St. Louis Family Fun: St. Louis Family Fun (old site)

ENJOYING ST. LOUIS!

Are you thinking about vacationing in St. Louis? Do you live in St. Louis and want to see the sites that you haven't seen yet? There is so much to see besides the "Big Seven", as I call them (the Arch - National Museum of Westward Expansion, Old Courthouse, St. Louis Science Center, Zoo, St. Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum and Six Flags). While the "Big Seven" are superb, there are many, many other places to visit, as well. Some may call them "off the beaten path," while others may see them as "hidden gems".

If you are looking for unique places, new sites, and want to support our wonderful city, you have come to the right place. Our family, which includes two young children, has visited many of these places.

Under "Contents At A Glance," click on "More" to see all of the categories.

I add new places regularly. People send me ideas, I find new places. There is just so much to do in St. Louis.

Hope you like it!

P.S. A selection of photos that I have taken are at the bottom of the lens. I will keep adding to them as I take more and as I sift through my thousands of pictures I have taken in the last 5 years!

ST. LOUIS COUNTY LIBRARY FREE EVENTS FOR FAMILIES

St. Louis County Summer Reading Program TEEN: Several programs
Free to all
Variety of programs
Nice, easy to use site!
Kids Events FREE: St. Louis County Library system provides a lot of free kids activities. Here is a calendar of events and the locations!

ST. LOUIS COUNTY LIBRARY ACTIVITIES - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

All of the St. Louis Libraries have activities during the summer and school year. Most, if not all, are free!

TODAY'S WEATHER IN ST. LOUIS

National Weather Service: Check today's weather before making your plans

ST. LOUIS COUPONS/PASSES/GENERAL COUPON ACCESS SITES

These coupons are great for visiting attractions, shops, and restaurants in the St. Louis area. In addition, there are coupon links to coupons you can use in St. Louis, or in other cities, states, and/or countries.

St. Louis Attractions Card: Can be picked up at Schnucks, libraries (when children enroll in summer reading program).
Entertainment Book: Great coupons for things in the St. Louis area
Savings Coupons to St. Louis Attractions: Great coupons!
St. Louis Union Station: Great coupons for Union station!
Painting Paw: Great pottery and ceramics place in Chesterfield.
Restaurant.com: Neat Site! Oh my gosh!!! Type in the zip code of the area in which you reside or are visiting. Hopefully, restaurants will appear. When they do, you can see the price of the gift certificates at a discounted price. For example, you may be able to buy a $10 gift card for $3 to a favorite restaurant.

(If you find this site to be misleading in anyway, please let me know. I have not purchased any gift cards yet through this site.)
Retail Me Not: Tons of coupon codes for you to use when shopping. Food, toys, stores, clothes, etc.! Codes are given for you to use when you check out. Take a look!
Fat Wallet: See if any of these help you and your family!
Coupon Mom: Coupons that can be used in St. Louis and anywhere!
Coupon Cabin: Use for online shopping and more!
Ebates!: Just another one to try!

JUST PLAIN KID FUN

Some places in St. Louis are in a kid category all of their own, so here is their "kid" category!

City Museum: Only in St. Louis! An eclectic collection of things that children and adults both love to explore. You just have to see it to believe it, and then visit again and again, only to discover it has been added to, changed, morphed; it's an artist's dream.
Bob Kramer's Marionnettes: Expensive (compared to my penny-pinching!), however, very unique
Children's Museum in Edwardsville: Located in Edwardsville, Illinois (I haven't been here yet!)
Six Flags: It's Six Flags. I really don't need to say anything!!!
The kiddie area is back by the Screamin' Eagle now. Plus, there are new kiddie rides dispersed throughout the amusement park.
Swing-around-fun-town: Miniature golf, go karts, batting cages, and much more!
Build A Bear: Fun, expensive place for kids. The build-a-bear at the Science Center has astronaut outfits that can only be purchased at that location!

CITY MUSEUM - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Only in St. Louis! An eclectic collection of things that children and adults both love to explore. You just have to see it to believe it, and then visit again and again, only to discover it has been added to, changed, morphed; it's an artist's dream.

BUILD A BEAR - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Fun, expensive place for kids to create a cherished stuffed animal. The one at the St. Louis Science Center has an astronaut suit that can be purchased only at the Science Center.

BASS PRO SUMMER CAMP - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Bass Pro offers summer camp activities at their store in St. Charles throughout the month of June. Half hour workshops on nature, insects, plants, fishing, archery, shooting strategies, and more. Kids participate in discussion, watching a small video, answering questions, demonstrations, scavenger hunts and practice (archery and shooting strategies). Kids earn a pin for each workshop.

FESTIVALS AND FAIRS HELD IN THE ST. LOUIS AREA

St. Louis Book Fair: April/Spring - Just an incredible book fair of used books! You just can't imagine!
Greater St. Louis Renaissance Faire: May/June - Held on weekends and Memorial Day, come and get a taste of Medieval times!
Fair St. Louis: July (4th - Independence Day Celebration) - One of the country's biggest Independence celebrations, held at the Riverfront!
The Great Forest Park Balloon Race: September - Hot air balloon race that can be seen for miles around!

ART AND ARTS & CRAFTS ACTIVITIES

The Painting Paw: Great place to take kids to paint ceramics. Decent pricing, very nice setting, great place to allow children (and adults!) to be creative. They offer services to make speciality ceramic gifts, as well.
Leftovers, Etc.: A unique place for children to create art from trash. They have a store and display of things made from discards given to them. Maybe your children will be inspired.
St. Louis Art Museum Family Programs: FREE - On Sundays, from 1 pm to 4 pm, families can visit the art museum to create artistic pieces of work. Each month there is a different theme.

The Art Museum offers other Family programs, too. Some FREE, some for a fee.
Craft Alliance: Great art resource in the University City area. Classes are offered.
Missouri History Museum: FREE Drop-in Make-and-Take Workshops
Summer Time only!
Tuesdays 11 am - 2 pm
Friday 12 pm - 2 pm
The first one we went to was making a flag - not really history connected. We will try a few others to see if the make-and-take connect to the exhibits.
Yucando Art: A drop in art studio! Supplies can be purchased to use at home, too. Camps, lesson, are offered. I think we need to visit this place soon!
My Handyworks: Great find! Wow! We walked in and the kids made a wax mold of their hands for $6. Nice special treat for the kids! A nice family runs the store. You can have birthday parties here, they will come to classrooms and youth groups. NICE! A different kind of art place. I love it when I find places like this in St. Louis.
Lowes - "Build and Grow": FREE workshops held on 2 Saturdays per month, usually
materials provided, patch and certificate given
fun times!

It is best to register. They will hold kits for you if you don't arrive at 10am.

IT'S A ST. LOUIS THING

Well, this whole lens is a St. Louis Thing. However, every now and then some things stand out and yell "St. Louis". Here are a few.

