family friendly places to visit in missouri

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25 Fun & Affordable Things to Do in Missouri with Kids

Last Updated By VI on March 27, 2024 in Things to Do in Missouri & Places to Visit

Arabia Steamboat Museum

Auto world museum, bridal cave and thunder mountain park, children's peace pavilion.

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More Missouri Weekend Getaways

Auto World Museum , 200 Peacock Dr, Fulton, MO 65251, Phone: 573-642-2080

More Day Trips in Missouri

The Children's Peace Pavilion features over twenty-five interactive, hands-on exhibits designed to engage children in learning an assortment of life skills in a fun way, such as planetary stewardship, cultural appreciation, conflict resolution, cooperation, communication, appreciation, and self-acceptance. The mission of the Children’s Peace Pavilion is to approach the idea of peacemaking from a more holistic perspective, defining “peace” beyond its traditional meaning of an absence of war or conflict. It instead focuses on a comprehensive approach that includes four concepts, which are “Peace for The Planet, Peace for Everyone, Peace for Us, and Peace for Me.” Map

Dickerson Park Zoo

Dickerson Park Zoo , 1401 W Norton Rd, Springfield, Missouri 65803, Phone: 417-864-1800

Field House Museum

More ideas: Best Missouri Beaches

Fort D Historic Site

More ideas: Best Lakes in Missouri

Fort Osage , 107 Osage St, Sibley, MO 64088, Phone: 816-650-3278

Grant’s Farm

More ideas: Day Trips from Kansas City

Hollywood Wax Museum Branson

Good to know: Best Time to Visit Branson, Missouri

Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum

More ideas: Hotels & Resorts in Missouri

Family Things to do Near Me: Kansas City Zoo

Kansas City Zoo , 6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132, Phone: 816-595-1234

Lewis and Clark Boat House and Nature Center

Lewis and Clark Boat House and Nature Center , 1050 S. Riverside Dr, St. Charles, MO 63301, Phone: 636-947-3199

Mark Twain Cave

Mark Twain Cave , 300 Cave Hollow Rd, Hannibal, MO 63401, Phone: 573-221-1656

Mark Twain Riverboat

Mark Twain Riverboat , Center Street Landing, Hannibal, MO 63401, Phone: 573-221-3222

Meramec Caverns

Meramec Caverns , 1135 Route W, Stanton, MO 63079, Phone: 573-468-3166

National Frontier Trails Museum

National Frontier Trails Museum , 318 W. Pacific Ave, Independence, MO 64050, Phone: 816-325-7575

National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

National Museum of Toys and Miniatures , 5235 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64112, Phone: 816-235-8000

Pony Express Museum

Pony Express Museum , 914 Penn St, St. Joseph, MO 64503, Phone: 816-279-5059

St Louis Zoo

St Louis Zoo , Government Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110, Phone: 314-781-0900

Talking Rocks Cavern

Talking Rocks Cavern , 423 Fairy Cave Ln, Branson West, MO 65737, Phone: 417-272-3366

The Discovery Center of Springfield

The Discovery Center of Springfield , 438 E St. Louis St., Springfield, MO 65806, Phone: 417-862-9910

The Gateway Arch

The Gateway Arch , St. Louis, MO 63102, Phone: 877-982-1410

Magic House Museum

Magic House Museum , 516 S. Kirkwood Rd, St. Louis, MO 63122, Phone: 314-822-8900

• 1. Arabia Steamboat Museum
• 2. Auto World Museum
• 3. Bridal Cave and Thunder Mountain Park
• 4. Children's Peace Pavilion
• 5. Dickerson Park Zoo
• 6. Field House Museum
• 7. Fort D Historic Site
• 8. Fort Osage
• 9. Grant’s Farm
• 10. Hollywood Wax Museum Branson
• 11. Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum
• 12. Family Things to do Near Me: Kansas City Zoo
• 13. Lewis and Clark Boat House and Nature Center
• 14. Mark Twain Cave
• 15. Mark Twain Riverboat
• 16. Meramec Caverns
• 17. National Frontier Trails Museum
• 18. National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
• 19. Pony Express Museum
• 20. St Louis Zoo
• 21. Talking Rocks Cavern
• 22. The Discovery Center of Springfield
• 23. The Gateway Arch
• 24. Magic House Museum

Nicknamed “The Show Me State,” the state of Missouri is home to 5,500 recorded caves , historical sites, incredible nature , and a wide variety of museums designed as perfect attractions for families with kids to visit throughout the year. From the Talking Rock Cavern and the Mark Twain Cave to Fort Osage and the Lewis and Clark Boat House to a myriad of hands-on and interesting children museums, there’s plenty for kids to see, do, and be entertained throughout Missouri.

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The 7 Best Vacation Spots in Missouri for Families

With cities large and small, an abundance of nature, and the Mississippi River, Missouri is the perfect state for a family vacation. From Branson to St. Louis—the “Gateway to the West”—and Kansas City to Kimmswick, these seven spots are guaranteed fun for all ages.

With countless live music acts, an amusement park, and plenty of educational opportunities, everyone is sure to have fun in Branson . As the state’s country music hub, there are tons of concerts throughout the city year-round. Nature-lovers can go swimming, boating, or fishing at Table Rock Lake , and the whole family can combine all of the above—plus an adrenaline rush—at Silver Dollar City . This famous 1880s-themed amusement park has live shows and concerts, craft shopping, and more than 40 rides and attractions for the entire family to enjoy. For iconic views of the city, end your trip with a ride on the Branson Ferris Wheel to take in sweeping views of the Show-Me State.

Lake of the Ozarks

As the largest metropolitan area in the state, St. Louis has loads to offer families. The Saint Louis Zoo is consistently voted among the top in country. It’s free, and they have shows, events, and exhibits for kids and adults. The City Museum is a giant fantasy playground, where parents and kids alike can play in the huge ball pit, climb the indoor treehouse, and ride the 30-foot Ferris wheel. At Grant’s Farm , the family can get close and personal with loads of animals, ride a camel, see animal-encounter shows, and pet massive Clydesdales horses, goats, and more. Finish the trip with a visit to the world-famous Gateway Arch , and see the city from 630 feet (192 meters) above the Mississippi River.

For an educational trip, head to Hannibal, where author Mark Twain spent much of his childhood. Tour the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum Properties , and visit the Hannibal History Museum for even more on the author and the town. Visit the Molly Brown Birthplace & Museum to learn about The Unsinkable Molly Brown, an activist and philanthropist who survived the sinking of the Titanic. Hannibal also has many monuments, galleries, theatre performances, and tours, including riverboat rides down the Mississippi and an old-fashioned trolley tour that makes stops at some of the attractions along the way.

Kansas City

Start your Kansas City family adventure at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art , where admission is free, and the impressive collection spans the world and its cultures. Young kids—and maybe the young at heart—will love running around the field among the huge sculptures of badminton shuttlecocks. The city also boasts a superb zoo with animal shows, rides, and zookeeper chats. Before heading home, make a stop at LEGOLAND Discovery Center , where everyone can enjoy the 4D cinema, visit the LEGO Ideas Studio, ride the interactive Kingdom Quest, and when Mom and Dad need a little liquid energy, take a breather at the coffee shop.

Springfield

Springfield is a charming town with friendly people and an abundance of nature activities. Explore the interactive habitats at the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium , including the encompassing 300,000-gallon (1,135,623.6-liter) aquarium, which hosts 35,000 underwater animals like fish, sharks, and jellyfish. Then, head to the Springfield Botanical Gardens to walk among the flowers, through the butterfly house, and into the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden . For a little adventure, hop on a jeep tour of Fantastic Caverns , a series of caves, just outside of downtown Springfield. Observe the animals that make their home there, and see the impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations.

A tiny town just about 25 miles south of St. Louis, Kimmswick is filled with artisan craft stores and souvenir shops, many of which have been there since the town was founded in 1859. For a true dose of ancient history, visit Mastodon State Historic Site to see the Kimmswick Bone Bed, where scientists first discovered real proof that humans and the American Mastodon coexisted. Afterward, take a relaxing riverboat cruise before heading to The Blue Owl Restaurant and Bakery for a home-cooked dinner followed by a slice of the famous Levee High Apple Pie.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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14 Family-Friendly Destinations

These 14 affordable, family-friendly missouri destinations will thrill both children and adults. we’ve got fun stops for families who love the outdoors, and for those who’d rather spend summer days out of the heat. start planning your route.

Spring break is nearly upon us, and summer is just a few calendar flips away. Maybe you’re already pondering a family vacation where there are no meltdowns, everyone is smiling in the photos, and the whole family makes lifetime memories. Fortunately, happy smiles and memorable experiences are close to home here in Missouri. You don’t need to leave the state to find vacation destinations that are equally entertaining for kids and adults, yet won’t deplete the vacation budget.

To compile our list of budget-friendly, kid-approved travel destinations, our parameters were fairly simple. We wanted to share ideas where children could discover and wonder about people, places, and things at spots with either free admission or nominal entrance fees. Some locations will be familiar, while others may be new to you. The Show-Me State has too many fantastic spots for one list. Use our suggestions as a starting point, and here’s hoping you get at least one great photo where everyone’s looking at the camera.

Saint Louis Zoo

One of the few free zoos in the country, it’s no wonder the Saint Louis Zoo is the most-visited attraction in the region. The Saint Louis Zoo traces its origins to the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904, when the city purchased the fair’s Flight Cage for $3,500. You can still see the cage, the 1920s Primate House and the Charles H. Hoessle Herpetarium in Historic Hill. Other zones include Red Rocks (for the big cats, zebras, and giraffes), Lakeside Crossing (sea lions and stingrays), River’s Edge (rhinos, hippos, elephants, and sun bears), The Wild (grizzly bears, polar bears, chimps, gorillas, orangutans), Penguin and Puffin Coast, and Discovery Corner for butterflies and insects. In all, the Saint Louis Zoo is home to more than 14,000 animals and is recognized internationally for innovative approaches to animal management, wildlife conservation, research, and education.

Free admission (parking is $15 in zoo lots), 1 Government Drive, St. Louis, StLZoo.org

Elephant Rocks State Park

Standing even larger than their namesake pachyderms, the billion- year-old granite boulders look like a train of pinkish-red circus elephants. Kids can climb on and between the boulders. The Braille Trail, which winds through the main area of rocks, was the first trail in a Missouri state park designed specifically for visitors with visual and physical challenges. A spur brings visitors to a point overlooking an old quarry site where Missouri red granite (Missouri Red) was quarried from the 1860s through the early 1900s. Another spur leads to the ruins of an old engine house, originally built to service trains shipping Missouri Red throughout the country. But it’s the giant granite boulders, where 19th-century miners carved their names and comments, that star at Elephant Rocks State Park.

Free admission. 7406 Highway 21, Belleview, MoStateParks.com

Springfield Cardinals

With a general admission ticket to Hammons Field, you can be close to the action as future big leaguers crack a bat (and you can crack a cold one). This is how baseball should be. A minor league team, the Springfield Cardinals are the AA affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. More than 100 Springfield Cardinals have gone on to play in “The Show,” either with the St. Louis Cardinals or other MLB clubs. You might even see a current St. Louis Cardinal playing at Hammons Field on a rehab assignment. Home runs aside, infield antics by red bird mascot Louie (“little brother” to the St. Louis Cardinals’ Fredbird), and special promotions add to the fun.

General admission is about $10 per ticket. Check the website for special promotions. 955 E. Trafficway St., Springfield, MiLB.com/springfield

Warm Springs Ranch

The official breeding facility of the Budweiser Clydesdales, Warm Springs Ranch near Boonville is home to more than 70 of the gentle giants long associated with the iconic brewery. Guided walking tours through the immaculate grounds include explanations of the horses’ care and training, a close-up look at their equipment, and of course, opportunities for interactions with the Clydesdales. The 300-acre complex features a veterinary lab, pastures, and a large breeding and foaling barn.

Guided tours: $15 ages 2 and up. 25270 Highway 98, Boonville, WarmSpringsRanch.com

Bass Pro Shops

A massive, outdoor-themed experience awaits at the original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World location in Springfield. Learn from the pros during free fish-feeding shows and educational seminars.

The National Archery Hall of Fame showcases more than 1,500 artifacts, including a handmade bow crafted by Geronimo, a prominent leader of the Apache people.

Admission is free to the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World and the archery museum. 1 Bass Pro Drive, Springfield, BassPro.com

The Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium features more than 35,000 live fish, reptiles, mammals, and birds.

Admission if purchased in advance: $35 adults, $21 children 4–11, free for 3 and under (same-day tickets are generally higher). 500 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, VisitOzarks.org

Mark Twain’s Hannibal

Mark Twain’s hometown is as much a character in Twain’s classic books as Tom Sawyer, Becky Thatcher, and Huck Finn. One ticket purchased at the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum grants admission to all these attractions: Becky’s house, Twain’s boyhood home where he lived, played, and had adventures he later used as inspiration for his writings, and other buildings including an interpretative center with interactive exhibits.

Admission: $12 adults, $6 children 6–17, free for 5 and under. 120 N. Main, Hannibal, MarkTwainMuseum.org

Walk through the same cave passages that inspired The Adventures of Tom Sawyer in an hour-long guided tour of Mark Twain Cave. Explore the natural beauty of Cameron Cave in a guided flashlight tour, both at the Mark Twain Cave Complex .

Mark Twain Cave Admission: $24.99 adults, $14.99 children 4–12. Cameron Cave Admission: $26.99 adults, $16.99 children 4–12. 300 Cave Hollow Road, Hannibal, MarkTwainCave.com

You can cruise the Mighty Mississippi on the Mark Twain Riverboat , a replica of a 19th-century steamboat. During this relaxing one-hour sightseeing cruise, the captain shares information about the history and legends of the area. Pay a bit more and dine on board during a dinner cruise or Sunday lunch cruise.

Admission for sightseeing cruise: $23 adults, $13 children 5–12. Center Street Landing (100 Center St.), Hannibal, MarkTwainRiverboat.com

Kaleidoscope

An art-making space for kids ages 14 and younger and their adults, Kaleidoscope is sponsored by greeting card behemoth Hallmark. Using Hallmark paper, stickers, ribbon, and other materials from the manufacturing process, along with Crayola markers, paint, and crayons, and their own imaginations, kids can create a variety of projects in a free, 50-minute session. A Kansas City institution since the 1970s, Kaleidoscope is the inspiration of Don Hall, son of Hallmark founder J. C. Hall. Don watched his children joyfully create projects using Hallmark’s leftover manufacturing materials and wanted to share that with others, envisioning a place where families could explore and create together.

Admission is free, but space is limited so reservations are strongly encouraged. 2500 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, HallmarkKaleidoscope.com

City Museum in St. Louis

A weirdly wonderful experience unlike anything else, City Museum is four floors filled with miles of tunnels, a full cave system, 30 slides (including one that sends kids coasting down 10 stories), a circus, an arts area, and a large outdoor climbing space. And yes, that’s a real school bus hanging off the edge of the roof, which also holds a Ferris wheel.

This St. Louis delight, with exhibits largely comprised of repurposed architectural and industrial objects, has been named to USA Today’s list of “10 Best Children’s Museums.” Whether you’re young or young at heart, wear pants and slide into this funhouse of art, architecture, and whimsy.

Admission: $20 per person. 750 N. 16th Street, St. Louis, CityMuseum.org

Mingo National Wildlife Refuge

In 1944, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service purchased more than 21,000 acres of swamp and established the Mingo National Wildlife Refuge. At the time, the condition of the land and its living resources was deplorable, as humans had reduced a beautiful swamp, lush with plants and alive with animals, into a burned and eroded wasteland in less than 50 years. Today, most of the natural plants and animals have been restored. Deer, wild turkey, bobcat, and beaver are once again plentiful, and the refuge now fulfills its primary purpose of providing food and shelter for migratory birds.

This part of southeast Missouri was once a sprawling 2 million acres of bottomland hardwood forests with species of gum, oak, and bald cypress trees. The largest remaining tract of this forest is here, where a visit to Mingo can include hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing (check out fishing gear at the visitor’s center). Observe wildlife along three auto tour roads or by walking along the mile-long boardwalk. Mingo is recognized as an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society, as the refuge supports bird species and habitats that are of conservation priority. For example, bald eagles have successfully nested on the refuge for nearly 40 years.

Check out binoculars and activity backpacks for kids at the visitor’s center. Admission: $3 per vehicle for daily permit. 24279 State Highway 51, Puxico, FWS.gov/refuge/mingo

Bonne Terre Mine

An abandoned lead mine underneath the town of Bonne Terre is now a Missouri marvel. From its origins in 1864, the mine became the world’s largest producer of lead ore before closing in 1962. After the miners left, the mine gradually filled with water to form a one-billion-gallon, 17-mile-long lake. It is now illuminated with more than 500,000 watts of stadium lighting below the water’s surface. Certified divers can tour through the mine’s dive trails with specially trained dive guides in the world’s largest fresh-water dive resort. For those who would rather stay dry, combination boat and walking tours are narrated by guides who show you where miners dug with picks and axes in the 1860s, and the guides share insights into Missouri’s Lead Belt. Summertime bonus: The air temperature in the mine is a constant 65 degrees year-round, the perfect anecdote for heat and humidity.

Admission: $28 adults, $21 children under 11. 185 Park Ave., Bonne Terre, BonneTerreMine.com

Table Rock Lake

With more miles of shoreline than the coast of California, Table Rock Lake, southwest of Branson, offers every kind of water sports, from boating, swimming, skiing, tubing, wake surfing, and even scuba diving, to world-class fishing for all ages and levels. Table Rock Lake is annually listed as one of the Top 100 Bass Lakes in the country. Moonshine Beach, the lake’s only sand swimming beach, is located near Table Rock Dam and offers showers, public restrooms, a playground, and a boat launch. The lake has 14 public marinas and most offer boat, paddleboard, and jet ski rentals. With more than 43,000 acres of water and multiple coves, there’s room for everyone’s water fun. Table Rock State Park features hiking and biking trails, picnicking sites, and campgrounds in addition to water access and rentals.

Free admission to the state park. Camping rates start at $15. 5272 State Highway 165, Branson, VisitTableRockLake.com

Pony Express National Museum

Interactive exhibits at the Pony Express National Museum help kids learn why young, skinny fellows on fast horses were crisscrossing the plains and mountains of the American West in the early 1860s. Located in the original stables in St. Joseph, the museum documents the 18-month-long venture of providing faster mail service between St. Joseph and Sacramento, California, using solitary mounted riders traveling at great personal risk. An interactive map traces the route. Pumping water from the same well used to water the horses is just one of the hands-on experiences. The Hall of Riders includes authentic objects from riders’ personal collections, stories about trail life, and photographs of riders, including Johnny Fry, the first west-bound rider on April 3, 1860.

Admission: $8 adults, $4 students 7–17, $2 children 4–6, free for 3 and under. 914 Penn St., St. Joseph, PonyExpress.org

Soccer Capital of America

It’s not a title that’s officially bestowed, but Kansas City can rightfully claim the moniker. Catch the fast-moving action of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and cheer on the Kansas City Current, May through September, at Children’s Mercy Park. In 2024, you can watch the Current play in the first stadium purpose-built for a NWSL team. The facility is under construction at Berkley Riverfront Park.

Sporting Kansas City , a two-time Major League Soccer Cup champion, also plays home matches at Children’s Mercy Park. The crowds of devoted fans who are chanting, singing, and waving flags make attending a match an experience. Home matches frequently sell out.

A KC pro soccer match will help you prep for the excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup , with the City of Fountains as a host city for match play.

KC Current ticket prices start at $15. 1 Teal Rising Way, Riverside, KansasCityCurrent.com; Sporting KC single-game tickets start at $35. 1 Sporting Way, Kansas City, SportingKC.com

Celebrate the Ozark National Scenic Riverways (ONSR), the first national park area to protect a river system, with a float on the Current River or its tributary, the Jacks Fork . Raft, tube, kayak, or canoe either of these spring-fed, cold, clear rivers. For the kids, borrow free River Exploration Kits, which include nets, field guides, and bug boxes at Round Spring, park headquarters in Van Buren, Alley General Store, or the Alley Campground. Multiple outfitters rent floating craft in Salem, Eminence, and Van Buren.

The irritants and stress of daily life float away on rivers like the Black River, which is crystal-clear in spite of its name. Rent tubes, rafts, kayaks, and canoes in Lesterville to float the Black River ; it runs fairly shallow most of the season. Both Huzzah Creek and Courtois Creek rise in Mark Twain National Forest and flow north to the Meramec River . The Huzzah is surrounded by limestone bluffs, while the Courtois (pronounced locally as “Cote-a-way”) flows through dense stands of trees and has abundant fish. Both streams have been voted “Best Local Float Trips” by a St. Louis newspaper, as they are less than 100 miles from St. Louis. Rent gear in Steelville or Leasburg.

Pro tip: Go during the week for a less crowded, more family-friendly experience.

Rentals vary by outfitter but range around $60 for kayak, $50 for canoe, $175 for four-person raft. NPS.gov/ozar

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10 Fabulous Things to Do in Missouri with Kids to Spark their Curiosity!

Last Updated on: 1st February 2022, 10:03 pm

Too often, Missouri and other midwestern states get attributed the misnomer “flyover states,” but there is actually so much to do in Missouri with kids!

You would think that living and teaching in South Korea would mean that I wouldn’t have much to say about Missouri, but I love the state! Before moving across the world I spent a few years bouncing around the Great Plains, including Missouri.

Known unofficially as the “Show me!” state, Missouri certainly has a lot to show you, from nature to art to fun. So, to plan your Missouri family vacation, check out this list of the top ten things to do in Missouri with kids.

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The Best Things to Do in Missouri with Kids

In no particular order…

St. Louis Butterfly House

The St. Louis Butterfly House isn’t very big, but it has over 1,000 butterflies at any time and it offers a lot of charm. It is especially geared towards young children, but don’t worry, even teens and adults can enjoy sitting in the humid butterfly greenhouse and watching the winged beauties flit by.

