Eugene Field, was a author known for his poems for children and humorous essays. The Field Firm Museum was opened as the outset historic house museum in St. Louis in 1936 and named a National Historic Landmark in 2007.

The lure will exist what exhibits they happen to take, as they alter all the time. Check the website. Otherwise y'all have to ring the bell to go in and pay a minor fee for a tour. On the third floor, kids will observe and beloved the toy museum that displays toys from the 1700s to today.

Ulysses Southward. Grant National Historic Site

If you're a family unit who likes to visit presidential or Ceremonious War related sites, the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site is a must. Grant was the full general who handed Lincoln a victory and saved the Union, and then went on to become the eighteen^th president. In Grant'southward youth, he landed here and married a local gal from a wealthy local family, Julia Dent. (Paradoxically, from 1854 to 1859 the Dents and the Grants lived and built up the holding with an enslaved workforce.)

The firm and outbuildings are approximately 400 feet up a gradual incline from the company center. All just 1 room on the main floor of the house is stroller accessible. The guided bout takes approximately 30 minutes, and there's a xx-minute documentary that is concise and educational. Kids love visiting the celebrated summertime kitchen, chicken coop, and icehouse. This is right by Grant's Farm, so include a end here if y'all're nearby.

Griot Museum of Black History and Culture

The Griot opened as the Black Earth History Wax Museum in 1997 and has added additional art and artifacts forth the way. In addition to learning about our urban center'due south role in African American history, kids savor "meeting" those who lived here or played an important office including Dred and Harriet Scott, Miles Davis, Clark Terry, Dr. Martin Luther Male monarch Jr., Josephine Baker, Carter Thousand. Woodson, and many others. (This is a terrific cease to take the kids before or after a visit to the Onetime Courthouse.) There's an interpretive programme that includes an authentic slave cabin, originally built in the boondocks of Jonesburg, Missouri. Plenty for the little ones, and the older kids will acquire a lot.

Missouri History Museum

First, the building: Information technology was originally built as the showtime national monument to Thomas Jefferson. Meanwhile, though, for the family that wants to learn well-nigh the history of the identify they're visiting, this excellent museum is a must. At that place'due south showroom on our proudest moment, the 1904 Earth's Fair. Other Missouri History Museum exhibits modify regularly, but all are well washed and offer up a history on the city and the people who accept lived here. For the petty ones, there is the totally fun History Clubhouse, a free family gallery filled with easily-on activities where kids 3–9 tin can pilot a steamboat, learn about life in Cahokia, and build a downtown skyscraper.

Museum of Transportation

This gem of a museum is "subconscious" out in our suburbs, only is well worth the 30-minute drive from downtown. The Smithsonian Establishment calls it "1 of the largest and best collections of transportation vehicles in the world." Trains (lxx), planes, carriages, and one of the coolest drove of cars are found at the Museum of Transportation (including Bobby Darin'due south famous "Car of the Time to come"). In that location are trolleys and boats too! Lots to climb in and on, and for the littlest ones, at that place's the Creation Station play expanse. Check the website and plan your visit, because you'll want to get when the miniature train is offering rides.

National Great Rivers Museum

A quick 35 minutes across the river and n of St. Louis is the National Bang-up Rivers Museum. It is one of 11 company centers operated by the U.S. Ground forces Corps of Engineers, and the best one to tell the story of the mighty Mississippi and its touch on not only on the region, but on the nation. It's besides near Alton, IL, which is fun river town to nab lunch or dinner. The museum is self-guided, though if y'all can grab ane of the staff tours at 10 am, 1 pm, or 3 pm on most days, they're more than engaging for kids.

Historic Sometime Courthouse

History happened here in two of the about pivotal trials in our history. In the Quondam Courthouse a slave named Dred Scott fought for his liberty, and later, Virginia Pocket-sized fought for women'due south correct to vote.

