St. Louis stands out as an exceptional destination for families, brimming with attractions and activities that cater to all ages. Whether you’re a local resident or planning a visit, the region offers a wealth of free, world-class attractions, engaging events, and beautiful public parks, making it an ideal choice for family outings and creating lasting memories.
From toddlers to teenagers, St. Louis provides immersive and enjoyable experiences that the whole family can participate in together. Looking for exciting “Family Fun Activities Near Me”? St. Louis has you covered.
Explore upcoming kid-friendly events in St. Louis through online event calendars and discover a variety of family-friendly restaurants to refuel during your adventures. Let’s dive into some of the best options for family entertainment in St. Louis.
Entertainment Complexes: Fun for Everyone
Amp Up Action Park: Non-Stop Excitement
Kids play on the elevated ropes course at Amp Up Action Park.
For families seeking high-energy “family fun activities near me”, Amp Up Action Park delivers on its promise of excitement at every corner. This entertainment complex is packed with thrilling options that will keep everyone entertained for hours. Race around a state-of-the-art indoor karting track in technologically advanced karts, or immerse yourselves in a black light laser tag arena that spans three levels for an adrenaline-pumping experience. Beyond karting and laser tag, Amp Up Action Park features an elevated ropes course that challenges agility and bravery, axe throwing for older kids and adults, a wide selection of arcade games, and even pickleball courts for some friendly competition. You can choose to pay per activity or opt for a two-hour pass to maximize your fun. When hunger strikes, the Filling Station Cafe and Trackside Tavern offer a range of kid-friendly options from pizza to sweet treats, alongside bar bites and drinks for parents, including beer, wine, and sangria. Amp Up Action Park is a perfect choice for families looking for diverse and engaging “family fun activities near me”.
Main Event Chesterfield: Unlimited Family Entertainment
Kids play arcade games at Main Event.
Main Event in Chesterfield provides a one-stop destination for “family fun activities near me” with its vast array of entertainment options under one roof. Designed to bring families and friends together, Main Event offers classic fun like bowling, laser tag, and billiards alongside mini golf for a friendly round of competition. Arcade enthusiasts will find a wide variety of games to enjoy, and for those seeking a more immersive experience, virtual reality adventures await. Test your physical skills on the indoor ropes course or challenge your minds in miniature escape rooms designed for group fun. A particularly attractive option for budget-conscious families seeking “family fun activities near me” is Main Event’s Monday all-you-can-play promotion, offering unlimited activities for a set price per person. With dining options available on-site, Main Event makes it easy to spend an entire day enjoying “family fun activities near me”.
St. Louis Union Station: A Historic Hub of Family Fun
The 3D light show in the Grand Hall of St. Louis Union Station shows animals from the St. Louis Aquarium.
Once a bustling transportation hub, St. Louis Union Station has been reimagined as a premier destination for “family fun activities near me”. This historic landmark now offers a diverse range of attractions suitable for all ages, making it a fantastic choice for families exploring St. Louis. Kids can enjoy a classic carousel ride, navigate through a mirror maze, play a round of miniature golf, or test their agility on a ropes course. For a creative and cuddly experience, visit the Build-A-Bear Workshop located within Union Station. The outdoor lake area features a mesmerizing fire and light show, while the Grand Hall transforms into an immersive spectacle with a 3D light show projecting captivating scenes, from underwater worlds to musical performances. St. Louis Union Station is also home to major attractions like the St. Louis Aquarium and the St. Louis Wheel, further solidifying its status as a central location for “family fun activities near me”.
Recreational Activities: Active Adventures for Families
Adventure Valley: Zip Line Thrills
A kid zip lines at Adventure Valley in St. Louis.
For adventurous families seeking “family fun activities near me” that involve outdoor thrills, Adventure Valley offers an exhilarating zip line experience. Soar through the scenic wooded ridge of Jefferson County on ten different zip lines. Thrill-seekers can experience speeds up to 50 miles per hour on the longest zip line, stretching over 1,100 feet! Adventure Valley is an ideal destination for families with older children and teens looking for active “family fun activities near me”. For those who prefer to stay closer to the ground, Adventure Valley also features a paintball park, open on weekends for participants aged 12 and older. Paintballing provides a fun and engaging team activity for families looking for competitive “family fun activities near me”.