Fox Theatre: The Fabulous Fox! A wonderful, beautiful theater even children love to tour and to see a show.
Grant's Farm: FREE (parking charge)
Children love seeing the animals and the shows. It is a perfect leisurely activity.
Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour: FREE
Now, I don't know how many adults want to take their children to a brewery, but the adults will enjoy this part of their St. Louis vacation/staycation. We all may want to tour it soon. Will we be able to in the near future?
Jefferson Barracks Historic Site: Jefferson Barracks is one of the National Cemetery.
It is beautiful.
There is no charge to visit.
Old Courthouse: FREE
The Old Courthouse is a definite must to see in St. Louis
The famous Dred Scott case was held here.
It is a beautiful building.
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
Forest Park: This park has a lot for you to do. The St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, Science Center, Jewel Box, Muny, Visitor's Center, Boat House and just so much more!
Ted Drewes: Now, THIS is a St. Louis thing! Yummy frozen custard. Great treats, many sizes, flavors, toppings. You must go!
Imos: I was scolded for not having Imos on here! I should be! It is one of my favorite pizzas! Thin crust, yum yum yum!!! Gotta go there!

ST. LOUIS ARCH - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Located at the river front, you can't miss it, and above the Museum of Westward Expansion, you will have a great time riding up the tram to the top for a great view!

TED DREWES - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Yummy concretes, shakes, various flavors and sizes of custard! A St. Louis must STOP!!!!

ANIMAL THEMED PLACES

Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary: How many of you knew we had a National Tiger Sanctuary in the Greater St. Louis area? It's location:
19620 Crown Ridge Road ||
Ste. Genevieve, Missouri 63670 ||
Tel: 573-883-9909
World Bird Sanctuary: FREE (donations accepted)
Wonderful place to visit with Kids!!!
Near Lone Elk Park in Fenton
Wolf Sanctuary - Wild Canid Survival and Research Center: Near Lone Elk Park
Wonderful place to visit with the family
St. Louis Zoo: FREE (various other costs - parking, food, shows, etc.)
Well, what can I say about the St. Louis Zoo??
Purina Farms: Haven't been here, yet, but I have heard great things.

(This place was submitted by a "St. Louis Family Fun" fan.)

ST. LOUIS ZOO - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

It's the St. Louis Zoo, what can I say!

GRANT'S FARM - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

An ongoing gift provided by the Anheuser-Busch family, this farm is home to many different kinds of animals - deer, wild turkey, elk, moose, bison, elephants, chickens, goats, and of course the St. Louis Clydesdales. Food and drinks (including beer, of course, this is provided by Anheuser-Busch) is sold in the biergarten.

WORLD BIRD SANCTUARY - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

FREE

Located at entrance of Lone Elk Park, along 44 at the Valley Park exit. Many saved and rehabilitated birds of prey. Nice, ongoing volunteer program. Well shaded, has hot spots, however on hot days. Indoor interpretive center with store, too. Penny Squisher!!! Inexpensive visit. Combine this with Lone Elk Park for lunch and a drive.

SCIENCE THEMED ATTRACTIONS

These places are science oriented. They may be museums, gardens or unique centers.

Challenger Center: Not many cities have a Challenger Center, an idea conceived as a result of the Challenger explosion in January 1986. Expensive, but a unique experience for aspiring astronauts or NASA engineers!!
Missouri Botanical Gardens: Obviously, has a wonderful selection of plants and flowers

Has a great playground for kids
Butterfly House: Kids love identifying the butterflies
Has a great classroom with a variety of activities
Good movie about butterflies, too
Earthways Home: Come learn how to make your home "green."
Magic House: FREE on Every Third Friday after 5 pm
What can I say? It's the Magic House, one of the best kid's places in the U.S.
Mastodon State Park: FREE
Did you know dinosaurs roamed this area? The proof is at Mastadon park. See what was discovered when Highway 55 was developed.
Melvin Price Locks and Dam: FREE
This was an unbelievable find. We took our class here this past school year. Oh, my gosh! Were we all impressed. You need to go. Again, I think we were just amazed at to find something else that no one in our group had seen before.
St. Louis Science Center: FREE
Some areas have fees
A great place to visit
St. Joe Mine: Besides learning about the the history of mining, and Missouri's role, the St. Joe Mine has a world class rocks, mineral and fossil collections. Students and researcher from around the United States come here to see this collection.

(a photo of this venue is in the Photo Gallery below.)

MAGIC HOUSE - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

What can I say? It's the Magic House, one of the best kid's places in the U.S.

BUTTERFLY HOUSE AT FAUST PARK - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Another great place for kids and adults. Butterflies can be viewed up close, flying about an open greenhouse. If anyone is "ify" about flying things, this may not be the place to do.( Obviously, you can't swat at the butterflies to get them away from you if you don't like them flying around you!) Besides the greenhouse, their is a classroom, movie, and insect terrariums to see.

ST. LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

A great science center, and FREE! Kids will love to explore. Just don't visit on a Thursday or Friday - it's summer camp day! Kids from everywhere come and it becomes very noisy!

TRANSPORTATION THEMED ATTRACTIONS

Historic Aircraft Restoration Museum: Expensive, but quite a site! Website is not that useful.
Transportation Museum: This place is a hit! Very economical, too. A must see!
Shell History Museum: Shell Woodriver Refinery retirees developed this Shell history museum.
Wabash Frisco and Pacific Railroad Association, Inc.: Take a train ride through the Missouri hills on a miniature, but comfortable train!
VERY ECONOMICAL
Sundays 1pm - 4pm
Bigfoot: Fun to see Bigfoot, monster size 4x4. This is a short visit, but worth stopping by, even if you aren't into 4x4s. Great photo op. Kids and adults can sit in the wheel of the huge truck to grasp the size of the vehicle. There is a penny squisher for a cheap souvenir. Besides gas and 51 cents towards a flattened penny, this stop won't cost you a dime.
Moto Museum: A motorcycle museum with limited viewing times. Haven't been here, have you?
St. Louis Iron Mountain Railway: This is a fun ride.

Great train ride! Make this a part of a day trip to southern Missouri. Combine it with the National Tiger Sanctuary, or, with a visit to Cape!
Riverboat Cruises - Downtown St. Louis Riverfront: Looks exciting! Hope to do this soon!
Helicopter Tour - Riverfront: Looks exciting! Don't know if I could do this - height phobic, here!
St. Charles Smartt Field - The Missouri Wing of the Commemorative Air Force: Just heard about this place. Tours, and I think a restaurant. Plan to go soon!!!

Inexpensive tours. Don't know about the food!