There are educational exhibits on butterflies and other bugs, as well as daily butterfly releases for new butterflies who have emerged, and a place to watch those new butterflies emerging from their chrysalis.

Walking out of the greenhouse is also great fun, as you must be personally checked to make sure none of the butterflies have attached themselves to your hair or clothes without you noticing!

The St. Louis Butterfly House is a part of the Missouri Botanical Garden family of attractions, if you have the time you should check those out too! 

Open: 9AM – 4PM, Closed on Mondays

Cost: $8 general admission, $5 seniors 65 & over, $5 children 3-12, Free children 2 & under

Address: Faust Park, 15193 Olive Blvd. Chesterfield, MO 63017 

Website  

Nelson Atkins Museum of Art

The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art is one of the best museums you’ve probably never heard of.  And it’s free!

They often hold large family-friendly festivals, such as picnics and multi-cultural holidays full of events for everyone. There is also a shockingly good café where you can sample delicious cakes and tarts beside an indoor fountain.

Their exhibit on Native American tribes is particularly well done, with over 200 examples of jewelry, pottery, and clothing. Continue on to their other multicultural exhibits on Asia, Africa, and Europe across a variety of time periods. 

Open: Sun-Mon 10AM – 5PM, Closed on Tuesdays, Wed 10AM – 5PM, Thur-Fri 10AM – 9PM, Sat 10AM – 5PM

Cost: Free (some special exhibits cost money) 

Address: 4525 Oak Street Kansas City, MO 64111

Meramec Caverns

Missouri has a surprising number of caves, well over 6,000, but this is the one to see! It has some of the most varied history you can find in any cave. Native American artifacts, mining, and finally, one of the infamous Jesse James’ hideouts.

Yes, that’s right, in the 1870s Jesse James and his gang had a hideout in these caves that took decades to discover!

The world’s rarest form of cave structure is also on full display in the Meramec Caves, the Wine Table, which formed entirely underwater. Stretching the height of a 7-story building, there are simply tons of pockets to see and explore.

The entry price includes a guided tour (leaving every half hour) which takes around an hour and a half. In the same area, you can also experience ziplining, wall climbing, and riverboat rides down the Meramec River. Even if you’re not interested in caves, there are clearly tons of great activities for the family to do!

Open: Everyday, times change according to the month

Cost: Adults $23, Military $20, Children 5-12 $12, Children 5 and Under are Free

Address:   1135 Hwy W, Sullivan, MO 63080

St. Louis Zoo

Encompassing around 90 acres, the St. Louis Zoo is recognized as one of the best zoos in the United States. In fact, in 2017 and 2018 it was ranked number 1 by USA Today!

With over 16,000 animals and various activities such as sea lion shows and stingray feeding, you are sure to have a full day of fun. As any good zoo should, the St. Louis zoo is heavily focused on efforts concerning conservation and education.

They are a world leader for helping to save endangered animals and the places in which they live. Additionally, the St. Louis zoo allows for overnight programs occasionally for both families and adults! What could be more fun than that?

Open: Sun-Thur 8AM – 5PM, Fri-Sat 8AM – 7PM

Cost: Free (Although some shows are an additional cost) 

Address:  1 Government Drive   St. Louis, MO 63110

Science City

I know when I was a kid I loved science exhibits, nothing could be more fun than a planetarium and some instruments controlled by waving my hand through lasers. And Science City in Kansas City is full of over 120 such hands-on science exhibits!

They provide daily demonstrations and activities, and their discovery areas are particularly engaging. Hands-on activities involving engineering and chemistry are available, along with the ability to participate in “labs” in the Maker Studio.

Here you can enjoy daily workshops involving 3-D printing, fibers, and electronics. No matter what your age, you’re sure to find something fascinating in Science City! 

Open:   Wed-Sun  9:30AM – 12:30PM, 2PM – 5PM  (Closed Monday and Tuesday) 

Cost: $14, children under 12 months are free. The Planetarium is an additional $8. 

Address:  30 West Pershing Road Kansas City, MO 64108

Cahokia Mounds

While technically not in Missouri, it’s listed as one of the top sites of St. Louis for a reason. It’s only just across the border into Illinois and it’s one of the most impressive sites in the entirety of the Great Planes.

The Cahokia Mounds are the stunning remains of one of the most advanced prehistoric societies in North America. Over 100 giant mounds dot the landscape, the left overs of a giant metropolis covering over 2,200 acres of land.

Some places allow you to climb to get a view of what this ancient city would have looked like. A “Woodhenge” is a recreation of how the ancient Mississippians (those who lived along the Mississippi River) kept a calendar that followed the sun, much like Stonehenge in the UK. 

Open: From dawn to dusk everyday

Cost: Free, although donations are suggested

Address: 30 Ramey Street Collinsville, IL 62234

Grant’s Farm

Both historical and fun, Grant’s Farm is a great stop on any road trip through Missouri. Built by the 18 th  president of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant, it is now owned by the Busche family. The small cabin where Grant resided is still present on the farm and can be visited.

A farm with many exotic animals, such as elephants, camels, and peacocks can be enjoyed via a tram ride through the large deer park on the property. The famous Budweiser Clydesdale horses are kept on Grant’s Farm, where you can visit them in their stables and pasture.

While the children enjoy the animals, adults 21 years and older are welcome to sample Anheuser-Busche products free of charge. Relax in the courtyard with some pretzels and bratwursts and enjoy the 1913 German farmstead area, where the famous carriage collection is also housed.

As you can see, there’s more than enough to occupy your day at Grant’s Farm!  

Open: 9 AM – 3:30 PM with extended hours on Fridays in summer, open 9 AM-10 PM

Cost : Free! Although parking is $15 and animal interactions and the carousel are separate fees. 

Address: One Busch Place. St. Louis, MO 63118

Silver Dollar City 

Your best bet for a theme park in Missouri is definitely Silver Dollar City in Branson next to the beautiful Table Rock Lake (also worth a visit). The amusement park is themed around the 1880s, with over 100 demonstrating craftsmen specialized in blacksmithing, candle, candy, soap making, and more. And, of course, there are many different rides to satisfy nearly any age.

Part of Silver Dollar City is also a water park, offering great amusement in the summer heat. You can cruise Table Rock Lake on a dinner cruise, and even stay overnight at the lovely campground (cabin, tent, and RV camping is available).

Tons of events occur year-round, from their evening admissions with fireworks and exclusive concerts. It’s practically guaranteed to be a great time! 

Open: 9:30AM – 10PM 

Cost: from $30-$72 per person, children under the age of 3 are free

Address: 399 Silver Dollar City Parkway Branson, MO 65616

Busche Stadium 

For those members of the family who love sports and baseball, a game at Busche Stadium isn’t to be missed. Over 44,000 people can fit into this grand arena, the home of the Major League team the St. Louis Cardinals.

Of course, for those not interested in a sporting event, several music-related events also take place at this stadium. Give your kids a day out at the ball game at Busche Stadium! 

Open: 11AM – Midnight 

Cost: A basic ticket can cost around $34 per person. 

Address: 700 Clark Ave. St. Louis, MO 63102

Website: Cardinal’s Game Tickets  &  Other Event Tickets

Ha Ha Tonka State Park and the Lake of the Ozarks 

Castle ruins, natural villages, sinkholes, and caves are just some of the many things to explore at the Ha Ha Tonka State Park. Located on the Lake of the Ozarks (a place to explore further if you have the time) the Ha Ha Tonka State Park is picturesque and named after the many springs within its 3000 acres.

The castle ruins are incredible against the natural backdrop of the state park. The castle, destroyed by fire in the 1940s, was originally built in the early 1900s to model 16 th  century castles found in Europe. Now, they’re just as magical as any of those real castles!

Fifteen miles of hiking are available as are caving activities. The Natural Bridge is an easy walk with a history of being a hideout for Native Americans and criminals in the past. Camping is available to make it a full experience!

Come and explore this lesser-known state park and come away with fantastic memories! 

Open: April through October 7AM – sunset, November through March 8AM – sunset  

Cost: Free!

Address: 1491 Missouri D, Camdenton, MO 65020

Start Planning Your Missouri Family Vacation!

I hope these ten places I’ve suggested help you and your family have a wonderful time in Missouri! Missouri is an often underrated, yet beautiful place to explore.

Honorable mentions are the Lake of the Ozarks and Table Rock Lake, which are both popular outdoorsy escapes for the family. While St. Louis and Kansas City are both featured on this list, there is clearly so much more to do in the “Show Me” state. Make sure you check out the famous Kansas City barbeques and live music throughout your journey! 

Pin this Guide to the Best Missouri Family Activities for Your Travels!

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41 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Missouri

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: December 6, 2020  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

With busy streets framed by mountains, forests, lakes and waterfalls, Missouri is a state that has it all.

You can enjoy resorts and restaurants in the big cities; you can go camping under the stars in the wilderness.

You can also enjoy the cultural depth of Missouri.

From the iconic landmarks to the little-known shops, diners and roadside attractions, there’s a reason why this uniquely Midwestern destination is nicknamed the “Show Me State.”

Maybe you’re planning an imminent vacation.

Maybe you’re making a bucket list for the distant future.

Either way, here are 41 awesome things to do in Missouri!

Table of Contents

1. Gateway Arch

f11photo / Shutterstock

The Gateway Arch is one of the most famous places in Missouri.

Located in the heart of St. Louis , its gleaming curve peaks at more than 600 feet above the city skyline, and it can be seen for miles around.

You don’t have to admire it from afar, however.

One of the coolest things about the arch is its observation deck!

You can take a ride to the very top and gaze out at the marvelous scenery below, including parks, bridges, buildings and the Mississippi River.

There’s also a visitor center if you want to learn more about the construction of the arch and the role that it played in the city’s development.

Additionally, there’s a gift shop if you want to do the tourist thing and grab a “I (Heart) St. Louis” key chain.

The Gateway Arch is one of the premiere tourist attractions of Missouri.

It’s the kind of place that you won’t want to miss.

Every time you tell someone that you visited St. Louis, they’ll ask if you visited the arch, so make it a true story and go!

Address: St. Louis, MO 63102, United States

2. Bogart’s Smokehouse

Bogart’s Smokehouse

Ask a dozen different people about the best restaurants in Missouri, and you’ll get a dozen different answers depending on what that person likes the most.

However, one common thread is simple: barbecue.

Missouri loves its barbecue!

Bogart’s Smokehouse isn’t the only place specializing in things like pulled pork sandwiches and sauce-slathered ribs served on piping hot platters, but it’s one of the most renowned.

All of its meat is smoked for more than 24 house before being rubbed down with herbs and spices and slow-cooked on cherry wood.

Its head chef actually trained in Memphis , another barbecue haven, before bringing his talents north, and you can taste his experience in every juicy bite.

You can’t leave Missouri without tasting some of its barbecue.

When you work up an appetite during your vacation, stop by Bogart’s Smokehouse for some life-changing pork.

Address: 1627 S 9th St, St. Louis, MO 63104, United States

3. City Museum

Chris857 , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

At first glance, City Museum might seem like any other plain, square-bricked building in St. Louis.

When you look a little higher, however, you’ll see the strange shapes jutting off the roof, and you’ll realize that it’s actually one of the craziest vacation spots in Missouri!

Planes and school buses jut over the edge of the building.

A Ferris wheel slowly turns over a pond filled with stepping stones and gigantic statues of bugs.

A glass dome, salvaged from the renovations of a local science center, sits in the middle of twisted metal sculptures that are both viewable and climbable.

The fun continues inside of the building as well.

Exhibits include everything from taxidermy animals to mineral collections.

Interactive rooms will let you paint, build, ride a train, skateboard in an indoor park or attend lessons at circus school.

Oddities include things like “The World’s Largest Underwear.”

Long story short, City Museum isn’t your typical museum.

It’s a crazy cross between a playground, fun house and kooky art installation, and it’s definitely one of the top things to do in Missouri.

Address: 750 N 16th St, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States

4. Lake of the Ozarks

TommyBrison / Shutterstock

With its slow, lazy waves surrounded by beautiful foliage, the Lake of the Ozarks is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Missouri.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, rafting, hiking, biking, camping and more.

The surface of the lake covers 54,000 acres, so there’s plenty of space to spread out.

There’s also a lot of room on the sandy coasts; the shoreline stretches for 1,150 miles.

That’s more shoreline than the entire state of California , and it’s located in the landlocked state of Missouri!

Events are common on the lake.

There are fireworks in the summer and holiday lights in the winter; there are garden shows in the spring and food festivals in the fall.

You can also have fun year-round at destinations like the “Party Cove,” a gathering hole for swimmers.

If you’re looking for a good time in Missouri, visit the Lake of the Ozarks.

You can hop in for a quick swim; you can rent a lakeside cabin for the entire summer.

It’s a place with endless possibilities.

5. Silver Dollar City

Shane Adams / flickr

As one of the biggest amusement parks in Missouri, Silver Dollar City definitely lives up to its name.

It’s so big that it’s actually divided into “districts” as a play on its theme.

Rivertown has rides and restaurants along the water.

Wilson’s Farm has fun, family-friendly activities with an agricultural motif.

Midtown has more carnival games that you can shake a stick at, and Homestead Ridge offers vintage-style shops for all of your souvenir needs.

Main Street is a boulevard that connects them all.

You can choose your own adventure at this amusement park.

Whether you want to watch a demonstration at a pottery store or make your stomach drop with death-defying roller coasters, there’s a little something for everyone here.

Silver Dollar City is another one of those Missouri attractions that everyone knows.

If you don’t want to be left out of the fun, book your tickets this weekend and get ready for a wild ride!

Address: 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy, Branson, MO 65616, United States

Visiting other areas of Missouri? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Springfield, MO ?

6. Adrenaline Zone

Adrenaline Zone

If you’re wondering where to go in Missouri on a rainy day, look no further than the Adrenaline Zone .

It offers all kinds of heart-pumping activities to get your blood racing, and since they’re all indoors, you can enjoy them rain or shine!

Traditional games include pool, foosball, skeeball and laser tag.

More involved activities range from timed laser mazes to “demolition ball,” a unique basketball-and-hockey hybrid that’s played in bumper cars.

You can eat and drink when you’re done, or you can play arcade games to earn tickets and win prizes.

If you’re traveling to Missouri with a group, you can rent out the entire facility for parties, work retreats or “lock-in” events.

Long story short, the fun never stops at the Adrenaline Zone.

Rain or shine, its doors are always open for folks who want to unleash their inner child by running around and shooting at each other with laser guns.

Address: 1875 S Old Hwy 94, St Charles, MO 63303, United States

7. Hermann Wine Trail

Hermann Wine Trail

What’s the first place that comes to mind when you think about wine?

It probably isn’t Missouri, but the Hermann Wine Trail has every bit of splendor as Napa Valley .

Founded by German immigrants in 1836, the Hermann Wine Trail started as a single vineyard that grew over the years to encompass everything from wine halls to artisan wine shops.

Today, it stretches for more than 25 miles, and there’s a trolley that connects all of the stores and villas in the area.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities on the trail.

There’s wine tasting, of course, but there’s also shopping and sightseeing, and you can sleep at cozy little bed-and-breakfasts if you want to stay overnight.

Have you always wanted to wake up to a home-cooked breakfast in a soft bed with rolling green hills outside of your window?

The Hermann Wine Trail can turn your dreams into reality.

There’s a reason why it’s a top 10 spot in Missouri, so pack your goblets and get ready to drink!

Address: 150A Market St, Hermann, MO 65041, United States

8. National World War I Museum

EQRoy / Shutterstock

World War I isn’t always studied as much as World War II, but this museum is a great way to educate yourself on a major point in U.S. history.

Located in Kansas City , Missouri, it’s been designated by the government as the country’s official WWI museum .

You’ll start by following the 265-foot tower to the main building.

From there, you’ll walk across a glass bridge that covers 9,000 red poppies symbolizing the 9,000,000 lives lost during the war.

Features of the museum include photos, videos, maps, flags, letters and artifacts ranging from rusted guns to old propaganda posters.

There’s a sound booth for audio recordings; there are two theaters that run educational films and reels.

There’s also a preserved Renault FT tank and a 1918 Ford Model T ambulance.

You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate the National World War I Museum.

It’s one of the most interesting places in Missouri, so do yourself a favor and check it out if you’ll be near Kansas City during your trip.

Address: 2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States

9. Waterfall Park

Lemuwah / Shutterstock

Waterfall Park is one of the most fun things to do in Missouri.

Its namesake is a beautiful, ten-foot waterfall that crashes over rocks and into the pool below, and it’s surrounded by boulders and mossy lichens that make it look like something out of a fairy tale.

You don’t have to hike into the wilderness to see it, however.

The best thing about Waterfall Park is that it’s a man-made feature located in the middle of a metropolis!

The city is called Independence, Missouri, and it’s a tourist attraction in its own right.

You’ll find plenty of entertainment options in the form of bars, shops, restaurants and movie theaters.

That said, the main draw of the city is definitely Waterfall Park.

How many times in your life can you see a waterfall in the middle of a busy street?

If you’re looking for cool and unique vacation ideas in Missouri, put this one on your shortlist.

Address: 4501 S Bass Pro Dr, Independence, MO 64055, United States

10. Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company

Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company

There’s chocolate, and then there’s chocolate chocolate chocolate.

The latter can be found at the Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company located in St. Louis, Missouri.

Treats include bars, bites, truffles, drops, crunches and caramels.

There are handcrafted, artisan-made gourmet chocolates tucked carefully into gift boxes; there are sloppy, sticky and messy chocolates offered on factory tours and during tasting events.

That’s right: You don’t have to stay behind the counter.

You can wander deep inside Willy Wonka’s playground and see how your favorite fudges and peanut butter cups are made.

It won’t even cost you anything since tours are free!

You just have to make arrangements in advance.

The Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company is one of the best places to see in Missouri.

Even if you aren’t a sweets person going in, the cascading waterfalls of chocolate are sure to change your mind.

Address: 5025 Pattison Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States

11. St. Joseph

APN Photography / Shutterstock

Saddle up, boys, because this one is a doozy!

St. Joseph was one of the last frontier towns of the Wild West.

Not only is it rich with history, but it’s also home to a number of world-famous tourist attractions, including the starting point of the Pony Express and the death site of outlaw Jesse James.

While some parts of the city have been modernized, others are still dedicated to days gone by.

You can see this historical preservation in everything from the architecture to the large number of museums, mansions and courthouses dotting the downtown area.

Modern features at St. Joseph include shopping malls and high-class restaurants.

You don’t have to eat 17th century jerky just because you’re in a place with 17th century buildings!

If you enjoy learning about the Wild West, you won’t want to miss St. Joseph.

It’s one of the coolest vacation spots in Missouri, especially for those with an interest in old-school American.

Grab your spurs, don your cowboy hat and get to riding!

12. Meramec State Park

Rklawton , CC BY-SA 2.5 , via Wikimedia Commons

Most Missouri attractions are located above ground.

Every so often, however, you’ll come across a subterranean area with a story to tell, and that’s exactly the case with Meramec State Park .

Located in Sullivan, Missouri, Meramec State Park is home to a diverse range of landscapes.

These include forests and glades as well as canyons and caves.

One of the most famous places to visit is Fisher Cave.

Filled with stalagmites and stalactites, it offers a dark, dimly-lit adventure into passageways filled with hard rock.

If you’re science-minded, you might recognize them as limestone and dolomite.

If you’re a layman, you can still appreciate the cool-looking rock formations!

Grab your flashlight and head down into the caves of Meramec State Park… if you dare.

Address: 115 Meramec Park Drive, Sullivan, MO 63080, United States

13. Busch Stadium

Joe Hendrickson / Shutterstock

Attracting thousands of visitors each year, Busch Stadium is one of the best sites in Missouri.

It hosts everything from concerts to championship baseball games, and it’s also adjacent to a “ballpark village” that offers bars, shops, breweries and hall-of-fame exhibits, so it’s always bustling with energy!

The stadium itself has seen all kinds of events.

Baseball is the most common sport played on the green, but there’s also been football, soccer and hockey.

Concerts have welcomed everyone from Ed Sheeran to Metallica.

As for the village, it’s also a lively place.

There’s an outdoor marketplace under a retractable canopy; there are bars with mechanical bulls and restaurants with karaoke machines.

If you’re wondering what to do on a Missouri vacation, you might enjoy a trip to Busch Stadium.

There’s always something on the schedule, so whether you’re visiting during the blazing hot days of summer or the cold, windy days of winter, you can find something fun to do here.

Address: 700 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO 63102, United States

14. National Museum of Transportation

artistmac / flickr

If you like planes, trains and automobiles, you’ll love the life-sized models at the National Museum of Transportation .

Like its name suggests, it transcends the boundaries of Missouri to serve as the biggest transportation museum in the whole of the United States.

It’s a national treasure in every respect.

Visitors can enjoy all kinds of exhibits about the various transportation methods of the past.

While the emphasis is on railroads and locomotives, just about everything is covered, including planes, ships, trucks, cars and more.

Models are displayed in both real and miniature sizes.

Engines are dissected and labeled.

A tiny railroad chugs around the tracks of the museum, and a real, rideable trolley echoes it, giving you the chance to get off your feet for a while as you explore the grounds.

If you’re the type of person who never grew out of their train phase, the National Museum of Transportation is the destination for you.

It’ll awaken all of your old passions while also introducing you to exciting new facts about the hobby!

Address: 2933 Barrett Station Rd, St. Louis, MO 63122, United States

15. Missouri Botanical Garden

Rob Neville Photos / Shutterstock

Missouri is renowned for its scenery, but you don’t have to trek into remote mountains to enjoy it.

You can find a slice of paradise in the heart of downtown St. Louis when you visit the Missouri Botanical Garden .

