St. Louis stands out as an exceptional destination for families, brimming with attractions that cater to all ages. This vibrant region boasts an impressive array of free, world-class experiences, engaging events, and beautiful public parks, making it an ideal choice for both short weekend trips and extended family vacations.
Whether you’re navigating the city with toddlers or teenagers seeking more independence, St. Louis offers a diverse range of immersive and memorable activities that the whole family can enjoy together. Discover upcoming kid-friendly events in St. Louis via an online events calendar, and be sure to check out the top kid-friendly restaurants in St. Louis to keep everyone fueled up between adventures.
Entertainment Complexes for Family Fun
Amp Up Action Park: Adventure Awaits
Kids play on the elevated ropes course at Amp Up Action Park.
Amp Up Action Park promises non-stop excitement for the entire family. Experience the thrill of racing on a state-of-the-art indoor go-kart track, featuring the most technologically advanced karts available. Dive into an exhilarating adventure in the three-level laser tag arena, illuminated with black lights for an added dimension of fun. Challenge yourselves on the elevated ropes course, try your hand at axe throwing, or enjoy a wide selection of arcade games and even pickleball. Amp Up Action Park offers flexible play options, from pay-as-you-go to two-hour passes. When hunger strikes, The Filling Station Cafe and Trackside Tavern provide delicious options, including bar bites, pizza, and sweet treats. Parents can also relax and enjoy beer, wine, or sangria while the kids continue to play in a safe and engaging environment.
Main Event Chesterfield: Unlimited Entertainment for Families
Kids play arcade games at Main Event.
For a comprehensive entertainment experience under one roof, Main Event in Chesterfield is the perfect destination for Family Friendly Things To Do Near Me. This entertainment hub offers a vast array of activities designed to bring families and friends together, from classic bowling and thrilling laser tag to engaging billiards and fun mini golf. Test your skills in the expansive arcade, immerse yourselves in a virtual reality experience, or tackle the indoor ropes course. For a unique challenge, try one of the miniature escape rooms. Monday visitors can take advantage of Main Event’s incredible all-you-can-play promotion for just $12.99 per person, offering exceptional value for a day of family fun.
St. Louis Union Station: A Historic Hub of Family Activities
The 3D light show in the Grand Hall of St. Louis Union Station shows animals from the St. Louis Aquarium.
St. Louis Union Station, once a bustling passenger rail terminal, has been transformed into a vibrant center for family-friendly entertainment and things to do near me. This historic landmark offers a wide range of attractions suitable for children of all ages. Enjoy a ride on the classic carousel, navigate the twists and turns of the mirror maze, or play a round of miniature golf. Test your agility on the ropes course or create a personalized furry friend at the Build-A-Bear Workshop. Outside, witness the captivating fire and light show on the lake, and inside the Grand Hall, be mesmerized by the stunning 3D light show featuring underwater scenes, Queen music, and more. Union Station is also home to the St. Louis Aquarium and the iconic St. Louis Wheel, ensuring a full day of family entertainment.
Recreational Activities for Active Families
Adventure Valley: Zip Line Adventures
A kid zip lines at Adventure Valley in St. Louis.
For families seeking outdoor adventure, Adventure Valley offers an exhilarating zip line experience. Soar through the air on 10 different zip lines, gliding through a beautiful wooded ridge in Jefferson County. On one impressive zip line, over 1,100 feet long, you can reach speeds of up to 50 miles per hour! If you prefer to stay closer to the ground, Adventure Valley also features a paintball park, open on weekends for those 12 and older. Team up with your family and engage in a friendly paintball tournament for an action-packed day of outdoor fun and family friendly things to do near me.
MADE for Kids: Creative Exploration and Making
Two boys get crafty at MADE for Kids created by The Magic House.
Unleash your family’s creativity at MADE for Kids, a 7,000-square-foot makerspace created by The Magic House. Designed for children aged four to 14, this imaginative wonderland features various zones, including a makers workshop, artists studio, design lab, and entrepreneurs marketplace. Here, kids can use their imaginations to tinker, create, invent, explore, and discover new skills. Watch as your children experiment with screen printing, 3D printing, laser cutting, stop motion animation, and more. MADE for Kids provides a stimulating environment where children can learn through hands-on activities and explore their creative potential, making it a fantastic option for family friendly things to do near me.