MADE for Kids: Creative Exploration
Two boys get crafty at MADE for Kids created by The Magic House.
Unleash your family’s creativity at MADE for Kids, a unique 7,000-square-foot makerspace designed by The Magic House. Catering to children aged 4 to 14, MADE for Kids provides a wonderland of “family fun activities near me” focused on hands-on creation and exploration. The space includes an immersive makers workshop, an artists studio, a design lab, and an entrepreneurs marketplace, all designed to encourage kids to tinker, invent, explore, and discover through imaginative play. Witness your children experiment with exciting technologies and art forms like screen printing, 3D printing, laser cutting, and stop motion animation. MADE for Kids is an enriching option for families seeking educational and engaging “family fun activities near me”.
Raging Rivers WaterPark: Summer Splash 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 perfect destination for “family fun activities near me” to cool down and have a blast. This water park is a paradise for kids of all ages, featuring thrilling water slides, a relaxing wave pool, and a lazy river for a leisurely float. Little ones will adore Itty Bitty Surf City, a dedicated area for toddlers, while older kids can brave the Mississippi Monster slide. For added comfort and relaxation, families can rent cabanas and enjoy refreshments. Raging Rivers WaterPark often hosts special events like Kidsfest, featuring magic shows and dog shows during specific months, making it even more appealing for families looking for seasonal “family fun activities near me”.
Riverboats at the Gateway Arch: Mississippi River Adventures
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. For families interested in scenic and historical “family fun activities near me”, a cruise on the Mississippi River is a must-do. The Tom Sawyer riverboat, a replica of a 19th-century steamboat, offers a nostalgic journey back in time. Narrated cruises by National Park Service captains bring the history of the Mississippi River to life, educating and entertaining passengers of all ages. Choose from a one-hour day cruise or a two-hour dinner cruise to learn about the river’s significant role in American history and its ongoing impact on St. Louis. Riverboats at the Gateway Arch provides a blend of education and entertainment, making it a great choice for “family fun activities near me”.
RYZE Adventure Park: Climb, Zip, and Explore
RYZE Adventure Park has an adventure tower with more than 100 obstacles.
RYZE Adventure Park in Maryland Heights offers a unique aerial adventure experience for families seeking active “family fun activities near me”. Opened in 2021, RYZE Adventure Park features a four-story Adventure Tower with over 100 obstacles, a thrilling zip line, and a free fall experience for the truly daring. The non-linear design of the Adventure Tower allows you to customize your course and choose challenges suitable for different skill levels. For younger children, the Little Ninja Course provides a safe and engaging climbing area with 16 elements close to the ground. If you prefer ground-level activities, RYZE also boasts a state-of-the-art 18-hole miniature golf course that glows with neon lights in the evening. RYZE Adventure Park is an excellent choice for families looking for physically engaging and diverse “family fun activities near me”.
Six Flags St. Louis: Thrills and Theme Park Fun
Six Flags St. Louis has rides for kids.
For families seeking classic theme park “family fun activities near me”, Six Flags St. Louis in Eureka is a premier destination. Home to nine exhilarating rollercoasters, including six steel and three wooden coasters, Six Flags provides thrills for adrenaline junkies of all ages. The park continuously adds new attractions and experiences, ensuring repeat visits are always exciting. For families with younger children, Bugs Bunny National Park offers a dedicated area with rides and attractions suitable for toddlers and little kids. During the summer months, Six Flags St. Louis also features Hurricane Harbor, a water park providing wet and wild “family fun activities near me” to beat the heat. Six Flags St. Louis offers a comprehensive theme park experience for families.
St. Louis Wheel: Skyline Views from Above
The St. Louis Wheel lights up at St. Louis Union Station at night.
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the St. Louis skyline from The Wheel, a 200-foot tall observation wheel located at Union Station. For families seeking relaxed and scenic “family fun activities near me”, The Wheel offers a comfortable and memorable experience. Climate-controlled, enclosed gondolas ensure a comfortable ride in any weather. For a special treat, consider the VIP gondolas, which offer enhanced learning opportunities for kids related to math, engineering, and geography, along with luxury seating and a glass floor for unique perspectives. The St. Louis Wheel provides a gentle and visually stunning “family fun activities near me”, perfect for families with members of all ages.