Covering almost 80 acres, this “garden” is actually a collection of landscapes that showcases everything from flowers and trees to sculptures and cultural artifacts.

Many of the gardens are themed, so you can travel the world with the Seiwa-en Japanese Garden and the Strassenfest German Garden, or you can learn more about specific species with rose gardens, woodland gardens and even “Biblical gardens.”

Other features of the garden include fountains, bridges, reflection pools, hedge mazes and historic houses.

There’s also a geodesic dome greenhouse that was the first of its kind!

The Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the best things to do in Missouri.

It’s a resplendent place, and you won’t believe that so much greenery can be located right in the middle of a bustling city.

Address: 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States

16. Hollywood Wax Museum

Branson Convention and Visitors Bureau / flickr

Snap a selfie with a celebrity when you visit the Hollywood Wax Museum .

While the celebrity won’t be able to sign any autographs, they also won’t be able to deny your requests for silly or ridiculous poses.

That’s because they’re all made of wax!

The star-studded lineup includes everyone from Bruce Lee to Michael Jackson, so you’ll have your pick of photo ops.

Some of the statues are so lifelike that you’ll do a double take; others are so funky-looking that you’ll split your sides at the thought of the artist who created them.

There are other attractions at the museum as well.

From mirror mazes to interactive adventures, you’ll find plenty of kitschy, touristy ways to pass the time.

The Hollywood Wax Museum isn’t a particularly dignified place.

However, that’s exactly why it’s so much fun.

If you just want to cut loose for awhile, this is a great place for having a blast!

Address: 3030 W 76 Country Blvd A, Branson, MO 65616, United States

17. Hidden Valley Ski Resort

Hidden Valley Ski Resort

Missouri might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think about snow, but at the Hidden Valley Ski Resort , you can perform alley-oops like you’re at the Alps!

The powder is artificial, but it’s so cold and crisp that you won’t be able to tell the difference from the real thing.

It blankets the hills of the landscape like a winter wonderland that’s ready for all sorts of outdoor activities.

Skiing is popular, of course, but there’s also sledding, snowboarding and snow tubing.

There’s even a zipline that will send you hurtling over the snow in midair!

When you’re too cold to carry on, visit the ski lodge; there’s an open fireplace for warming up, and you can order food and drink while enjoying the ambiance of a cozy wintertime setting.

Who needs the Alps when you have the Hidden Valley Ski Resort?

Address: 17409 Hidden Valley Dr, Eureka, MO 63025, United States

18. Katy Trail

Wspin / Shutterstock

Nature lovers, you won’t want to miss the Katy Trail.

It runs for 240 miles along the Missouri River, and it crosses other famous trails like the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, so it offers all kinds of opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Located within Katy Trail State Park , the Katy Trail gets its name from the “KT” abbreviation that originally defined the Missouri–Kansas–Texas Railroad.

The railroad was abandoned over the years, but the path became a popular site seeing destination.

Today, Katy Trail is used by hikers, joggers, cyclists, dog walkers and more.

It’s open every day of the year from sunrise to sunset, and its landmarks include everything from steel bridges to rugged limestone deposits framing canyon-like paths.

Pedal through the Katy Trail if you’re looking to experience beautiful places in Missouri.

Whether you’re traveling in spring, summer, autumn or winter, the scenery will always be waiting for you.

Address: 101 Lewis St Machens to Clinton, Boonville, MO 65039, United States

19. Laumeier Sculpture Park

Cheryl Zion / Shutterstock

If you’ve never seen a seven-foot eyeball sitting in the middle of a grassy green field, have you really lived at all?

This is a question posed by Laumeier Sculpture Park , one of the most eclectic places to visit in Missouri.

Its sculptures range from mythical creatures in flight to oil tanks tossed on top of each other as an expression of modernist art.

A walking trail will take you on a tour of the park’s outdoor pieces, or you can explore an indoor gallery or the preserved remains of a Tudor mansion built in 1816.

If you time your trip right, you can catch special shows, events and educational programs centered around art.

Laumeier Sculpture Park is definitely one of the weirder things to see in Missouri, but if you want to make unforgettable memories, it’s also one of the best.

Drop by with your camera to start a one-of-a-kind vacation scrapbook.

Address: 12580 Rott Rd, St. Louis, MO 63127, United States

20. Highway 76 Strip

Blayne Downs / Shutterstock

Located in Branson , Missouri, the Highway 76 Strip is one of the best places to visit to get your groove on.

It’s home to dozens of clubs, studios, theaters and dance halls, including famous tourist attractions like Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater.

There’s other entertainment to be enjoyed, too.

You can dine on everything from trendy salads to thick, gourmet cuts of steak, and there are also shops, museums, hotels and more.

The main draw of the Strip is definitely its music scene, however.

Whether you’re interested in a top-tapping concert at the Grand Country Music Hall or a wild and wacky adventure at Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction, the Grand Country Music Hall is a must see destination when you’re in Missouri.

21. Elephant Rocks State Park

Brian Doty / Shutterstock

The gigantic boulders of Elephant Rocks State Park are some of the most impressive sights in Missouri.

In addition to their size, they’re also a rosy pink color, which is where they get their nickname.

They can look a lot like circus elephants when you squint!

Natural trails will let you explore all of the rocks at length.

In an impressive first, the trails are accessible to all travelers, including those with disabilities.

One is actually named the “Braille Trail” for its use of braille on signposts.

Other places to visit include “The Maze,” a series of scattershot rocks that will require a strong sense of direction to navigate, and “Fat Man’s Squeeze,” a gap between two boulders that’s narrow enough to be quite the crunch.

All things considered, Elephant Rocks State Park is one of the most fun things to do in Missouri.

The landscapes are unique; the attractions are accessible for everyone.

Why wouldn’t you want to visit?

Address: 7390, 7406 MO-21, Belleview, MO 63623, United States

22. Activity and Recreation Center

ARC (Activity & Recreation Center)

You’re in Missouri.

You’re eating your weight in barbecue and cole slaw.

Are you wondering what to do to burn off some calories?

Consider a trip to the Activity and Recreation Center (ARC) of Columbia .

Covering more than 73,000 square feet, it’s a massive space with everything from pools to gyms to indoor tracks, so it’ll be more than suitable for anyone who wants to work up a sweat.

Do you like sports?

Join a friendly game at the basketball, volleyball or pickleball courts.

Are you serious about your weekly workout?

Hit the cardio or weight training rooms.

Do you like to swim?

Enjoy the pools, slides, vortexes, lazy rivers and lap lanes of the aquatic floor.

The Activity and Recreation Center of Columbia, Missouri is a must do for folks who want to stay active while on vacation.

There’s never an excuse for skipping leg day, right?

Address: 1701 W Ash St, Columbia, MO 65203, United States

23. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Ben Stults / Shutterstock

Located near the small town of Camdenton, Missouri, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is named for the natural springs located on the grounds of its ruined castle.

“Ha ha tonka” translates to “smiling waters.”

You might not expect Missouri to have ruined castles, but that’s exactly why the park is so popular.

It’s one of the most unique places to visit in the state!

The landscape is filled with fun and unusual features, including caves, sinkholes, bluffs and overgrown woods.

Another nice thing about the park is that it’s located near the Lakes of the Ozark, so if you’re interested in normal summertime activities like swimming and camping, those are an option as well.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a must see destination when you’re in Missouri.

Between its caves and its castles, it has so many cool things to do that you won’t want to miss it.

Address: 1491 Missouri D, Camdenton, MO 65020, United States

24. Missouri State Capitol Building

Grindstone Media Group / Shutterstock

With its gigantic white dome flanked by towers, columns and archways, you can be forgiven for thinking that the Missouri State Capitol Building is a piece of Roman architecture rather than a government building.

It’s a real workplace, however, and it’s one of the major places of interest in the state.

Tours are available for anyone who wants to wander the plushly-carpeted halls and admire the winding staircases and heavy bronze doors.

You can also view a sizable collection of artwork on loan from the Missouri State Museum.

Statuary is everywhere, including on top of the dome; a statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, towers more than 235 feet above the skyline.

She’s often one of the first things that people see when they enter the city.

Whether you’re interested in art, culture, history or government, the Missouri State Capitol Building can be a fun day trip for some unusual site seeing.

You don’t even need a reservation, so feel free to drop by at any time!

Address: 201 W Capitol Ave, Jefferson City, MO 65101, United States

25. Lake Taneycomo

steve palmer 1962 / Shutterstock

Lake Taneycomo is one of the nicest places to vacation in Missouri.

With its deep blue waters surrounded by misty forests, it’s very picturesque, and it’ll make an ideal destination for couples, families and travelers of all types.

Outdoor enthusiasts can go swimming, boating or water skiing.

Nature lovers can wander the trails and picnic in the parks.

Lovers can hold hands under shaded tree groves; kids can run around like crazy in open fields.

You can also rent cabins along the coastline if you want to wake up to the sounds of the waves.

Another possibility is camping or renting an RV to take into the woods.

Maybe you’re a honeymooner looking for romantic spots in Missouri.

Maybe you’re an overworked career professional who just wants to “get away from it all” for awhile.

Either way, a visit to Lake Taneycomo can relax your body and soothe your spirits, so it’s a must do for anyone who desires tranquility on their trip.

26. Boulevard Brewing Company

Boulevard Brewing Company

Do you like beer?

Are you looking for free things to do in Missouri?

Enjoy the best of both worlds with a tour of the Boulevard Brewing Company .

Located in Kansas City, Missouri, the Boulevard Brewing Company is a place where alcohol is turned into an art form.

Its brewers have been toiling for decades to perfect their craft, and rather than locking away their secrets, they’ve opened their doors to anyone who’s curious about their process.

Take a tour of the factory.

Sample different brews.

Visit the “Beer Hall” and marvel at more than 100,000 square feet of taps.

Some activities do require a paid ticket, but most are free.

You just have to reserve your spot in advance.

If you’re thinking about what to see in Missouri that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, schedule a tour at the Boulevard Brewing Company.

It’ll be so much fun that you won’t believe it’s free!

Address: 2501 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States

27. Hannibal

Photos BrianScantlebury / Shutterstock

Hannibal isn’t just a character played by Sir Anthony Hopkins.

It’s also a town in Missouri, and though it lacks the grand, flashy tourist attractions of the big cities, it’s a great place to spend the weekend.

Part of its appeal comes from its down-home Midwestern charm.

The city is nicknamed “America’s hometown,” and it takes the moniker seriously.

The locals are friendly; the servers in the old-fashioned diners will remember your name.

Many of the shops are mom-and-pop establishments with deep roots in the community.

As for things to see, you can visit the homes of author Mark Twain or Titanic survivor Molly Brown.

There are also parks, caves, trails, lighthouses and other scenic points of interest.

If you’re looking for nice places to stay this weekend, consider a stop in Hannibal, Missouri.

It’s highly accommodating to visitors, and it’ll give you a taste of the real Missouri while you’re there.

28. J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain

While not the biggest or wildest of Missouri attractions, the J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain is worth a visit if you’re in Kansas City.

Not only is it a great place for photo ops, but it’s also centrally located to help you explore the rest of the city.

The fountain itself is a collection of marble sculptures that shoot water jets into a central pool.

There are bucking horses; there are children riding dragons; there are scowling bears with their paws extended for a swipe.

At night, the city illuminates the fountain with bedazzling lights and colors.

When you’re done snapping selfies with the dragons, hit the sidewalks of Kansas City.

There are lots of fun places to see, including malls, museums, bars, pubs and performance halls.

Did we mention that a visit to the J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain is free?

You won’t have to pay a dime.

If you’re wondering what to do in Kansas City when you’re on a budget, this fountain is a great idea.

Address: 47th Mill Creek Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64111, United States

29. Sea Life Kansas City Aquarium

CameliaTWU / flickr

If you’re looking for cool places in Missouri, it’s hard to beat the glass tunnels of Sea Life Kansas City .

You won’t just peer into fish tanks; you’ll actually walk underwater through ghostly, blue-colored corridors with all kinds of brilliant sea life swimming overhead.

Live feedings are open to the public if you want to see sharks and stingrays gobble up their lunches.

If you enjoy hands-on interaction with the animals, there’s a touch pool where you can feel the slippery backs of sea jellies and the sticky surfaces of anemones.

There are also countless displays, exhibits and information stands where you can learn more about the animals that you’re seeing.

Sea Life Kansas City is one of the most delightful places to visit in Missouri.

Kids will love it, and adults will feel like kids again as they marvel at all of the wonders of the deep.

Book your tickets today, and you could be petting a sea urchin as soon as this weekend!

Address: 2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States

30. Missouri State Penitentiary

Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

A prison might not be at the top of your list of tourist attractions, but if you’re looking for unique things to do on your vacation, the Missouri State Penitentiary can provide a rare glimpse into a little-known world.

The prison itself is a maximum security facility that was built in 1836.

It shut down a few years ago, which is why it’s available for tours today, but it still retains a heavy atmosphere that befits its gruesome legacy.

Inmates were executed here.

The gas chambers were used multiple times.

Inmates were also killed during riots, escape attempts and interpersonal conflicts.

In short, there’s a lot of history within the walls of the Missouri State Penitentiary.

You can learn all about it by visiting the museum across the street from the prison, or you can arrange for a tour of the prison itself.

Just make sure that you’re emotionally ready for it!

Address: 115 Lafayette St, Jefferson City, MO 65101, United States

31. Alley Mill and Spring

Steven Schremp / Shutterstock

You won’t find the Alley Mill and Spring in a lot of Missouri travel guides.

It’s a little-known spot located a few miles outside of the nearest city, and it doesn’t offer the flashy trappings of famous tourist attractions.

If you’re looking for authenticity, however, the Alley Mill and Spring has it in spades.

It’s a real gristmill that operated for years to provide Missouri residents with grain, and its springs were a popular place for swimming in colonial times.

At various points in history, it also served as a home, farm, schoolhouse and gathering place for the community.

Today, you can take tours of this iconic, red-colored mill, and you can explore the grounds around it to take some really beautiful pictures.

It’s particularly striking in the fall when the leaves scatter across the water, but it’s open during all seasons.

The Alley Mill and Spring is one of the nicest places to go in Missouri.

If you want to see what life was really like for Midwesterners at the turn of the century, this is a prime destination to get a little taste of history.

Address: Eminence, MO 65466, United States

32. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park

Lilith Munck / Shutterstock

Missouri is no stranger to state parks, but Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park is special.

The “shut-in” part of its name refers to the fact that its hard rock formations are resistant to erosion, so they form pools, tides and natural springs that are amazingly beautiful.

Some people go to the park just for sightseeing.

Others don their swimming trunks and take a dip when the water levels aren’t too high.

It’s allowed; you just have to be careful.

When you’re done in the water, shake yourself off and go for a hike along one of the many nature trails around the park, or set up a tent and spend a night under the stars.

If you know how to rock climb, you can also scale the cliffs to reach observation decks that overlook miles and miles of scenery.

If you’re wondering what to do in Missouri that’s different from the usual tourist attractions, you’ll love Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park.

Its unique geology will make an unforgettable vacation destination for all.

Address: 148 Taum Sauk Trail, Middle Brook, MO 63656, United States

33. Porter’s Candy World and Ice Cream Parlor

Porter’s Candy World and Ice Cream Parlor

If you’ve always wanted to kick your heels at a high-topped counter while licking at a strawberry ice cream cone, this is your chance to make all of your 1950s visions come true!

Porter’s Candy World and Ice Cream Parlor is a candy shop in Arcadia, Missouri that offers dazzlingly colorful displays of sweet treats.

Some are frozen, including their famous ice creams and malts; others are warm and freshly-baked, including their breads, cookies and cinnamon rolls.

Visitors can pull up a chair in the bright, clean dining areas, or they can wander the walls stuffed with jars, bags and candy boxes to see if there’s anything that they’d like to take home.

The ambiance is just as awesome as the sweets, so it’ll be a fun experience either way.

Porter’s Candy World and Ice Cream Parlor is one of those Missouri attractions that you won’t want to miss.

It’s a small destination in a small town, but that just adds to its charm.

As a bonus, its goodies are genuinely delicious!

Address: 211 south College St, Arcadia, MO 63621, United States

34. Heartland Harvest Garden

Heartland Harvest Garden

If you’re looking for educational opportunities in Missouri, consider a trip to the Heartland Harvest Garden .

It’ll take you and the kids on a fun, informative journey through agricultural practices in Midwestern farmlands.

One of the coolest things to see at the garden is the vineyard.

Its grapes and blueberries are grown on beautiful, storybook vines surrounded by green fields in every direction.

Another great attraction is the “Seed to Plate” greenhouse that follows every step of the planting, growing, harvesting and cooking process; you’ll learn a lot even as your stomach rumbles.

Other features of the garden include barns, gardens, silos and similar agricultural staples.

There are even fun things like an Apple Cider Court!

The Heartland Harvest Garden calls itself an “edible landscape” where every flower, tree, bush and shrub has a story to tell.

If you’re intrigued by the thought, pack up the family and take a tour of the grounds and greenhouses.

It’ll be an educational experience for everyone!

Address: 1609 NW US Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 64061, United States

35. Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park

The Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park is one of the most fun things to do in Missouri.

On top of offering all sorts of fun, family-friendly activities, it’s also host to seasonal events that are famous for their festive spirit!

The year-round attractions at the park are the outdoor activities.

There’s a zipline and a rope course; there’s an area for off-roading in an ATV; there’s an observation deck with incredible views at the top.

You can also take in historical re-enactments at the old-fashioned villages or musical performances and puppet shows at the theater.

When the holidays roll around, the activity roster is even more packed.

The “Trail of Lights” offers a scenic drive through thousands of twinkling lights, and there’s always a Santa Claus on site to hear the requests of good little boys and girls.

If you’re looking for ways to enjoy yourself in Missouri, check out the Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park.

No matter when you’re traveling to the Show Me State, it’ll have something interesting for you to do.

Address: 5583 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616, United States

36. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

Jordan Schaefer / Shutterstock

Missouri is one of the most beautiful states in the US, and when you’re walking under a canopy of red-and-yellow leaves in Dogwood Canyon Nature Park , you’ll feel like you’re traveling through a postcard.

There are stone bridges over babbling brooks; there are waterfalls cascading down stone cliffs; there are prairies filled with wildflowers.

It’s definitely one of the most scenic places in the state.

Activities range from leisurely strolls around the ponds to epic horseback rides through the open fields.

You can take the whole family and go camping; you can rent a cabin for a honeymoon or work retreat.

There’s also a tram tour if you don’t want to spend all day on your feet.

Consider a trip to Dogwood Canyon Nature Park if you’re looking for amazing sites to see in Missouri.

Between its landscapes and its activity rosters, it’ll provide plenty of entertainment for your vacation.

Address: 2038 West, State Hwy 86, Lampe, MO 65681, United States

37. Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure

Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure

You’ve heard of butterfly houses.

Have you ever visited a butterfly palace?

The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure is an incredible destination where you can cover yourself in butterflies from head to toe.

The aviary has colorful species from all around the world, so whether you’re interested in handling exotic insects or learning to recognize common, everyday butterflies, this place has you covered.

There’s other cool stuff to do as well.

You can pet snakes in a science center; you can undertake a “tree adventure” through a labyrinth of hanging vines; you can twist yourself in circles in a mirror maze.

Offering all kinds of fun, family-friendly entertainment, the Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure will provide an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

It’s easily one of the best trips to take in Missouri, so you’ll be in the area, buy a ticket and prepare for an amazing time!

Address: 4106 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616, United States

38. Welch Spring Hospital Ruin

Sandra Sapp / Shutterstock

Nestled in the woodlands of Missouri, the Welch Spring Hospital Ruin is one of those hidden places that you won’t find in a lot of travel guides.

It’s quiet and remote, and it doesn’t even have an exact address; you just have to set out from a nearby trail and head in the right direction.

The ruins themselves are the remains of a building purchased by a doctor in 1913.

He called it a hospital, but it was really more like a health spa; he believed that the natural springs would have healing properties for his patients.

Unfortunately, those patients never materialized, and the doctor died without passing on the property to anyone.

It was left to deteriorate in the wilderness.

Today, the Welch Spring Hospital Ruin is a crumbling, vine-covered building that makes for a nice sightseeing spot.

You can hike, bike or even canoe to it.

It might not heal you, but it’ll be fun to explore.

Address: Jadwin, MO 65501, United States

39. Saint Louis Zoo

RozenskiP / Shutterstock

With more than 13,000 critters, the Saint Louis Zoo is one of the best places to go for animal lovers.

It’s also a favorite of budgeters and penny pinchers since admission is free!

That’s right: You can enjoy everything that the Saint Louis Zoo has to offer without paying a dime.

It’s funded through a cultural subsidy granted by the state of Missouri, so you can laugh at the lemurs, gawk at the geckos and marvel at the monarchs without ever reaching for your wallet.

Other attractions at the Saint Louis Zoo include aquariums, butterfly gardens, reptile houses, bird aviaries and “touch pools” for marine life.

You can ride a trolley throughout the park; you can hop aboard an old-fashioned, hand-painted wooden carousel.

There’s a lot of fun to be had at the Saint Louis Zoo.

As a bonus, the experience won’t cost you anything but time.

If you’re looking for free things to do in Missouri, this should be one of your top picks!

Address: 1 Government Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States

40. Noir Arts and Oddities

Noir Arts and Oddities

You’ve never seen an antique shop quite like this one.

Rather than selling grandma’s jewelry and embroidery, it sells things like skulls, coffins, porcelain dolls, weird medical devices and eerie scientific specimens in jars.

That’s the way of Noir Arts and Oddities , a location that specializes in the macabre.

Its shelves are filled with everything from snake oil tonics to iron-wrought mirrors that are said to be cursed.

Nothing is too strange for this little shop.

You don’t have to buy anything to explore it.

