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The Ultimate Guide to Visiting St. Louis with Kids

When it comes to family getaways in the Midwest, St. Louis, Missouri is a city that has it all. With a mix of history, hands-on museums, sprawling parks, and fun surprises around every corner, it’s the kind of destination where kids can burn energy, learn something new, and make family memories that stick. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, here’s how to make the most of a trip to St. Louis with kids.

Gateway Arch National Park

No trip to St. Louis is complete without a visit to the Gateway Arch National Park. Standing 630 feet tall, it’s the tallest man-made monument in the United States. Definitely take a ride to the top in the tram pods, where you will enjoy a birds eye view of the city. Make sure you take some time to explore the museum at the base of the arch, where interactive exhibits bring the city’s history to life.

Outdoor Fun and Play Spaces

Just across the street from the Gateway Arch, head to Kiener Plaza, a lively urban space with a splash pad, playground, and plenty of green space to relax. Not far away, you’ll also find Citygarden, an outdoor sculpture park filled with giant, climbable art installations that kids can’t resist. There are water features here to splash in during the summer, so come prepared to get wet!

A short drive from downtown, Turtle Park is another quirky St. Louis gem. Giant concrete turtles (and even a snake!) make for a whimsical playground that’s as much fun for climbing as it is for snapping photos.

And of course, don’t miss a stop at the St. Louis Zoo. Consistently ranked as one of the best (and free!) zoos in the country, it’s home to over 12,000 animals. From penguins and polar bears to elephants and big cats, this zoo is a full-day adventure on its own.

Another outdoor favorite is Grant’s Farm, where families can encounter bison, camels, zebras, and the famous Budweiser Clydesdales. A tram ride takes you through the wildlife preserve before dropping you at the petting zoo and family area, where goats, parakeets, and an awesome playground await.

Museums Made for Families

St. Louis is packed with museums that aren’t just kid-approved, but are actually a blast for the whole family! And the best part? So many of them are completely free!

  • The St. Louis Science Center is free to enter and packed with hands-on exhibits, from building structures to space exploration. The planetarium is a must-do!
  • The City Museum might just be the most unique attraction in the city. It’s part art installation, part playground, and part maze; kids can crawl through tunnels, climb on old airplanes, and even slide down a 10-story spiral slide.
  • At the Missouri History Museum, kids can step into St. Louis’ past with interactive exhibits, from the 1904 World’s Fair to the history of the city’s sports teams. Another free to visit museum, the kids zone here is worth the stop!
  • For something a little different, the Museum of Illusions will wow kids with mind-bending exhibits that play tricks on your senses.
  • The Magic House, St. Louis’ beloved children’s museum, is a must do! Kids can “work” in the pretend Children’s Village, climb the Jack and the Beanstalk climber, or spark their curiosity with interactive science exhibits. It’s one of those places where your kids will never want to leave.

Nature and Gardens

For a slower-paced experience, wander through the Missouri Botanical Garden. The Children’s Garden is TOP NOTCH, and they will love climbing, digging, and exploring this unique spot, while adults can enjoy the beauty of one of the nation’s oldest botanical gardens. If you visit in the summer, make sure to pack a swimming suit, as there is a great splash pad area here!

Sweet Treats and Eats

Every family trip needs ice cream, and Clementine’s Creamery is a local favorite. Known for its decadent flavors (with both kid-friendly and grown-up options), it’s the perfect reward after a long day of exploring. We were recommended this stop by a St. Louis local, and it’s now a tradition that we stop here for Gooey Butter Cake ice cream every time we are in the area.

A favorite restaurant of ours in St. Louis is Katie’s Pizza & Pasta– a delicious Italian eatery that serves brunch all the way to dinner. Make sure to ask your waitress for some dough for the kids to play with while you wait on your food- it will keep them still and entertained while you can eat in peace!

Union Station

Plan some time at St. Louis Union Station, a historic train terminal turned family entertainment hub. The St. Louis Aquarium is the star attraction, where kids can see sharks, stingrays, and otters up close. The hotel here is a great place to stay (it’s especially magical at the holidays), and is close to so many family friendly things to do. There’s also a giant Ferris wheel, a ropes course, and even a fire and light show over the lake, plus several restaurants and shopping nearby.

Why St. Louis is Perfect for Families

What makes St. Louis such a fantastic family destination is the magnitude of things to do here; you’ll find a mix of free attractions, unique kid-focused experiences, and iconic landmarks that are as fun for adults as they are for children. From the wonder of the Gateway Arch to the hands-on magic of the City Museum, St. Louis is a city where family adventures come naturally.

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