Raging Rivers WaterPark: Summer Water Fun
Kids splash around at the Itty Bitty Surf City at Raging Rivers WaterPark.
When the summer heat hits St. Louis, Raging Rivers WaterPark is the ultimate destination for cooling down and having fun. This water park is a paradise for kids, featuring thrilling water slides, a relaxing wave pool, and a lazy river. Tiny tots can safely splash and play in Itty Bitty Surf City, while older kids can brave the Mississippi Monster and other exciting slides. For a more relaxed experience, rent a cabana and unwind with a refreshing drink. Raging Rivers WaterPark also hosts special events, such as Kidsfest in 2023, which included daily magic shows in June and dog shows in July, adding extra entertainment to your visit. It’s a perfect spot for family friendly things to do near me during the warmer months.
Riverboats at the Gateway Arch: Historical River Cruises
For the best views of the Gateway Arch and St. Louis’ working riverfront, climb aboard one of the Gateway Arch Riverboats.
Experience St. Louis from a unique perspective with Riverboats at the Gateway Arch. Climb aboard the Tom Sawyer, a 19th-century replica steamboat, and journey back in time as you cruise along the Mississippi River. These narrated cruises, led by captains from the National Park Service, bring the history of the Mississippi River to life, highlighting its significant role in the country’s development and its ongoing impact on St. Louis’ economy. Choose between a one-hour day cruise or a two-hour dinner cruise for a memorable and educational family outing that offers some of the best views of the Gateway Arch and the working riverfront. It’s a great way to enjoy family friendly things to do near me while learning about the region’s history.
RYZE Adventure Park: Aerial Challenges and Mini Golf
RYZE Adventure Park has an adventure tower with more than 100 obstacles.
RYZE Adventure Park in Maryland Heights offers a thrilling aerial adventure experience. Since opening in 2021, RYZE has provided over 100 obstacles on its impressive four-story Adventure Tower, along with a zipline and a free fall challenge for the truly daring. The Adventure Tower’s non-linear design allows you to customize your own course, choosing the activities and obstacles that suit your family’s comfort and thrill levels. For younger children, the Little Ninja Course provides a safe and engaging climbing experience with 16 ground-level elements. If you prefer a more grounded activity, enjoy a round of miniature golf on the state-of-the-art 18-hole course, which glows with neon lights in the evening. RYZE Adventure Park offers diverse options for family friendly things to do near me, catering to various ages and preferences.
Six Flags St. Louis: Thrills and Amusement Park Fun
Six Flags St. Louis has rides for kids.
For families seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills and classic amusement park excitement, Six Flags St. Louis is the place to be. Located in Eureka, this expansive amusement park boasts nine exhilarating rollercoasters, including six steel and three wooden coasters, with over 22,000 feet of combined track. Six Flags continually adds new attractions, ensuring there’s something for thrill-seekers of all ages. Toddlers and younger children will love Bugs Bunny National Park, a dedicated area with rides, climbs, and spins designed just for them. During the summer, cool off at Hurricane Harbor, Six Flags’ waterpark, for even more wet and wild fun. Six Flags St. Louis is a comprehensive destination for family friendly things to do near me, offering a full day of entertainment and excitement.
St. Louis Wheel: Iconic City Views
The St. Louis Wheel lights up at St. Louis Union Station at night.
Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the St. Louis skyline from The Wheel, the tallest observation wheel in the city. Reaching a height of 200 feet, The Wheel offers enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas for a comfortable ride in any weather. For a special treat, consider the VIP gondolas, which feature leather captain’s chairs, glass floors, and educational opportunities for kids to learn about math, engineering, and geography during their ride. Located at Union Station, The St. Louis Wheel provides stunning vistas and a memorable experience, especially when lit up at night, making it a great addition to your list of family friendly things to do near me.
Turtle Playground: Climbable Reptile Fun
At Turtle Playground, kids of all ages can climb on the giant concrete reptiles.