BIG FOOT - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Fun to see Bigfoot, monster size 4x4. This is a short visit, but worth stopping by, even if you aren't into 4x4s. Great photo op. Kids and adults can sit in the wheel of the huge truck to grasp the size of the vehicle. There is a penny squisher for a cheap souvenir. Besides gas and 51 cents towards a flattened penny, this stop won't cost you a dime.

To find the specific link, go to the TRANSPORTATION THEMED ATTRACTIONS section and look for Big Foot.

WABASH & PACIFIC RAILROAD - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Miniature train to ride for 30 minutes through the woods in Ellisville, along Old State Road and 109. The ride is about 1/2 an hour. Our five-year-old son loved it. Our eight-year-old daughter liked it but was upset that it was so short.

SPACE & FLIGHT THEMED ATTRACTIONS

Boeing Prologue Room: FREE
Only available by appointment, unfortunately!
A unique display of flight and space history
Tells the story of St. Louis' role in race to get to the moon in the 1960s. A great place for the avid space and flight aficionado.
Space Museum: WHAT AN UNBELIEVABLE DISPLAY! YOU HAVE GOT TO GO! Very professionally decorated. When you find it, you might drive right by it! But when you walk through the door, you won't believe this collection of space flight, not just American, but all countries. WOW! There is an hour and a half tape recorded tour. PLENTY TO LEARN! They are expanding after the start of the year; they should be displaying Smithsonian collections once expanded! This is VERY close, like a block, from the Bonne Terre Mine Tours, too. Make a day of this!!!
Greater St. Louis Air and Space Museum: This is a great museum in the making. Just on the other side of the river in Cahokia, 5 minutes from Downtown. This museum is a collection of personal items from many MacDonnell Douglas Retirees. Hopefully you will like to visit to support what will be a great museum.
Historic Aircraft Restoration Museum: Expensive, but quite a sight to see.
Challenger Center: Not many cities have a Challenger Center, an idea conceived as a result of the Challenger explosion in January 1986. Expensive, but a unique experience for aspiring astronauts or NASA engineers!!

GREATER ST. LOUIS AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

This is a great museum in the making. Just on the other side of the river in Cahokia, 5 minutes from Downtown. This museum is a collection of personal items from many MacDonnell Douglas Retirees. Hopefully you will like to visit to support what will be a great museum.

BOEING'S PROLOGUE ROOM - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

FREE
A unique display of flight and space history
Tells the story of St. Louis' role in race to get to the moon in the 1960s. A great place for the avid space and flight aficionado.

ART MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis: Haven't been here, but planning to go soon!
Kemper Art Musuem: FREE! (but you need to pay the parking meter! 25 cents per 15 minutes, maximum of 2 hours - which is what you will probably need)

Washington University Complex

Nice museum (and the Newman Money Museum is downstairs!) Pictures allowed in main atrium and upstairs, but not in specific galleries. I found most artwork "kid appropriate". Nice variety in art. Definitely worth the time. You could see this then go across the street to Forest Park.
Wildwood Press: I haven't been here, yet
Looks nice!
St. Louis Art Museum: FREE To All Who Enter!
Wonderful!
Laumeier Sculpture Park: FREE - The park is
Now, I cannot remember if the gallery is. The sculptures in the park are great to see.
Pulitzer Foundation of the Arts: FREE
Haven't been here yet, have you?
St. Louis University Museum of Art: FREE
We haven't been here...yet! I think we will be going very soon!
Art Foundary: FREE
This is a unique art facility. Private artists rent space here. Visitors can roam the most of the building for free, looking into the artists studios while they work. Some have store displays where they sell their art work. Classes are offered here. A few galleries are available to view for free. One has a fee. A great visit.
Craft Alliance: Here, children can take classes (and adults, too, I believe). Work by students are displayed in the art gallery.
The Sheldon: Haven't been here, have you?
Atrium Art Gallery: Haven't been here, have you?
Public Art: FREE in a sense - This is a great resource! This site helps you locate regional pieces of artwork throughout the city and county! Fill up your tank, get your camera, and take off on a unique scavenger hunt. Just remember to print out the maps to all of the sculptures that you want to see!

LAUMEIER SCULPTURE PARK - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

A beautiful park displaying wonderful sculpture art. This picture is of a Cat Playhouse decorated with various mosaics. A great picture op! Combine visiting this park with Powder Valley Nature Center; they are within a few miles of each other.

HISTORY MUSEUMS

St. Louis is so fortunate to have so many history museums.

Black World History Museum: Only two museums like this one exist in the states. I haven't been to this museum yet, but plan to go very soon.
Alton Museum of History and Art: This museum has displays regarding the Lincoln Douglass Debates and the development of the Underground Railroad, all which are a part of Alton's history. Haven't been here, have you?? Tell me about if you have!
Museum of Westward Expansion: Jefferson National Expansion Memorial (St. Louis Arch): FREE
Come see the St. Louis Arch and gain a better understanding of Westward Expansion. The Arch, river boat rides and others do have fees. This is the St. Louis experience.
Bethalto Historical Museum: Haven't been here, have you??
Cahokia Mounds: This is the place to see! It is one of the few World Heritage Sites - a site determined to be important to world cultural development. A must see! The museum is unbelievable and the movie is wonderful!
Camp Dubois: A great find! Great for Lewis and Clark buffs! Our students and their parents couldn't believe how nice this museum was, especially since none of us had even heard of it. Where have we been??? This is an outdoor experience. Walk through buildings, see how the structures were made, how the stayed safe from the Native Americans, just a neat experience.
Center for American Archeology: I haven't been here, yet, but plan to go soon. Families can participate in an archaeological dig. What an experience!!
Fort de Chartres: We FINALLY made it to Fort de Chartres! Wow! This is a HUGE fort! It is worth the drive from St. Louis! (and combine it with the Kaskaskia Fort and Menard home, and you have a fun day planned!) All can climb the steep steps, look out the turrets, walk in some of the bunks and offices, and there is a museum that all ages will enjoy! This is a FREE venue, though donations are welcomed. There is a HUGE park and picnic area, as well. Worth your visit!
Visitor's Guide to the Middle Mississippi River Valley: A great resource to discover and locate many places just on the other side of the Mississippi River
Missouri History Museum: FREE
Certain display areas have an additional fee
Exhibits are always so professionally done. The Charles A. Lindbergh and the 1904 Word's Fair are so informative and so detailed.
Kid's area on the second floor is very nice, hands on.
The Landing on the Historic St. Louis Riverfront: When visiting or living in St. Louis, get down to Laclede's Landing. The history, the scenery, the river, this is St. Louis! Children need to see the cobble stone, the big cobble stone.
White Haven: Ulysses S Grant's home is a nice attraction. It doesn't contain any furniture; the Grant's lost their possessions due to a fire when the were living in the White House (Grant was one of our President's, you know). Anyway, the home has been refurbished. Visit so you can hear the many stories about the family, the home and the property.
National Great Rivers Museum: This museum is wonderful, just a wonderful surprise. I had never been here. We took our class this year and everyone just loved it. This is part of the Melvin Price Locks and Dam. You need to go and tour the Locks and Dam, even if you are height phobic like me.
Wood River Museum and Visitors Center: Haven't been here, have you?
Camp River Dubois: This was another wonderful find. This museum has a great interpretive center with a scavenger hunt which requires children to stamp a passport as they find things in the room.
Lewis and Clark Center: This is a great interpretive center. The children participate in a scavenger hunt of animals, dioramas of Lewis and Clarks expedition are large and engaging (my daughter at the age of 6 could explain parts of the expedition because of this diorama), there is a water table showing how river courses change over time and why, and they have a great movie to view. You should visit this place!!
First Capitol: How many of you knew Jefferson City wasn't always Missouri's capitol? Ok, if you are from Missouri, you already know. But, if you aren't from Missouri, maybe you just learned something. Come see the first capitol. You will be just amazed and amused by the facilities and the stories that go along the building's history.
Old Courthouse: Part of the Westward Expansion Memorial Museum (a.k.a. Museum at the Arch!), a wonderful place to visit, especially for history buffs! It is a must!
Holocaust Museum and Learning Center: I haven't been here yet, but I do hear that it is a great museum and a wonderful resource. I would advise visiting first to see if the content is suited for your young children. More than likely, middle school and high school students can handle the content well since they know about the time period this museum covers.
Museum of Black Inventors: I haven't been here yet, but it sounds like a great place to visit with children. Learning about inventors is a great way to encourage children to invent on their own. If you have been here, let me know.
St. Louis Union Station: Union Station is a historic landmark, just a site to see. There are a few museums (Memories and Transportation Museum at Union Station) and self-guided walking tours to participate in at the Station.
The Center for American Archeology: Archeological digs still occur in the Greater St. Louis area, believe it or not, and YOU can be a part of it! Haven't tried this yet, but we plan to!

