St. Louis: The Midwest’s Best Kept Secret
When you think of St Louis, the Gateway Arch probably comes to mind—or maybe even that classic tune, Meet Me in St. Louis…
But did you know St. Louis is only about a seven-hour drive from Grand Rapids?
This city is so much more than a stop on the map – it’s a family-friendly destination. There are so many things to do with kids in St Louis!
From hands-on favorites like The Magic House and City Museum to must-see attractions at the St. Louis Zoo and Union Station, it’s a city packed with memorable experiences for all ages.
You’ll find outdoor spaces, free admission options, and unbeatable views, whether you’re riding to the top of the Gateway Arch or exploring Grant’s Farm.
If you’ve been searching for the best things to do in St Louis MO with kids, you’ll find no shortage of fun, history, and unforgettable experiences—all wrapped into one exciting and budget-friendly trip.
St Louis With Kids
Gateway Arch
The quintessential stop in St. Louis is the Gateway Arch – and for good reason.
Topping out at 630 feet, the views from the top are jaw-dropping.
To reach the top, you’ll have to take a tram ride – but note that that it’s a small capsule (not for those who hate tight spaces!). Once you exit at the top, enjoy glimpses of the Mississippi River and entire city of St. Louis as far as the eye can see.
You have a few minutes to look out the observation windows and then you’re transported back down.
No room for strollers or extras on the tram.
To go to the top of the arch, you have to buy a timed-ticket in advance. (Combo tickets are available for the following: tram ride to the top, documentary movie, virtual reality theatre, and the riverboat cruise.)
Be sure you plan ahead – tickets often sell out during the busy season.
Your day can include walking tours to scenic points along the gardens, visiting the underground museum, riverboat tours and even a helicopter tour.
If you have extra time, you can watch a movie about how the Arch was built, wander the free museum at the base, and grab a quick bite at the cafe. Very cool if you like to explore and see the history behind things!
While you’re there, visit the Old Courthouse where the famous Dred Scott case was tried. Free daily tours are available.
St. Louis Zoo
Be sure you check out the St. Louis Zoo – admission is free and it’s huge! No wonder it’s one of the most popular kids activities in St Louis!
From zebras and flamingos to polar bears and giraffes, there are over 450 different species to meet and enjoy.
Get an up close encounter with giraffe feedings, watch the sea lion show, and pet a stingray at Caribbean Cove.
Relax and tour the zoo’s most popular attractions on the Emerson Zooline Railroad.
This 20 minute ride shows you all the popular exhibits, tells you about the history of the zoo, and is a great way to explore all the zoo has to offer.
Train tickets are discounted if you buy an adventure pass. (Psst: If you have a John Ball Zoo membership, the adventure pass is half off for up to four people!)
Parking is $20 without a zoo membership. If you don’t mind the extra walking, you can park at Turtle park across the way.
Hands-On Fun
City Museum
If you’re looking for a place that lets kids explore, City Museum is it. You’ll see why it’s one of the best fun things to do in St Louis with kids.
It’s a one-of-a-kind adventure that feels more like a giant indoor-outdoor playground than a museum.
Kids can climb, crawl, tunnel, and explore through creative spaces that turn every corner into a new place of discovery.
Be sure to wear athletic clothes and leave those bags behind because this place is built for non-stop fun.
If everyone gets hungry, no worries! There are lots of places to stop and get a meal or snack when everyone needs a break.
Spend the afternoon or even a whole day—City Museum is one of the best family friendly things to do in St Louis!
While you’re in the area, be sure to check out Fizz’s Root Beer for amazing root beer floats that will knock your socks off!
The Magic House
For more hands-on fun and adventure, The Magic House is an absolute must-visit.
This place is HUGE—in the best way—with interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity for kids of all ages. From climbing, building, and experimenting to full-on imaginative play, there’s something around every corner.
Don’t miss the exciting traveling exhibits like Thomas & Friends™: Explore the Rails, plus the can’t-miss summer feature, Sandcastle Beach, where The Magic House transforms into a beachfront park.
Kids can become a superhero at Hero Quest, travel back in time with Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum, or explore cultures from around the world with fun exhibits from China, Argentina, and India.
And the best part? It’s just $15 per person—making it an easy (and unforgettable) stop on your St. Louis trip.
Union Station
Take a step back in time and visit Union Station.
Once one of the largest train stations in the world, today the station has an aquarium, giant ferris wheel, family activities, dining, and even a night time light show in the grand hall.
Be sure to check out the hype and grab some ice cream at the Soda Fountain for some yummy treats while you’re there.
More Free Places to Visit
There are a few other free activities for kids in St. Louis:
- For free science fun, stop by the St. Louis Science Center, where learning is play as you explore hundreds of hands-on exhibits.
- If you love art, be sure to visit the St. Louis Art Museum. It offers family-friendly hands-on activities for kids of all ages.
- If you have older kids, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis is a wonder, with beautiful arches, stunning cathedrals, and stained glass windows.
- Enjoy history, world-famous Clydesdales, feed exotic animals, and explore at Grant’s Farm.
- Visit Route 66 and cross the Mississippi River at the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge.
- Visit Malcolm W Martin Memorial Park for wheelchair accessible views of the Gateway Arch.
- Free on Tuesday & Wednesday mornings, you can visit a beautiful flower conservatory right by the St. Louis Zoo at the Jewel Box.
- Enjoy wildlife from the comfort of your car as you drive through Lone Elk Park. Go in early morning and see bison, elk, deer and turkey.
Book Your Trip Today!
The Gateway Arch might be what gets St. Louis on your radar—but it’s everything else that makes families fall in love with it.
With hands-on fun, amazing (and often free!) attractions, and plenty of space for kids to explore, it’s the kind of road trip from Grand Rapids that’s simple to plan and even better to experience.
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