Combine a visit to the Saint Louis Zoo with a stop at Turtle Playground (also known as Turtle Park) for some unique play time. This playground is particularly appealing to younger children, but kids of all ages will enjoy climbing on the giant concrete reptiles. The playground features seven different turtle species represented in concrete, including a snapping turtle, softshell turtle, and box turtles, along with oversized turtle eggs and a snake sculpture. Turtle Playground provides a fun and quirky play environment, encouraging imaginative play and physical activity, and it’s conveniently located near other popular attractions, making it a great choice for family friendly things to do near me.
Victory Raceway: Indoor Go-Kart Racing
At Victory Raceway, the electric go-karts reach speeds up to 45 miles per hour on the indoor racetrack.
For families with a need for speed, Victory Raceway offers thrilling indoor go-kart racing. Experience the excitement of electric go-karts reaching speeds up to 45 miles per hour on the indoor track. Victory Raceway focuses on individual racing, with no two-seater karts available. Kids aged six and older who meet the height requirement of 50 inches can participate. Junior karts are available with a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour. Victory Raceway provides a safe and exhilarating racing experience for families looking for family friendly things to do near me that are action-packed.
Great Outdoors: Nature and Fresh Air for Families
Eckert’s Farms: Seasonal Farm Fun
A family picks apples at Eckert
Experience a taste of history and seasonal farm fun at Eckert’s. Eckert’s Orchards, established in 1837, now encompasses three farms in Southern Illinois, just across the river from St. Louis. Throughout the year, Eckert’s offers a variety of you-pick crops, including strawberries in spring, blackberries and peaches in summer, apples and pumpkins in late summer and early fall, and Christmas trees in winter. Eckert’s also hosts special events throughout the year, featuring farm animals, corn mazes, wagon rides, live music, and festive foods. A visit to Eckert’s is a wonderful way to connect with nature and enjoy seasonal activities, making it a delightful option for family friendly things to do near me throughout the year.
Gateway Arch National Park: Iconic Landmark and Green Space
The Gateway Arch is an example of the innovative architecture in St. Louis.
Gateway Arch National Park, recently renovated with a $380 million makeover, offers a picture-perfect setting for families. The park grounds feature stroller-friendly walkways, reflection pools, and beautiful green spaces surrounding the iconic Gateway Arch and the Museum at the Gateway Arch. For a breathtaking view, take the tram ride to the top of the 630-foot monument. The four-minute ascent in a futuristic pod leads to stunning views of the Old Courthouse, downtown St. Louis, the Mississippi River, and beyond. Tickets often sell out, so it’s recommended to reserve your spots in advance. Gateway Arch National Park combines iconic sightseeing with outdoor recreation, making it a must-visit for family friendly things to do near me.
Meramec Caverns: Underground Cave Exploration
Meramec Caverns is one of the best day trips to take from St. Louis.
Discover Missouri’s underground wonders at Meramec Caverns, the state’s largest commercial cave and one of the most impressive caves in the world. Explore stunning formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and the massive “mansion,” formed over millions of years. Guided tours led by trained rangers take you along well-lit walkways, showcasing rare and large cave formations. The cave maintains a cool 60 degrees year-round, offering a refreshing escape. Supplement your cave tour with family-friendly activities like panning for gold, ziplining, or a riverboat excursion on the Meramec River. Meramec Caverns provides a unique and educational adventure, making it an excellent day trip option for family friendly things to do near me.
Missouri Botanical Garden: Nature Playground and Botanical Wonders
A group of kids interact with the plants at the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Missouri Botanical Garden is home to one of the best playgrounds in St. Louis, the Doris I. Schnuck Children’s Garden. This two-acre garden introduces children to the wonders of plants and nature through fun and interactive exhibits. Kids can splash in a stream, navigate a rope bridge, play with locks and dams, climb a treehouse, and slide down Spelunker’s Slide into a limestone cave. The garden also features wetlands, a steamboat replica, and a Midwestern prairie village, bringing botany and 19th-century history to life. Beyond the children’s garden, the Missouri Botanical Garden offers extensive gardens, conservatories, and landscapes to explore, making it a serene and educational destination for family friendly things to do near me.
Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center: Nature Trails and Exhibits
Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center introduces people of all ages to the wonders of the natural world.