The owner welcomes anyone who’s interested in the strange and the unusual, and she’ll often chat with visitors and share stories about the more grisly items that she’s highlighting at the time.

A visit to Noir Arts and Oddities will be unlike anything else that you do in Missouri.

If you have the stomach for it, however, it’ll also be one of the most memorable.

Address: 1101 Mulberry St, Kansas City, MO 64101, United States

41. National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures is one of the best places to visit for folks who have never grown up.

It boasts more than 72,000 objects in total, and they include dolls, instruments, puzzles, model trains, board games, stuffed animals and more.

Some of the toys can be played with, so if you want to fly a colorful hang glider or walk the dog with an old-fashioned yo-yo, those are distinct possibilities.

Other toys are so old or valuable that they’re hidden behind glass, but you can still admire them, and you can learn their history through helpful museum exhibits.

If you want to rediscover a little of the delight and wonder of childhood, plan a visit to the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.

If you’re able to walk by a 1800s Victorian dollhouse without fiddling with it, you’ll be a stronger person than most!

Address: 5235 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64112, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Missouri

These are just a few of the best things to do in Missouri.

Whether you’re looking for major points of interest or hidden gems that are only known to locals, this list should give you some idea of the fun that can be had in the Show Me State.

Happy travels!

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7 Fantastic Places In Missouri The Entire Family Will Love

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From its rich history and incredible arts and culture to charming river towns and amazing outdoor adventures, Missouri is a destination for every family member! 

As you start planning your summer travel or weekend road trip, here are seven different places in Missouri that your entire crew — from grandparents to toddlers and everyone in between — will love!

1. Independence 

Yes, it’s Harry S. Truman’s hometown. And while his presence is deeply felt in Independence, there’s a whole lot more to see and do here as well! Of course, to learn all about the 33rd president of the United States, you’ll want to stop at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum . A multimillion-dollar refresh will be done in 2021, just in time to celebrate the 75th anniversary of when Truman ascended to the highest office in the United States. The complex contains archives, documents, and artifacts allowing you to really get to know the man well-known for his straight talk and “buck stops here” approach. You might also want to make time to visit the home he shared with his wife, Bess, which is now a National Historic Site .

All roads started in Independence when it came to exploring the Wild West. Thousands of people streamed through in the 1800s on their way to seek fortune along the Oregon, Santa Fe, and California trails. You can learn more about them, their struggles, and Independence’s role in their journeys at the National Frontier Trails Museum , home to more than 2,600 first-person trail accounts. Pioneer Trails Adventures also offers an up-close and personal look at the city’s deep pioneer roots with covered-wagon tours that take off from the Historic Independence Square. Each Labor Day Weekend, Independence honors its pioneer roots with the SantaCaliGon Days Festival on the Square.

And if all the history in Independence has you wondering about your own family’s past, you’ll want to visit the Midwest Genealogy Center . This is one of the best places in the country to research your family roots — for free! Its massive online genealogy databases include census records, newspaper articles, and other primary sources. Librarians are on hand to help you get started on your family story. 

To further explore all the fantastic things to see, do, and experience in Independence, check out the city’s online visitors guide and peruse our collection of Independence content here .

2. Arcadia Valley

If you’re looking to include some of Missouri’s most stunning natural features in your getaway, there’s no better place than the Arcadia Valley, located in the state’s southeast. Taum Sauk , the state’s highest point, offers some terrific hikes and scenic, sweeping vistas. Johnsons Shut-Ins State Park has been a favorite road-trip stop for generations. With its crystal-clear spring-fed falls that rush through huge granite boulders, this place is like Mother Nature’s waterslide! And don’t forget Elephant Rocks State Park , where you can wander among enormous pink stones and learn all about the geological processes that created them. You can also see the carved names of stone cutters, left behind a century ago when they trained on the site.

And then, there is the fantastic floating! The Black River is cool, clear, and perfect for a day-long water adventure, with lots of sandbars and rocky beaches to stop for a break. There are many outfitters in the area that allow you to rent canoes, kayaks, or tubes for your float.

While campsites and cabins are plentiful, Wilderness Lodge just outside of the town of Lesterville is the perfect spot for an entire family to stay. Its cozy, comfortable cabins right on the river, onsite amenities, and delicious meals served in the main lodge (breakfast and dinner are included in your rate) make it a terrific choice. This place has been our family’s favorite for years. 

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

3. Columbia

Home to the state’s flagship university, Columbia sits midway between St. Louis and Kansas City and is jam-packed with attractions and activities for your entire family. Of course, no visit here is complete without exploring the University of Missouri campus. If you’ve only got time for one stop, make it Francis Quadrangle, with its iconic Columns, Jesse Hall, and historic red brick buildings. Grab a slice of pizza (or whole pie!) at Shakespeare’s , where students have been flocking for generations. And make sure you stroll the city’s terrific Ninth Street district downtown, with its funky shops, boutiques, and cafes. 

For outdoor fun, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park boasts some of the best hiking trails in the state, which wind their way past an extensive cave system, and Shelter Gardens is a family favorite with its gorgeous flowers, shrubs, and manicured grounds. Learn how to spend the perfect weekend in Columbia here !

4. Innsbrook

For old-fashioned family fun in a tranquil, peaceful setting, consider Innsbrook for your next Missouri adventure. The resort, just an hour west of St. Louis, was first built as an A-frame resort inspired by mountain chalets in Europe and the natural beauty the developers loved in Colorado. Today, while the property has grown to include luxury homes and condominiums, it still combines nature and recreation in a special, serene way.

Innsbrook includes 100 lakes, nature trails, stables, tennis and pickleball courts, a pool, and even an 18-hole golf course, yet it retains its natural, unspoiled beauty. Big motors are not permitted at the resort, so you’ll be kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in still, quiet waters. And there are plenty of places within Innsbrook’s 7,500 acres to settle in, relax, and reconnect with nature and each other. While many properties here are privately owned, vacation rentals are also available.

5. Springfield

Located right in the Missouri Ozarks, Springfield is an outdoor paradise! Start your adventure at Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium , where you’ll walk through massive aquatic habitats filled with fish, marine mammals, and coral from all over the world. Next, head to the flagship Bass Pro Shop store, crammed with everything any outdoor enthusiast could need for an upcoming adventure. 

Fantastic Caverns takes the fun underground; here you’ll take a Jeep ferry ride deep into the earth, where you’ll see all sorts of formations and learn about the 12 brave women who were the first recorded explorers of the massive cave complex back in the 1860s. Missouri State University’s campus is located in Springfield and is certainly worth a stroll, as is the downtown district. And you can check out the boys of summer at a Springfield Cardinals game — they’re the Double-A club affiliated with the St. Louis Cardinals.

6. Clarksville 

To share an old-fashioned river respite with your family, consider the tiny town of Clarksville. Located about an hour north of St. Louis, Clarksville sits just off Highway 79 on a stretch of road that runs along the Mississippi River, offering some of the most scenic views in the state! The town is perched just over U.S. Lock and Dam 24, providing a perfect vantage point for appreciating riverboat and barge traffic up close and personal. Enthusiasts of all ages will delight in seeing the barges make their way through the lock and dam system and on their way down the river. This stretch of the Mississippi is also a prime place to spot bald eagles — they routinely stop through Clarksville to fish during their winter migration. 

Clarksville has become a creative haven of sorts, with craftspeople and artists including potters and furniture makers choosing to live and work in Clarksville’s historic buildings and homes. Rent a historic cottage or stay at a B&B, wander the riverfront, and make your way through the shops as you relax and enjoy the slower pace of life here. Plan to make your way up to Overlook Farms , an idyllic spot set well above the river. It’s a working farm, and the store sells many items produced on-site. There are also several inns at Overlook, some historic and all offering luxe accommodations.

7. Hermann 

German immigrants established Hermann in the 1840s; the terrain reminded them of their homeland’s Rhine River Valley. Those settlers quickly built homes, churches, and wineries. Many of them remain today and are perfect for the entire family to explore!

To learn more about the German immigrants who established Hermann, pay a visit to the Deutschheim State Historic Site . It includes two houses from the 1840s that are perfectly preserved to reflect what life was truly like here in that era. Upper City Park , with its historic Rotunda building, is also worth a stop. The brick octagon was built as an agricultural fair exhibition hall in 1864; today it’s fully renovated and used for weddings and other special events.

In addition to the dozen wineries in and around Hermann, the downtown district is full of fun antique shops, boutiques, and cafes. Expresso Laine offers all sorts of fun drinks, snacks, and even an extensive selection of toys!If you’re looking for a bit more adventure during your Hermann vacation , consider a bike or hike down the nearby Katy Trail . While Hermann isn’t directly on this terrific trail, it’s less than 3 miles away. You can easily rent a bike in Hermann , ride across the river on the recently renovated bridge, and reach the McKittrick trailhead. The Katy runs right through Missouri’s most scenic areas and is fun for the whole family.

Communication done well has always been Erika’s career focus. She’s served as a publicist and PR expert for several non-profit organizations based in St. Louis. Prior to that, she was an Emmy Award–winning television newscast producer.

When she’s not training for her next race or packing for another trip, you’ll find Erika hanging out with her husband, son, and personal zoo, which includes a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, two cats, and a grumpy pygmy hedgehog.

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5 Things to Do in St. Louis This Weekend | May 2 to 5

Exuberant, extravagant and electrifying – our list of 5 things to do in St. Louis this weekend is a riot of festivities.

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Got Kids? You’re in the Right Place.

St. Louis is an impressive place, especially for families with kids. The region is brimming with free, world-class attractions, engaging events and flourishing public parks, making it an unrivaled choice for a weekend getaway or a lengthier stay.

Whether you’re traveling with toddlers in tow or preteens with an increasing sense of independence, St. Louis has immersive and memorable activities that everyone can enjoy together.

Explore upcoming kid-friendly events in St. Louis on our events calendar , and refuel in between activities at the top kid-friendly restaurants in St. Louis.

Entertainment Complexes

Recreational activities, great outdoors, animal encounters, museums, galleries and public art.

• Theater & Performing Arts

Amp Up Action Park

At Amp Up Action Park , there’s guaranteed fun at every turn. Zip around a custom-built track in the most technologically advanced indoor kart in the world and complete a heart-pounding adventure in the three-level, black light-lit laser tag arena. There’s also an elevated ropes course, axe throwing, arcade games and pickleball. Play as you go or purchase a two-hour pass, and when you get hungry, stop by the Filling Station Cafe or Trackside Tavern for bar bites, pizza, sweet treats and more. Parents can also sip beer, wine or sangria while their kids continue to play.

For unlimited fun under one roof, head to Main Event in Chesterfield. From bowling to laser tag and billiards to mini golf, every activity and game is designed to bring family and friends together. You can also play arcade games, immerse yourself in a virtual reality experience, test your skills on the indoor ropes course and show off your smarts in one of the miniature escape rooms. If you’re in the area on Monday, take advantage of Main Event’s all-you-can-play promotion – it’s just $12.99 a person!

St. Louis Union Station

Once one of the largest and busiest passenger rail terminals in the world, St. Louis Union Station is now a wellspring of family-friendly activity. There’s something for kids of all ages – think a classic carousel, a mirror maze, a miniature golf course, a ropes course and even a Build-A-Bear Workshop . On the lake in front of the main entrance, a fire and light show dazzles viewers, while the 3D light show in the Grand Hall captivates audiences with underwater scenes, Queen hits and more. Union Station is also home to the St. Louis Aquarium and the St. Louis Wheel.

Adventure Valley

Take flight at Adventure Valley , where 10 zip lines will propel you through a beautiful wooded ridge in Jefferson County. On one zip line, which is more than 1,100 feet long, you can reach speeds up to 50 miles per hour! If you would rather keep your feet on the ground, Adventure Valley also has a paintball park, which is open on Saturdays and Sundays for those 12 and older. Don’t underestimate how fun it can be to team up with your loved ones and play in a paintball tournament.

MADE for Kids

Get crafty with your kids at MADE for Kids , a 7,000-square-foot makerspace created by The Magic House. Suitable for kids aged four to 14, the wonderland features an immersive makers workshop, artists studio, design lab and entrepreneurs marketplace where kids can use their imaginations to tinker, create, invent, explore and discover. Watch as your youngsters experiment with screen printing, 3D printing, laser cutting, stop motion animation and more – you’re bound to be impressed.

Raging Rivers WaterPark

Water slides, wave pools and lazy rivers – Raging Rivers WaterPark is a kid’s paradise and the perfect place to cool off if you’re visiting St. Louis during summer. Take tiny tots to the Itty Bitty Surf City, sail down the Mississippi Monster with older kids and then relax in a rented cabana with an ice-cold drink. 2023 is Kidsfest at Raging Rivers, with daily magic shows in June and daily dog shows in July.

Riverboats at the Gateway Arch

For the best views of the Gateway Arch and St. Louis’ working riverfront, climb aboard the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch . The Tom Sawyer is a 19th-century replica, transporting you to a time when steamboats ruled the river. Cruises are narrated by captains from the National Park Service, who bring the history of the Mississippi River to life. Whether you choose a one-hour day cruise or a two-hour dinner cruise, you’ll learn about the river’s role in the country’s history as well as its impact on St. Louis’ economy to this day.

RYZE Adventure Park

Open since September 2021, RYZE Adventure Park in Maryland Heights offers more than 100 obstacles, plus a heart-stopping zipline and a death-defying free fall, on its four-story Adventure Tower. Are you up for the challenge? The Adventure Tower isn’t linear, so you can make your own course, picking and choosing the activities and obstacles that you want to do. RYZE also has a Little Ninja Course where younger kids can climb and explore at their own pace. The course features 16 elements, all close to the ground but full of adventure. If you would rather keep your feet on the ground, check out the 18-hole state-of-the-art miniature golf course, which glows with neon lights at night.

Six Flags St. Louis

Were you born to ride…rollercoasters? Six Flags St. Louis boasts nine exhilarating rollercoasters (six steel and three wooden) with more than 22,000 feet of combined track. Located in Eureka, the amusement park continues to add attractions, appealing to thrill-seekers of all ages. Take toddlers and little kids to Bugs Bunny National Park, where they can ride, fly, spin and climb to their hearts’ content. Six Flags St. Louis also has a waterpark, Hurricane Harbor, for wet and wild summer fun.

St. Louis Wheel

Reaching a height of 200 feet, The Wheel is the tallest observation wheel in St. Louis. It boasts enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas and sweeping views of the St. Louis skyline. Want to splurge? The VIP gondolas offer opportunities for kids to learn concepts in math, engineering and geography; plus, they have leather captain’s chairs and a glass floor.

Turtle Playground

Before or after your visit to the Saint Louis Zoo, check out Turtle Playground . Especially great for little kids, the playground is a magnet for children of all ages who love climbing – here, they get to clamber on the backs of giant reptiles! Represented in concrete are a common snapping turtle, softshell turtle, red-eared slider, Mississippi map turtle, stinkpot turtle and three box turtles, plus seven oversized turtle eggs and a long, sinuous snake that appears to be taking a bite out of the nearby overpass.

Victory Raceway

Ready, set, go! At Victory Raceway , the electric go-karts reach speeds up to 45 miles per hour on the indoor racetrack. There are no two-seaters – everyone drives – and kids have to be at least six years old and 50 inches tall to get behind the wheel. We know what you’re thinking, but don’t worry – the junior karts only reach speeds up to 25 miles per hour.

At Eckert’s , you can almost taste the history. Eckert’s Orchards took root in 1837, and today, there are three farms just across the river in Southern Illinois. Together, the farms present fun for all seasons with you-pick crops such as strawberries in spring; blackberries and peaches in summer; apples and pumpkins in late summer and early fall; and Christmas trees in winter. Eckert’s also has special events throughout the year, which feature farm animals, corn mazes, wagon rides, live music, festive foods and more.

Gateway Arch National Park

After a $380 million makeover, the national park land around the Gateway Arch and the Museum at the Gateway Arch is picture-perfect and ready for visitors. The verdant grounds feature stroller-friendly walkways and two reflection pools, but if you want a bird’s-eye view, take the tram ride to the top of the 630-foot monument. After you squeeze into a futuristic, five-person pod, it takes four minutes to ascend. At the top, small windows reveal spectacular views of the Old Courthouse, downtown St. Louis and beyond to the west and the Mississippi River and Illinois to the east. Tickets often sell out, so reserve your spots ahead of time.

Meramec Caverns

Uncover Missouri’s buried treasure beneath the rolling hills of the Meramec Valley. Meramec Caverns , the largest commercial cave in the state and one of the most awe-inspiring caves on the planet, boasts astounding formations, including glistening stalactites, magnificent stalagmites, an ancient “wine table” and a seven-story “mansion,” which were formed from the erosion of large limestone deposits over millions of years. Trained rangers guide captivating tours along well-lit walkways to some of the rarest and largest cave formations in the world – they’ll also show you where an episode of Lassie was filmed in 1966. The underground oasis is a cool 60 degrees year-round, and you can supplement the spectacular experience with other family-friendly activities, such as panning for gold, ziplining or taking a scenic excursion on the Meramec River aboard a canopy-topped riverboat.

Missouri Botanical Garden

Parents, listen up! One of the best playgrounds in St. Louis sits on two acres next to the Climatron conservatory inside the Missouri Botanical Garden . The Doris I. Schnuck Children’s Garden introduces kids at their most impressionable age to the significance of plants and nature in fun and innovative ways. Youngsters can splash through a stream, navigate a rope bridge and play with the locks and dams. They can climb to new heights in a treehouse and then glide down Spelunker’s Slide and cool off in a limestone cave. Bringing botany and 19th-century history to life, the garden also invites children and adults alike to explore the wetlands, board a steamboat and visit a Midwestern prairie village. The Missouri Botanical Garden has long been a place of beauty, serenity and discovery, and there’s plenty more to enjoy beyond this playground.

Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center

Nestled within 112 acres of oak-hickory forest in a quiet corner of Kirkwood, Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center introduces people of all ages to the wonders of the natural world. One of the three trails through the park features interpretive signage, and inside the nature center, you’ll find interesting exhibits, including an aquarium and a bee hive, which offer something for every season.

Endangered Wolf Center

Arguably the best-kept secret in the St. Louis area, the Endangered Wolf Center in Eureka aims to help save and protect wild canids by reintroducing Mexican wolves and American red wolves – the two most endangered wolves in the world – into the wild. Want to see the wolves for yourself? The Endangered Wolf Center offers a variety of daytime tours – from its signature endangered species tour to a specialized photography tour to field trips for schoolchildren – as well as nighttime howls. Education coordinator Jimmy Parsons can imitate each howl, and you might be lucky enough to hear the wolves howl back while learning more about wolf communication. Visiting the center, you’ll also meet other species of canids, including South American maned wolves, African painted dogs, fennec foxes, arctic foxes, swift foxes and a melanistic red fox named Cooper.

Grant’s Farm

Families with kids flock to Grant’s Farm – and for good reason. The St. Louis treasure boasts more than 900 animals, along with storied architecture, from Ulysses S. Grant’s humble log cabin, which he built in 1855, to the Busch Family Estate, often referred to as the “Big House.” Your visit starts with a short tram ride through Deer Park, where you might spot free-roaming antelope, deer and various bovines, including bison, water buffalo, yaks and domesticated cattle. When the tram stops, you can get off and ride a camel, watch a short and sweet animal show or feed the goats. (Warning: Those little guys can be aggressive.) Before you leave, stop by the German-style stables to see the iconic Clydesdales as well as classic cars and carriages. At the Bauernhof, enjoy lunch or a light snack; guests over 21 are also invited to grab two free beers. Yes, you read that right. Welcome to St. Louis! Admission to Grant’s Farm is free, but parking is $15.

Lone Elk Park

It’s a deer. It’s a bison. It’s a wild turkey! Lone Elk Park , a 546-acre wildlife management area, offers frequent wildlife sightings whether you drive or walk through the park. If your kids can handle it, follow the White Bison Trail – a three-mile loop with twists and climbs – for the opportunity to spot white-tailed deer, elk, waterfowl and more.

Purina Farms

Life is better with a pet, and Purina Farms teaches visitors how to connect with theirs on a deeper level. It all starts with understanding and appreciating dogs and cats and their unique abilities. So, head to the Purina Farms Visitor Center (open to the public from mid-April through October), which includes the Incredible Dog Arena, where the Purina Incredible Dog Team demonstrates its skills; the Pet Center, featuring a 20-foot, multi-level home for adoptable cats; and the Barn and Play area, which houses domestic farm animals.

Saint Louis Zoo

A leading zoo in animal management, research, conservation and education, the Saint Louis Zoo should be at the top of your travel bucket list. At the entrance to the zoo, stop by The Living World, a 65-foot rotunda with natural light from the glass-domed ceiling and an assortment of life-size shark, squid and stingray sculptures. Then, journey outside to meet the amazing animals that bring the zoo to life. On any given day, you might see bears splashing in plunge pools, monkeys swinging through the trees or penguins squawking for more fish. General admission is free, as is street parking, and the Emerson Zooline Railroad is worth the money if your kids tire of walking. Your littlest ones might also enjoy a ride on the Mary Ann Lee Conservation Carousel, featuring 64 hand-carved wooden animals that represent some of the protected and endangered species at the zoo. The thrills never stop, so plan to spend a good chunk of time here.

Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House

On any given day, more than 60 species of tropical butterflies dance through the conservatory at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House . Most people become enchanted by the experience, but some can get scared if too many butterflies land on them. Besides the delicate insects, the conservatory houses more than 150 tropical plants – in case you just want to focus on their beauty. Throughout the year, the Butterfly House also hosts special events for all ages, such as Morpho Mardi Gras, the BOOterfly House and Supper with Santa.