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 for free and unique “family fun activities near me”. This playground is a favorite among children, especially younger kids, who love to climb and explore. Giant concrete sculptures of various turtle species, including snapping turtles, softshell turtles, and box turtles, along with oversized turtle eggs and a snake, provide a whimsical and engaging play environment. Turtle Playground offers a simple yet delightful option for “family fun activities near me”, perfect for letting kids burn off energy in a creative setting.
Victory Raceway: Indoor Go-Karting Action
At Victory Raceway, the electric go-karts reach speeds up to 45 miles per hour on the indoor racetrack.
Get your engines revving at Victory Raceway, an indoor go-karting facility offering high-speed “family fun activities near me”. Electric go-karts reach impressive speeds of up to 45 miles per hour on the indoor track, providing an adrenaline rush for older kids and adults. While there are no two-seater karts, kids as young as six years old and 50 inches tall can participate in junior karts that reach speeds up to 25 miles per hour. Victory Raceway is an exciting option for families with older children and teens seeking fast-paced “family fun activities near me”.
Great Outdoors: Nature and Fresh Air Adventures
Eckert’s Orchards: Seasonal Farm Fun
Experience the charm of farm life at Eckert’s Orchards, a historic destination for seasonal “family fun activities near me”. With roots dating back to 1837, Eckert’s operates three farms just across the river in Southern Illinois, offering year-round agricultural experiences. Enjoy you-pick crops throughout the seasons, from strawberries in spring to blackberries and peaches in summer, and apples and pumpkins in fall. Winter brings the tradition of choosing and cutting your own Christmas tree. Eckert’s also hosts special events throughout the year featuring farm animals, corn mazes, wagon rides, live music, and festive food, making it a delightful destination for “family fun activities near me” in any season.
Gateway Arch National Park: Iconic Views and History
The Gateway Arch is an example of the innovative architecture in St. Louis.
Explore the newly renovated grounds of Gateway Arch National Park for a blend of iconic sightseeing and outdoor “family fun activities near me”. Following a major renovation, the park now features stroller-friendly walkways, reflection pools, and verdant landscapes perfect for family strolls and picnics. For a breathtaking experience, take a tram ride to the top of the 630-foot Gateway Arch, offering panoramic views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River. The Museum at the Gateway Arch provides further educational opportunities about the history of westward expansion. Due to popularity, it’s recommended to reserve tram tickets in advance for this iconic “family fun activities near me”.
Meramec Caverns: Underground Wonders
Meramec Caverns is one of the best day trips to take from St. Louis.
Venture underground to discover the natural wonders of Meramec Caverns, the largest commercial cave in Missouri and an awe-inspiring destination for “family fun activities near me”. Explore stunning cave formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and unique structures like the “wine table” and “mansion,” formed over millions of years. Guided tours led by trained rangers along well-lit walkways provide fascinating insights into the cave’s geology and history, including its connection to the filming of a Lassie episode. The cave maintains a cool 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, offering a refreshing escape. Supplement your cave exploration with other family-friendly activities at Meramec Caverns, such as panning for gold, zip lining, or a riverboat excursion on the Meramec River, making it a full day of “family fun activities near me”.
Missouri Botanical Garden: Nature’s Playground
A group of kids interact with the plants at the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Discover a unique blend of natural beauty and playful exploration at the Missouri Botanical Garden. For families seeking enriching outdoor “family fun activities near me”, the Doris I. Schnuck Children’s Garden is a standout attraction. This two-acre playground within the botanical garden introduces children to the wonders of plants and nature through interactive and engaging features. 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 includes a wetlands area, a steamboat replica, and a Midwestern prairie village, blending botany with 19th-century history. Beyond the children’s garden, the Missouri Botanical Garden offers extensive gardens and conservatories to explore, providing diverse “family fun activities near me” for all ages.
Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center: Nature Immersion
Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center introduces people of all ages to the wonders of the natural world.
Immerse yourselves in nature at Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center, nestled within a 112-acre oak-hickory forest in Kirkwood. For families seeking peaceful and educational outdoor “family fun activities near me”, Powder Valley offers tranquility and learning opportunities. Three trails wind through the park, with one featuring interpretive signage to enhance your understanding of the natural environment. The nature center itself houses engaging exhibits, including an aquarium and a bee hive, providing year-round learning experiences about local flora and fauna. Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center is ideal for families seeking to connect with nature through accessible “family fun activities near me”.