Escape into nature at Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center, nestled within 112 acres of oak-hickory forest in Kirkwood. This nature center offers three trails through the park, one with interpretive signage to enhance your understanding of the natural environment. Inside the nature center, discover engaging exhibits, including an aquarium and a bee hive, providing educational opportunities for all ages. Powder Valley is a peaceful retreat for families to connect with nature, enjoy walking trails, and learn about local wildlife, making it a great option for family friendly things to do near me that are focused on outdoor exploration.
Animal Encounters: Wildlife and Wonder for Kids
Endangered Wolf Center: Wildlife Conservation
Mexican wolf puppies play at the Endangered Wolf Center.
Discover a hidden gem in the St. Louis area at the Endangered Wolf Center in Eureka. This center is dedicated to the conservation of wild canids, particularly Mexican wolves and American red wolves, the two most endangered wolf species in the world. The Endangered Wolf Center offers various daytime tours, including endangered species tours, photography tours, and educational field trips. Nighttime “howls” provide a unique opportunity to hear wolf communication and learn from education coordinator Jimmy Parsons, who can imitate wolf howls. During your visit, you’ll also encounter other canid species like maned wolves, African painted dogs, and foxes. Visiting the Endangered Wolf Center is an educational and impactful experience, making it a unique choice for family friendly things to do near me that support wildlife conservation.
Grant’s Farm: Animals and History
Kids can feed goats at Grant
Grant’s Farm is a beloved St. Louis treasure, attracting families with its diverse animal collection and historic architecture. Home to over 900 animals, Grant’s Farm also features Ulysses S. Grant’s log cabin and the Busch Family Estate. Your visit begins with a tram ride through Deer Park, where you might see free-roaming antelope, deer, bison, and other bovines. After the tram, enjoy camel rides, animal shows, and goat feeding (be mindful of the energetic goats!). Visit the German-style stables to see the iconic Clydesdales and classic carriages. The Bauernhof offers lunch and snacks, with complimentary beers for guests over 21. Admission to Grant’s Farm is free (parking fee applies), making it an accessible and engaging destination for family friendly things to do near me.
Lone Elk Park: Drive-Through Wildlife Viewing
Deer roam through Lone Elk Park in fall.
Experience wildlife sightings in a natural setting at Lone Elk Park, a 546-acre wildlife management area. Whether you drive or walk through the park, you’re likely to spot white-tailed deer, elk, bison, and wild turkeys. For a more active experience, the White Bison Trail is a three-mile loop offering prime wildlife viewing opportunities. Lone Elk Park provides a convenient and accessible way to observe wildlife in their natural habitat, making it a great option for family friendly things to do near me that are outdoors and educational.
Purina Farms: Pet-Focused Fun and Education
Kids, adults and pets will love the shows featuring the Purina Incredible Dog Team catching flying discs at Purina Farms.
Purina Farms offers a unique pet-centric experience for families. The Purina Farms Visitor Center (open mid-April through October) features the Incredible Dog Arena, showcasing the Purina Incredible Dog Team’s amazing skills. The Pet Center houses adoptable cats in a multi-level habitat, and the Barn and Play area features domestic farm animals. Purina Farms focuses on educating visitors about responsible pet ownership and the unique abilities of dogs and cats. It’s a wonderful destination for animal lovers and families looking for interactive and educational family friendly things to do near me.
Saint Louis Zoo: World-Class Animal Encounters
Kids can see animals such as polar bears at the Saint Louis Zoo.
The Saint Louis Zoo is a must-visit destination, renowned for its animal management, research, conservation, and education initiatives. The zoo offers free general admission and street parking, making it an accessible and valuable family experience. Begin your visit at The Living World, a rotunda featuring life-size animal sculptures. Explore diverse animal habitats and see bears, monkeys, penguins, and countless other species. The Emerson Zooline Railroad provides a convenient way to navigate the park, and the Mary Ann Lee Conservation Carousel offers rides on hand-carved wooden animals. Plan to spend a significant amount of time at the Saint Louis Zoo to fully appreciate its vast collection and engaging exhibits. It’s a premier destination for family friendly things to do near me, offering both entertainment and education.
Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House: Tropical Butterfly Conservatory
Kids have fun at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House.
