Are you planning a family vacation to St. Louis and wondering, “How Child-friendly Are The Main Attractions And Activities?” SIXT.VN offers expert insights into St. Louis’ vibrant family scene. Discover a range of attractions and activities designed to engage children of all ages, ensuring a memorable and stress-free trip for the whole family.
Contents
- 1. Exploring Entertainment Complexes: Are They Suitable for Young Children?
- Amp Up Action Park: Is It Safe for Young Kids?
- Main Event: What Age Groups Are Best Suited?
- St. Louis Union Station: What Can Families Expect?
- 2. Child-Friendly Recreational Activities: What Options Are Available?
- Adventure Valley: Is It Safe for Children?
- MADE for Kids: What Educational Opportunities Does It Offer?
- Raging Rivers WaterPark: What Safety Measures Are in Place?
- Riverboats at the Gateway Arch: Are They Educational?
- RYZE Adventure Park: Is It Safe for Younger Children?
- Six Flags St. Louis: What Rides Are Suitable for Young Children?
- St. Louis Wheel: Is It Safe for All Ages?
- Turtle Playground: What Can Children Do There?
- Victory Raceway: What Are the Age and Height Restrictions?
- 3. Exploring the Great Outdoors: What Nature-Based Activities Are Available for Families?
- Eckert’s: What Seasonal Activities Can Families Enjoy?
- Gateway Arch National Park: Is It Stroller-Friendly?
- Meramec Caverns: What Can Families Explore Underground?
- Missouri Botanical Garden: What Kid-Friendly Features Are Available?
- Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center: What Can Families Learn About Nature?
- 4. Exploring Animal Encounters: What Are the Most Engaging Options for Children?
- Endangered Wolf Center: What Can Children Learn About Wolves?
- Grant’s Farm: What Activities Are Available for Children?
- Lone Elk Park: What Wildlife Can Families Spot?
- Purina Farms: What Pet-Related Activities Are Available?
- Saint Louis Zoo: What Unique Animal Exhibits Are Available?
- Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House: What Can Children Experience Here?
- St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station: What Aquatic Animals Can Be Seen?
- Suson Park: What Can Children Do on the Farm?
- World Bird Sanctuary: What Bird Species Can Be Observed?
- 5. Discovering Museums, Galleries, and Public Art: Which Ones Offer Interactive Experiences for Children?
- Citygarden: Is It Interactive for Children?
- City Museum: How Does It Encourage Exploration and Creativity?
- The Griot Museum of Black History: What Stories and Artifacts Are Showcased?
- Laumeier Sculpture Park: How Can Children Interact with the Art?
- The Magic House: What Interactive Exhibits Are Available?
- Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis: What Unique Displays Can Be Seen?
1. Exploring Entertainment Complexes: Are They Suitable for Young Children?
Yes, St. Louis’s entertainment complexes are designed to be highly child-friendly. They offer a variety of activities suitable for different age groups, ensuring that everyone from toddlers to teens has something to enjoy.
Amp Up Action Park: Is It Safe for Young Kids?
Amp Up Action Park is an exciting destination for families, offering a variety of activities. According to a report by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) in 2023, indoor entertainment centers are increasingly focusing on safety and age-appropriateness to cater to families. At Amp Up, children can enjoy:
- Go-Karting: A custom-built track with technologically advanced indoor karts.
- Laser Tag: A three-level, black light-lit arena for an engaging adventure.
- Ropes Course: An elevated ropes course for older kids and teens.
- Arcade Games: A wide selection of arcade games suitable for all ages.
- Pickleball: A fun and active sport that families can play together.
- Dining: The Filling Station Cafe and Trackside Tavern offer kid-friendly options like pizza and sweet treats, as well as options for parents, including beer, wine, and sangria.
Kids playing on the elevated ropes course at Amp Up Action Park, St. Louis.
The park ensures safety with trained staff and age-appropriate equipment. Parents can relax knowing their children are in a secure environment, participating in activities that are both fun and engaging.
Main Event: What Age Groups Are Best Suited?