St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station

Hey, there’s a shark on track 36! The St. Louis Aquarium was retrofitted in a 19th-century train station, and visitors of all ages will love discovering which creatures now live along the tracks. The aquarium holds approximately 250,000 gallons of water and more than 13,000 animals. Keep an eye out for green sea turtles, paddlefish, sea dragons, cownose rays and Lord Stanley, the blue lobster. Love aquatic animals? Consider taking a behind-the-scenes tour of the St. Louis Aquarium, which includes personalized animal encounters that your kids won’t soon forget.

On a picturesque plot of land in St. Louis County, approximately 25 minutes from downtown St. Louis, Suson Park boasts a wonderful playground, catch-and-release fishing and a working animal farm. Kids can get up close and personal with cows, horses, pigs, sheep, chickens and turkeys, or you and your family can take a leisurely stroll around the grounds. Pack a picnic and enjoy a bite in one of the three shelters in the park.

World Bird Sanctuary

Walk on the wild side at the World Bird Sanctuary . Founded in 1977, the sanctuary aims to protect and preserve all manner of winged friends through conservation, rehabilitation, education and advocacy. The World Bird Sanctuary encompasses more than 305 acres and houses more than 200 birds, offering a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience. Meet a proud eagle, talk to a colorful parrot, encounter an emu and learn to appreciate vultures. This is one attraction that you shouldn’t miss, and we recommend planning ahead to join a guided tour. Dark winter nights are the perfect time to join one of the Owl Prowls, for instance, where you can meet the amazing birds that fly by moonlight. Held on select evenings from November through March every year, Owl Prowls offer an exciting opportunity to learn more about the intriguing life of owls from a local naturalist. Come face-to-face with live owls, take an easy night hike across the grounds and try to call to an owl in the wild. Hoot. Hoot.

Designed specifically for families, Citygarden should be on your list of things to do in St. Louis. The downtown oasis includes conversation-starting sculptures, lush plant life, rain gardens, dancing fountains and a 180-foot-long shallow pool with a six-foot-tall waterfall where kids can cool off. This is a perfect pit stop between visits to the Gateway Arch and Busch Stadium – just make sure you have a towel handy.

City Museum

City Museum is difficult to describe; it’s best to just go. Housed in a 600,000-square-foot former shoe company warehouse, the unique attraction is as much a playground as it is a museum. Exhibits consist largely of repurposed architectural and industrial objects, from broken tiles to safety deposit boxes to stainless steel buffet pans. This is a truly immersive experience, where you can climb into a bow whale’s mouth, rocket down a 10-story slide and pilot a plane suspended in the air. You can also navigate an underground tunnel system, marvel at pancake art, test your circus skills and write with the world’s largest pencil. How serious is City Museum about exploring? The gift shop sells knee pads – which aren’t a bad idea.

The Griot Museum of Black History

Located in the Old North St. Louis neighborhood, the Griot Museum of Black History reveals the broad scope of Black history and culture with educational and engaging exhibits. Its mission is to collect, preserve, interpret and share the stories of Black people, highlighting their regional connection to American history and their contributions to the country’s development. The core galleries of The Griot include artifacts, memorabilia and life-size wax figures. Most kids have fun “meeting” people who had a real impact on St. Louis, including Josephine Baker, Dred and Harriet Scott, James Milton Turner and Miles Davis.

Laumeier Sculpture Park

At Laumeier Sculpture Park , you can enjoy more than 60 sculptures al fresco. Meandering along the walking trail through the 105-acre, open-air museum and sculpture park, you get a close-up view of a huge eyeball, a larger-than-life deer and a pile of massive, crumpled cylinders. You can even walk, climb or sit on some of the large-scale pieces. While you’re here, encourage your kids to invent their own titles for the sculptures and ask them what they see, think and feel about each piece. Like so many of the magical places in St. Louis, Laumeier Sculpture Park is free and open to the public.

The Magic House

An epic adventure for preschoolers and young children, The Magic House offers hands-on interactive exhibits, where they can explore a child-size village, investigate scientific wonders, discover a new culture and take on the role of a doctor or veterinarian. Older kids will also enjoy surrounding themselves in an enormous bubble, experimenting with a 3D printer and taking a video with their hand on an electrically charged ball. (Spoiler alert: It makes your hair stand up!) In the Star-Spangled Center, parents might even learn something about a U.S. president or two. On top of that, The Magic House hosts special exhibits and events throughout the year. It’s all located approximately 20 minutes from downtown St. Louis in the charming suburb of Kirkwood, which also provides parks and restaurants for more family fun.

Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis

Have you ever wanted to feel like a giant? The Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis boasts an extensive collection of tiny objects in room boxes, dollhouses and displays. Located in the heart of the Bevo Mill neighborhood, the museum focuses on the cultural and educational aspects of the miniature works.

Missouri History Museum

Explore the storied history of St. Louis, from its founding in 1764 to the present day. The Missouri History Museum ’s exhibits occasionally change, but they’re always well done. Little ones will love the History Clubhouse, where they can build a downtown skyscraper, play house in the ancient city of Cahokia, serve food at the 1904 World’s Fair and pilot a steamboat on the Mississippi River. Coloring STL, another current exhibition, allows visitors to interact with St. Louis’ most fascinating buildings by coloring them, right on the walls.

A combination children’s museum, science museum and indoor playground, Myseum has 30 unique exhibits to explore. Kids can dig for dinosaurs, play with glow shapes, interact with the video wall, “work” at an imaginary zoo clinic and more. Every visit offers something new, educational and, above all, fun for growing minds. Just remember to bring socks!

National Blues Museum

The National Blues Museum explores the history of the blues and celebrates the genre as the foundation of all modern American music. Featuring artifact-driven exhibits and high-impact, technology-driven experiences, the museum has a cool factor for kids. During your visit, you’ll even have the opportunity to write your own blues song and add a guitar track – no strumming skills required.

National Great Rivers Museum

The mighty Mississippi River has many stories to tell, and the National Great Rivers Museum wants to share them with you. Housed in a 12,000-square-foot facility adjacent to Melvin Price Locks and Dam, the museum is the direct result of a partnership between the Meeting of the Rivers Foundation and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Through interactive exhibits, a theater and free public tours, the National Great Rivers Museum introduces people to the great rivers in the area, their unique environments, their roles in our history and their impact on our lives today. You can do a self-guided tour, but the daily tours led by staff members are more exciting for kids. Available at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., the tours take 45 minutes, and they allow you to experience the locks and dam from the view of a lockman.

National Museum of Transportation

Do your kids love planes, trains and automobiles? The National Museum of Transportation has one of the largest and best collections of transportation vehicles in the world, encompassing more than 190 major exhibits. Check out the Union Pacific #4006 – known as “Big Boy,” it’s the largest successful steam locomotive ever built. Ooh and aah at a 1901 automobile – built by the St. Louis Motor Carriage Co., it’s the oldest of only nine such cars still in existence. And marvel at Virgin Hyperloop’s Pegasus pod, which can transport cargo – and eventually people – at airline speeds with zero direct emissions. There’s a lot to climb in and on at the museum, and for the littlest ones, there’s the Creation Station play area.

Saint Louis Art Museum

Travel across time, places and cultures at the Saint Louis Art Museum . Boasting one of the country’s leading comprehensive collections, the free museum in Forest Park inspires discovery and elevates the human spirit. Younger kids will dig the colorful paintings and ancient artifacts, while older kids might enjoy a deeper dive into the artwork with an audio guide. On select Sundays, the museum offers family-friendly tours with hands-on activities; each Family Sunday features a different theme and art project. Wee Wednesdays – including a look at art from the museum’s collection, story time and an art activity – are also recommended for kids three to five.

Saint Louis Science Center

Another fantastic and free attraction, the Saint Louis Science Center specializes in “Aha!” moments. As you test the laws of physics, sneak by a life-size, animatronic Tyrannosaurus rex, explore the night sky and build a replica of the Gateway Arch, you’ll ask and answer hundreds of questions. You might also consider paying for a special exhibition or a film at the OMNIMAX Theater if something sparks your interest.

Theater and Performing Arts

Circus flora.

Acrobats, aerialists, comedians and daredevils – Circus Flora has assembled the most breathtaking circus artists from around the world for an arresting and unforgettable family-friendly experience. The theater company, which performs at The Big Top in the Grand Center Arts District, specializes in one-ring circus productions, combining the energy of both traditional and modern circus arts. Aiming to engage audience members on different levels, it focuses on emotional narratives and inspirational physical feats. Don’t miss this opportunity to teach your kids that adventure and excitement are everywhere.

The Fabulous Fox

Ready for a showstopper? The Fabulous Fox attracts audiences from near and far for Broadway shows such as Frozen , The Lion King , Six and Wicked . Dress your best and enjoy a night at the theater, where the lights, costumes and songs will keep your kids enthralled. Before the curtain rises, grab a bite to eat at The Fountain on Locust – and save room for dessert! The ice cream cones, old-fashioned sundaes and creamy milkshakes are irresistible. The boozy floats and signature ice cream Martinis are also must-try treats for those 21 and older.

During summers in St. Louis, the limelight shines on The Muny . For more than 100 years, the outdoor theater has filled Forest Park with the sounds of Broadway, attracting out-of-town professionals as well as local talent for memorable musicals ranging from As You Like It (the very first production ever mounted at what would become The Muny) to Disney’s Beauty and the Beast . Every season features a few kid-friendly productions – think Matilda the Musical , Mary Poppins and Annie . The shows are enchanting, electrifying and empowering, and every night, there are free seats available on a first-come first-served basis, so everyone can experience the magic of live theater.

Want to take your kids to a live sporting event? From Cardinals baseball to Blues hockey to Battlehawks football, St. Louis gives fans something to cheer about all year long! Check out our St. Louis sports guide for more information .

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Our Wild Wanderers

Inspiring Families to Get Out and Explore Together

Missouri · October 4, 2023

21 Best Family-Friendly Things to Do in Missouri This Fall

Welcome to Missouri in the fall! As the leaves change color and temperatures begin to drop, the Show-Me State offers an abundance of family-friendly activities for you to enjoy this autumn. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, experience a fall festival, or immerse yourself in the history and culture of the state, Missouri has something for every family.

From scenic state parks that showcase stunning fall foliage to exciting fall festivals of all kinds, those seeking adventure are bound to find it in this list of the best family-friendly things to do in Missouri this fall.

Plan your perfect autumn getaway in Missouri and create lasting memories with your family.

1. Spend a day at Beggs Family Farm

Beggs Family Farm is a family-owned farm featuring acres of family fun activities! It’s also a yearly tradition for our family!

When I say “spend a day” at Beggs, I mean you really need the whole day! There’s so much to do!

Take a hayride to the pumpkin patch to pick out your pumpkin, watch the hillbilly pig races, and find your way through the giant corn maze. Visit the petting zoo, jump on the bounce pillow, ride a pony or a camel, slide down giant slides, and so much more! I’m not kidding, I couldn’t even begin to list all the things to do!

They also offer concession stands and gift shops!

Open select days in October.

2319 State Highway U

Sikeston, MO 63801

2. See the wild horses in the Missouri Ozarks

You knew you could see wild horses in places like Wyoming, or Chincoteague in Virginia, but did you know there are wild horses in Missouri?

There are 4 different protected and managed herds that exist today, roaming the Ozark Scenic Riverways.

Some places to see them include the Round Spring Campground near Eminence, MO, Echo Bluff State Park, and the Shawnee Creek Campground (said to be the easiest place to spot them.)

Remember, the horses are wild! Do not attempt to get close, feed, or pet the horses!

3. Kayak one of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Bring your kayak, or rent from Akers Ferry Canoe Rental and paddle down the Current River – part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

Put in at Akers Ferry and float to Pulltite Campground. This is a 10-mile float, taking 5-6 hours to complete. What is special about this float is that you can paddle into a cave!

Cave Spring will be on your left, and you can paddle into the entrance, although it doesn’t go back very far.

The water is clear and cold, being spring-fed. You can usually see to the bottom.

Keep an eye out for wildlife, including whitetail deer, many species of birds, otter, beaver, mink, turkey, and more. If you love fishing, bring your pole and cast for smallmouth bass.

4. See Silver Dollar City dressed up for fall

One of the best family-friendly things to do in Missouri this fall is to visit Silver Dollar City in Branson.

Fall is the perfect season to visit Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri. Mid-September through the end of October, the theme park hosts the Harvest Festival and Pumpkins in the City.

Watch craftsmen from all around the nation demonstrate woodworking, chuck wagon cooking, chainsaw carving, and various other heritage arts & crafts. Visit the Garden of Giants to see massive homegrown pumpkins. Then stay after dark to see thousands of glowing pumpkins and ride some of the rides into the night!

And don’t forget to fill up on all the fall-themed treats and meals!

5. Marvel at the castle ruins at Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Ha Ha Tonka is the home to the ruins of a European-style, stone castle from 1905.

There are over 15 miles of hiking trails and incredible views of the fall foliage of the Missouri Ozarks from the bluffs.

Come for the hiking, fishing, and exploring of caves, sinkholes, and a natural bridge, as well as the castle ruins.

This is a Missouri State Park that should not be missed, and only gets more beautiful during the fall season!

Read Also: 9 Important Reasons to Take Your Kids Hiking

6. Camp under the fall foliage at one of Missouri’s State Parks

Fall camping in Missouri is one of our favorite family-friendly things to do in the fall. Missouri is full of amazing state parks with great camping facilities.

One of our favorites is Sam A. Baker State Park. Camp under the tall trees, let the kids ride bikes around the campground, go for a hike or 2, and hang out next to the river.

Other amazing Missouri State Parks to camp at include Echo Bluff State Park, Table Rock State Park, Johnson Shut-ins State Park, Roaring River State Park, and so many more!

7. Celebrate Halloween with exotic animals at Boo at the Zoo

From October 13 th to the 29 th of 2023, the St. Louis Zoo puts on Boo at the Zoo from 5pm to 8:30pm.

Enjoy a not-so-scary Halloween experience with tons of fall and Halloween decorations around the zoo and special fall menus.

Family-friendly (non-scary) Halloween costumes are encouraged. No full-face covering masks on anyone over age 13.

Boo at the Zoo also offers a sensory-friendly night, which is awesome!

Also, read about our expert tips for a memorable visit to the St. Louis Zoo !

1 Government Drive

St. Louis, MO 63110

8. Shop local at a farmer’s market

Many of the towns around Missouri have farmer’s markets where you can shop for local produce, products, and handmade crafts.

Many even feature live music and food trucks as well. Check out your surrounding towns and city’s websites and Facebook pages to find one near you!

9. Kiss a rescue donkey at Donktoberfest

The 2 nd annual Donktoberfest is held in Lincoln, Missouri at Peaceful Pastures Donkey Rescue. The festival takes place Friday, October 27 th and Saturday, October 28 th 2023.

From 10am to 4pm on Saturday, you can learn about the rescue donkeys and enjoy crafts, a bounce house, halter-making, grooming, and a kissing booth where you can kiss a donkey!

Come from 7pm to 10pm on Friday or Saturday, when the rescue turns into a haunted forest. Hop aboard a wagon for a haunted forest hayride.

All the event proceeds go towards the care of the rescue donkeys.

24507 Kelly Lane Lincoln, MO

10. Pick your own apples at Knowlan Family Farm

Knowlan Family Farm is located just outside Jackson, Missouri. They offer several varieties of apples that you can pick on your own in their labeled orchards.

Stay for family fun activities including a barrel-cart train ride, zipline, playground, pedal karts, and bounce pillow.

Feed the animals in the petting area and grab an ice cream from the farm store. It’s one of our favorite orchards in Southeast Missouri. If you’re in the area, you can read about some other fun things to do in Southeast Missouri for families !

3243 State Highway 34

Burfordville, MO 63739

11. Have a unique stay in a treehouse

Looking for a unique weekend stay in Missouri this fall? There are several treehouse vacation rental properties!

Imagine staying in a tiny house in the trees surrounded by the fall foliage. Sounds perfect.

Here are just a few of the treehouse properties I found in Missouri:

Branson Treehouse Adventures just outside of Branson has several treehouses to choose from. I think the African Treehouse Lodge looks amazing, with its swinging bridges!

159 Acorn Acres Ln

Branson West, MO 65737

The Moonlight Treehouse in Hermann, Mi ssouri. This one is on the pricier side, but what makes this one special is that it is wheelchair accessible! Their website states “When we saw the way this part of the property gradually sloped off a cliff, we realized we could make a wheelchair-friendly treehouse! There are no stairs or ladders in the Moonlight, and you access it straight from the road with a walking bridge.”

Hermann, MO

Treehouse on the Magic Land. If you have a larger family, this treehouse in Grubville, Missouri (less than an hour from St. Louis) sleeps 9 guests. Enjoy the “Old Time Tin Hot Tub”, indoor and outdoor hammocks, and the indoor gas fireplace.

Book this stay on bookatreehouse.com

Read also: Questions to Ask Before Booking Your Next Airbnb

12. Bike the Katy Trail

If you’re a biking family, one of the best things to do in Missouri this fall is to bike The Katy Trail.

The Katy Trail stretches 237 miles across most of Missouri, much of it following Lewis and Clark’s path up the Missouri River. The trail was built on former railroad tracks (Missouri’s longest Rails to Trails) and is for the most part, flat.

The trail runs from western Missouri, in Clinton to eastern Missouri, in Machens (near St. Charles.)  

13. Listen to tunes at the Hannibal Folklife Festival

Hannibal Missouri’s Folklife Festival is a celebration of Hannibal’s rich history. The festival features artisans, craftsmen, and music performers on Hannibal’s historic North Main Street.

The festival takes place October 21 st from 10am to 5pm and October 22 nd from 10am to 4pm. There will be 100+ vendors, including food stands with locally-made cider and root beer.

Fall is the perfect time to visit Hannibal!

14. Celebrate Mark Twain’s Birthday

Also in Hannibal, on November 25 th , the Mark Twain Museum will be celebrating Mark Twain’s birthday. The Mark Twain Annual Birthday Bash with feature craft-making, including party hats, and old-fashioned games from 1pm to 2pm.

Kids up to age 10 are free.

415 N Main St

Hannibal, MO 63401

15. Walk amongst giant billion-year-old boulders at Elephant Rocks

Elephant Rocks State Park is one of the most unique and amazing Missouri state parks. Walk the path among the massive granite boulders and be amazed.

You can squeeze through tiny passages and climb over these giant rocks like a playground. A trail also leads back to the ruins of an old engine house.

Elephant Rocks State Park also offers several picnic tables and a playground for kids. Bring a picnic and stay for the day! This is a favorite place for us that we visit at least once a year. Read more about Elephant Rocks State Park here .

Read Also: Discover the Best Missouri State Parks: Epic MO Parks You Can’t Miss

16. Speed down a mountain on the Copperhead Mountain Coaster

If you’ve never experienced an alpine coaster before, you are missing out! The Copperhead Mountain Coaster is in the Shepard of the Hills Adventure Park.

Speed through the Ozark Mountains on this 3350-foot-long coaster winds around turns, loops, and drops. It’s the longest downhill ride in Branson.

Visit the Shepard of the Hills website for tickets and to see the many other fun family activities there!

5586 W 76 Country Boulevard

Branson, MO 65616

17. Take a hike and visit the wildlife at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is an outdoor “Ozark Paradise” of 10,000 acres.

At Dogwood, you are free to hike, bike, ride horses, fish, and take a wildlife tour! There’s so much to do!

On the 2-hour wildlife tram tour, you can get a scenic view of the park, including waterfalls, bluffs, bison, and elk!

Explore a treehouse built by the Treehouse Masters, as well as a working gristmill and conservation center.

2038 West State Hwy 86

Lampe, Missouri 65681

18. Get a thrill at Six Flags Kids Boo Fest

From September 16 to October 29, visit Six Flags St. Louis for Boo Fest. Kids can dress up in costumes and trick-or-treat around the park. There are plenty of family-friendly rides and Halloween treats. Also, enjoy a hay maze and pumpkin painting.

Just make sure you leave the park with your younger kids before Fright Fest begins in the evening. Fright Fest features scare zones, where zombies, creepy clowns, and other scary creatures roam around amongst the guests.

There are several haunted houses including Slaughter House and Creatures of the Corn to give adults and brave teens a serious scare!

4900 Six Flags Rd.

Eureka, MO 63025

19. Ride a Ferris Wheel at Kansas City’s Cornucopia

Cornucopia is Kansas City’s 3-day fall festival. It takes place October 13 th – 15 th . There are lots of family-friendly activities including face painting, pumpkin painting, carnival rides, live music, food vendors, and more.

Admission is free for everyone.

13 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106

Kansas City, MO 64106

20. Relax on a family horseback ride in Lee’s Summit

Sunset Trails Stables in Lee’s Summit, Missouri (just outside of Kansas City) offers 2-hour trail rides that begin with an introduction to horse safety and basic horsemanship.

When the trail guide feels like you’re all ready, you will use your new skills to ride through woodlands and native prairie grasses while learning about the history of the area.

All riders must be 8 years old and up.

2100 Southeast Ranson Rd.

Lee’s Summit, MO, 64082

21. Visit Walt Disney’s Hometown

Did you know that Walt Disney grew up in Missouri? He was born in Chicago but spent most of his childhood in Marceline, Missouri.

Main Street USA was based off of Marceline’s downtown – it’s worth a visit to see how it compares to Disney!

Visit the Walt Disney Hometown Museum to see a collection of Disney-related memorabilia, including photos and letters between family members.

Don’t miss the property where Walt Disney grew up! Go inside the barn and sit under “The Dreaming Tree” where Walt and Ruth played and daydreamed.

True Disney fans can’t miss this!

Final Thoughts

Missouri has so much to offer in the autumn season! I tried to include something for everyone and in every area of the Show-Me State! Put some of these family-friendly things to do this fall on your Missouri bucket list!

What to read next:

• Things to do Around Cape Girardeau this Fall
• Discover the Best Missouri State Parks
• Elephant Rocks State Park in Missouri
• Things to do in Southeast Missouri for Families
• Tour the St. Louis Gateway Arch National Park

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About Krista

Krista is a travel blogger, Click Pro Elite published photographer, as well as a UGC Creator for brands and destinations. Her passions include photographing childhood, being out in nature, and traveling the US with her family.