Step into a world of delicate beauty at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House. The conservatory is home to over 60 species of tropical butterflies and more than 150 tropical plant species. Observe these enchanting insects as they flutter around you in a lush tropical environment. The Butterfly House also hosts special events throughout the year, such as Morpho Mardi Gras and BOOterfly House. It’s a captivating and serene experience for families, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy family friendly things to do near me in a beautiful setting.
St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station: Underwater World Exploration
Kids touch jellyfish at the St Louis Aquarium.
St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station offers an immersive underwater adventure in a historic train station setting. Discover over 13,000 aquatic animals in 250,000 gallons of water. See sharks, sea turtles, paddlefish, sea dragons, rays, and the famous blue lobster, Lord Stanley. Interactive exhibits, like touch pools, enhance the experience. Consider a behind-the-scenes tour for personalized animal encounters. The St. Louis Aquarium is a unique blend of history and marine life, making it a fascinating and educational option for family friendly things to do near me.
Suson Park: Farm Animals and Outdoor Play
A young girl meets a pony at Suson Park.
Suson Park in St. Louis County offers a charming blend of outdoor recreation and farm animal encounters. The park features a playground, catch-and-release fishing, and a working animal farm where kids can get close to cows, horses, pigs, sheep, chickens, and turkeys. Enjoy leisurely strolls around the grounds and picnic in one of the park’s shelters. Suson Park provides a relaxed and family-friendly environment, perfect for a day of outdoor fun and animal interactions, making it a great choice for family friendly things to do near me in a natural setting.
World Bird Sanctuary: Avian Conservation and Education
More than 200 birds, including owls, live at the World Bird Sanctuary.
World Bird Sanctuary is dedicated to protecting and preserving birds through conservation, rehabilitation, education, and advocacy. The sanctuary encompasses over 305 acres and houses more than 200 birds, offering a unique wildlife experience. See eagles, parrots, emus, vultures, and more. Guided tours are recommended for a deeper understanding of the sanctuary’s mission and bird species. Owl Prowls, held in winter months, offer an exciting opportunity to learn about owls and even try to call to them in the wild. The World Bird Sanctuary is an enriching and educational destination for family friendly things to do near me, promoting appreciation for avian wildlife and conservation.
Museums, Galleries, and Public Art: Cultural Exploration for Families
Citygarden: Sculpture Park and Play Space
Citygarden in downtown St. Louis is designed with families in mind, offering a unique blend of sculpture park and interactive play space. This urban oasis features conversation-starting sculptures, lush greenery, rain gardens, dancing fountains, and a shallow pool with a waterfall where kids can cool off. Citygarden is conveniently located near the Gateway Arch and Busch Stadium, making it a perfect pit stop for families exploring downtown St. Louis. Its interactive nature and accessible art make it a fantastic and free option for family friendly things to do near me that are both cultural and fun.
City Museum: Architectural Playground
City Museum in St. Louis is an architectural playground.
City Museum is a truly unique and indescribable attraction, best experienced firsthand. Housed in a former shoe company warehouse, it’s an architectural playground unlike any other. Exhibits are constructed largely from repurposed architectural and industrial objects, creating a vast and immersive environment for exploration. Climb through tunnels, slide down multi-story slides, explore a bow whale’s mouth, and even pilot a suspended plane. City Museum encourages hands-on exploration and adventurous play, making it an unforgettable and energetic destination for family friendly things to do near me. Knee pads are recommended for serious explorers!
The Griot Museum of Black History: Cultural Heritage
The Griot Museum of Black History reveals the broad scope of Black history and culture in St. Louis.
The Griot Museum of Black History in Old North St. Louis offers educational and engaging exhibits that reveal the broad scope of Black history and culture. The museum’s mission is to preserve and share the stories of Black people, highlighting their regional connection to American history and their contributions to the nation. Core galleries feature artifacts, memorabilia, and life-size wax figures of influential figures like Josephine Baker, Dred and Harriet Scott, and Miles Davis. The Griot Museum provides a valuable cultural and historical learning experience, making it an important and enriching option for family friendly things to do near me.
Laumeier Sculpture Park: Outdoor Art and Nature
At Laumeier Sculpture Park, you can enjoy more than 60 sculptures al fresco.