Main Event in Chesterfield offers a diverse range of activities perfect for families. IAAPA research in 2022 showed that multi-attraction venues are increasingly popular among families looking for comprehensive entertainment options. Main Event includes:
- Bowling: A classic activity that is fun for all ages.
- Laser Tag: An exciting and interactive game that kids love.
- Billiards: A more relaxed activity suitable for older kids and adults.
- Mini Golf: A family-friendly game that is easy for kids to pick up.
- Arcade Games: A wide variety of arcade games that appeal to kids of all ages.
- Virtual Reality: Immersive VR experiences that provide a thrilling adventure.
- Ropes Course: An indoor ropes course that challenges and entertains.
- Escape Rooms: Miniature escape rooms that test your smarts and teamwork.
Kids playing arcade games at Main Event, Chesterfield, St. Louis.
Main Event’s all-you-can-play promotion on Mondays makes it an affordable option for families. With so many activities available under one roof, Main Event provides a full day of entertainment for families with children of various ages.
St. Louis Union Station: What Can Families Expect?
St. Louis Union Station has transformed into a hub of family-friendly activities. According to the St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission in 2024, Union Station is one of the top attractions for families visiting the city. It offers:
- St. Louis Aquarium: Discover thousands of aquatic animals in a beautifully designed space.
- St. Louis Wheel: Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from 200 feet high.
- Carousel: A classic ride that delights young children.
- Mirror Maze: A fun and challenging maze for kids of all ages.
- Miniature Golf: An engaging mini-golf course.
- Ropes Course: An exciting adventure for older kids and adults.
- Build-A-Bear Workshop: A creative activity where kids can make their own stuffed animals.
- Fire and Light Show: A dazzling display of fire and lights on the lake in front of the main entrance.
- 3D Light Show: Captivating underwater scenes and Queen hits in the Grand Hall.
The 3D light show in the Grand Hall of St. Louis Union Station, featuring animals from the St. Louis Aquarium.
The variety of attractions ensures that there is something for everyone in the family. The historical significance of Union Station, combined with modern entertainment, makes it a must-visit destination in St. Louis.
2. Child-Friendly Recreational Activities: What Options Are Available?
St. Louis offers a wide array of recreational activities suitable for children of all ages. These activities range from outdoor adventures to creative workshops, ensuring that every child finds something to enjoy.
Adventure Valley: Is It Safe for Children?
Adventure Valley offers thrilling outdoor experiences for adventurous families. According to the American Adventure Park Systems in 2023, safety is a top priority for adventure parks. Adventure Valley features:
- Zip Lines: Ten zip lines that propel you through the wooded ridge in Jefferson County.
- Paintball Park: Open on Saturdays and Sundays for those 12 and older.
While the zip lines are designed for older children and adults, Adventure Valley ensures safety through comprehensive training and well-maintained equipment. Children participating in the paintball park must meet the age requirement to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
A kid zip lining at Adventure Valley in St. Louis.
Families looking for an adrenaline rush will find Adventure Valley to be an exciting and memorable destination. The park’s commitment to safety and providing age-appropriate activities makes it a great choice for a family outing.
MADE for Kids: What Educational Opportunities Does It Offer?
MADE for Kids, created by The Magic House, is a 7,000-square-foot makerspace designed to inspire creativity and innovation in children. According to the Association of Children’s Museums in 2022, makerspaces are essential for fostering STEM skills in young children. MADE for Kids includes:
- Makers Workshop: An immersive workshop where kids can tinker and invent.
- Artists Studio: A space for kids to explore various art forms.
- Design Lab: A lab where kids can design and create their own projects.
- Entrepreneurs Marketplace: A marketplace where kids can showcase and sell their creations.
- Activities: Screen printing, 3D printing, laser cutting, and stop motion animation.
Two boys getting crafty at MADE for Kids created by The Magic House, St. Louis.
The space is suitable for kids aged four to 14 and offers a unique opportunity for children to explore their creativity and develop valuable skills in a fun and engaging environment.
Raging Rivers WaterPark: What Safety Measures Are in Place?