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to the Midwest!

15 Best Places to Visit in Missouri for Your Bucket List

June 3, 2022 by //  by  Midwest Explored Leave a Comment

There are so many cool places to visit in Missouri that you should not overlook!

Missouri is a beautiful Midwest state full of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you want to make memories with your family, are looking for a romantic getaway, or would love to enjoy an empowering solo trip, Missouri should be on your bucket list!

From lively cities full of art and culture to cute, small towns drenched in history, there are so many Missouri tourist attractions to make the perfect itinerary. You can road trip along the historic Route 66 or spend time deep in the wilderness.

No matter what you do on your Missouri vacation, you are sure to have a great time and want to come back! Missouri is the Show-Me State, so get ready to be shown beautiful nature, fascinating history, and cool cities.

Here are some of the best attractions in Missouri for your next trip!

15 Places to Visit in Missouri for Your Bucket List

Gateway arch national park.

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis Missouri is one of the most famous places to visit in Missouri. Constructed from 1963 to 1965, this elegant, stainless steel structure is the tallest arch in the world at 623 feet.

The Arch and the area around it became the smallest U.S. National Park in 2018.

Ride the tram to the top to get amazing views of the city and the Mississippi River.

Since this is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Missouri, it is recommended you buy tickets in advance. They often sell out, and you do not want to miss out on this awesome experience!

If you are afraid of heights, visit the museum on the ground to learn about the history of the Arch, America’s westward expansion, and the story of Native Americans and pioneers.

Admission to the museum is free!

Mark Twain Boyhood Home

Head to Hannibal Missouri to visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum . The famous writer was born Samuel Clemens in Florida, Missouri, in 1835.

He then moved with his family to Hannibal when he was four.

The museum is full of unique, interactive exhibits based on Twain’s books. Learn about his life and how his boyhood experiences and friends influenced his writing.

Hannibal is proud of its Mark Twain association and many other things in town have his name. You can visit the Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse for great views or explore the Mark Twain Cave.

A cruise on the Mark Twain Riverboat is another great Missouri activity.

Hannibal also has a ton of other historic buildings and museums to check out while you are in town. Hannibal is a great day trip from St. Louis .

Branson Is One Of the Coolest Places to Visit in Missouri

Branson MO is the Las Vegas of Missouri and with so many things to do, it is easily one of the best places to visit in Missouri. While it is a small town, Branson is a lively place that draws in a ton of tourists.

There are a bunch of theaters where you can catch a show or concert. A trip to the Titanic Museum Attraction will make you feel as if you have stepped onto the famous, doomed ship.

Kids will love learning with a fun twist at WonderWorks. The Aquarium at the Boardwalk looks like a giant, glass octopus and will wow everyone.

Silver Dollar City is probably the most famous Branson attraction. This 1880s-inspired amusement park is full of thrilling roller coasters, a train, and more kid-friendly rides.

There are also demonstrations of things like blacksmithing and candy making. There are shows, shops, and restaurants as well.

Another unique attraction in Branson is Dolly Parton’s Stampede. This is an awesome dinner with a show that you will be talking about long after it ends.

This is the perfect Branson attraction to visit if celebrating Christmas in Branson!

You will enjoy a tasty meal while horseback riders put on a Wild West show.

There are many romantic wineries in Missouri located near Branson!

Table Rock State Park

Table Rock State Park is just outside of Branson and is a great place for a weekend trip in Missouri.

There are great campsites here if you are looking for a classic American vacation or you can rent a rustic cabin nearby.

This is one of the best places to visit in Missouri if you want to spend time on the water.

There is an assortment of water equipment you can rent at the lake, including ski boats, kayaks, and paddleboards. You can also have fun swimming or fishing.

There are hiking and mountain biking trails to explore. Bring a picnic to enjoy in a scenic spot. All Missouri state parks are free to enter, so this is one of the best budget things to do in Missouri.

Fantastic Caverns Is One Of The Most Unique Places To Visit In Missouri

There are a ton of caves in Missouri , and Fantastic Caverns is probably the most famous.

Found just outside of Springfield, this natural wonder attracts a ton of people every year.

This cave system is especially great because of how accessible it is. Instead of climbing in like most caves, you ride a tram through during a 55-minute tour.

This is a great way to sit back and admire all the cool stalactites, stalagmites, and other cave formations.

Visiting Fantastic Caverns is not the cheapest thing to do in Missouri, though. Adult tickets are $30 and children six through twelve are $17.

Kids five and under are free. However, it is a great experience and there are not many other caves you can tour in a tram.

Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World

It might seem a little random, but the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World is one of the most popular tourist spots in Springfield . Millions of people actually visit every year.

This outdoor specialty store was founded in Springfield in 1972 and has grown country-wide since then. The store is huge and holds more than just shopping opportunities.

Among the rustic, cabin decor, you will find fish tanks, alligators, waterfalls, and mounted animals.

Visit the Bass Pro Shops Museum to see what the original store looked like and learn how it expanded.

After spending the day exploring this unique outdoor shop, you can explore the delicious restaurants in Springfield MO.

Union Station in Kansas City

Kansas City, MO has so many great things to do.

It is a sprawling metropolitan area and one of the best places to visit in the state.

If you are looking for a place to go in Missouri that will entertain the whole family, then head downtown to Union Station.

This beautiful, historic building is more than a place to catch a train. Bring the kids to Science City where they can learn in a fun, interactive way. Watch a cool show at the planetarium or work together to beat the escape room.

There is a movie theater with a giant, 80-foot wide screen where you can watch the latest movies. Or you can catch a live show when the Kansas City Actors Theatre performs. The Museum of Illusions and the Model Train Gallery are also fun activities.

Union Station also has great Kansas City restaurants . For dessert, you can grab a goodie at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. There are also different events held throughout the year. Experience Christma in this Midwest City, to see amazing decorations.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is one of the best state parks in Missouri mostly because there are awesome castle ruins which are true Midwest hidden gems .

This is not the type of thing you would expect to find deep in the Missouri wilderness, but there is an interesting history here.

The castle was begun by Robert M. Snyder in 1905 and was eventually finished by his sons in 1922.

Unfortunately, a fire gutted the building in 1942. Today, the ruins are one of the coolest Missouri attractions to explore.

The park also has cool geological features, including a spring, caves, bluffs, and sinkholes. There are also views of the Lake of the Ozarks. There are hiking trails and places to picnic.

Route 66 Drive-In Theater

If you are driving along Route 66, make sure to stop in Carthage. This small town holds onto its history and is a great place to spend a few hours.

The Route 66 Drive-In Theater is one of the most unique places to visit in Missouri. This is a great activity for traveling back in time.

The theater is open from April to September. Grab some treats at the concession stand and enjoy a movie from the comfort of your car.

This theater first opened in 1949 and has been very well preserved. This is a great place to bring the kids to show them a piece of history or enjoy a classically Americana date.

Grand Falls Is One Of The Coolest Places To Visit In Missouri

Grand Falls is one of the best waterfalls in the Midwest and is a pretty place to hike or take pictures. The waterfall is only 12 feet high, but the width is an impressive 163 feet.

You will find this water feature on the Shoal Creek just south of Joplin.

This is the largest continuously flowing natural waterfall in Missouri which means you can visit year-round and still find water cascading down.

The trail to the waterfall is an easy .2-mile loop. The short walk is perfect for all ages and skill levels. Make sure to bring a camera to get some cool snaps of the waterfall.

This is certainly one of the more beautiful places to visit in Missouri!

Ozark Mountains

If you want to experience fiery foliage during fall in the Midwest head south to the Ozark Mountains.

This range of ancient mountains covers the bottom half of the state and stretches into Arkansas.

There are a ton of cute small towns, beautiful state parks, and expansive national forests to discover. The Lake of the Ozarks is one of the most popular vacation spots in Missouri for locals.

Rent a lake house and spend time boating, fishing, swimming, and soaking in the party vibe.

The Ozarks is also a photographer’s dream with many historic mills, caves, and scenic vistas to capture.

The Ozark Mountains cover such a large portion of the state. It is nearly impossible to miss some of the Missouri attractions held within them. You could not ask for a better vacation in Missouri!

Missouri State Capitol Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In Missouri

If you are even in Jefferson City, then take time to visit the Missouri State Capitol Building.

This is the third state capitol building to sit in the city after fires destroyed the first two. The present building opened in 1924.

Inside the grand building, you can admire the impressive architecture, statues, and paintings. Join a staff member on a 45-minute tour of the building.

Did we mention tours are free? This is a great way to save money and still learn about the history and culture of the building.

The state capitol building is also where you will find the Missouri State Museum. There are extensive exhibits that cover the state’s natural and cultural history.

There are plenty of cool artifacts, recreations, and dioramas.

This is one of the coolest places in Missouri to visit.

Hermann Wine Trail

Missouri might not be the first place you think of when you imagine wine tastings, but you would be wrong!

German immigrants brought vineyards to Missouri in the 1830s and started the Hermann Wine Trail.

Today, this scenic wine trail stretches for twenty-five miles in central Missouri, connecting seven small town wineries.

You can do a self-guided tour or take part in one of the themed events throughout the year, such as the Chocolate Wine Trail or the Say Cheese Wine Trail.

After tasting some award-winning wines, you can explore the small towns or spend a romantic weekend in a cute bed and breakfast.

St. Joseph Is A Historic Missouri Attraction

North of Kansas City MO, you will find the historic city of St. Joseph.

Along with beautiful, old architecture and an awesome downtown vibe, there are a ton of cool Missouri attractions here.

If you are interested in the Wild West, then St. Joe is definitely one of the best places to visit in Missouri for you.

This city is where the Pony Express mail line began. Riders would deliver mail all the way down to Sacramento, California. Visit the Pony Express Museum to learn about this fascinating history.

Another crazy event took place in St. Joseph in 1882 when the infamous outlaw Jesse James was killed here.

The Jesse James Home Museum is a little white building and is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

While in town, you can also visit some of the many other museums, admire the mansions in the Hall Street Historic District, or relax at one of the many parks.

With so many Missouri tourist attractions to choose from, it is easy to see why this is one of the best places to visit in Missouri!

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In Missouri

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is in Lampe, Missouri, down in the Ozarks. This beautiful attraction in Missouri is 10,000 acres of idyllic nature and picturesque, old buildings.

This is a wonderful place to escape into nature and make memories with your family. The many fun activities make this one of the best places to visit in Missouri.

The hiking and biking trails will lead you through the forest where you can find waterfalls and pretty streams. A horseback ride is a memorable way to spend an afternoon.

Fishing, taking a wildlife tour, and exploring the working Dogwood Mill are more activities to check out.

Conservation is important to the park as well. You can learn more about nature conservation at the Conservation Center or find wildlife resources at the epic treehouse.

Packing List When Visiting Epic Places in Missouri

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when searching for the best places to visit in Missouri.

It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with the RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID  sleeves are  the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet.

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery .

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and is so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies when visiting Wisconsin attractions.

Hydration is so important when traveling. You want to remain hydrated throughout your travels to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you.

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the charcoal filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this  set of collapsible silicone foldable water bottles  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all.

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. then this   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great.

There are so many unique and interesting places to visit in Missouri for everyone! History, culture, nature, adventure! This Midwest state has it all! Get ready to plan your epic Missouri vacation!

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18 Fantastic Things to do in St Louis with Kids

Last updated on June 19th, 2023 at 04:19 am.

St. Louis, Missouri is the perfect spot for families to make memories that will last a lifetime! Whether you are looking to get out with your family for the weekend, or scouring the internet for a great family vacation, there are so many great things to do in St. Louis with kids.

St. Louis is considered by many to be the center of the heartland of America! Why? The famous Gateway Arch, vibrant museums, famous ice cream cones, and a reputation for being one of the most fun cities in the US, just for starters!  

Disclosure:  Before you travel, please check what’s open and be sure to follow all local guidelines to keep yourself and others safe! Please know that ads are how we pay our bills and keep our blog free for you to enjoy. We also use affiliate links; if you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Where do you begin choosing the best things to do with kids in St. Louis? How do you know what is worth paying admission for, or where the food tastes as good as it looks?

What about those days you don’t want to break the bank, but want to maximize the laughter? Whether your family prefers the outdoors or indoors, sweet or savory foods, learning about history or animals, or even visiting pumpkin patches in fall or some haunted STL locations you can find fun things to do in St. Louis with kids of all ages and interests. 

We have traversed the city, chatted with locals, tasted all the food, and let kids bounce on dozens of beds, just so we can bring you the best kid-friendly things to do in St. Louis!

Table of Contents

Family Friendly Attractions in St. Louis

Families who are looking for fun things to do with kids in St. Louis, MO have dozens of adventures at their fingertips! Whether you’re a local, looking for an undiscovered place to venture with the kiddos this weekend, or coming for a family vacation, we hope you love this city as much as we do, and have fun exploring all the kid-friendly things to do in St. Louis, MO while you’re here! 

Saint Louis Zoo

Saint Louis has one of the most amazing zoos in the country.  The St. Louis Zoo is home to more than 14,00 animals and over 500 species. So, it might go without saying that the Saint Louis zoo is one of the best St. Louis attractions for families. 

Over 3 million people come to this zoo each year to peek at the penguins, talk to the tigers, and behold the bears. This amazing zoo can easily take a family 2 days to fully explore! The most loved aspect of this zoo: it definitely won’t break the bank! Admission is free, although you can buy tickets to different events, such as the sea lion show or stingray cove. You can even bring your own picnic lunch to enjoy at the zoo!  

Address: 1 Government Drive St. Louis, MO 63110

St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station

The St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station is an immersive and engaging experience offering unique perspectives of our underwater world.      

From the local streams and rivers to the depths of the oceans, take a journey at the St. Louis Aquarium to explore the hidden treasures of the Missouri and Mississippi waterways. appreciate the “monsters” of our global rivers, and delight in the stealth and grace of our oceans’ greatest predators.  Passport not required. 

The 120,000-square-foot aquarium, is packed to the gills with over 13,000 animals across 44 exhibits. Families at St. Louis Aquarium can explore aquatic life from sea to shining sea, without venturing out of the 63103 ZIP code. This is one of the most popular things to do in St. Louis with kids!

Address: 201 S 18th St, St. Louis, MO 63103

The St. Louis Wheel at Union Station

For the best view of the city (and for those not afraid of heights), the Ferris wheel at St. Louis Union Station is a destination not to be missed while having fun with kids in St. Louis! This giant wheel goes up 200 feet in the sky, taking about 15 minutes to complete its circle.  

There are 42 climate-controlled gondolas that can each accommodate up to 8 people. The wheel is lit up in the evening with a variety of bright colors. This memory-making adventure is open 365 days. Tickets for adults are $15, and kids ride for $10 each. 

Address: 201 S 18th St. St. Louis, MO 63103

The Gateway Arch Park

You can’t visit St. Louis with your family without seeing the iconic Gateway Arch . It is the tallest monument in America at 630 feet! 

 Gateway Arch National Park includes a tram ride to the top, a museum, park, 1839 Old Courthouse, and of course the iconic arch itself.

Tram Ride to the Top of the Arch

Take a tram ride to the top for unparalleled views of the city. The elevator ride to the top of the Gateway Arch is four-minutes. But, to reach the top of the Gateway Arch and return, there are an additional 96 steps, divided into six flights. Once you reach the top, there are stunning views stretching up to 30 miles to the east and west. Tram tickets are $11.

Museum at the Gateway Arch

The museum explores 200+ years of history within six themed galleries, commemorating America’s pioneering spirit and acknowledging the positive and negative impacts of westward expansion.

The galleries span from 1764 to 1965 with topics covering Colonial St. Louis, Jefferson’s Vision, Manifest Destiny, The Riverfront Era, New Frontiers, and Building the Gateway Arch.  The museum is free 

The Gateway Arch National Park grounds are open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. year-round.

Address: 11 N 4th St #1810, St. Louis, MO 63102

Riverboat Cruise

If heights aren’t quite your thing, the Missouri River cruise offers breathtaking views without inciting any vertigo or fear of heights. 

Cruise through time on the Mighty Mississippi. Travel through time on a replica 19th century paddle-wheel riverboat. Day or night, the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch offer stunning skyline views that have been voted Best in St. Louis.

With a variety of sightseeing, dinner, and specialty outings to choose from, a riverboat cruise makes a unique and relaxing way to experience the Gateway Arch and downtown St. Louis.

Brought to the St. Louis riverfront in 1964, the Becky Thatcher and the Tom Sawyer were originally used to take curious sightseers out on the river to view the construction of the Gateway Arch. While the city may have changed since then, the views of the Gateway Arch are as impressive as ever.

This Mississippi River St. Louis boat tour is a great way to see the city and learn about its history.

City Trolley Tour

Kids will love to take a trip back in time and ride in an authentic trolley around St Louis. The City Trolley Tour has fun expert local guides who explain how St Louis became a city and its colorful history – from the 1800s to the present. On the tour, you’ll see the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium, the Mississippi River, Anheuser Busch brewery, Busch Stadium (home of the St Louis Cardinals), Union Station and so much more on this fun city tour.

Learn about tour prices and times .

St Louis Scavenger Hunt Adventure

This Scavenger Hunt Adventure is a fun way for your kids to learn about local history while exploring the “Gateway to the West”. Your smartphone is your guide as you solve clues and complete challenges around St Louis.

As you work through the game, you will move around different highlights within the city. You can time the challenge completion or take your time, grabbing food and drinks in between.

Learn more about the Scavenger Hunt .

Remember the struggles of wanting to see art at a museum, but knowing there was no way your kids were going to be quiet and behave? City Garden has that problem solved. 

An outdoor museum with oversized sculptures, amazing water features for kids to splash and cool off in during summer, and colorful plants as stunning as the artworks. Best of all? It’s completely free! 

Self-guided tours are available as pdf’s through their website. Locals and tourists alike flock here to spend anywhere from a few hours to all day! You don’t want to skip this attraction if you are looking for fun things to do in St. Louis with kids. It’s a great place for a sunny day and to really make a day of it, bring a picnic lunch.

Address: 801 Market Street, Saint Louis, Missouri 63101

The Magic House

Of the SEVEN children’s museums in St. Louis, Missouri, The Magic House is one of the most popular St. Louis attractions for kids! And it’s easy to see why!

Outdoors, kids can explore a waterfall patio, outdoor play garden, and the sunshine classroom. 

Indoors, your kids will spend hours climbing around a larger-than-life Jack and the Beanstalk room, making art in the art studio, and playing in the children’s village. 

Want to bring a picnic? Head to their museum’s outdoor garden pavilion with all your favorites from home before heading inside to play! Admission is $12.50 per person over 1 year old. Military members get in free, as do foster families with a license.  

A great rainy day excursion.

Address: 516 S. Kirkwood Road St. Louis, MO 63122

Saint Louis Science Center

The Saint Louis Science Center was founded as a planetarium in 1963. It is a collection of buildings including a science museum and planetarium located in Forest Park.

The Science Center is an interactive museum where kids (and adults) can learn about all sorts of sciences. Beyond kid-friendly hands-on exhibits you can’t beat the dinosaur exhibit. There is a lot to keep kids busy at the museum!

The Saint Louis Science Center combines experimentation, creativity, and play to help people discover a passion for science and technology. With over 15 exhibits plus a planetarium and 3D IMAX theater, there is something for every mind to be engaged in!

Address: 5050 Oakland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110

Variety Wonderland Playground in Forest Park

Created in 2005, the half-acre Variety Wonderland Playground was one of the first playgrounds in the St. Louis region that was fully accessible to children of all abilities. Since then, it has become a favorite for St. Louis families and Forest Park visitors from around the region.

This playground is located behind the History Museum. The park has 29 pieces of equipment in five play areas. First Adventures is for children ages 2-5, Big Adventures is for children ages 6 to 12. There is also a Secret Garden, an Observation Relaxation Deck, and Living Shelter.

The fun includes teeter-totter swings with high backs, disc swings, metal slides for children with cochlear implants, double slides, and four-seat seesaws.

Some of the features include a wheelchair-accessible treehouse, Braille panel, and 32 musical pylons for the visually impaired, creative panels, 14 perennials known to attract, feed, and house Monarch butterflies, and talk phones.

There is a nearby restroom complete with changing table and the Forest Park Cafe that sells a wide variety of hot food, snacks, and drinks. 

Address: 5601-5653 Grand Dr, St. Louis, MO 63112

Grant’s Farm

Did you know the Busch family, of the Anheuser-Busch company, has an estate you can tour with your family in St. Louis, MO? 

Grant’s Farm is a historic farm, built by Ulysses S. Grant (18th President of the United States) on land given to him and his wife by his father-in-law Frederick Fayette Dent in 1848. Since 1903, it has been owned by the Busch family.

You can find the log cabin of Ulysses S. Grant, German-style stables that are home to the famous Clydesdale horses, longhorn cows, and delicious meals at the Brat Haus. 

Guests over 21 years old can also participate in a free beer tasting at the Brat Haus while kiddos fill up on hamburgers, hot dogs, brats, or chicken strips. 

Admission to the farm is FREE! You will have to pay for parking, and behind-the-scenes tours are available for purchase.

Address: 7385 Grant Rd, St. Louis, MO 63123

Go to a St. Louis Cardinals Game

One of the best things to do in St. Louis for sports fans is attend a Cardinals game. This is the city’s Major League Baseball franchise and they play at Busch Stadium.

They have a Family Pavilion that is located on Level 1 between Gates 5 and 6, on the northeast corner of Busch Stadium. It’s open before and during the game and you simply need to show your ticket to get in. There’s a fee for some of the games and activities, but if you’re dealing with bored kids, it’s worth every penny!

Children younger than 3 get in to all games for free.