Animal Encounters: Wildlife Adventures for Families
Endangered Wolf Center: Wildlife Conservation Up Close
Mexican wolf puppies play at the Endangered Wolf Center.
Discover a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts at the Endangered Wolf Center in Eureka. For families seeking unique and educational “family fun activities near me” focused on wildlife conservation, the Endangered Wolf Center provides an unforgettable experience. The center is dedicated to saving and protecting wild canids, particularly Mexican wolves and American red wolves, the two most endangered wolf species. Take a daytime tour to see these magnificent animals and learn about their critical role in the ecosystem. Tour options range from general endangered species tours to specialized photography tours and educational field trips for schoolchildren. Evening “howl” events offer a chance to hear the wolves vocalize and learn about wolf communication. In addition to wolves, the center is home to other canid species like African painted dogs and arctic foxes, making it a diverse and impactful destination for “family fun activities near me”.
Grant’s Farm: Animals and History Combined
Kids can feed goats at Grant
Grant’s Farm is a beloved St. Louis treasure offering a blend of animal encounters, historical architecture, and free “family fun activities near me”. Home to over 900 animals and significant historical buildings, including Ulysses S. Grant’s log cabin and the Busch Family Estate, Grant’s Farm provides a rich and diverse experience. Begin your visit with a tram ride through Deer Park, where you can spot free-roaming deer, antelope, and bison. After the tram, enjoy camel rides, animal shows, and goat feeding opportunities. Don’t miss the German-style stables to see the iconic Clydesdale horses. Guests over 21 can enjoy complimentary beers at the Bauernhof, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere. Admission to Grant’s Farm is free, with a parking fee, making it an accessible option for “family fun activities near me”.
Lone Elk Park: Drive-Through Wildlife Viewing
Deer roam through Lone Elk Park in fall.
Experience wildlife viewing in a natural setting at Lone Elk Park, a 546-acre wildlife management area. For families seeking easy and accessible “family fun activities near me” with wildlife, Lone Elk Park offers frequent animal sightings from the comfort of your car or along walking trails. Drive through the park or hike the White Bison Trail for opportunities to spot white-tailed deer, elk, bison, and wild turkeys in their natural habitat. Lone Elk Park provides a convenient and rewarding way to experience wildlife as “family fun activities near me”.
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.
Celebrate the bond between humans and pets at Purina Farms, a destination dedicated to pet education and entertainment. For families who love animals and are seeking engaging “family fun activities near me”, Purina Farms offers a unique experience. The Purina Farms Visitor Center, open seasonally, features the Incredible Dog Arena, where the Purina Incredible Dog Team showcases their amazing skills. The Pet Center houses adoptable cats in a multi-level habitat, and the Barn and Play area offers interactions with domestic farm animals. Purina Farms provides educational and entertaining “family fun activities near me” centered around the joy of pets.
Saint Louis Zoo: A World-Class Zoological Experience
Kids can see animals such as polar bears at the Saint Louis Zoo.
The Saint Louis Zoo is a must-visit destination for families seeking top-tier and free “family fun activities near me”. Renowned for its animal management, conservation efforts, and educational programs, the Saint Louis Zoo offers an unparalleled zoological experience. Begin your visit at The Living World, featuring impressive sculptures and natural light. Explore diverse animal habitats and observe bears, monkeys, penguins, and countless other species from around the globe. General admission is free, making it exceptionally accessible for families. Consider a ride on the Emerson Zooline Railroad for convenient park navigation or a carousel ride on the Mary Ann Lee Conservation Carousel. The Saint Louis Zoo is a full-day destination packed with enriching and exciting “family fun activities near me”.
Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House: Tropical Butterfly Paradise
Kids have fun at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House.
Step into a world of delicate beauty at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House. For families seeking serene and enchanting “family fun activities near me”, the Butterfly House offers a unique and captivating experience. Walk through the conservatory where over 60 species of tropical butterflies flutter among more than 150 species of tropical plants. Special events are hosted throughout the year, such as Morpho Mardi Gras and BOOterfly House, adding seasonal themes to your visit. The Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House provides a gentle and magical option for “family fun activities near me”.