Laumeier Sculpture Park offers a unique outdoor art experience, showcasing over 60 sculptures across 105 acres. Wander along walking trails through this open-air museum and encounter large-scale sculptures, some of which you can climb on or interact with. Encourage your kids to engage with the art by inventing titles for the sculptures and discussing their interpretations. Laumeier Sculpture Park combines art and nature in a free and accessible setting, making it a stimulating and family-friendly destination for family friendly things to do near me.
The Magic House: Interactive Children’s Museum
At The Magic House, families with kids make their hair stand up by touching an electrically charged ball.
The Magic House is an exceptional children’s museum offering hands-on interactive exhibits perfect for preschoolers and young children. Explore a child-size village, investigate scientific wonders, discover different cultures, and role-play as doctors or veterinarians. Older kids will also find engaging exhibits, such as bubble experiments and a 3D printer. The Star-Spangled Center offers historical exhibits for parents to enjoy too. The Magic House hosts special exhibits and events throughout the year, ensuring repeat visits are always fresh and exciting. Located in Kirkwood, it’s a premier destination for educational and engaging family friendly things to do near me.
Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis: Tiny Worlds, Big Wonders
The Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis boasts an extensive collection of tiny objects in room boxes, dollhouses and displays.
Step into a world of miniatures at the Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis. This museum boasts an extensive collection of tiny objects displayed in room boxes, dollhouses, and intricate displays. Located in the Bevo Mill neighborhood, the museum focuses on the cultural and educational aspects of miniature art. Marvel at the detail and craftsmanship of these tiny worlds, offering a unique and fascinating experience for family friendly things to do near me, especially for those who appreciate detailed artistry.
Missouri History Museum: Local and Regional History
Kids play in the History Clubhouse at the Missouri History Museum.
Explore the rich history of St. Louis at the Missouri History Museum. Exhibits cover St. Louis history from its founding in 1764 to the present day. The History Clubhouse is a dedicated children’s area where kids can build a skyscraper, play in a Cahokia city replica, and explore exhibits related to the 1904 World’s Fair and Mississippi River steamboats. Interactive exhibits like Coloring STL provide engaging ways to learn about local landmarks. The Missouri History Museum offers a valuable and accessible way to learn about the region’s past, making it a great option for educational family friendly things to do near me.
Museum of Illusions St. Louis: Mind-Bending Fun
A family hands from the front of a building in an optical illusion at the Museum of Illusions St. Louis.
Museum of Illusions St. Louis, located at City Foundry STL, offers a world of mind-bending optical illusions. Experience perspective-changing rooms, installations, and images that challenge your perception. Walk through the Ames Room to see yourself grow and shrink, pose in gravity-defying illusions, and try to navigate the Vortex Tunnel. The Museum of Illusions provides interactive and photo-worthy fun for all ages, making it a unique and entertaining choice for family friendly things to do near me.
Myseum: Children’s Museum and Indoor Playground Hybrid
Kids play in a giant bounce house at Myseum.
Myseum is a unique blend of children’s museum, science museum, and indoor playground, offering 30 unique exhibits to explore. Kids can dig for dinosaurs, play with glow shapes, interact with video walls, and engage in imaginative play at a zoo clinic. Myseum provides a dynamic and engaging environment that combines learning and play, making it a versatile option for family friendly things to do near me, especially for younger children. Remember to bring socks for play areas!
National Blues Museum: Music History and Culture
The National Blues Museum is a wonderful place to connect with Black culture in St. Louis.
National Blues Museum explores the history and cultural significance of the blues music genre. Exhibits feature artifacts and technology-driven experiences that highlight the blues as the foundation of modern American music. Kids can even write their own blues songs and add guitar tracks in interactive exhibits. The National Blues Museum offers a cool and engaging way to learn about music history and Black culture in St. Louis, making it a unique and enriching option for family friendly things to do near me for music-loving families.
National Great Rivers Museum: Mississippi River Stories
The National Great Rivers Museum shares stories of the mighty Mississippi River.