Address: 700 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO 63102

Missouri Botanical Garden

When looking for fun things to do in St. Louis with kids, the Missouri Botanical Gardens should not be skipped. Kids will especially love the Children’s Garden area located inside the Climatron Conservatory. In this 2-acre zone, your kids will jump on-board a steamboat, explore limestone caves, and scramble to the top of a tree house!

After all those daring adventures, the entire family might welcome some peace and relaxation– so head to the 14-acre Japanese Gardens. Here, both Shinto and Buddhist traditions combine with many others to create a garden that brings reverence to nature’s beauty. 

Founded in 1859, the Missouri Botanical Garden is the nation’s oldest botanical garden in continuous operation and a National Historic Landmark. The Garden is a center for botanical research and science education, as well as an oasis in the city of St. Louis.

Free admission to anyone 12 and under and STL residents pay just $6. Otherwise, general admission for 13 and older is $14

About 20 minutes from ST. Louis

Address: 15050 Faust Park, Chesterfield, MO 63017

Fun Things for Families near St. Louis

The butterfly house.

The Butterfly House is home to over 60 tropical butterfly species located in a Conservatory with over 150 tropical plants. This lovely garden combined with the beauty of the butterflies is the heart of the Butterfly House and a fun outing for families who want to connect to nature and learn about butterflies.

Admission to for 3-12 and over 65 is $5. General addmission is $8.

Purina Farms

I’m sure you’ve heard of Purina pet food. But did you know they have a farm? It’s one of the top activities for kids in St. Louis! Purina Farms is only open from mid-April through the end of October, but if you’re there during the right months, it’s an activity with the kids you don’t want to miss. 

The barn and play area is one of their most popular areas where you can pet pigs, sheep, cows, horses, and more. Don’t miss the Incredible Dog Arena either! You may be lucky enough to catch a demonstration by some of the country’s most talented dogs doing mind-blowing tricks.

Purina Farms is located about 40 minutes from St. Lous and admission is free. However, if a special event is going on, you may have to pay for parking.  

Address: 500 William Danforth Way, Gray Summit, MO  63039

Big Joel’s Safari Petting Zoo & Educational Park

You won’t find lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!) at this park. Instead, you’ll find yourself surrounded by camels, lemurs, goats, and wallabies, just to name a few. The safari petting zoo is about 40 minutes from St. Louis and a great option for younger children.

It encompasses about 15 acres, and it is unique compared to most; you don’t drive through— you get to walk among the animals! Half is set up as a petting zoo while the other half is a more traditional zoo. You can purchase food at the admission gate to feed the animals as you walk through.

Camel rides, pony rides, and parakeet encounters are also available to purchase. The admission for children is $10; adults are $12 per person. When you’re debating comprising your bucket list of kid-friendly things to do in St. Louis, don’t leave this safari adventure out!

Address: 13187 State Hwy M Wright City, MO 63390

Family Friendly Hotels in St. Louis

Now that you have found some great things to do with kids in St. Louis, it’s time to find that perfect hotel that parents will love as much as the kiddos.

Hampton Inn St. Louis Downtown (at the Gateway Arch)

There are dozens of great options for hotels when you are visiting St. Louis with kids! One of our favorites is the Hampton Inn downtown ! The games room, complete with old-school arcade games, puzzles, and board games is the perfect spot for teens to chill and relax at the end of the day. 

Plus, their oversized rooms offer plenty of space for families! Younger kiddos appreciate the super kid-friendly menu options at the restaurants inside the hotel as well. This hotel also boasts an indoor and outdoor pool, so no matter the weather, you’ve got a fun activity right downstairs from your room!

Check out reviews of Hampton Inn St. Louis Downtown on Tripadvisor and find the best hotel rates on Hotels.com or Booking.com .

HoteLumiere at the Arch

This hotel offers something for everyone when you are staying in St. Louis with kids! The adults in the family will love enjoying a drink at the bar, relaxing at the spa, enjoy some excitement in the casino, or keeping up their fitness routine in the gym. But wait! You can’t take kids to a bar, right? 

HoteLumiere has that covered with an amazing babysitting service where your kids are guaranteed to have as much fun as you do on your night out! And when it’s time for the family to all have fun together, you can splash and swim in the pool!

Check out reviews of HoteLumiere at the Arch on Tripadvisor and find the best hotel rates on Hotels.com or Booking.com .

St. Louis Union Station Hotel

When people think of the top St. Louis attractions for families, they may not initially think of adding a hotel to that list. But the St. Louis Union Station Hotel is more than just a place to sleep; it’s an amazing experience! This hotel does an amazing job of combining the history of the city with all of the modern luxuries and comforts you love from home. The pool and bar just add to the fun factor! This hotel is located within walking distance of some of the top St. Louis attractions for kids.

Check out reviews of St. Louis Union Station Hotel on Tripadvisor and find the best hotel rates on Hotels.com or Booking.com .

The Four Seasons Hotel in St. Louis

The Four Seasons is a luxury hotel and might seem intimidating at first for a family visiting St. Louis with kids. But look a bit deeper, and you’ll discover a hotel that is absolutely perfect for your family! Where else have you been provided with child-size robes for your kids to cuddle up in while eating breakfast in the room?

After breakfast, head to the TopGolf Swing Suite for a fun simulator that has zombie dodgeball, carnival games, hockey, and so much more! Or go swimming on the roof top pool with unparalleled views of the famous Arch! 

Want an insider’s tip? Order the kids’ sundaes from Cinder House with your evening cocktails delivered to your room. The sundaes are the perfect size to put a smile on their faces without keeping them up all night on a sugar high! 

Check out reviews of The Four Seasons Hotel on Tripadvisor and find the best hotel rates on Hotels.com or Booking.com .

Family Friendly Restaurants in St. Louis

Best places to grab some grub that will please the kids and the adults.

Fitz’s Root Beer

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fitz’s Root Beer (@fitzsrootbeer)

I’m sure you’ve heard of micro-breweries for beer, right? Well, this microbrewery is designed with the kids in mind! Fritz’s soda microbrewery makes and bottles 19 unique and delicious flavors right here in St. Louis! But you can get more than just soda here!

They boast some of the best burgers in the region, winning the 2021 Best Kid-Friendly and Family-Friendly Restaurant in St. Louis by St. Louis Magazine! I’m sure after you’ve split one of their gigantic floats, you’ll be ordering some bottles to go!

Address: 6605 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63130

Llywelyn’s Pub

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind place to eat while you’re out having family fun with kids in St. Louis, you want to stop by this pub! Dragon wings, adult grilled cheese sandwiches, and the best steak and cheese sandwich are a few of the locals’ favorites. 

Picky eaters? Llywelyn’s has you covered with their favorite comfort foods such as chicken tenders, mac and cheese, and burgers. Bonus: All kids’ meals come with some of St. Louis’ famous Fitz soda and a special surprise! 

Address: 1732 South 9th Street St. Louis, MO 63104

Pappy’s Smokehouse

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pappy’s Smokehouse (@pappyssmokehouse)

Every family has their BBQ lover. The one who has to try the local style of bar-b-que wherever they travel. Well, when you are out exploring fun things to do in St. Louis with kids, you do not want to miss this BBQ joint!

Pappy’s Smokehouse has two locations and a food truck! I know, you’re wondering how I can make promises about this restaurant, right? Well, the Food Network has named this place as having the best ribs in all of America, AND Southern Living Magazine claims it is the best BBQ in all of Missouri! Try it out while you’re there, and I know you’ll be telling all of your friends when they are finding things to do in St. Louis for kids.

Address: 3106 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63103

Crown Candy Kitchen

If your kids are anything like mine, before we’ve even started eating dinner, they are already asking where a fun dessert place can be found. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Head to the Crown Candy Kitchen for some of the most decadent ice cream you’ve had in years! 

For those over-achievers in the family, the Crown Candy Kitchen offers a 5 Malt Challenge. Anyone that can drink 5 malted shakes in 30 minutes for less gets them all free, plus a t-shirt and bragging rights with their name on the wall of fame!

Address: 1401 St. Louis Ave. St. Louis, MO 63106

9 Mile Garden

This unique dining venue is home to a daily rotation of dozen of food trucks serving up the best Saint Louis has to offer their locals and visitors and it’s just 20 minutes from downtown!

You can find out which trucks will be there each day by checking their Facebook and Instagram pages. Come out on Mondays and Thursdays for trivia night. Or listen to some great live music on Friday and Saturday evenings. Bring the kids, the dogs, and all your friends for a laid back, fun time full of laughter and memories!  

Address: 9375 Gravois Road, Affton, MO, 63123

Hope you enjoyed our list of fun things to do with kids in St. Louis. If we missed something you love to do with your kids, please let us know in the comments.

We also have our favorite things to do in St. Louis for every month. Just click on any month to plan your next STL adventure! January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December

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The Family Vacation Guide

15 of the Best Family Resorts in Missouri

posted by James Brockbank on September 15, 2022 // last updated on September 15, 2022

People may not consider Missouri when they think of idyllic vacation locations, but the Show-Me State has more to offer than people think. 

There are gorgeous lakes and delicious restaurants, and they’re known for having some of the best barbecue ribs in the world. 

To make the experience as perfect as possible, stay at one of these spectacular resorts that love hosting families and offer plenty to do for everyone. 

As fifteen of the best family resorts in Missouri, you’re sure to have a memorable and fun vacation at any one of these spots. 

The Lodge of Four Seasons

Branson hillside hotel by vacation club rentals, margaritaville lake resort lake of the ozarks, camden on the lake resort, the lodge at port arrowhead, lodges at timber ridge by vacation club rentals, regalia hotel and conference center, alhonna resort, stillwaters resort, grand country waterpark resort, cliffs resort table rock lake, rock harbor resort, thousand hills resort and golf club, inn at grand glaize, rockwood resort motel.

The Lodge of Four Seasons is right on the Lake of the Ozarks and has an elegant but playful atmosphere perfect for a family vacation. The resort is huge and known for its fun concerts and live events throughout the summer. 

The resort focuses on lining up exciting activities for families to take part in together, as well as opportunities for them to enjoy their vacation separately. 

The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and they offer joint suites, ideal for large families that don’t want to be on top of one another the entire trip. 

There are restaurants and bars on-site, a lovely rooftop you can relax on, and a gorgeous golf course the whole family can enjoy together. 

The Branson Hillside Hotel is a stunning resort with a massive pool and a beautiful atmosphere for a family vacation. The boutique hotel was started by a family who loved to vacation in Branson and wanted to offer the perfect place for other families to enjoy what the area offers. 

There are many fun things to do as a family in the Branson area, from the Natural History Museum to train tours to exciting theme parks. 

You’ll never have a dull day when you stay at this resort, and people report the staff couldn’t be friendlier or more accommodating. They foster a lovely family vibe where people of all ages are welcome. 

The Margaritaville Lake Resort is a marvelous place to stay with a family or couple. While the name Margaritaville implies it has a party scene, it’s a very soothing and relaxed environment. But yes, there are margaritas! 

It’s right on the Lake of the Ozarks, offering incredible views of the water and surrounding forest. There is a beautiful pool, but you can also rent a boat and launch right off the hotel’s docks,  explore the beauty of the lake and take a refreshing dip. 

This resort is ideal for the outdoorsy family that wants to enjoy the nature of Missouri and do exhilarating activities like jet skiing, boating, swimming, and more. 

As the name suggests, the Camden on the Lake Resort is right on the Lake of the Ozarks. The hotel is a full resort and yacht club with loads of shopping options for those less interested in exploring the outdoors. 

This resort is super luxurious, with a spa and high-end dining options. There’s a swim-up bar where you can live out your dream vacation. While this is a family resort, it’s better suited to families looking for ultimate relaxation rather than a family full of high-energy little kids. 

So if you’re trying to plan a family trip for hard-to-please teenagers, this resort will check all their boxes and ensure everyone has a fantastic vacation. 

Another fabulous resort on the Lake of the Ozarks is the Lodge at Port Arrowhead . This resort has a little bit of everything Missouri vacationing has to offer. There are exciting water activities to partake in on the lake, like tubing, wakeboarding, water skiing, or jet skiing. 

But there’s also a serene indoor pool if the weather isn’t ideal. The rooms are spacious and beautiful, and the staff has exemplified incredible attention to detail. They want to make every aspect and moment of your Missouri vacation impeccable. 

They are a pet-friendly resort, so you can bring your furry family members too! And if you have little kids, there is a colorful outdoor playground and indoor game room so they can have fun while you relax by the cozy outdoor fireplace. 

The Lodges at Timber Ridge are a fantastic place to stay in Branson. They have a lot to offer families that want to enjoy every second of their vacation and stay busy with fun activities. 

Not only are there exhilarating things to do like run around the indoor water park and pool, but there are in-room activities you can enjoy while relaxing. There are s’mores kits you can purchase at the front desk and make gooey chocolatey s’mores from the comfort of your room. 

When you stay here, you’re sure to make lasting and lovely memories with your family, even if you hold up in your room enjoying each other’s company. 

The Regalia Hotel is a place for fun and relaxation, despite the conference center. There is an insanely large pool with a bar right in the middle so you can enjoy drinks while the kiddos swim around and soak up the sun. 

The resort itself is breathtaking, and they offer elegant room service and top-notch customer service. This hotel is an excellent place if you want a luxury vacation with all the bells and whistles, from beautiful fine dining to a high-end gym facility. 

The only thing some people say is missing is a relaxing spa, but if a facial wasn’t on your must-do list for this vacation, you’ll have a spectacular time. 

The Alhonna Resort is a beautiful place to stay in Missouri with loads of enjoyable activities. It isn’t as luxurious and high-end as some of the other resorts on this list, offering a more comfortable and homey vibe for those that want to enjoy the scenery and Missouri nature.

The lodging is more cabin-style than hotel rooms, so you can step outside right from your room and drink your coffee in the fresh Missouri air. 

There’s an on-site restaurant called Bobber’s and Blue Cat Lounge, offering casual dining with some super tasty dishes. They’re open most of the day, so you can grab a filling breakfast before a fun-filled day or end your day with a delicious dinner. 

The Stillwaters Resort is the perfect place to take a group of kids on vacation as there are loads of water activities to do right at the resort. The resort is directly on Table Rock Lake, minutes away from exciting Silver Dollar City along Indian Point Road. 

So you can spend the whole trip held up in the resort having fun, or you can easily travel and explore the area around Table Rock Lake. This resort is also more casual than luxurious for people looking for a simple but joyous vacation in Missouri. 

But there is a fun outdoor water park on the property to keep the kids entertained, as well as three swimming pools. The resort has lakefront condos perfect for large families as some of them have as many as six bedrooms. 

The Grand Country Waterpark Resort is geared toward family fun with plenty of activities for kids. As the name suggests, the resort features a massive waterpark with speedy slides and lazy rivers. 

There is a colorful and exhilarating indoor arcade that will keep everyone busy for hours on end, and there are even virtual reality games that will transport you into a new world. You can play laser tag or zoom around in bumper cars. 

There are so many activities on the property, so this is one of the most popular choices for a Missouri family vacation. Play a competitive round of mini-golf or relax by the pool. The best part is everyone can do their own thing without leaving the resort!

The Cliffs Resort is ideal for someone looking for a longer vacation because they have stunning condos with full kitchens or kitchenettes to meet your needs. 

They recently changed their setup, so now the condos are owned individually and available to rent through Airbnb or VRBO; nevertheless, it’s still a delightful place to vacation. 

Many condos even have their own fireplaces and king-sized beds, making them one of the most comfortable resorts in Missouri for families. You can swim in the beautiful infinity edge pool or lounge by the luxury outdoor fireplace. 

The resort offers incredible views, and they even have a Ferris wheel on site so you can enjoy the scenery of Table Rock Lake from the tippy top. 

Rock Harbor Resort is nestled on Cape Hollow Cove at Lake of the Ozarks, offering lovely views and a cozy stay. The resort is a fantastic place for families that love an outdoor adventure. 

They offer canoes, pontoons, and fishing boats for rent, so you can enjoy the lake to the fullest. It’s also a wonderful spot for people that love to fish, as they have a freshwater cleaning station and frequently host entertaining fishing tournaments. 

There are heated pools, along with a cozy patio and a large fireplace. There is even a recreation room with games like pool for the days you don’t want to go outside. This place is idyllic for someone that wants to enjoy nature and get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. 

Thousand Hills Resort has a beautiful rustic yet luxury aesthetic that will make you feel at home but also on a lavish vacation. It’s the perfect balance between woodsy cabins and a five-star hotel with plush comforters. It has everything you could need. 

This is one of the best Missouri family resorts for a large group, so if you have many kids or families coming along, this may be the perfect place to book your stay. 

There is full concierge service, and the staff is eager to fulfill all your needs and wants to make your stay everything you hoped it would be. And there’s a massive golf course right on the property, so you can have a fun game with your whole family on a sunny Missouri day. 

The Inn at Grand Glaize is one of the more casual resorts on the Lake of the Ozarks. It is in a secluded cove just a quarter-mile west of the Grand Glaize Bridge. 

It has a funky tiki bar and restaurant where you can enjoy an island vibe after a day on the scenic lake. There is plenty of shopping on the property and close by, so you can buy affordable souvenirs to remember this trip forever. 

There’s an outdoor pool, a wellness center, and a fully-equipped gym in the inn, so you don’t have to gain any vacation weight if you don’t want to. Enjoy the hot sauna or the indoor whirlpool, or get out and rent a boat to explore the lake!

The Rockwood Resort Motel isn’t the fanciest resort, but it is super family-friendly and affordable for a group that wants to enjoy the Lake of the Ozarks and Missouri nature. 

The motel resort isn’t directly on the lake, but it is just a short walk from it, less than 15 minutes. And if you want to go for a dip without leaving the resort, they have a large and comfortable pool. 

The resort offers the best balance of comfort and affordability, so you can enjoy Missouri without breaking the bank. The resort is charming and quaint and is family-owned, so you’re treated like family when you stay there. 

Whether you want an outdoorsy experience, a relaxing luxury vacation, or a budget-friendly, convenient trip, these spots are some of the best family resorts in Missouri . 

Don’t stay at a bland hotel when you can have an unforgettable family vacation at one of these stellar resorts. 

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

2024 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri

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Health & outdoors

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1-25 of 2,168 results

Suburb of St. Louis, MO

• • Rating 4.55 out of 5   22 reviews

Current Resident: The public school district, Ladue, is very good academic-wise. The quality of housing depends on the neighborhood, as it can be very different. ... Read 22 reviews

• grade  A+ Overall Niche Grade
• grade  A+ Public Schools
• grade  A+ Good for Families

Population 8,431

#1 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

Suburb of St. Louis, MO ,

22 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says The public school district, Ladue, is very good academic-wise. The quality of housing depends on the neighborhood, as it can be very different. .

Read 22 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : A+ ,

Population : 8,431 ,

Chesterfield

• • Rating 4.16 out of 5   142 reviews

Current Resident: I grew up in Chesterfield and have lived here for many years. There is not much to complain about, I feel that it's a pretty safe area to live in. I have never felt worried walking around alone after dark and I have never felt worried about my own safety. If there's one thing I'd like to see change, it's the affordability of housing in the area. There's a decent amount of upper- and middle-class people who live here, but you don't see many people from the lower class. Taxes are higher here than they are in Maryland Heights, which is only about two miles away. Overall, Chesterfield is a good place to live. ... Read 142 reviews

Population 49,645

#2 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

142 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I grew up in Chesterfield and have lived here for many years. There is not much to complain about, I feel that it's a pretty safe area to live in. I have never felt worried walking around alone after... .

Read 142 reviews.

Population : 49,645 ,

• • Rating 4.75 out of 5   8 reviews

Current Resident: Glendale is a small, family-friendly community that is a part of Webster and (majority) Kirkwood schools. Many of the small older homes are getting knocked down to build huge $700k+ four bedroom, three bath homes on these small lots. The community is great, especially if you have kids, but everyone who lives on my street looks the same as me, yet the schools try to push diversity by bussing in kids from the city, while in the long run Kirkwood really should be pushing and helping black and brown families move to the area. ... Read 8 reviews

Population 6,131

#3 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

8 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Glendale is a small, family-friendly community that is a part of Webster and (majority) Kirkwood schools. Many of the small older homes are getting knocked down to build huge $700k+ four bedroom,... .

Read 8 reviews.

Population : 6,131 ,

Notre Dame de Sion Grade School

Private School •

KANSAS CITY, MO •

• • Rating 4.76 out of 5   17

The Barstow School

• • Rating 4.36 out of 5   58

Christ Community Lutheran School - Kirkwood - Middle School & Early Childhood Campus

KIRKWOOD, MO •

• • Rating 4.13 out of 5   8
• • Rating 4.51 out of 5   113 reviews

Current Resident: Love my neighborhood, Ballwin, MO is a wonderful place to raise a family. The property values are up which means we made an awesome investment. I don’t like that our home is considered part of unincorporated St. Louis County so we can’t take advantage of the Point Community Center for the Ballwin resident rate even though our city is Ballwin. I wish we would’ve bought our di home here years ago as it would have been a great investment and we would probably have several investment properties in a wonderfully safe neighborhood. ... Read 113 reviews

Population 30,948

#4 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

113 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Love my neighborhood, Ballwin, MO is a wonderful place to raise a family. The property values are up which means we made an awesome investment. I don’t like that our home is considered part of... .

Read 113 reviews.

Population : 30,948 ,

• • Rating 4.64 out of 5   28 reviews

Current Resident: Easy to navigate the neighborhoods, nice houses, stuck up people, safe from all the crime around. It's near good areas of with good restaurants. Has a really nice street-Wydown Boulevard. Great schools that give great education. ... Read 28 reviews

Population 17,212

#5 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

28 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Easy to navigate the neighborhoods, nice houses, stuck up people, safe from all the crime around. It's near good areas of with good restaurants. Has a really nice street-Wydown Boulevard. Great... .