St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station: Underwater Worlds
Kids touch jellyfish at the St Louis Aquarium.
Explore aquatic wonders at the St. Louis Aquarium located within the historic Union Station. For families seeking engaging and accessible “family fun activities near me” focused on marine life, the St. Louis Aquarium provides a fascinating underwater journey. Retrofitted within a 19th-century train station, the aquarium houses over 13,000 animals in 250,000 gallons of water. Discover diverse species, including green sea turtles, paddlefish, sea dragons, and a blue lobster named Lord Stanley. Interactive touch pools and behind-the-scenes tours enhance the experience, making the St. Louis Aquarium a memorable destination for “family fun activities near me”.
Suson Park: Farm Animals and Playgrounds
A young girl meets a pony at Suson Park.
Enjoy a blend of outdoor recreation and farm animal encounters at Suson Park in St. Louis County. For families seeking relaxed and varied “family fun activities near me”, Suson Park offers a pleasant and accessible option. 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. Walking paths and picnic shelters provide opportunities for leisurely strolls and family meals outdoors. Suson Park offers a charming and laid-back setting for “family fun activities near me”.
World Bird Sanctuary: Winged Wonders and Conservation
More than 200 birds, including owls, live at the World Bird Sanctuary.
Discover the world of birds at the World Bird Sanctuary. For families seeking educational and inspiring “family fun activities near me” focused on wildlife conservation, the World Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit. Founded in 1977, the sanctuary is dedicated to protecting birds through conservation, rehabilitation, education, and advocacy. Home to over 200 birds across 305 acres, the sanctuary offers a unique wildlife experience. Encounter eagles, parrots, owls, and vultures, and learn about their roles in the ecosystem. Guided tours and special events like Owl Prowls in winter enhance the experience. The World Bird Sanctuary provides enriching and engaging “family fun activities near me” for bird lovers of all ages.
Museums, Galleries and Public Art: Culture and Creativity for Families
Citygarden: Sculptures and Playful Water Features
Kids play in the water features at Citygarden.
Designed with families in mind, Citygarden in downtown St. Louis is a unique urban oasis offering free and engaging “family fun activities near me”. This downtown park features contemporary sculptures, lush gardens, rain gardens, dancing fountains, and a shallow pool with a waterfall where kids can play and cool off. Citygarden provides a refreshing and artistic break between other downtown attractions like the Gateway Arch and Busch Stadium. Remember to bring a towel for kids to enjoy the water features at this accessible and artistic “family fun activities near me”.
City Museum: An Architectural Playground
City Museum in St. Louis is an architectural playground.
Prepare for an indescribable and unforgettable experience at City Museum. For families seeking truly unique and adventurous “family fun activities near me”, City Museum is a must-visit. Housed in a repurposed shoe warehouse, City Museum is a sprawling playground and museum combined, featuring exhibits made from repurposed architectural and industrial objects. Explore tunnels, climb into a whale’s mouth, slide down a ten-story slide, and pilot a suspended plane. With pancake art, circus skills areas, and the world’s largest pencil, City Museum offers endless exploration and hands-on fun. Knee pads are even sold in the gift shop, highlighting the adventurous nature of this incredible destination for “family fun activities near me”.
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.
Explore and celebrate Black history and culture at The Griot Museum of Black History in the Old North St. Louis neighborhood. For families seeking educational and culturally enriching “family fun activities near me”, The Griot Museum offers important stories and perspectives. Through exhibits featuring artifacts, memorabilia, and life-size wax figures, the museum shares the stories of Black people with a focus on their regional connection to American history and contributions to the nation. Kids can “meet” influential figures like Josephine Baker and Dred Scott, making history tangible and engaging. The Griot Museum provides meaningful and educational “family fun activities near me”.
Laumeier Sculpture Park: Outdoor Art and Nature
At Laumeier Sculpture Park, you can enjoy more than 60 sculptures al fresco.