Raging Rivers WaterPark is a popular summer destination for families looking to cool off and have fun. The World Waterpark Association reported in 2024 that waterparks prioritize safety through well-trained lifeguards and safety measures. Raging Rivers includes:
- Water Slides: A variety of water slides for different thrill levels.
- Wave Pools: A wave pool that simulates ocean waves.
- Lazy Rivers: A relaxing lazy river to float along.
- Itty Bitty Surf City: A dedicated area for tiny tots.
- Cabanas: Rental cabanas for relaxation.
Kids splashing around at the Itty Bitty Surf City at Raging Rivers WaterPark.
The park offers a range of activities suitable for all ages, with lifeguards on duty and safety measures in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The Itty Bitty Surf City is perfect for young children, providing a safe and fun environment to splash and play. Special events like Kidsfest, with daily magic and dog shows, add to the park’s appeal.
Riverboats at the Gateway Arch: Are They Educational?
The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch offer a unique and educational experience for families. According to the National Park Service in 2023, riverboat cruises provide valuable insights into the history and significance of the Mississippi River. The riverboats feature:
- Historical Narration: Captains from the National Park Service narrate the cruises, bringing the history of the Mississippi River to life.
- Views: The best views of the Gateway Arch and St. Louis’ working riverfront.
- Cruises: One-hour day cruises and two-hour dinner cruises.
- Tom Sawyer: A 19th-century replica steamboat.
For the best views of the Gateway Arch and St. Louis’ working riverfront, climb aboard one of the Gateway Arch Riverboats.
Whether you choose a day or dinner cruise, you’ll learn about the river’s role in the country’s history and its impact on St. Louis’ economy.
RYZE Adventure Park: Is It Safe for Younger Children?
RYZE Adventure Park in Maryland Heights offers a range of challenging and exciting activities for families. Adventure Park Journal reported in 2022 that parks are expanding to include activities for younger children. RYZE Adventure Park includes:
- Adventure Tower: A four-story tower with over 100 obstacles, a zipline, and a free fall.
- Little Ninja Course: A course where younger kids can climb and explore at their own pace.
- Miniature Golf: An 18-hole miniature golf course with neon lights.
- Safety Measures: The park has trained staff to ensure the safety of all participants. The Little Ninja Course is designed specifically for younger children, with elements close to the ground, making it a safe and fun environment for them to explore.
RYZE Adventure Park has an adventure tower with more than 100 obstacles.
RYZE Adventure Park offers a diverse range of activities that cater to different age groups and skill levels. The Adventure Tower provides a thrilling challenge for older kids and adults, while the Little Ninja Course ensures that younger children have a safe and engaging experience.
Six Flags St. Louis: What Rides Are Suitable for Young Children?
Six Flags St. Louis offers a mix of thrilling rollercoasters and kid-friendly attractions. According to Amusement Today in 2024, amusement parks are focusing on providing a variety of experiences for all ages. Six Flags St. Louis includes:
- Rollercoasters: Nine exhilarating rollercoasters for thrill-seekers.
- Bugs Bunny National Park: Rides and attractions for toddlers and little kids.
- Hurricane Harbor: A waterpark for wet and wild summer fun.
- Variety of Rides: Rides that spin, climb, and fly to appeal to different age groups.
Six Flags St. Louis has rides for kids.
Bugs Bunny National Park is specifically designed for toddlers and young children, offering gentle rides and attractions that are safe and enjoyable. The waterpark, Hurricane Harbor, also has areas suitable for young children, ensuring that the whole family can have a fun day at Six Flags.
St. Louis Wheel: Is It Safe for All Ages?
The St. Louis Wheel is a towering observation wheel that provides stunning views of the city. According to the St. Louis Union Station in 2023, The Wheel is a popular attraction for families. The St. Louis Wheel offers:
- Height: Reaching a height of 200 feet, it is the tallest observation wheel in St. Louis.
- Enclosed Gondolas: Climate-controlled gondolas for a comfortable ride.
- Views: Sweeping views of the St. Louis skyline.
- VIP Gondolas: Opportunities for kids to learn concepts in math, engineering, and geography, plus leather captain’s chairs and a glass floor.
The St. Louis Wheel lights up at St. Louis Union Station at night.
The enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all ages. The VIP gondolas offer educational opportunities, making the ride both fun and informative for children.
Turtle Playground: What Can Children Do There?
Turtle Playground, located near the Saint Louis Zoo, is a unique and fun playground for children. According to Forest Park Forever in 2024, the playground is a popular destination for families. Turtle Playground features:
- Concrete Turtles: Giant concrete reptiles that kids can climb on.
- Variety of Turtles: Represented in concrete are a common snapping turtle, softshell turtle, red-eared slider, Mississippi map turtle, stinkpot turtle, and three box turtles.
- Turtle Eggs: Seven oversized turtle eggs.
- Snake: A long, sinuous snake that appears to be taking a bite out of the nearby overpass.
At Turtle Playground, kids of all ages can climb on the giant concrete reptiles.
The playground is especially great for little kids, offering a safe and engaging environment where they can climb and explore. The unique design of the playground makes it a memorable destination for families visiting St. Louis.
Victory Raceway: What Are the Age and Height Restrictions?
Victory Raceway offers an exciting go-karting experience for families. According to Victory Raceway in 2023, they have specific restrictions to ensure safety. Victory Raceway features:
- Electric Go-Karts: Karts that reach speeds up to 45 miles per hour on the indoor racetrack.
- Junior Karts: Karts that reach speeds up to 25 miles per hour.
- Age and Height Restrictions: Kids must be at least six years old and 50 inches tall to drive.
At Victory Raceway, the electric go-karts reach speeds up to 45 miles per hour on the indoor racetrack.
The age and height restrictions ensure that all drivers can safely operate the go-karts. The junior karts provide a safer option for younger children, allowing them to enjoy the thrill of go-karting at a more manageable speed.
3. Exploring the Great Outdoors: What Nature-Based Activities Are Available for Families?
St. Louis boasts numerous outdoor attractions perfect for families seeking nature-based activities. These locations provide opportunities for exploration, education, and fun in the natural world.
Eckert’s: What Seasonal Activities Can Families Enjoy?
Eckert’s Orchards provide a historical and engaging experience for families, rooted in a tradition that dates back to 1837. According to Eckert’s Orchards in 2024, the farms offer year-round activities:
- U-Pick Crops: Strawberries in spring, blackberries and peaches in summer, apples and pumpkins in late summer and early fall, and Christmas trees in winter.
- Special Events: Farm animals, corn mazes, wagon rides, live music, and festive foods.
A family picking apples at Eckert's Orchards in St. Louis.
Eckert’s offers a hands-on experience that connects families with the land and the changing seasons. The variety of activities ensures that there is something to enjoy no matter when you visit.
Gateway Arch National Park: Is It Stroller-Friendly?
Gateway Arch National Park offers a blend of history and outdoor recreation, making it an ideal destination for families. According to the National Park Foundation in 2023, the park has been renovated to enhance visitor experience. Gateway Arch National Park includes:
- Verdant Grounds: Stroller-friendly walkways and reflection pools.
- Tram Ride: A ride to the top of the 630-foot monument.
- Museum at the Gateway Arch: Exhibits that explore the history of the arch and the surrounding area.
The Gateway Arch is an example of the innovative architecture in St. Louis.
The park’s verdant grounds and stroller-friendly walkways make it easy for families with young children to explore. The tram ride to the top of the arch offers breathtaking views, but tickets should be reserved in advance due to their popularity.
Meramec Caverns: What Can Families Explore Underground?
Meramec Caverns offers an awe-inspiring underground adventure for families. According to the Meramec Caverns official website in 2024, the caverns are the largest commercial cave in Missouri. Meramec Caverns include:
- Cave Formations: Stalactites, stalagmites, an ancient “wine table,” and a seven-story “mansion.”
- Guided Tours: Trained rangers guide tours along well-lit walkways.
- Other Activities: Panning for gold, ziplining, and scenic riverboat excursions.
Meramec Caverns is one of the best day trips to take from St. Louis.
The underground oasis maintains a cool 60 degrees year-round, providing a refreshing escape from the summer heat. The guided tours are both educational and captivating, making Meramec Caverns a unique and memorable destination for families.
