Top Family Vacation Spots in St. Louis, Missouri, United States
1. City Museum
A unique and interactive museum filled with art exhibits, caves, and even a school bus suspended from the ceiling. It offers an immersive experience for families.
- Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on activities and exhibits make learning fun.
- Unique Attractions: Includes a shoe museum, mirror maze, and a ten-story spiral slide!
- Accessibility: Offers discounted admission for families and free admission on certain days.
2. Six Flags St. Louis
Amusement park featuring thrilling roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions.
- Thrill Rides: Adventure seekers can enjoy high-speed roller coasters.
- Water Park: Cool off in the summer at White Water Bay, an on-site water park.
- Discounts: Offers season passes and discounted tickets for advance purchase.
3. The Magic House
Children's museum with hands-on exhibits focused on science, art, and culture.
- Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on activities promote learning through play.
- Temporary Exhibits: Regularly updates exhibits to keep things fresh and exciting.
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops, camps, and special events focused on various topics.
4. St. Louis Zoo
Free zoo housing a variety of animals, including pandas, elephants, and penguins.
- Variety of Animals: Features over 600 species, making it one of the largest zoos in the country.
- Free Admission: The zoo is free to enter, making it an affordable family destination.
- Conservation Efforts: Invested in conservation and research programs for the animals under its care.
5. Science Center of St. Louis
Science museum offering interactive exhibits on various scientific topics.
- Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on activities and simulations make learning fun.
- Planetarium Shows: Enjoy immersive shows about space and the universe.
- IMAX Theater: Watch educational films on a giant screen for an enhanced experience.
6. Forest Park
Large park offering numerous attractions such as the St. Louis Zoo, museums, and recreational facilities.
- Variety of Attractions: Multiple points of interest within the park cater to various interests.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers bike trails, picnic areas, and boat rentals for outdoor enjoyment.
- Accessibility: Free to enter and easily accessible via public transportation.
7. The Missouri Botanical Garden
Beautiful garden featuring various plant collections, including a Japanese garden and a children's garden.
- Variety of Gardens: Features over 79 acres with diverse plants from around the world.
- Seasonal Blooms: Enjoy the beauty of seasonal flowers and blooms throughout the year.
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops, tours, and classes on horticulture and botany.
8. Grand Center Arts District
Arts district featuring various theaters, museums, and galleries.
- Variety of Arts Venues: Offers a diverse range of performances and exhibits.
- Educational Programs: Many venues offer workshops, classes, and behind-the-scenes tours.
- Historic Architecture: Features stunning architecture showcasing St. Louis' rich history.
9. Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour
Tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery offering a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process.
- Behind-the-Scenes Experience: Offers an up-close look at the brewing process and Clydesdale horses.
- Free Beer Tasting: Includes a tasting of various Anheuser-Busch products.
- Historic Building: Tour the historic brewery building, which dates back to the late 1800s.
10. Gateway Arch National Park
Iconic arch and museum dedicated to the history of westward expansion.
- Arch Observation Deck: Climb to the top for panoramic views of St. Louis.
- Museum of Westward Expansion: Learn about the history and impact of westward expansion.
- Riverboat Cruises: Take a riverboat cruise along the Mississippi River for stunning views.
11. St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station
Large aquarium featuring various marine life exhibits, interactive activities, and animal encounters.
- Variety of Exhibits: Features over 13,000 creatures from around the world.
- Interactive Activities: Offers touch tanks and underwater tunnels for a closer look at marine life.
- Animal Encounters: Schedule meet-and-greets with sea turtles, penguins, and other animals.
12. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
Water park featuring water slides, wave pools, and family-friendly attractions.
- Thrill Water Rides: Adventure seekers can enjoy high-speed slides and raft rides.
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Offers activities for all ages, including shallow pools for young children.
- Discounted Tickets: Offers season passes and discounted tickets for advance purchase.
13. Saint Louis Maelstrom at Six Flags St. Louis
Thrilling roller coaster offering high speeds and inversions.
- Thrill Ride: A high-speed, heart-pumping experience.
- Height Requirement: Minimum height requirement ensures safety for riders.
- Ride Experience: Includes loops, twists, and inversions for an adrenaline rush.
14. The World Chess Hall of Fame
Museum dedicated to the history and culture of chess.
- Chess History: Features exhibits on the origins and evolution of chess.
- Interactive Activities: Offers interactive displays for hands-on learning and fun.
- Educational Programs: Provides workshops, classes, and special events on chess strategy and history.
15. Lone Elk Park
Wildlife reserve offering the opportunity to observe elk, bison, deer, and other animals in a natural habitat.
- Observation Opportunities: Allows for up-close observation of wildlife in their natural environment.
- Educational Programs: Offers guided tours and educational programs about the animals and ecosystem.
- Scenic Drives: Features scenic drives through the park for a relaxing experience.