Scott and his family unit had 2 trials hither, in 1847 and 1850. He sued for his liberty and that of his wife and daughters because his possessor had taken him briefly into a free state, and then brought him back to Missouri, a slave land. He won here but lost in the Supreme Courtroom—many historians believe information technology was one of the factors that hastened the Ceremonious State of war. In the 1870s, Minor brought a instance for a woman's right to vote, further cementing this humble courthouse's identify in history.

If your kids are studying slavery, the Civil War, women'southward suffrage, or American history in full general, this is a must-visit. Today information technology's office of the national park system, and rangers give guided tours, which you'll definitely want to practise if your schedule allows. Of import for tweens and teens.

Saint Louis Fine art Museum

Recently expanded, the Saint Louis Art Museum is especially family unit friendly. Boasting i of the nation's leading comprehensive collections, it offers up quality work from many cultures and fourth dimension periods. Kids volition especially dig the Aboriginal Egypt artifacts (mummies!), and the contemporary art section is inspired, too. (Tip: When they signal to something and say, "I could do that," point out that they didn't.) For those with younger kids, Family Dominicus is perfect. A family unit-friendly tour begins at 2:30 pm, and you lot need to sign upward on site at 1 pm that day, plus there's easily-on activities happening. Travel through time and across the globe with a self-guided tour of artworks with a Family Gallery Guide, or abound marvel for art through drawing, writing, movement, and imagining using a Find Action Carte.

For the older kids, splurge and get the sound guides. They are well done and extremely informative. Costless.

Saint Louis Science Centre

For kids of all ages, science has never been then fun. Explore 700-plus exhibits (lots of them interactive), the OMNIMAX Theater with its four-story screen, James S. McDonnell Planetarium, and special traveling exhibitions. While the Saint Louis Science Middle is mostly free, some special exhibits, the planetarium, and the theater are ticketed events. If yous just want to relish what's included in that free ticket, 2 to three hours will do it (less if you have petty ones). Learn most space, dinosaurs, physics, aviation, chemistry, earth and ecology science, and more than. Either earlier you go or once there with map in mitt, prioritize to make sure you hit the things most interesting to your kids.

Rainy Day Indoor Fun

Sometimes the weather condition simply doesn't cooperate with your plans.  These indoor attractions are the perfect option when it decides to pelting on your family'due south parade through St. Louis.

City Museum

Whatever you're expecting, it's not this. Just be prepared to have your mind blown at i of the virtually unusual, imaginative, coolest places ever, City Museum. Artists with a bent sense of play repurposed pieces of old urban center buildings into miles of tunnels, slides, climbers, bridges, and—yes—castles in a century-quondam warehouse. Waiting to be discovered are secret passages, a circus, a train, playgrounds, ball pits, and grand galleries. There's a 24-pes-alpine metal praying mantis, a funhouse mirror, and the globe's largest pair of underwear. On the roof, there's a Ferris bicycle that is specially thrilling because it'south x stories off the ground. How to become downwards from the roof? How most the 10-story slide?

Equally y'all'll desire to climb outside through the maze of metal wire and into the old airplane hanging off the edifice, you must wear airtight-toed shoes. To take reward of everything, total-length pants or jeans are also recommended. While toddlers will find a lot to expect at and activities to burn off some free energy, this is really prime for the seven- to 15-twelvemonth-olds. Everyone will savour the Everyday Circus that performs on the third floor. There are several spots to swallow and potable (including adult beverages), then actually plan on at least three hours if not six! Information technology is airtight on Mondays and Tuesdays, merely Fridays and Saturdays it's open until midnight. How serious is this place about exploring? The museum shop sells knee joint pads. Not a bad idea.

Climb So iLL Indoor Stone Climbing

Climb so iLL is another great place for your kids to fire off some excess energy. This downtown rock climbing facility features multiple climbing areas, each designed for varying levels of ability. Beginners are welcomed as the helpful safety-first coiffure volition go you going on your offset rock climb. For the experienced and/or daring child, there is a wall that is 50 feet high. Officially there is no historic period requirement, just information technology might non be that fun for the very trivial. And then again, it is colorful! It's open seven days a week, likewise.