Enjoy art in the open air at Laumeier Sculpture Park, featuring over 60 sculptures spread across 105 acres. For families seeking free and engaging outdoor “family fun activities near me” with an artistic twist, Laumeier Sculpture Park is an excellent choice. Wander along walking trails and discover large-scale sculptures, some of which you can interact with by walking on, climbing, or sitting upon them. Encourage kids to interpret the sculptures and engage with art in a playful and imaginative way. Laumeier Sculpture Park offers a blend of art, nature, and free “family fun activities 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 in Kirkwood is an epic adventure for preschoolers and young children, offering hands-on interactive exhibits for engaging “family fun activities near me”. This renowned children’s museum features a child-sized village, science exhibits, cultural explorations, and role-playing areas where kids can pretend to be doctors or veterinarians. Older kids will also find engaging exhibits, such as creating giant bubbles and experimenting with a 3D printer. The Star-Spangled Center even offers learning opportunities for parents about US presidents. Special exhibits and events are hosted throughout the year, ensuring fresh experiences. Located in Kirkwood, The Magic House is surrounded by parks and restaurants, making it a central point for “family fun activities near me”.
Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis: Tiny Worlds of Wonder
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 in the Bevo Mill neighborhood. For families seeking unique and detailed “family fun activities near me”, this museum offers a captivating collection of tiny objects displayed in room boxes, dollhouses, and dioramas. Focusing on the cultural and educational aspects of miniature art, the museum provides a fascinating glimpse into meticulously crafted tiny worlds. The Miniature Museum offers a different kind of museum experience, perfect for families who appreciate detail and artistry as “family fun activities near me”.
Missouri History Museum: Local History Explorations
Kids play in the History Clubhouse at the Missouri History Museum.
Delve into the history of St. Louis at the Missouri History Museum. For families seeking free and educational “family fun activities near me” focused on local history, the Missouri History Museum is a valuable resource. Exhibits explore St. Louis’s history from its founding to the present day, with rotating displays ensuring fresh content. The History Clubhouse is a dedicated area for children, where they can build a skyscraper, play in a Cahokia city replica, and engage in interactive historical scenarios. The Coloring STL exhibit offers a creative way to interact with St. Louis architecture. The Missouri History Museum provides engaging and informative “family fun activities near me” for all ages.
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.
Prepare to question reality at the Museum of Illusions St. Louis, located in City Foundry STL. For families seeking unique and photo-worthy “family fun activities near me”, the Museum of Illusions offers mind-bending optical illusions and interactive exhibits. Experience perspective-changing rooms, enthralling installations, and spellbinding images that challenge your perception. Walk through the Ames Room to appear to grow and shrink, pose in impossible scenarios, and try to navigate the Vortex Tunnel. The Museum of Illusions provides a fun and engaging experience that is sure to create memorable “family fun activities near me”.
Myseum: Playful Learning for Kids
Kids play in a giant bounce house at Myseum.
Myseum offers a combination of children’s museum, science museum, and indoor playground for dynamic “family fun activities near me”. With 30 unique exhibits, Myseum provides diverse and engaging experiences for children. Kids can dig for dinosaurs, play with glow shapes, interact with a video wall, and engage in imaginative play at a zoo clinic exhibit. The constantly evolving exhibits ensure that each visit offers something new and educational. Myseum is designed to be both fun and educational, making it a great choice for active “family fun activities near me”, just remember to bring socks for play areas.
National Blues Museum: Musical Heritage
The National Blues Museum is a wonderful place to connect with Black culture in St. Louis.
Explore the history of blues music at the National Blues Museum in downtown St. Louis. For families seeking culturally rich and engaging “family fun activities near me”, the National Blues Museum offers an interactive and educational experience. Discover the roots of blues music and its influence on modern American music through artifact-driven exhibits and technology-based interactive displays. Kids can even write their own blues songs and add guitar tracks, making music accessible and fun. The National Blues Museum provides a unique and engaging way to connect with music history as “family fun activities near me”.
National Great Rivers Museum: River Stories and Engineering
The National Great Rivers Museum shares stories of the mighty Mississippi River.
Learn about the mighty Mississippi River at the National Great Rivers Museum, located adjacent to the Melvin Price Locks and Dam. For families seeking educational and unique “family fun activities near me” related to rivers and engineering, the National Great Rivers Museum offers an insightful experience. Through interactive exhibits, a theater, and guided tours, the museum explores the great rivers of the region, their ecosystems, historical significance, and impact on human lives. Daily tours led by staff provide a closer look at the locks and dam operations. The National Great Rivers Museum combines engineering and natural history for engaging “family fun activities near me”.