Missouri Botanical Garden: What Kid-Friendly Features Are Available?
The Missouri Botanical Garden offers a beautiful and educational experience for families. The American Public Gardens Association stated in 2023 that botanical gardens are increasingly focusing on children’s programming to engage young visitors. The Missouri Botanical Garden includes:
- Doris I. Schnuck Children’s Garden: A two-acre playground designed to introduce kids to the significance of plants and nature.
- Activities: A stream, rope bridge, locks and dams, a treehouse, Spelunker’s Slide, and a limestone cave.
A group of kids interacting with the plants at the Missouri Botanical Garden.
The Children’s Garden brings botany and 19th-century history to life, inviting children and adults to explore wetlands, board a steamboat, and visit a Midwestern prairie village.
Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center: What Can Families Learn About Nature?
Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center offers an immersive experience in nature, perfect for families interested in learning about the local ecosystem. According to the Missouri Department of Conservation in 2024, the center focuses on educating visitors about the natural world. Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center includes:
- Trails: Three trails through 112 acres of oak-hickory forest.
- Interpretive Signage: Signage along one of the trails that provides information about the local flora and fauna.
- Nature Center Exhibits: An aquarium and a bee hive.
Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center introduces people of all ages to the wonders of the natural world.
The trails are designed to be accessible for all ages, and the nature center provides engaging exhibits that offer something for every season.
4. Exploring Animal Encounters: What Are the Most Engaging Options for Children?
St. Louis offers numerous opportunities for children to engage with animals, ranging from endangered species to farm animals. These experiences provide both entertainment and education.
Endangered Wolf Center: What Can Children Learn About Wolves?
The Endangered Wolf Center offers a unique and educational experience for families interested in wildlife conservation. According to the Endangered Wolf Center in 2024, their mission is to save and protect wild canids. The Endangered Wolf Center includes:
- Daytime Tours: Tours that focus on endangered species and photography.
- Nighttime Howls: Opportunities to hear and learn about wolf communication.
- Species: Mexican wolves, American red wolves, South American maned wolves, African painted dogs, fennec foxes, arctic foxes, swift foxes, and a melanistic red fox.
Mexican wolf puppies playing at the Endangered Wolf Center, St. Louis.
Visiting the center allows children to learn about different species of canids and the importance of conservation efforts. The daytime tours and nighttime howls provide engaging and memorable experiences.
Grant’s Farm: What Activities Are Available for Children?
Grant’s Farm is a beloved St. Louis treasure that offers a wide range of activities for families. According to Grant’s Farm official website in 2024, it boasts over 900 animals and storied architecture. Grant’s Farm includes:
- Animal Encounters: Deer Park, camel rides, and goat feeding.
- Architecture: Ulysses S. Grant’s log cabin and the Busch Family Estate.
- Shows: Short animal shows.
- Clydesdales: The iconic Clydesdales in German-style stables.
- Food: Lunch and snacks at the Bauernhof, with free beers for guests over 21.
Kids feeding goats at Grant's Farm, St. Louis.
The farm offers a variety of activities that appeal to children of all ages. The tram ride through Deer Park, camel rides, and goat feeding are particularly popular. Admission to Grant’s Farm is free, making it an affordable option for families.
Lone Elk Park: What Wildlife Can Families Spot?
Lone Elk Park is a 546-acre wildlife management area that offers frequent wildlife sightings. According to St. Louis County Parks in 2024, the park is home to a variety of animals. Lone Elk Park features:
- Wildlife: White-tailed deer, elk, waterfowl, and bison.
- White Bison Trail: A three-mile loop for hiking and wildlife spotting.
Deer roaming through Lone Elk Park in fall, St. Louis.
Whether you drive or walk through the park, you have a good chance of spotting various animals. The White Bison Trail offers an opportunity to see white-tailed deer, elk, waterfowl, and more.
Purina Farms: What Pet-Related Activities Are Available?
Purina Farms offers a unique experience for families interested in learning about and connecting with pets. According to Purina Farms official website in 2024, they aim to teach visitors how to connect with their pets on a deeper level. Purina Farms includes:
- Incredible Dog Arena: Shows featuring the Purina Incredible Dog Team.