Demolition Ball

If your family likes indoor fun, head to St. Charles' premier event facility that features Demolition Ball, a game where fun and activity collide. Climb in a supercharged bumper car with two five-actor teams, competing to shoot a wiffle ball through a xvi-inch circular goal using a track ball scoop. Only wait in that location is more—laser tag! Peachy mode to burn down off some energy.

The Magic House, St. Louis Children's Museum

This place rocks. Zagat named The Magic House the state's best attraction for children, and it regularly makes national "all-time of" lists. Once inside, you'll sympathise why. In that location are hands-on interactive exhibits highly-seasoned to preschoolers and younger children, specially the Children's Village where they can catch a tool and fix a machine, climb upwards to a treehouse, do some grocery shopping, fish, banking concern, and serve pizza in a restaurant.

Upstairs is great for bigger kids, with an electrically charged ball, three-D printer, giant kaleidoscope wheel, three-story slide, then much more. In the Star-Spangled department at that place's a national treasure hunt, a voting booth, and the chance to sit at a replica of the president of the United States' desk-bound. There's so much more—and that's non even counting the special exhibits. It's all located 15 minutes from downtown in the quaint suburb of Kirkwood, which is a gem of its ain filled with parks and restaurants.

Those with the littlest kids will want to get there at opening, as afternoon tends to exist for older kids, and after ii pm it tends to exist the least crowded. Let at least four hours.

Missouri History Museum

Starting time, the building: It was originally built as the starting time national monument to Thomas Jefferson. Meanwhile, though, for the family that wants to learn almost the history of the place they're visiting, the Missouri History Museum is a must. There's exhibit on our proudest moment, the 1904 World'due south Fair. Other exhibits change regularly, simply all are well done and offer up a history on the city and the people who have lived hither. For the fiddling ones, at that place is the totally fun History Clubhouse, a free family gallery filled with easily-on activities where kids three–ix can pilot a steamboat, larn near life in Cahokia, and build a downtown skyscraper.

St. Louis Aquarium

Located in what was 1 of the busiest passenger track terminals in the world, the St. Louis Aquarium takes your family on an aquatic journey that dazzles and entertains. From alligator snapping turtles to zebra sharks, more than thirteen,000 animals hang out in and effectually 250,000 gallons of water. The backside-the-scenes tour takes a half hour and is totally worth it, and little ones will really relish the personalized brute encounters.

Saint Louis Science Heart

For kids of all ages, science has never been so fun. Explore 700-plus exhibits (lots of them interactive), the OMNIMAX Theater with its four-story screen, James S. McDonnell Planetarium, and special traveling exhibitions. While the Science Center mostly free, some special exhibits, the planetarium, and the theater are ticketed events. If you lot just want to enjoy what'southward included in that gratuitous ticket, two to three hours volition do it (less if you have piffling ones). Learn about space, dinosaurs, physics, aviation, chemical science, world and environmental science, and more. Either before you go or once there with map in hand, prioritize to make sure you striking the things almost interesting to your kids.

Victory Raceway

Serious Go Karting happens here! This is a thrilling chance for the family to drive upward to 45 mph on racetracks. It's been called the all-time secret gem in the greater St. Louis area, and your big kids, tweens, and teens will certainly hold. Victory Raceway open seven days a calendar week and while there are often special and group events, individuals tin can walk in daily and get behind the wheel on a commencement-come up, get-go served ground. Note: There are no ii-seaters – everyone drives. Kids need to be at least half dozen years old and a minimum of 50 inches tall.

Dining Fun with Kids

And At present a Word virtually St. Louis Cuisine …. Nosotros have developed a unique "St. Louis style" pizza that is a wafer-sparse chaff, made with provel cheese, and cutting in squares. It'southward found in many restaurants around town, but exemplified by our local chain Imo'south Pizza. It is rarely plant outside the city, and some visitors who taste it wonder why; others … they call back they understand why it hasn't defenseless on after a few bites. Still, families with kids should try information technology. Also, a niggling more than known, is our "toasted" ravioli. This delicacy is actually fried, and kids love it as an appetizer or fifty-fifty as a dinner. Information technology'due south constitute everywhere around boondocks (it was actually invented here), and that should be tried besides!