MUSEUMS

Museum of the Dog: Collections revolve around canine theme
No hands-on activities in museum, unless special event is taking place
Still a nice place to visit
Greater St. Louis Air and Space Museum: This is a great museum in the making. Just on the other side of the river in Cahokia, 5 minutes from Downtown. This museum is a collection of personal items from many MacDonnell Douglas Retirees. Hopefully you will like to visit to support what will be a great museum.
National Great Rivers Museum: A great resource!
Missouri Mines State Historical Site Park Hills, Missouri: I love this place, but I love rocks, and I will drive 1.5 hours to see an old dilapidated mine, to look at old mining equipment, to view rocks, and to look at rocks that glow in the dark under fluorescent lighting. So, if you like those kind of things, this place is a must!!
St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame Museum: Haven't been here yet, have you? Great place for Cardinals and baseball fans, I am sure!
Soldier's Memorial Military Museum: Haven't been here yet, have you?
Wax Museum of St. Louis: Haven't been here yet, have you? Combine this with a visit to the Arch, the courthouse, and eat at the Spaghetti Factory on the Landing!
Newman Money Museum: FREE
(Read info at the bottom of link for tour information)
My children loved this place! Small, but it kept their attention. Learn about the history of coins and currency! 1-2 hour visit. Must see!
Dental Health Musuem: I wonder how many cities have their own dental health museum?

CULTURE CENTERS

UMSL German Culture Center: Haven't been here yet, have you?

FARMER'S MARKETS

Ferguson Farmer's Market: If you are interested in "getting back to nature", shopping at the Ferguson Farmer's Market is the place to be! Haven't been here yet, but I have heard many great comments.
Soulard Farmer's Market: Oldest one west of the Mississippi - but the produce isn't! Comes see this market and the history that comes with it. So many choices, such variety, and a lot of history.
Thies Farm: This family operate a outdoor market of sorts throughout most of the year, and, they have a great Pumpkin Patch in October! Come see it. Buy fruits, vegetables, sauces, salsa, and more!
Tower Grove Park Market: Outdoor market

WATER PARKS

Raging Rivers: A great water park! We haven't been there, but by the looks of it, it HAS to be wonderful!
Aquaport: This was one of the first water parks in the St. Louis area. I think that other water parks took the best ideas of Aquaport (great slides and the lazy river idea) and created even better water parks. This park is probably more enjoyable for older kids, upper elementary and older.
Hurricane Harbor: Great waterpark, I am sure. We haven't been there. I think our kids are too young. This will be a hit when they are older.
River Chase in Fenton: This place is unbelievable. I am so jealous. I wish it was in my community.
Splash City: Looks nice! Haven't been here, have you?
Splash at Wabash: We went to Wabash for a kid's party and I found this to be a wonderful water park. I found it totally kid friendly. The lazy river is perfect for kids; parents could walk on the concrete deck all the way around the river, without getting in but giving young children the opportunity to do something neat "by themselves" -- perfect for those kids who want to be independent. This park allows families to bring their own flotation items (when we visited - always call to make sure rules haven't changed.)
North Point in Ballwin: Looks like fun! Who has been here? Any advice?
Chesterfield Family Aquatic Center: Looks like fun! Anyone been here? Any advice?
Hazelwood's White Birch Aquatic Center: Looks great! Have you been here yet?
Magic Waters Water Park: Looks great! Have you been here?
McNair Aquatic Facility: Looks nice! Have you been here?
Blanchette Aquatic Facility: Looks nice! Have you been here yet?
Wapelhorst Aquatic Facility: Looks nice! Have you been here yet?

SPORTING ACTIVITIES TO TRY

Hidden Valley: Yes, you can ski in Missouri. Are you skiing the Swiss Alps? No. But, it is better than not being able to ski at all, or having to spend a small fortune to ski out of town. We are very proud of our Hidden Valley and appreciate the hard work Hidden Valley employees do in order to provide a skiing opportunity for Missourians. I have heard nothing but great things about Hidden Valley. So, if you come to St. Louis in the winter, hit the slopes!

PARKS

Parks with playgrounds and/or just green space to move around in and go crazy!

Creve Coeur Park: lake (no swimming) for boating, trails, bike/walk/rollerblading, playgrounds, sand volley ball, soccer fields, etc. etc. The list could go on and on.
Map of St. Louis County Parks: Map with links to the parks for specific information!!!
St. Louis City Parks Map!!!: Locator and features of the city parks!
St. Charles City Parks: List of parks for you to check out!
St. Charles County parks: list of parks and features!
Creve Coeur Parks: List of parks in Creve Coeur
Maryland Heights Parks!: List of parks in Maryland Heights
Bridgeton Parks: List of parks in Bridgeton
St. Ann Parks: List of parks in St. Ann
Chesterfield Parks: List of parks in Chesterfield
Ballwin Parks: List of parks in Ballwin
Kirkwood Parks: List of parks in Kirkwood

ST. LOUIS COUNTY PARKS

St. Louis County Parks are free and there are so many to choose from.

