St. Louis offers an incredible family weekend getaway for Midwest families looking for adventure without breaking the bank. The city combines history, fun, and educational experiences perfect for kids of all ages.
Planning a St. Louis family trip has never been easier with this comprehensive guide. St. Louis stands out as an affordable Midwest staycation destination with numerous free museums and attractions that keep children engaged.
Whether you’re visiting during Spring Break, Summer, or a Holiday, St. Louis welcomes families with open arms.
Planning your St Louis Family Trip – A 4-Day Itinerary for Kids
The perfect St. Louis itinerary spans four days. Each day offers unique family-friendly activities that showcase the best St. Louis attractions. The city caters to families who seek educational yet entertaining experiences.
Most attractions within Downtown St. Louis are easily accessible. Many visitors don’t realize that St. Louis offers so many kid-friendly options. Local families often recommend planning a full long weekend to experience everything. St. Louis continues to rank among the top family destinations in the Midwest.
Day 1
Your St. Louis family trip begins with exploring the magnificent Forest Park. This urban oasis serves as the cultural heart of the city. The park spans over 1,300 acres of beautiful landscapes. Kids immediately fall in love with the sprawling green spaces.
Forest Park once hosted the 1904 World’s Fair. Today it houses several top attractions. Families should start at the Forest Park Visitor Center for orientation.
Free bathrooms and a playground make this an excellent first stop. Friendly staff provide maps and recommendations for your visit.
Explore Forest Park + one FREE museum
St. Louis boasts several free museums around Forest Park. The St. Louis Science Center offers hands-on exhibits perfect for curious minds. Young scientists love the interactive displays that make learning fun.
ASTC Passport Members receive special perks here. The Missouri History Museum provides an excellent introduction to the city’s past. Their History Clubhouse area specifically caters to children with engaging exhibits.
The St. Louis Art Museum welcomes families with special kid-focused tours. Most people spend two to three hours exploring their chosen museum. These cultural institutions demonstrate St. Louis’s commitment to accessible education.
Stay at the Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch
The Drury Plaza Hotel puts families steps away from the Gateway Arch National Park. This convenient location serves as the perfect base for exploring the city. Every room offers comfortable accommodations for tired explorers.
Families appreciate the included evening reception with food and drinks. The complimentary full breakfast energizes everyone for the day ahead. Kids particularly love the indoor pool after a day of sightseeing.
Parents value the suite options for extra space with children. The hotel staff specializes in helping families plan their daily adventures. Parking costs an additional $20 per day but includes late checkout benefits.
Day 2
Your second day focuses on America’s iconic monument—the Gateway Arch. This stainless steel marvel stands 630 feet tall on the Mississippi riverfront. Children are mesmerized by its gleaming presence against the sky.
The arch represents America’s westward expansion. Families should prepare for a memorable day of history and spectacular views.
Visit the Arch and Gateway Arch National Park
The Gateway Arch National Park requires some pre-planning for the best experience. Tickets often sell out during busy seasons like Spring Break. Purchase your tram tickets online several days in advance. Security lines move quickly but arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled time.
The museum beneath the Arch tells the story of American expansion. Kids can earn a Junior Ranger badge by completing an educational workbook. The tram ride to the top takes just four minutes.
Small windows at the summit offer spectacular views of the city and river. Children enjoy spotting landmarks from this incredible vantage point. Many families spend half a day exploring this national treasure.
Old Courthouse
The historic Old Courthouse stands as part of the Gateway Arch National Park complex. This magnificent building hosted the famous Dred Scott case. Its beautiful rotunda features stunning architectural details.
Children can earn another Junior Ranger badge here. Exhibits inside explain St. Louis’s role in American history. The courthouse opens earlier than the Arch most mornings.
Early-rising families appreciate this quieter attraction while waiting for their Arch tickets. Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the exhibits and architecture.
Play at a Park
Kiener Plaza Park sits just behind the Old Courthouse. This open space provides a perfect spot for children to burn energy. The modern playground equipment delights kids of all ages. Summer visitors enjoy the refreshing splash pad on hot days.
Further west lies Citygarden, a public sculpture park. Children love climbing and exploring the interactive art pieces. Both parks offer free entertainment in the heart of downtown. Parents appreciate the chance to relax while kids play freely. These green spaces showcase St. Louis’s commitment to family-friendly urban planning.
Ice Cream at Fountain on Locust
After exploring, families deserve a sweet treat at Fountain on Locust. This retro art deco ice cream parlor charms visitors of all ages. Their famous ice cream concoctions delight children with creative presentations. Parents appreciate the grown-up dessert martinis and boozy shakes.