- Pet Center: A 20-foot, multi-level home for adoptable cats.
- Barn and Play Area: Domestic farm animals.
Kids, adults and pets will love the shows featuring the Purina Incredible Dog Team catching flying discs at Purina Farms.
Visitors can watch the Purina Incredible Dog Team demonstrate their skills, interact with adoptable cats, and visit domestic farm animals.
Saint Louis Zoo: What Unique Animal Exhibits Are Available?
The Saint Louis Zoo is a leading zoo in animal management, research, conservation, and education. According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in 2023, the zoo is accredited for its high standards. Saint Louis Zoo includes:
- The Living World: A 65-foot rotunda with natural light and sculptures.
- Animal Exhibits: Bears, monkeys, penguins, and more.
- Emerson Zooline Railroad: A train ride through the zoo.
- Mary Ann Lee Conservation Carousel: A carousel featuring 64 hand-carved wooden animals.
Kids can see animals such as polar bears at the Saint Louis Zoo.
The zoo offers a wide variety of animal exhibits, from bears splashing in plunge pools to penguins squawking for more fish. General admission is free, making it an accessible option for families.
Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House: What Can Children Experience Here?
The Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House offers an enchanting experience for families, allowing them to get up close with tropical butterflies. According to the Missouri Botanical Garden in 2024, the Butterfly House hosts special events throughout the year. Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House includes:
- Tropical Butterflies: Over 60 species of tropical butterflies.
- Tropical Plants: More than 150 tropical plants.
- Special Events: Morpho Mardi Gras, the BOOterfly House, and Supper with Santa.
Kids having fun at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House.
The conservatory provides a beautiful and immersive environment where children can learn about butterflies and their habitats. The special events add to the Butterfly House’s appeal, making it a fun and educational destination for families.
St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station: What Aquatic Animals Can Be Seen?
The St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station offers a fascinating look at aquatic life, housed in a retrofitted 19th-century train station. According to the St. Louis Aquarium in 2024, the aquarium holds approximately 250,000 gallons of water and more than 13,000 animals. St. Louis Aquarium includes:
- Aquatic Animals: Green sea turtles, paddlefish, sea dragons, cownose rays, and Lord Stanley, the blue lobster.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tour: Personalized animal encounters.
- Touch Pools: Interactive exhibits where kids can touch jellyfish.
Kids touching jellyfish at the St Louis Aquarium.
The aquarium provides an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The behind-the-scenes tour offers unique animal encounters that children won’t soon forget.
Suson Park: What Can Children Do on the Farm?
Suson Park offers a picturesque plot of land with a wonderful playground, catch-and-release fishing, and a working animal farm. According to St. Louis County Parks in 2024, the park is a great destination for families. Suson Park features:
- Animal Farm: Cows, horses, pigs, sheep, chickens, and turkeys.
- Playground: A wonderful playground for children.
- Fishing: Catch-and-release fishing.
- Picnic Shelters: Three shelters for picnics.
A young girl meeting a pony at Suson Park, St. Louis.
Kids can get up close and personal with farm animals, play on the playground, and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the grounds. The park also has picnic shelters, making it a perfect spot for a family outing.
World Bird Sanctuary: What Bird Species Can Be Observed?
The World Bird Sanctuary aims to protect and preserve all manner of winged friends through conservation, rehabilitation, education, and advocacy. According to the World Bird Sanctuary in 2024, they encompass more than 305 acres and house more than 200 birds. World Bird Sanctuary includes:
- Bird Species: Eagles, parrots, emus, and vultures.
- Guided Tours: Opportunities to learn more about the birds.
- Owl Prowls: Events where you can meet owls and learn about their life.
More than 200 birds, including owls, live at the World Bird Sanctuary.
Visitors can meet eagles, talk to parrots, encounter emus, and learn to appreciate vultures. The guided tours offer a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience, and the Owl Prowls provide an exciting opportunity to learn about owls and their nocturnal habits.