Queeny Park: FREE
A lot of outdoor choices - horse back riding, hiking, nice BIG PLAYGROUND FOR KIDS!! Take a lunch and spend an afternoon!
Lone Elk Park: FREE
Bison, Elk, Deer, turkey, are just a few of the wild animals you will see at Lone Elk Park. This is a perfect Sunday Drive that you can do any day of the week. Some Sundays it is packed and you will be part of a trail of cars driving through the park at 5 miles per hour. If you can enjoy it during the week, that would be best.

SUSON PARK - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Great park with a lot of picnic areas, fishing, farm animals, playgrounds, and shelters. Farm animals are available for viewing most days, walk-thru barns. Great background for photo-op, too. Variety of animals to see. Check website under ANIMAL THEMED PLACES.

MISSOURI STATE PARKS

Castlewood State Park: A lot of variety in topography, flat fields, hills to hike up, river view, creeks to wade through safely, and a white, soft, sandy beach to enjoy along the Meramec. However, have children wear coast guard approved life vests, drownings have occurred at this location. Adults should, too.
Route 66 Park: FREE
A great display showcasing the history of Route 66.

MASTADON STATE PARK - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Did you know dinosaurs roamed this area? The proof is at Mastadon park. See what was discovered when Highway 55 was developed.

MISSOURI CONSERVATION DEPARTMENT - INTERPRETIVE CENTERS

Missouri Conservation Department sites are always free to visit. Missouri has one of the best, if not the best, conservation departments in the country. We are so fortunate to have such a great organization in our state.

Columbia Bottom Conservation Area: The Columbia Bottom area includes a view of the confluence of Missouri's largest rivers, over 6.5 miles of river frontage, 800 acres of forest, ...
Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center Fact Sheet: DESCRIPTION: Powder Valley Nature Center is a 112-acre oasis in an urban area. It includes a center with a variety of exhibits on the botany and wildlife of ...
August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area: Natural area and interpretive center
Fishing and hunting services
Rockwoods Conservation Area: Natural area and interpretive center
hiking trails
Great place!

POWDER VALLEY NATURE CENTER - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

This is a great Nature center and reserve to visit. Kids will enjoy the interpretive center and the trails (though they can be very steep - NO STROLLERS!). Walk the trails to see the frog pond, however.

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Babler: Great place to enjoy nature, hike, stay in cabins, a must see!

MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDENS - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Obviously, The Missouri Botanical Gardens has a wonderful selection of plants and flowers. It is known world-wide. Even children love to see these flowers! And, it has a great playground for kids

NATURE ATTRACTIONS

Besides St. Louis parks, Conservation Centers, and State Parks, there are other places to enjoy nature.

Jewel Box: Jewel Box is a wonderful "greenhouse" to visit. While the Missouri Botanical Gardens tends to steal the "plant show" in St. Louis, the Jewel Box is definitely worth the visit. And, at $1 per person (free on Monday and Tuesdays from 9am-12 noon), it could be a viable alternative to a slightly more expensive Missouri Botanical Gardens.
Shaw Nature Reserve - Aboretum: A wonderful, beautiful nature reserve
Missouri Botanical Gardens: Obviously, has a wonderful selection of plants and flowers

Has a great playground for kids
Weldon Spring Site Interpretive Center and Educational Opportunities: Haven't been here yet, have you??
Bonne Terre Mines - Boat Rides: Take a unique boat ride through the Bonne Terre Mines. Expensive, but it must be a thrilling experience.

Haven't done this, have you??
Tower Grove Park: This park comes highly recommended from a viewer of this lens. I haven't been here, but by the looks of the website, I think I should get there very soon! Evidently, the park has a wading pool for visitors to wade and cool off. Wow! What a surprise!
Confluence Point: Beautiful park, great for bird watching, where the Mississippi and the Missouri meet!

CAVES TO TOUR IN MISSOURI

Onondaga Cave: Tours given - 1.5 hours long!
Meramec Caverns: Very "Tourist-y"
Very nice to see!
Graham Cave State Park: We haven't been here yet. But, it's a cave! It must be neat, right?

HISTORIC HOMES & PLACES

Many historic homes are available to tour in the St. Louis area

Beall Mansion: Historic home of Senator Edmond Bealle
Campbell House: Campbell Family Home (no kidding!)
Eugene Field House and St. Louis Toy Museum: This is a historic home that children will love. The toy collection on the third floor will keep children's interest.
Payne Gentry Home: Payne Gentry home located in Bridgeton, Missouri
Children will find it interesting and engaging. The information in the doctor's office may be a bit more detailed than parents may want to hear.
Daniel Boone Home & Boonesfield Village: A historic home kids will love to visit. Children will find this one interesting and engaging.
Faust Park: Historic homes set up in a village-like setting. Some of the homes are open on certain days and during special events. Children tend to find seeing the different old homes near each other quite captivating. Almost "Walnut Grove -esque" (for you "Little House on the Prairie" fans).
Scott Joplin Home: A wonderful place to visit.
St. Louis Historic Homes Tour: A resource to tour six historic homes.
Lemp Mansion: Wow! What can I say? This is a historic home, a restaurant, a part of St. Louis' history, and an inn; it just a bit of everything. It is a great visit. Regarding spending the night, well, let's just say that its history may "come to life" when you stay. :P
Bissell Mansion: Restaurant & Murder Mystery Dinner Theater - haven't been here, but I have heard great things!
Water Tower and Park: Looks like a great view from the top of the tower!
Cathedral Basilica: At the main page, click on "friends" to get to the "tour" link.

I haven't been here, but the photos are beautiful. The mosaics displayed here are known world-wide. Though the building was built around 1907, the mosaics were not finished until 1988! A must see for many who come to St. Louis.
Fort Belle Fontaine: Location of Lewis and Clark Campsite, trading post from early 1800s, military post, factory location - A ton of history at this location! And, you better be in good shape to walk down, the back UP the steps! Beautiful! Must see!

St. Louis County Park
FREE

PAYNE-GENTRY HOME - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Payne Gentry home located in Bridgeton, Missouri
Children will find it interesting and engaging. The information in the doctor's office may be a bit more detailed than parents may want to hear.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF WESTWARD EXPANSION - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Located under the Arch, children and adults will be impressed with the informative museum. Full of dioramas, video and artifacts.

BOATHOUSE IN ST. CHARLES - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

A great museum for children to learn about Lewis and Clark. It has a neat water table for visitors to see how rivers move and change. Located along the Missouri River, and in historic St. Charles. Combine this with a walk along Frontier Park, a visit to the old Capitol, and the Art Foundary.