National Great Rivers Museum shares the stories of the mighty Mississippi River. Located near the Melvin Price Locks and Dam, the museum features interactive exhibits and tours that explore the river’s environment, history, and impact on our lives. Daily tours led by staff members provide an exciting perspective on the locks and dam operations. The National Great Rivers Museum offers an educational and engaging way to learn about the Mississippi River and its importance, making it a valuable option for family friendly things to do near me that combine learning and local history.
National Museum of Transportation: Vehicle History and Exploration
Kids can pose with planes, trains and automobiles at the National Museum of Transportation.
National Museum of Transportation boasts a vast collection of transportation vehicles, with over 190 major exhibits including planes, trains, and automobiles. See the massive Union Pacific #4006 “Big Boy” steam locomotive, a rare 1901 St. Louis Motor Carriage Co. automobile, and Virgin Hyperloop’s Pegasus pod. Many exhibits allow climbing and exploration. The Creation Station play area is designed for younger children. The National Museum of Transportation offers a captivating experience for vehicle enthusiasts of all ages, making it a fun and educational destination for family friendly things to do near me, especially for those interested in transportation history.
Saint Louis Art Museum: World-Class Art Collection
The Saint Louis Art Museum has one of the country’s leading comprehensive collections.
Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park offers a world-class art collection spanning time, places, and cultures. This free museum inspires discovery and appreciation of art. Younger kids will enjoy colorful paintings and ancient artifacts, while older kids can use audio guides for deeper exploration. Family Sunday tours and Wee Wednesdays offer kid-friendly activities and art projects. The Saint Louis Art Museum provides a rich cultural experience in a beautiful setting, making it a valuable and accessible option for family friendly things to do near me for art appreciation.
Saint Louis Science Center: Interactive Science Exploration
A mother and her young son make balls float in the air at the Saint Louis Science Center.
Saint Louis Science Center is another fantastic free attraction specializing in interactive science exhibits. Test physics principles, encounter a life-size animatronic T-Rex, explore the night sky in the planetarium, and build a Gateway Arch replica. Special exhibitions and OMNIMAX Theater films are available for an additional fee. The Saint Louis Science Center encourages curiosity and hands-on learning, making it a highly engaging and educational destination for family friendly things to do near me for science enthusiasts of all ages.
Theater and Performing Arts: Live Entertainment for Families
Circus Flora: Traditional and Modern Circus Arts
Tightrope-walkers from Circus Flora perform at The Big Top in St. Louis.
Circus Flora brings the magic of the circus to St. Louis with breathtaking performances in The Big Top in the Grand Center Arts District. This theater company combines traditional and modern circus arts, featuring acrobats, aerialists, comedians, and daredevils from around the world. Circus Flora productions focus on emotional narratives and inspiring physical feats, offering an unforgettable family-friendly experience. It’s a captivating and exciting option for family friendly things to do near me that showcase live performance and artistry.
The Fabulous Fox: Broadway Shows and Theatrical Spectacle
Peter Pan comes to The Fabulous Fox in 2024.
The Fabulous Fox is a stunning theater hosting Broadway shows and theatrical performances that captivate audiences of all ages. Enjoy Broadway hits like Frozen, The Lion King, Six, and Wicked. The Fox Theatre offers a grand and spectacular theater experience, with dazzling lights, costumes, and music. Before the show, dine at The Fountain on Locust for delicious food and ice cream treats. The Fabulous Fox provides a memorable and upscale option for family friendly things to do near me, perfect for a special night out.
The Muny: Outdoor Musical Theater in Forest Park
During summers in St. Louis, the limelight shines on The Muny, an outdoor theater in Forest Park.
The Muny in Forest Park is a beloved St. Louis summer tradition, offering outdoor musical theater for over 100 years. This outdoor theater presents Broadway-caliber musicals, featuring both professional and local talent. Kid-friendly productions like Matilda the Musical, Mary Poppins, and Annie are frequently featured. Free seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis every night, making live theater accessible to everyone. The Muny offers a magical and affordable outdoor theater experience, perfect for family friendly things to do near me during the summer months.
For sports enthusiasts, St. Louis also offers a vibrant sports scene, from Cardinals baseball to Blues hockey and Battlehawks football. Check out the St. Louis sports guide for more information on local sporting events. St. Louis truly provides a wealth of options for family friendly things to do near me, ensuring memorable experiences for every family.