The vintage soda fountain creates an authentic old-fashioned experience. Use Yelp’s Waitlist to check for crowds before arriving. Most families visit in the afternoon as a mid-day refreshment.
Their homemade ice cream uses quality ingredients for exceptional flavor. Children especially love the colorful presentation of their desserts.
Stay in a neighborhood Airbnb
Experiencing Lafayette Square through an Airbnb gives families a taste of local life. This historic neighborhood features beautiful Victorian architecture. Families enjoy more space than traditional hotel rooms provide.
Having a kitchen helps parents manage meal times with picky eaters. Nearby grocery stores like Fields Foods offer convenient shopping. The namesake Lafayette Square park provides another playground option for restless children.
Local restaurants within walking distance serve authentic St. Louis cuisine. Many families prefer this authentic neighborhood experience. The quiet setting ensures everyone gets proper rest after busy days.
Day 3
Let Your Kids Explore
Day three focuses on pure fun at the incredible City Museum. This unique attraction defies simple description. The converted warehouse features reclaimed materials transformed into climbing structures. Ten-story slides thrill adventurous children and adults alike.
Cave-like passages create an otherworldly exploration experience. Parents should dress children in bright colors to keep track of them. Establish meeting points throughout this massive playground. Most families spend an entire day navigating the endless nooks and crannies.
Smaller children might prefer the Magic House instead. This children’s museum offers gentler but equally engaging exhibits. Both attractions create lasting memories for families.
More Treats at Crown Candy Kitchen
St. Louis’s oldest soda fountain, Crown Candy Kitchen, provides another sweet stop. This historic establishment has served homemade treats since 1913. Their thick milkshakes challenge even the heartiest appetites.
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The glass counter displays freshly made chocolates that tempt everyone. Vintage decor creates a nostalgic atmosphere parents appreciate. Children marvel at the old-fashioned candy-making equipment. The restaurant gets busy during peak hours.
Consider grabbing treats to-go if tables aren’t available. Many families visit between major attractions for a sugar boost.
Dinner at Mission Taco Joint
Mission Taco Joint offers the perfect family dinner with locations throughout the city. Their creative tacos please both adventurous and picky eaters. Parents enjoy craft margaritas after a day of sightseeing. The casual atmosphere welcomes families with children of all ages.
Fast service keeps hangry kids from melting down. The queso dip receives universal praise from visitors. Most locations offer outdoor seating in pleasant weather.
Reasonable prices make this a budget-friendly dinner option. Many families return multiple times during their St. Louis visit.
Day 4
St. Louis Zoo
The St. Louis Zoo consistently ranks among America’s finest zoological parks. Amazingly, this world-class attraction offers free admission. The zoo houses over 16,000 animals across beautifully designed habitats. Children especially love the penguin exhibit and sea lion show.
The Children’s Zoo section provides hands-on animal experiences. Early arrivals benefit from free parking on surrounding streets. The first hour offers free admission to premium attractions like the carousel.
The Adventure Pass provides excellent value for families wanting full access. The zoo train helps tired little legs navigate the expansive grounds. Most families spend an entire day exploring the different zones and habitats.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit the Gateway Arch with kids?
Tram rides to the top cost around $15-20 per person. The museum below the Arch is completely free, making it a flexible option for families on a budget.
Is the City Museum appropriate for younger children?
It’s best for kids 5 and up who are confident climbers. Toddlers and preschoolers might find it overwhelming, so consider the Magic House instead for little ones.
How can we save money on our St. Louis family trip?
Take advantage of the many free attractions like the Zoo, Science Center, and Forest Park. Pack picnic lunches and book hotels that include breakfast.
What’s the best neighborhood to stay in with kids in St. Louis?
Downtown near the Arch offers easiest access to major attractions. Lafayette Square provides a quieter, more residential feel while still being close to everything.
Do we need to reserve tickets in advance for St. Louis attractions?
Definitely pre-book Gateway Arch tram tickets, especially during summer and holidays. City Museum and the Zoo don’t require advance tickets but can get crowded on weekends.
Conclusion
A St. Louis family trip creates memories that last a lifetime. The city’s perfect balance of education and entertainment keeps both parents and children engaged. From the towering Gateway Arch to the whimsical City Museum, St. Louis surprises visitors with its wealth of family-friendly offerings.
The abundance of free museums and attractions makes this an affordable destination for budget-conscious families. Downtown St. Louis provides a safe, navigable hub for exploring the city’s treasures. Whether enjoying homemade ice cream at Crown Candy Kitchen or earning Junior Ranger badges at national monuments, children experience both fun and learning.