HISTORIC SMALL TOWNS TO VISIT

Hannibal: Tom Sawyer's hometown!
Hermann: German history
St. Genevieve: Ste. Genevieve is just a great small town to visit. You could definitely spend the day visiting all of the historic homes and buildings.
Historic St. Charles - Mainstreet: A site you may want to use for more information about Historic St. Charles.

Our family spends a lot of time in historic St. Charles. It is like our second home town. We love R.T. Weiler's, Lewis and Clark Boathouse, Old State Capitol, and we like to visit the Art Foundary. Frontier Park is a great park and it has a great view of the Missouri River!
Historic Florissant: My children and I visited the Gittemeier Home and the Narrow Gauge RailRoad Station (which is now a Penny Candy store!). Both are nice, short visits. Combine them with seeing the St. Ferdinand Shrine (which we did) and the other historic homes. It would be a great day! Some homes, however, are only available for Sunday tours.
Kimmswick: A great small, small town you can visit in a day, easily. A lot of history, shops, and a few places to eat -- The Blue Owl, to name one!
Cherokee Street: Unique business district in St. Louis City

STE. GENEVIEVE

Ste. Genevieve is just a great small town to visit. You could definitely spend the day visiting all of the historic homes and buildings.

To find the specific link, go to the HISTORIC SMALL TOWNS section and look for Ste. Genevieve.

VETERANS WAR MEMORIALS

Korean War Memorial at Forest Park: A Korean War Memorial is near the Jewel Box. The unique piece of artwork at the site is a sundial.
Soldiers Memorial Military Museum: Memorial to all veterans

KOREAN WAR MEMORIAL IN FOREST PARK - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

A Korean War Memorial is near the Jewel Box. The unique piece of artwork at the site is a sundial.

ONLY IN MISSOURI

Off the beaten path, roadside attractions - you decide if gas prices will you allow to see such silly things...

Roadside America: This is a list of silly things to see. Some I would say are noteworthy, others, I would stop to see them if I was driving by, but to make a special trip, well, maybe not.

FREE MOVIES IN ST. LOUIS

Wehrenberg Theaters - FREE summer Movies!: Free Movies

Wednesday and Thursdays
AMC Theaters Summer Movie Camp!: $1 Movies

type in your zip code to find the $1 movies near you!
Regal Movie Theaters - FREE Summer Movies: Free Movies

Tuesday and Wednesday

MOVIE THEATERS FAMILIES MAY FIND INTERESTING

Moolah Theater: Once the Moolah Shrine, a Masonic Temple, it is an incredible, one of a kind movie theater!

FITZ'S - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Yummy Restaurant. Kids can see the creation of Fitz's root beer and bottling process while waiting for their meal. Kid's meal comes in a cute cardboard 1950s car. Make sure you order root beer! It is made daily!

CAPE GIRARDEAU DAY TRIP

just a couple of hours south of St. Louis....

Want to add more variety to your activities, why not visit Cape Girardeau!

Trail of Tears State Park: Nice, large park to visit, camp in, hike in, and more! Great overlook of the Mississippi River! The interpretive Center is wonderful, in depth, with resourceful employees!
Port Cape: We stumbled upon this restaurant only to learn that it was an historic site, Grant's office was in this building during the Civil War! Grant is one of our daughter's history interest! So, she was excited to learn about this! Great food, nice variety, ice cream for dessert. Can't beat it! And, just across the street is the flood wall loaded with murals. On the other side.....The Mississippi!

EDWARDSVILLE DAY TRIP

just 20 minutes from downtown....

Wow! What a find! Visit the Children's Musuem, and then go to Glen Carbon just 10 minutes away to see a log cabin, a museum and a covered bridge! You can do this in a day!

Children's Museum - Edwardsville: What a great place! Activities include a tv studio, "glow in the dark" rocks and minerals, earthquake table, village scenes for children to play in, and a huge weaving loom, and just so much more. 20 minutes from downtown St. Louis. Make this a part of visiting places in Glen Carbon (see EDWARDSVILLE on this website!). Great day trip! FEE $4.00 per person.
Glen Carbon Heritage Museum: Tour the Glen Carbon Heritage Museum housed in the old Glen Carbon School building (FEE free). So much to see in this school building - school scene from the early 20th century including a fire escape from the time period, toys, quilts, weaving looms, mining equipment and more!
Yanda Log Cabin: Tour a log cabin from 1853! This family raised 10 children in this log cabin! Yikes! Anyway, check the tour schedule. We only saw the cabin from the road; it was closed when we visited Glen Carbon. Appears to be open on 3rd Saturday's of the month.

DAY TRIP DESTINATIONS (MAY NEED MORE THAN A DAY!)

Laura Ingalls Wilder Home: Have any of your children been reading Laura Ingalls Wilder books lately? Why not reward that with a special trip to her home? We haven't visited yet, but plan to soon.

YOUR GUIDES TO PLANNING YOUR VISITS

Do you need help organizing the sights you want to see? Check these links to see if they help.

Great River Road - Experience the Illinois side: This site will help you determine which places you may to visit.
Historic St. Charles: This site may help plan your visit.
DoubleKey Treasure Hunts: This would be a unique (expensive to some) way to tour St. Louis. Looks very interesting and has received a lot of publicity. Let me know what you think should you try it. (I have a feeling you are going to like it!)
St. Louis Attractions: Another great list of places to visit
Built St. Louis: Studying architecture in St. Louis
Geochaching: Wow! What a way to explore new areas! I hope to be doing this soon with my kids. I will update once I have done this to provide more details. Check out the website to gain a perspective of Geochaching if you have not done this yet.

ST. LOUIS' MUST SEES, ACCORDING TO....

Everyone seems to have their own lists of "must sees" in St. Louis. As I find those lists I will place them here!

Explore St. Louis: Organized by topic, it is a great list, too. Lewis & Clark, Forest Park, Route 66, etc.

BIRTHDAY PARTY LOCATIONS, BUT NOT JUST FOR BIRTHDAY PARTIES

These locations are great for birthday parties and for places to play, especially during extremely hot or rainy days.

Pump It Up: We have attended a ton of parties here. The kids love it.
Team Central Gymnastics: Great place!
Johnny Rockets: For the classic retro 1950s party atmosphere
Museum of Transportation: Fun place for kids.
Magic House: One of the best in the country!
Kidz Art: Great for Artists in your family.
St. Louis Carousel: Are you having a circus themed party?
Build A Bear: In case you are in short supply of stuffed animals.
Monkey Joe's: Unique place to play and party
St. Peter's Rec Plex: a great deal for a swimming party
St. Louis Zoo: We have been to a few of these parties. It was a pleasant experience. However, if the weather is bad, there really isn't a bonus to having your party there, especially for the price.
City Museum: Another great place for an artistic party, and a great place to just roam around!
Grant's Farm: One of St. Louis' unique places
Sky Zone: If your child loves to jump, this is the place to be!
Bounce U: Another great place for kids who love to bounce!
The Putting Edge: Miniature Golf Fans?? Neon Golfing fans?? Here you go. You will love this place!
Aqua Port: Nice water park for a birthday party
Chuck E Cheese: We have been to a few Chuck E Cheese's parties. It is amazing, kids just love this place.
Build A Dino Party: Are you planning a dinosaur theme party??
Challenger Center: If you have an astronaut in the making, this is the place to be. While it is expensive, it is a wonderful place providing a wonderful experience. We haven't been here for a party, but we have been there for a tour and Brownie troop function.
Mad Science: Our daughter had a Mad Science Birthday party. It was wonderful!

