If you are trying to come up with your next family vacation, consider this your friendly reminder to start planning a family trip to Saint Louis, Missouri. A city that pleasantly surprised us with its family-friendly atmosphere and an abundance of exciting activities. Join me as I recount our memorable experiences of things to do in St. Louis with kids.
Where To Stay:
Exploring downtown St. Louis presents great options of hotels, and our family has had the pleasure of experiencing stays at both the Hyatt Regency and Drury Plaza Hotel. Each stay proved to be convenient in its own way. Drury Plaza Hotel stood out with its inclusive offerings of complimentary breakfast and evening appetizers. On the other hand, the Hyatt Regency, situated just steps away from the iconic Arch, not only provided a convenient location but also offered several on-site restaurants for convenient dining experiences.
Things To Do:
1. The Arch:
A must-do in St. Louis! We booked our tram ride in advance and ascended to the top of the arch, enjoying breathtaking views. The free museum inside the Arch building was a bonus, making it a great start to our trip.
2. City Museum:
An indescribable experience! The is probably one of the best museums that you will ever visit in your life! City Museum was a highlight of our visit, especially for the kids. With numerous slides and passages, knee pads and headlamps are a must. Reserving ahead is essential due to limited capacity, and starting from the rooftop is a strategic move. We spent about 7 hours both times that we have visited St. Louis. Consider bringing head lamps and knee pads for the kiddos as there are a lot of tunnels and crawling. This was our favorite thing to do in St. Louis.
3. St. Louis Zoo:
St. Louis Zoo was not only free but also surpassed our expectations. The animals seemed genuinely happy, and the interactive exhibits, like the stingray touch-and-feed area, made our visit memorable. The $15 parking fee was a small price to pay for such a fantastic day. If you come a littler earlier, there is street parking outside of the zoo area.
4. The Magic House – St Louis Children’s Museum:
A must-visit for families with kids aged 10 and under. The Magic House is a vast space that combines the best elements of children’s museums. Realistic themed exhibits make pretend play come to life. We spent an entire day there and could have explored more if not for some closed exhibits. Early reservations are key.
5. Magic House- MADE for Kids:
MADE for Kids is a 7,000 sq ft makerspace that features a makers workshop, artist studio, design lab and entrepreneurs marketplace where kids can use their imaginations to create, invent, tinker, explore and discover! MADE for Kids is designed for kids ages 4-14 and their families can explore Screen-Printing, Laser Cutting, Stop Motion Animation, 3D Printing, Pottery and more!
6. St. Louis Science Center:
What sets the St. Louis Science Center apart is its commitment to interactive learning. Children and adults alike can engage with exhibits that encourage hands-on exploration, fostering a deeper understanding of scientific principles. From physics experiments to biology demonstrations, the center seamlessly blends education with entertainment.
7. Grant’s Farm:
Grant’s Farm, built by Ulysses S. Grant on land given to him and his wife by his father in law Frederick Fayette Dent shortly after they became married in 1848. It is also the ancestral home of the Busch family which offers a unique blend of animal encounters and family-friendly attractions. Take a tram ride through Deer Park, feed the goats at the Tier Garten, and catch the entertaining animal shows. Best of all, admission is free, though some attractions may have a small fee.
8. Missouri Botanical Garden:
Explore the beauty of nature at the Missouri Botanical Garden. With 79 acres of stunning landscapes, including the Climatron conservatory, this garden provides a peaceful escape for families. Check the calendar for special family events and educational programs, turning a visit into a fun experience for everyone.
9. Meramec Caverns:
Just a short drive from St. Louis, Meramec Caverns offers an underground adventure for the whole family. Guided tours take you through breathtaking caves with stalactites and stalagmites, creating a memorable experience for your family.
10. Budweiser Brewery Experience:
For a unique and educational experience for the adults in the group, the Budweiser Brewery Experience is a great addition to your St. Louis itinerary. Take a guided tour of the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery to learn about the beer-making process, explore the famous Clydesdale stables, and even sample some of the iconic Budweiser products (for the grown-ups, of course). The brewery offers a family-friendly atmosphere, and kids can enjoy the sights of the majestic Clydesdales.
Where To Eat:
1. Salt + Smoke BBQ: Our recent visit to this barbecue gem left us with not only the mouthwatering flavors of their barbecue but also the expertly crafted drinks that complemented the entire feast. Very family friendly.
2. Pappy’s BBQ: Lives up to the hype with delicious ribs, brisket, and hot links. Arrive early to avoid missing out on their popular ribs.
3. Zia’s on the Hill: Delightful and satisfying, with toasted ravioli that shouldn’t be missed.
4. Mama’s On the Hill: A familial atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at ease. It’s as if you’ve stepped into your own Italian grandmother’s house, where love and hospitality infuse every corner.
5. Ted Drewes: A two-day visit says it all! Be prepared for long lines at this ice cream haven.
Whether you’re exploring the Gateway Arch, unleashing creativity at The Magic House, or getting up close to exotic animals at the St. Louis Zoo, the Gateway City offers a diverse range of activities for an unforgettable family getaway. Pack your bags, and let St. Louis be the backdrop for a journey filled with laughter, exploration, and memories that will last a lifetime.