National Museum of Transportation: Vehicle History and Exploration
Kids can pose with planes, trains and automobiles at the National Museum of Transportation.
For families fascinated by vehicles, the National Museum of Transportation offers an impressive collection of transportation history. For families seeking expansive and interactive “family fun activities near me” focused on transportation, this museum is a must-see. Explore over 190 major exhibits, including trains, planes, automobiles, and more. See the massive Union Pacific #4006 “Big Boy” steam locomotive and a rare 1901 St. Louis Motor Carriage Co. automobile. The museum also features modern innovations like the Virgin Hyperloop Pegasus pod. Many exhibits are climbable, and the Creation Station play area caters to younger children. The National Museum of Transportation provides hours of exploration and discovery for “family fun activities near me”.
Saint Louis Art Museum: World-Class Art for Everyone
The Saint Louis Art Museum has one of the country’s leading comprehensive collections.
Discover art from across time and cultures at the Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park. For families seeking free and culturally enriching “family fun activities near me”, the Saint Louis Art Museum offers a world-class art experience. Boasting a comprehensive collection, the museum inspires discovery and appreciation for art across various mediums and eras. Family-friendly tours and hands-on activities are offered on select Sundays, and Wee Wednesdays cater to younger children with art exploration and story time. The Saint Louis Art Museum provides accessible and enriching “family fun activities near me” for all ages.
Saint Louis Science Center: Hands-On 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 and free attraction specializing in interactive science learning. For families seeking engaging and educational “family fun activities near me”, the Saint Louis Science Center provides a hands-on approach to science exploration. Test physics principles, encounter an animatronic T-Rex, explore space, and build a Gateway Arch replica through interactive exhibits. Special exhibitions and OMNIMAX Theater films offer additional paid experiences. The Saint Louis Science Center is designed to spark curiosity and provide “Aha!” moments for all ages, making it a valuable destination for “family fun activities near me”.
Theater and Performing Arts: Live Entertainment for Families
Circus Flora: A Captivating Circus Experience
Tightrope-walkers from Circus Flora perform at The Big Top in St. Louis.
Experience the magic of the circus with Circus Flora, performing at The Big Top in the Grand Center Arts District. For families seeking thrilling and unforgettable “family fun activities near me” in performing arts, Circus Flora offers a captivating experience. This one-ring circus combines traditional and modern circus arts, featuring acrobats, aerialists, comedians, and daredevils from around the world. Circus Flora focuses on emotional storytelling and impressive physical feats, creating an engaging and inspiring performance for all ages. Introduce your kids to the excitement and artistry of the circus with this unique “family fun activities near me”.
The Fabulous Fox: Broadway Spectacle
Peter Pan comes to The Fabulous Fox in 2024.
Enjoy a Broadway-caliber show at The Fabulous Fox, a stunning theater attracting audiences from across the region. For families seeking spectacular and memorable “family fun activities near me” in theater, The Fabulous Fox offers top-tier productions. Experience Broadway hits like Frozen, The Lion King, and Wicked in a grand and historic setting. Enhance your theater night with a pre-show meal at The Fountain on Locust and indulge in their famous ice cream desserts. The Fabulous Fox provides a sophisticated and enchanting option for “family fun activities near me”.
The Muny: Outdoor Musical Theater
During summers in St. Louis, the limelight shines on The Muny, an outdoor theater in Forest Park.
Experience the tradition of outdoor musical theater at The Muny in Forest Park. For families seeking accessible and enchanting “family fun activities near me” during summer evenings, The Muny offers a unique cultural experience. For over a century, The Muny has presented Broadway musicals in its outdoor theater, featuring both professional and local talent. Kid-friendly productions like Matilda the Musical and Mary Poppins are often part of the season lineup. Free seats are available every night on a first-come, first-served basis, making live theater accessible to everyone. The Muny provides a magical and inclusive option for “family fun activities near me” during the summer months.
For families seeking even more excitement, St. Louis offers a vibrant sports scene. From Cardinals baseball to Blues hockey, there are year-round sporting events to enjoy! Explore local sports guides for more information on “family fun activities near me” in sports.