(This place was submitted by a "St. Louis Family Fun" fan!)
Little Gym: We have attended Little Gym parties and my kids have had a blast!

(This place was submitted by a "St. Louis Family Fun" fan!)
Higher Hope Entertainment: Great party resource! Unique! Have this designer decorate for your party! Plus he has shows for children. Just so unique!
Bricks 4 Kids: A place where kids build models out of LEGOS. They run classes and camps. It appears they offer LEGO Robotics, as well. Appears to be new. Let me know what you think!

CHUCK E CHEESE - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Great place to go for fun during a hot day! Look for coupons! It is a great deal!

MONKEY JOES - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Fun indoor place for kids during inclement/hot weather days. So many air "toys" to climb on. Can spend 1-2 hours here easily! Nice sitting area for parents with plasma tv, and wifi, if I am not mistaken! Plenty of picnic tables are available to sit at, party rooms, etc.

GREAT AMERICAN PIZZA COMPANY - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Neat place to eat lunch or dinner. Buffet style eating. You can select your atmosphere for eating, also - high school gym with tv screen, movie theater style with movie playing, or 50s diner. After eating, enjoy the many games, video, bumper car, digital bowling, go carts, skeetball, etc. You pay for your meal as you enter - prices $6 - $13 kids to adults. Great deals on different days. Contact them for specials - such as $5 lunches (but you pay $1.50 for a drink).

PUTTING EDGE - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Glow in the dark Golf awaits you! Great place to play. May be a bit pricey for some $7.00-$15.00 to play a game depending upon age and additions you may add. Great for parties, but you need to be prepared to do your party or activity in the dark, basically! Can be noisy, too! Our group had a blast. I would definitely recommend it. The staff was WONDERFUL the night we went!

At St. Louis Mills!

CHILDREN'S RESALE SHOPS

Once Upon a Child: I visit the Olive Location. It is wonderful!
Purple Cow: Been here, and I love it!

(This place was submitted by a "St. Louis Family Fun" fan.)
Kangaroo Kids: Looks like a great place!

(This place was submitted by a "St. Louis Family Fun" fan.)
Finders Keepers: Looks like a great place!

(This place was submitted by a "St. Louis Family Fun" fan.)

PLANET FUN - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Great place to have a party. We had our son's here. Wednesday nights are the best - very few people were there. We had the place to ourselves.

SUMMER DAY CAMPS IN ST. LOUIS

I realize that it is July and most camps are filled. But, you never know. Check these out if you need a camp between now and the end of summer. In addition, most of these camps will be offered next summer and the information will be updated. So, check this list out early next spring when you need to make your summer 2009 plans!

Remember to always check your local school district and community for summer camp opportunities.

Mad Science: Mad Science is a GREAT science program for kids ages 5-12. See if any of these camps work for you!
YMCA St. Louis: many week-long camps offered
Painting Paw: many week-long camps offered
Camp Kangazoo: many week-long camps offered
St. Louis Ice Skating Summer Camp: one week camp offered
Art Foundary St. Charles: limited week long camps offered
Bridgeton Parks and Recreation: many week-long camps offered
Craft Alliance: multiple camps offered, 1/2 and full day, before/after care
St. Louis Science Center: limited week-long camps
Challenger Center: limited week-long summer camps
Laumeier Art Camp: various week-long, 1/2 and full day camps offered
St. Louis County Parks and Recreation: multiple camps offered
COCA: multiple camps offered
St. Louis University High School: many camps offered, focus on older children
Girl Scouts: multiple camps offered
Boy Scouts: multiple camps offered
St. Louis Independent Schools: multiple camps offered
Gifted Resource Council: multiple camps offered
Magic House: multiple weeks offered
JCCA: multiple camps offered
St. Louis Blues Summer Hockey Camp: one week-long camp offered
I can't tell if this is offered anymore.
St. Louis Open Studio and Gallery: multiple camps offered
Missouri Botanical Gardens: multiple camps offered
Smock, paper, scissor: This was given to me by someone. Let me know if you like it.
Bounce U Camp: Let me know what you think!
Camp Pegnita: Looks great!
Vetta Sports Camps: For your sports enthusiasts!
Maryland Heights Summer Camp Program: So many choices!! Oh my goodness!
JA Biz Town: Go to Free Enterprise Center
Then - summer camp programs

Looks like one had to be canceled. But one is available next week.
Stages Performing Arts Academy: year round classes! summer classes!
Kindercare Summer Camps: Looks like a lot of choices!!!
Camp Lakewood: Wonderful camp program! Many choices!
Camp Invention: Great invention camps!

SOUVENIRS IDEAS!

Elongated Pennies/Squished Pennies: In some of the places I described, I mention Squished Pennies, you know those flattened penny machines. Well, here is a link that lists all of the squished penny machines in Missouri. We collect these when we can. It is a great souvenir that doesn't cost much, and doesn't take much space. You can even buy Penny Passports to put your pennies in. It is a great keepsake of your travels!

PUMPKIN PATCHES

Huge List of Pumpkin Patches: This is a great list of pumpkin patches.

PHOTO GALLERY OF ST. LOUIS BELOW

Below are photos of places in and around St. Louis. Most of them are described in my lens above somewhere! Hopefully, some picture may intrigue you enough to take your family and visit some place new! Let me know if it does or if you have any questions about places in St. Louis.

WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY - ST. LOUIS - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Just a beautiful place to visit. We visited the campus and just enjoyed reading all of the historical documentation all around the campus.

CAROUSEL AT FAUST PARK - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Relive your childhood, ride horses on a carousel from the Highlands Amusement Park which closed in the 1960's. Thanks to the Olendorf family, these treasured horses were refurbished and brought back to "life." Rides are $2.00 person, I believe. Worth every penny. Oh, speaking of pennies, there is a penny squisher here!! A cheap souvenir!

FAUST PARK PLAYGROUND - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Great playground! Super cushy ground, new bathrooms all automated, walking distance to Butterfly House, Carousel and Village Park. Could es

FAUST PARK VILLAGE - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Part of the Faust Park "complex." Many old homes, buildings and structures from around the St. Louis area have been moved here to be preserved. 1st and 3rd Sundays from 1pm to 4pm have docents dressed in period clothing. Free tours, donations accepted.

MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDENS - CHILDREN'S PLAYGROUND

Obviously, The Missouri Botanical Gardens has a wonderful selection of plants and flowers. It is known world-wide. Even children love to see these flowers! And, it has a great playground for kids

SIX FLAGS OVER MIDAMERICA - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

It's Six Flags! What can I say. Either you like amusement parks, or you don't. Kiddie rides are found throughout the park, and a kiddie park is towards the back of the park by the Screaming Eagle.

QUEENY PARK - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Great playground! A lot of sand and Mayan-like climbing pyramids!

TOWER GROVE PARK - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Nice Park! Great fountain, bubbler and wading pool area to cool off in. The day we went (and evidently on other days too) the wading pool part was not filled in with water. But the fountain is great and provides for wonderful photo ops!

TURTLE PARK - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Near the St. Louis Zoo, nice playground with bathrooms. Fun, large turtles to climb all over. Can picnic here, too.

WHITE HAVEN - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Ulysses S Grant's home before and after White House occupancy. Not furnished (family lost belongings in a fire). Wonderfully rehabbed. Very original. Great stories and information shared. FREE - I think!

JEWEL BOX - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Great place to visit! A greenhouse right in the middle of St. Louis City in Forest Park. $1 to enter, free on Mondays and Tuesdays from 9am-12noon.

"THE LOOP" TROLLEY - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

On "the Loop" in University City, sits an old Trolley Car. History of the trolley system in the St. Louis area is provided. Nice pic op!

ART MUSEUM - SUNDAY FAMILY DAY - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Every Sunday at the St. Louis Art Museum, families can visit for a free art activity. Each month there is a different type of activity. Once a month there is usually a guest artist, performer, etc. to help inspire artistic creations.

MASTODON STATE PARK - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Mastadon State Park has a great park area! Creek nearby ready to be waded through! Playground, restroom area, pavilion areas, picnic areas.

BELLEFOUNTIANE PARK - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Neat park, great for pictures! Huge stair case that leads to the Missouri River. Breath taking!

FREE

NOTE: This park is in a residential home area for teens who have had trouble with the law. The teens are not allowed outside. I felt safe there. I saw local residents using the trails area for walking and sightseeing, as well.

FAUST PARK BUTTERFLY HOUSE EVENING ACTIVITIES - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

The Butterfly House offers many evening activities for children. Our children participated in a "Snails" workshop. Great hands on science activities, story time, crafts, and snacks! The education programmer keeps those kids busy!

ST. LOUIS UNIVERSITY CAMPUS - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Great place to walk around and photo opportunities are great!

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF TRANSPORT - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Great place to see automobiles, planes, trains, and boats! Outdoor and Indoor. Don't go on very hot days. The heat from the asphalt and trains can nearly cook you! This museum was started over 50 years ago, and just continues to grow - sometimes slowly (it costs a lot to refurbish trains and trolleys, you know!)

Economical ($6 for adults, $4 for kids)

CAROUSEL AT THE MILLS - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

$2.00 per rider. Great carousel, so colorful. Combine this with a Free Family Movie on Tuesday or Wednesday, Pirahna Realm, and/or the First Due Fire Museum. Low cost day, and unique sites to see. Plus, it's a Mall, plenty of food places, NASCAR indoor/outdoor race park and a Glow-n-the-dark Putting Edge miniature Golf. Great place on a hot day!

TEAM CENTRAL GYMNASTICS - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Great place to learn gymnastics, to sign up for summer camps and day camps (when area schools are out), and for birthday parties!

FOREST PARK - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Forest Park is just a great place to go. St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, Jewel Box, Golf, walking and biking trails, Boat House (rent a paddle boat), Muny, Ice Rink, Science Center - Good grief. You could spend a week there!

MISSOURI HISTORY MUSEUM - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Great museum! A lot of venues to see - Lindbergh, 1904 World's Fair, Flight, Kids Section - Missouri History focus, and right now is the Grant and Lee exhibit (fee for this one, rest are free). On 7/25/08 we saw the Declaration of Independence! Never know what you are going to see.

During the summer - kids craft days on Tuesday (10am-2pm) and Friday (12noon to 2pm). FREE

ST. JOE MINE - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Located in Park Hills, Missouri, south of St.Louis (55 to 67 south), a great piece of history awaits you! While it may look like you are driving off the end of the earth, the museum itself houses a world class rock and gem collection. Professors and students from all around come to see this collection of rocks, minerals and fossils from around the world.

FEE: around $2.50 for Kids and $4.00-$5.00 for adults. Worth the drive!

ST. LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER - T-REX! - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

T-Rex Names Sue is at the St. Louis Science Center until September. An adult and two kids costs $20, and your stay in the room is about 30 minutes to 45 minutes. Neat things to see. Fossil dig and excavation activities are also available.

ROUTE 66 STATE PARK - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

FREE

Great museum recognizing Route 66, in the old Stiney Restaurant building which overlooks the Meramec River off of Lewis Road. Many things to look at, mostly photos, signs, a motorcycle, old gas pump, just fun stuff!! Good souvenir shop, too! The park is wonderful, perfect for biking, rollerblading, very flat.

WHAT'S GOING ON IN ST. LOUIS TODAY?

Is it too hot to be outside? Is it raining? Did the weather change your plans? Did someone have to cancel on you today?

Check these sites out for daily activities in the St. Louis area for ideas of what to do today!

St. Louis Kids Magazine: This is a daily listing of events taking place in St. Louis. Focuses on one day events, special events. Not all are free, however.
St. Louis County Library Events: St. Louis County Libraries always have something going on, especially during the summer. Check their data base!
Missouri Department of Conservation - St. Louis Area: The Missouri Department of Conservation has a busy calendar, too! Check out their events to see if anything suits you.
St. Charles Events: Select the date in the calendar to see what is available in the St. Charles area.
St. Louis County Parks: Calendar of events! A lot of things are going on ALL OF THE TIME!

PORT CAPE - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

Great restaurant, historical landmark, Grant's office was here during the Civil War. Neat place!

CHILDREN'S MUSEUM - EDWARDSVILLE, IL - A PICTURE FROM OUR FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

What a great place! Activities include a tv studio, "glow in the dark" rocks and minerals, earthquake table, village scenes for children to play in, and a huge weaving loom, and just so much more. 20 minutes from downtown St. Louis. Make this a part of visiting places in Glen Carbon (see EDWARDSVILLE on this website!). Great day trip! FEE $4.00 per person.

GLEN CARBON HERITAGE MUSEUM -

Wonderful small town. Drive through a reconstructed covered bridge, visit a long cabin, and tour the Glen Carbon Heritage Museum housed in the old Glen Carbon School building (FEE free).

Tuesday, February 25, 2014

St. Louis Family Fun (old site)