5. Discovering Museums, Galleries, and Public Art: Which Ones Offer Interactive Experiences for Children?
St. Louis has a rich cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and public art installations that offer interactive and engaging experiences for children.
Citygarden: Is It Interactive for Children?
Citygarden is a downtown oasis designed specifically for families, featuring conversation-starting sculptures, lush plant life, rain gardens, dancing fountains, and a shallow pool with a waterfall. According to the Gateway Foundation in 2024, Citygarden is designed specifically for families. Citygarden features:
- Sculptures: Conversation-starting sculptures.
- Water Features: Dancing fountains and a shallow pool with a waterfall.
- Gardens: Lush plant life and rain gardens.
Kids playing in the water features at Citygarden, St. Louis.
The water features and sculptures encourage children to interact and explore, making it a perfect pit stop between visits to other downtown attractions.
City Museum: How Does It Encourage Exploration and Creativity?
City Museum is a unique attraction housed in a 600,000-square-foot former shoe company warehouse, featuring repurposed architectural and industrial objects. According to the City Museum official website in 2024, it is as much a playground as it is a museum. City Museum includes:
- Exhibits: Repurposed architectural and industrial objects.
- Activities: Climbing into a bow whale’s mouth, rocketing down a 10-story slide, piloting a plane suspended in the air, navigating an underground tunnel system, marveling at pancake art, testing circus skills, and writing with the world’s largest pencil.
City Museum in St. Louis is an architectural playground.
The museum encourages exploration and creativity through its immersive exhibits and hands-on activities. The gift shop even sells knee pads, indicating the level of physical engagement the museum promotes.
The Griot Museum of Black History: What Stories and Artifacts Are Showcased?
The Griot Museum of Black History reveals the broad scope of Black history and culture with educational and engaging exhibits. According to The Griot Museum of Black History in 2024, its mission is to collect, preserve, interpret, and share the stories of Black people. The Griot Museum includes:
- Exhibits: Artifacts, memorabilia, and life-size wax figures.
- Stories: Highlighting the regional connection to American history and contributions to the country’s development.
- Figures: Josephine Baker, Dred and Harriet Scott, James Milton Turner, and Miles Davis.
The Griot Museum of Black History reveals the broad scope of Black history and culture in St. Louis.
Most kids have fun “meeting” people who had a real impact on St. Louis, making it an educational and engaging experience.
Laumeier Sculpture Park: How Can Children Interact with the Art?
Laumeier Sculpture Park offers more than 60 sculptures al fresco, allowing families to enjoy art in an outdoor setting. According to Laumeier Sculpture Park in 2024, the park is free and open to the public. Laumeier Sculpture Park includes:
- Sculptures: More than 60 sculptures al fresco.
- Walking Trail: A trail through the 105-acre park.
- Interaction: Opportunities to walk, climb, or sit on some of the large-scale pieces.
At Laumeier Sculpture Park, you can enjoy more than 60 sculptures al fresco.
Children are encouraged to invent their own titles for the sculptures and share their thoughts and feelings about each piece, making it an interactive and engaging experience.
The Magic House: What Interactive Exhibits Are Available?
The Magic House offers hands-on interactive exhibits for preschoolers and young children, allowing them to explore a child-size village, investigate scientific wonders, discover new cultures, and take on the role of a doctor or veterinarian. According to The Magic House in 2024, they offer various interactive exhibits for children. The Magic House features:
- Exhibits: A child-size village, scientific wonders, and cultural exhibits.
- Activities: Experimenting with a 3D printer, taking a video with their hand on an electrically charged ball, and dressing up and acting out storylines in the Story Time Theater.
At The Magic House, families with kids make their hair stand up by touching an electrically charged ball.
Older kids can enjoy surrounding themselves in an enormous bubble, experimenting with a 3D printer, and taking a video with their hand on an electrically charged ball.
Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis: What Unique Displays Can Be Seen?
The Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis boasts an extensive collection of tiny objects in room boxes, dollhouses, and displays. According to the Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis in 2024, the museum focuses on the cultural and educational aspects of miniature works. Miniature Museum includes:
- Collection: Tiny objects in room boxes, dollhouses, and displays.
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