Here are some kid approved St. Louis dining options.

America's Incredible Pizza Company

If you are looking for somewhere fun that involves pizza the America'due south Incredible Pizza Company is your ticket. Hither, the whole family unit can enjoy the '50s themed facility, eat at a buffet that offers over 150 items to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters, and spend hours of fun in the game room, including indoor get-karts, laser tag, a spinning roller coaster, an XD theater, over 80 arcade games, and more. All this with affordable prices—but brand sure to cheque out the website for coupons or special deals.

The Boathouse at Forest Park

In Forest Park, there's a pocket-size lake where you tin rent a boat and row effectually, alongside a lovely eating place perfect for an afternoon break from a lot of St. Louis sightseeing. The brunch and lunch menu at The Boathouse both take delights for modest kids and picky eaters, but the otherwise relatively limited menu tells y'all that you've brought the family unit for the view and atmosphere. If y'all're lucky, you'll be in that location when there is some music playing. Merely exist sure to check the website before yous become because they close if the weather isn't cooperating.

Crown Processed

St. Louis history lives here. Opened in 1913, Crown Candy is an old school diner with candy and a BLT heavy on the B—so perhaps split it. Actually, have your kids separate a sandwich to save room for dessert, particularly the World's Fair Sundae. YOLO, you know—go big or go home. At present … it's a tiny place and on a weekend you could wait 90 minutes to get in, then don't get on a squeamish Saturday at apex. Just seriously, history, and peachy meals and treats live here.

Fitz's

In that location are so many different places to consume that you can't go incorrect with any of them, just the kids will really go a kick out of Fitz's. This diner doubles every bit a root beer factory, and during business hours you all can picket the soda beingness fabricated. In related news, the ice cream floats are a must. And since 2022 there's been a location in the county due south of the city.

The Fountain on Locust

Another cracking diner for kids is institute on Locust Street'southward historic Automotive Row. Eating in a edifice that was built in 1916 to build "high end sedans" is pretty cool. Also great food, The Fountain on Locust water ice foam was voted St. Louis' best. Oh, and you and the older kids volition especially enjoy sitting on the west side bar booths to mind to the but restaurant radio comedy series, "Soap Hospital," with a new episode every two minutes. That said, if you take younger, picky eaters, just know there is no kids' menu and food is a bit on the "fancy" side.

Pieces

Pieces is an especially great destination if your kids demand to mellow out and/or our conditions isn't cooperating with your trip. In that location are 950-plus lath games (and they are listed  with difficulty level, time required, and historic period). Even though the bar attracts adults, groups of families with fifty-fifty younger kids hang out there on Friday and Sat nights. A large, various menu makes it piece of cake for every palate to find something.

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

There is nothing like Ted Drewes Frozen Custard. It is "heaven in a cup" and makes kids of united states all. A St. Louis institution since 1930, the store is located on historic Route 66; but none of that matters when you're eating i of their "concretes"—which is a malt or milk shake so thick that it is served upside downward. This is an peculiarly slap-up end subsequently the zoo, the ballpark, or one of the museums. Now, on weekend evenings after dinner, it is crowded, only don't permit the long lines discourage y'all as they movement fast. It'due south so worth it!

Kevin M. Mitchell is a born and breed (bread?) St. Louisan. He's a writer, musician, and male parent of Owen and Beckett. He is a regular correspondent for explorestlouis.com, and is the writer of several books, including "St. Louis Dad".

Child's Activeness Book

Click here to download a copy of the 2022 Kid'southward Activeness Book.

Color your own versions of Archie and Louisa equally they travel around St. Louis. Print your favorite pictures from the list below!

• Archie and Louisa
• Cocked Stuff Prototype
• Critter Stuff Image
• Fun Stuff Image
• Smart Stuff Epitome
• Wacky Stuff Paradigm

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Source: https://explorestlouis.com/discover/st-louis-kids/

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