Read 28 reviews.

Population : 17,212 ,

• • Rating 4.17 out of 5   12 reviews

Nearby Resident: Very pretty, quiet area. A lot of middle-aged family-oriented residents. Close proximity to downtown, airport, and shopping. Beautiful place to live. ... Read 12 reviews

Population 8,934

#6 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

12 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Nearby Resident says Very pretty, quiet area. A lot of middle-aged family-oriented residents. Close proximity to downtown, airport, and shopping. Beautiful place to live. .

Read 12 reviews.

Population : 8,934 ,

• • Rating 4.29 out of 5   92 reviews

Current Resident: It’s been awesome peaceful kinda has a rural feel but you can get to town easily or big city like St. Louis is only 30 min away. Woudlnt come here if you wanna live somewhere that has all the action but great place to be if you wanna live in a peaceful town. ... Read 92 reviews

Population 35,276

#7 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

92 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says It’s been awesome peaceful kinda has a rural feel but you can get to town easily or big city like St. Louis is only 30 min away. Woudlnt come here if you wanna live somewhere that has all the action... .

Read 92 reviews.

Population : 35,276 ,

Clarkson Valley

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

Parent: I love the area. Lots to do with the family. Lots of parks make the area beautiful. We would choose this area again. ... Read 1 review

Population 2,608

#8 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Parent says I love the area. Lots to do with the family. Lots of parks make the area beautiful. We would choose this area again. .

Read 1 reviews.

Population : 2,608 ,

• • Rating 4.78 out of 5   9 reviews

Current Resident: I've lived in Des Peres for nearly 6 years and have loved it. Although housing can get a little pricey, it is still worth it. There is quite a lot to do nearby, not to mention the friendly people and fantastic schools. ... Read 9 reviews

Population 9,140

#9 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

9 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I've lived in Des Peres for nearly 6 years and have loved it. Although housing can get a little pricey, it is still worth it. There is quite a lot to do nearby, not to mention the friendly people and... .

Read 9 reviews.

Population : 9,140 ,

• 2024 Best Places to Live
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• 2024 Places with the Best Public Schools
• • Rating 4.36 out of 5   25 reviews

Current Resident: Just recently moved to Brentwood and my husband and I love it. Very diverse, safe and a fun place to live. ... Read 25 reviews

Population 8,173

#10 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

25 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Just recently moved to Brentwood and my husband and I love it. Very diverse, safe and a fun place to live. .

Read 25 reviews.

Population : 8,173 ,

Warson Woods

Population 2,107

#11 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

Population : 2,107 ,

Population 3,639

#12 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

Population : 3,639 ,

• • Rating 4.18 out of 5   62 reviews

Current Resident: I've really liked how it's a fairly tight knit community full of traditions. I enjoy having traditions like the annual football game against Webster every Thanksgiving, and the Greentree festival and parade every September. I enjoy walking in the downtown area and seeing all of the stores, bakeries, and restaurants as well. I've always enjoyed going to the library for books or the farmers market for local produce. One thing that should be changed is Big Bend Road, especially in the stretch from Couch Avenue to Geyer Road. It desperately needs to be repaved. ... Read 62 reviews

Population 29,309

#13 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

62 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I've really liked how it's a fairly tight knit community full of traditions. I enjoy having traditions like the annual football game against Webster every Thanksgiving, and the Greentree festival and... .

Read 62 reviews.

Population : 29,309 ,

• • Rating 3.5 out of 5   2 reviews

Parent: While the St. Louis area has suffered recently, the Kirkwood area continues to be a great "small town" feeling. However, lately it feels as though drug and crime issues are beginning to infiltrate the area in a way I haven't seen in the past. I wonder if that's just society today however, and not unique to my neighborhood. ... Read 2 reviews

Population 1,633

#14 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

2 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.

Featured Review: Parent says While the St. Louis area has suffered recently, the Kirkwood area continues to be a great "small town" feeling. However, lately it feels as though drug and crime issues are beginning to infiltrate... .

Read 2 reviews.

Population : 1,633 ,

Richmond Heights

• • Rating 4.27 out of 5   22 reviews

Current Resident: I really like Richmond Heights, it's a nice and welcoming place with lots of places to go. This is where I've grown up, so it feels like home to me. ... Read 22 reviews

Population 9,186

#15 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

22 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I really like Richmond Heights, it's a nice and welcoming place with lots of places to go. This is where I've grown up, so it feels like home to me. .

Population : 9,186 ,

Webster Groves

• • Rating 4.14 out of 5   63 reviews

Current Resident: Webster Groves is an idyllic town full of unique homes, beautiful gardens, theaters, galleries, cafes, coffee shops, and neighborhood parks. The schools (public and private) give students of all stripes confident and high quality educations. They have produced nationally renowned alumni generation after generation. And Webster’s proximity to the city (in distance and time) being right along 44 means that residents can realistically participate in all St. Louis has to offer without long commutes, bad traffic, or poor access. Other neighborhoods have bigger homes or lower taxes, but in this case, you really get what you pay for. Webster is well run, and well worth its cost. ... Read 63 reviews

Population 23,838

#16 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

63 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Webster Groves is an idyllic town full of unique homes, beautiful gardens, theaters, galleries, cafes, coffee shops, and neighborhood parks. The schools (public and private) give students of all... .

Read 63 reviews.

Population : 23,838 ,

• • Rating 4.05 out of 5   41 reviews

Current Resident: Manchester has been a great town to grow up in and return home to after college. I would love to see more restaurants and a bigger push for community events within Manchester! ... Read 41 reviews

• grade  A Public Schools

Population 18,240

#17 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

41 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Manchester has been a great town to grow up in and return home to after college. I would love to see more restaurants and a bigger push for community events within Manchester! .

Read 41 reviews.

Population : 18,240 ,

• • Rating 4.14 out of 5   14 reviews

Current Resident: I like the community and the environment. I like the neighbors and I like how their are close places to go eat and shop ... Read 14 reviews

Population 9,914

#18 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

14 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I like the community and the environment. I like the neighbors and I like how their are close places to go eat and shop .

Read 14 reviews.

Population : 9,914 ,

• • Rating 4.22 out of 5   9 reviews

Current Resident: Small town where everyone knows each other, but close enough to the city to feel apart of the city. Just a really nice, safe place. ... Read 9 reviews

Population 4,728

#19 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

9 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Small town where everyone knows each other, but close enough to the city to feel apart of the city. Just a really nice, safe place. .

Population : 4,728 ,

Creve Coeur

• • Rating 4.29 out of 5   52 reviews

Current Resident: Great area, with safe, clean streets, and good stores and shops. Some of the stoplights are extremely slow ... Read 52 reviews

Population 18,679

#20 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

52 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Great area, with safe, clean streets, and good stores and shops. Some of the stoplights are extremely slow .

Read 52 reviews.

Population : 18,679 ,

Suburb of Kansas City, MO

• • Rating 4.42 out of 5   38 reviews

Current Resident: I love Parkville! I have lived here for 17 years and still find things I haven’t done! It is a hidden gem of Missouri. We have about everything from large city feel to small town country life! Parkville has it all! ... Read 38 reviews

Population 7,669

#21 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

Suburb of Kansas City, MO ,

38 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I love Parkville! I have lived here for 17 years and still find things I haven’t done! It is a hidden gem of Missouri. We have about everything from large city feel to small town country life!... .

Read 38 reviews.

Population : 7,669 ,

Weatherby Lake

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   6 reviews

Current Resident: I love the small town living atmosphere, yet being in the heart of the big city. Best of all is the recreational lake that provides the community a commonality for togetherness. The city of Weatherby Lake (2000 people )is only 15 minutes from downtown, 25 minutes to the Plaza and 10 minutes to the airport. The school district is top notch, Park Hill and Has its ow police and mayor form of government. It is less than 30 minutes from Pembroke school as well ... Read 6 reviews

Population 2,422

#22 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

6 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I love the small town living atmosphere, yet being in the heart of the big city. Best of all is the recreational lake that provides the community a commonality for togetherness. The city of... .

Read 6 reviews.

Population : 2,422 ,

• Review your area

Town and Country

• • Rating 4 out of 5   12 reviews

Current Resident: We have lived in Town and Country for close to 12 years. We love the feel of being removed from the hustle and bustle, but in reality on a few minutes away. Location is wonderful for reaching other parts of Saint Louis. The schools have been good for our children. There is a push for walking trails throughout the town and an encouragement for outdoor exercising. We have wonderful county parks just a few minutes away. You are bound to run into people you know whenever you are out and about and even though it is a big city, there is a small town feel. ... Read 12 reviews

Population 11,575

#23 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

12 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says We have lived in Town and Country for close to 12 years. We love the feel of being removed from the hustle and bustle, but in reality on a few minutes away. Location is wonderful for reaching other... The schools have been good for our children. There is a push for walking trails throughout the town and an encouragement for outdoor exercising. We have wonderful county parks just a few minutes away. You are bound to run into people you know whenever you are out and about and even though it is a big city, there is a small town feel. .

Population : 11,575 ,

• • Rating 4.05 out of 5   19 reviews

Current Resident: Fantastic schools, new residential and commercial development fueling continued growth, great parks/swim & rec center, best place to buy groceries in St Louis having new Dierburgs, Aldi and refurbished Schnucks all within 2 blocks, safe/welcoming community for LBGT people/couples such as ourselves! ... Read 19 reviews

Population 12,315

#24 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

19 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Fantastic schools, new residential and commercial development fueling continued growth, great parks/swim & rec center, best place to buy groceries in St Louis having new Dierburgs, Aldi and... .

Read 19 reviews.

Population : 12,315 ,

Dardenne Prairie

• • Rating 3.74 out of 5   39 reviews

Current Resident: We have been in Dardeene Prairie for 2 years now. We came West about 15 minutes. What drew us to Dardeene is the smaller town feel. The walking trails, well kept homes, and overall sense of community are what appealed to us. The location to the high way was ideal, but did not feel like we were on top of the high way. The location to work, school, and church were all ideal. Our neighbors were all very welcoming. We are pleased with our decision to move here. ... Read 39 reviews

• grade  A Overall Niche Grade

Population 12,903

#25 Best Places to Raise a Family in Missouri .

39 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says We have been in Dardeene Prairie for 2 years now. We came West about 15 minutes. What drew us to Dardeene is the smaller town feel. The walking trails, well kept homes, and overall sense of... .

Read 39 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : A ,

Population : 12,903 ,

Kirk Day School

SAINT LOUIS, MO •

• • Rating 4.14 out of 5   14

Heritage Classical Christian Academy

FENTON, MO •

• • Rating 4.42 out of 5   26

Christ Community Lutheran School - Glendale - Early Childhood Campus

Preschool •

GLENDALE, MO

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1

Showing results 1 through 25 of 2,168

10 Best Places to Visit This Fall for a Family Trip

Posted: September 13, 2023 | Last updated: September 28, 2023

Choose the Perfect Spot for a Fall Family Trip

Fall break is only a few weeks away, which means that many families are looking for the best places to visit in fall. Awesome autumn colors are a must, and of course, you need family-friendly activities for an array of ages.

No need to fret if you didn't plan in advance! We've mapped out some of the best fall family vacations that are affordable and fun for everyone.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

No matter what the season may be, Gatlinburg is a gorgeous spot to spend some time away! Settled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, visitors are guaranteed to find vibrant fall colors, awesome adventures in the wilderness, and lots of tourist attractions.

From Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and the Gatlinburg Space Needle to Gatlin's Rugged Ropes Course, mini golf, and more, there is something for kids and adults of all ages. 

Of course, you can also drive 20 minutes down the road to Pigeon Forge to find adventures for older kids, including ziplining through the colorful forest canopy and white water rafting. Make sure to enjoy dinner and a show at Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner and take in an array of museums and shops as well! 

Branson, Missouri

Branson is one of the best places for fall family trips! This Ozark town in nestled in southern Missouri and is filled with fun. First and foremost, they have one of the premier amusement parks in the nation!

Silver Dollar City is unlike any other — this rustic theme park takes you back to the 1880s. While there, take fun photos in old timey garb, ride the thrilling coasters, see some shows, and even explore a cave.

Similar to Pigeon Forge, you can also find Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner, Titanic museums, and other tourist spots that cater to young kids. Make sure to find time to visit Table Rock Lake where you can rent boats, kayaks, or simply go swimming or fishing as well.

There are also fun shops at the Branson Landing and loads of restaurants to enjoy. Big Cedar Lodge is a great spot to stay, but for a truly rustic wilderness experience you can rent a cabin or AirBnb. 

Taos, New Mexico

Yet another wilderness adventure, Taos is in the northern portion of the Land of Enchantment! If you visit at the end of November, you can sneak in a ski trip before the fall season ends, but this beautiful town has loads of other attractions to offer all autumn long. Take a chairlift ride to the top of Wheeler Peak for some fantastic views of New Mexico and explore the Pueblo Collective.

For those visiting at the end of October, there is also the iconic  Taos Mountain Balloon Rally ! Visitors can spot 30+ hot air ballons taking to the skies throught this three-day event. They also have museums, shops, and delicious New Mexican fare for you to indulge in.

And, of course, don't forget to sneak in some picturesque views at the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument. Families can camp, hike, bike, and fish. No matter what you choose, you are sure to show your kids a fun fall time!

Portland, Oregon

Another one of the best fall family vacations is a trip to Portland. Not only can you take in the awesomeness of autumn, but this is also home to one of the nation's haunted amusement parks ! If you have older kids, give them a real thrill by checking out the spirits and the fun at Oaks Park. 

You can also pick pumpkins and apples at area farms, make your way through the corn maze, enjoy one of the many hiking trails in the area, and shop the multiple farmer's markets that Portland has to offer. 

If you travel just 45 minutes away from the big city, you can also enjoy an event called The Spirit of Halloweentown ! Celebrate the holiday all October with haunted tours, costume contests, and more spooky fun.

North Conway, New Hampshire

This is one of the best places to visit in the fall if you are hoping to take in the breathtaking colors of the season. The White Mountains provide the perfect backdrop for any family photo, along with an array of outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy! Visit waterfalls, area lakes, or take a trip up to the Cranmore Mountain Resort.

You also have the option of taking in the sights on the Conway Scenic Railroad. For those families looking for a more rustic trip, Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park is the ultimate family camp ground that gives you the perfect mix of the outdoors and theme park fun.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

For families looking for the highlights of fall, while still indulging in the fun of summer, Great Wolf Lodge is the perfect solution. This indoor water park makes swimming and water slides possible any time of year. Once you cool off inside, you can then take in the fresh air on a hike through the Rocky Mountains! 

From pumpkin patches and hay rides to apple picking and more, you can get the ultimate fall family trip in Colorado Springs. Did we also mention that they have the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, horseback rides, and exhilarating helicopter rides available? No matter if you are going for a day trip or a whole week, you are guaranteed to find fun in the Centennial state!

Fast Fact We can't let you go without mentioning that you can also visit the North Pole in Colorado Springs! Santa's Workshop is another awesome amusement park that will fill your visit with merry moments.

Seattle, Washington

The Emerald City is an enchanting place to visit in the fall. When touring this rainy town, you can get the best of both the city and the mountains. The Grand Ridge Trail Park is a great place to sneak in a hike or you can visit one of the many waterfalls in the region. Then, peruse Pike's Place Market for some locally sourced products and take a trip to the Space Needle to see a spectacular view of the city and the fantastic fall colors!

Other attractions that are tailored for the younger portions of your party include the Seattle Aquarium, the Woodland Park Zoo, and the Seattle Great Wheel. However, if you want some true fall activities, there are also corn mazes and pumpkin patches to enjoy! And, don't forget to get out on the water and take a ferry ride while in nation's largest ferry fleet location.

Door County, Wisconsin

You may not realize it, but Wisconsin has a peninsula on Lake Michigan! This is where you can find the beautiful Door County and it makes for another perfect spot for a ferry ride. While in the dairy state, you must also try some squeaky cheese curds, visit some dairy farms, and pick some apples at one of the many orchards in the area.

Don't forget to visit lighthouses throughout the region, spend a cool afternoon at the beach, and hike the Ridges Sanctuary Family Discovery Trail as well. Families can also go mini golfing, rent bikes for a day, and even sneak a peak at the northern lights! There are so many things to do in Door County during the fall months that you might just have to visit more than once.

Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls is a spot that's a must-see! Add in the autumn foliage and it is a hard view to beat. If you are looking for one of the best places to visit in fall, New York is pretty perfect. Niagra County has over 800 farms, so there are pumpkins and apples aplenty. 

Hiking is another fun way to take in the Niagara Gorge and the beauty of the region. Then, families can sneak in some early holiday shopping with the many boutiques and outlets in the region. And to get into the spirit of the season, stop by the Old Fort Niagara on Saturday nights in Ocotober, where you can hear haunting tales on their Lantern and Lore Tours .

Quick Tip If you have toddlers in tow, strollers are recommended when visiting Niagara Falls. This can keep them safe and it can limit their time on foot in between attractions.

Fresno, California

We know what you are thinking — Fresno? Really? Surprisingly, this city has loads to offer families looking for fun fall getaways, including Sequoia National Park! Spend a day amongst the towering trees, breathing in the crisp fall air. While the colors will be green, it is still an awe-inspiring sight. Spend the night at one of the nearby lodges and then make your way back to Fresno in the morning.

Once you get back to the city, check out the Fresno Chaffee Zoo and enjoy ZooBoo  throughout the month of October. Then, get in on the fun at the Big Fresno Fair! They not only have rides and tons of fried food but also exhilarating horse races. Fresno is also a huge agricultural area, so there are plenty of autumn farms to visit.

The Best Fall Family Vacations Include Nature

The best places to visit in fall all have one thing in common — nature. Not only do forests bring the gorgeous fall foliage that we know and love, they also provide a great way for your kids to get out some of that unlimited energy they seem to always have stored up. Best of all, outdoor exploration is extremely affordable !

Head out early, pack a picnic lunch, explore the alluring autumn views, and then head back to the hotel for a well-deserved nap before you enjoy the more touristy parts of these popular travel spots. This can keep your fall family trips budget friendly and help to prevent meltdowns along the way.

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• Last Updated On
• November 3, 2023

17 Fun Things to Do in Columbia with Kids — Family Friendly Activities!

If you’re eyeing Columbia for your next family outing, you’re onto something good. 

As someone who’s lived in the state for years, I can vouch for the genuine charm and variety this city offers. 

It’s not just a college town or a pit stop between St. Louis and Kansas City. 

It’s a destination in its own right.

Now, you’re probably wondering about fun things to do in Columbia with kids. 

From parks that stretch for acres to cozy, family-friendly restaurants, Columbia has a well-rounded appeal. 

And yes, I’ve taken my own family to these places, so I’m not just talking the talk here. 

So, if you’re planning or even just contemplating a trip, keep reading. 

Columbia’s got a lot to show you.

Fun Things To Do In Columbia With Kids Compared

Looking to jazz up your family time in Columbia? 

Don’t miss my top picks below for kid-approved fun.

Editor’s Choice

Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

Running 2,273 acres, the recreation area and geological preserve offer visitors a lot of opportunities for outdoor activities.

• Age Compatibility: Young Children (6-9 years old)
• Educational Value: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 4/5
• Accessibility: 3/5
• Affordability: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

Stephens Lake Park

Known as the crown jewel of Columbia’s park system, Stephens Lake Park offers 11 acres of land and water dedicated for outdoor family fun.

• Age Compatibility: Preschoolers (4-5 years old)
• Educational Value: 3/5
• Accessibility: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

The Candy Factory

The Candy Factory, considered the finest chocolate in central Missouri, first opened its doors in 1974.

• Educational Value: 2/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Affordability: 3/5

Here are 17 fun activities in Columbia with kids.

1. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park (Editor’s Choice)

5901 South Highway 163 Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-7402 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Five miles south of Columbia lies Rock Bridge Memorial State Park.

Ratings Criteria

• Outdoor exploration: In Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, you can hike through scenic trails, cross wooden bridges, and discover caves and natural rock formations, fostering an appreciation for nature.
• Educational value: The park provides educational programs and interpretive displays that teach children about geology, wildlife, and the importance of preserving natural habitats. 
• Limited indoor activities: If the weather is unfavorable, there are limited indoor activities at the park. 
• Physical demands: Some trails in the park can be challenging, with steep inclines and uneven terrain.

Why Your Family Should Go

Ever heard of the “Devil’s Icebox”? It’s a peculiar cave found inside Rock Bridge Memorial State Park.

As scary as its name sounds, the cave actually stays at a constant cool 56 degrees all year long.

Adults will enjoy the peaceful hike on the way and kids will be astonished by the mysterious, chilly cave.

What to Do with Kids

Have you ever seen a sinkhole?

Here’s your chance!

Follow the Sinkhole Trail and you’ll find a few surprises along the way.

Recommended Ages

A nature trip to Rock Bridge Memorial State Park is recommended for children aged 6 years old and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Columbia

2. Stephens Lake Park

2001 E Broadway Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 874-7460 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Variety of activities: Stephens Lake Park offers a wide range of activities for kids, including playgrounds, a beach area with swimming, paddle boating, and a skate park. 
• Scenic beauty: The park features a picturesque lake with walking trails and beautiful gardens. 
• Crowded during peak times: Finding a quiet spot may be challenging during busy times.
• Seasonal limitations: Some activities, such as swimming, may only be available during the warmer months.

Stephens Lake Park is known for its numerous tree collections and its historical significance in the community.

Here, your family will enjoy swimming, fishing, walking trails, and a whole lot more.

Looking for stuff to do with kids near you?

Head to the Children’s Grove at Stephens Lake Park and watch your children play and frolic around the grove.

A trip to Stephens Lake Park is recommended for all ages

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Plaza Hotel Columbia East

Related: Best Things to Do in Columbia, MO

3. The Candy Factory

701 Cherry St Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 443-8222 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Creating nothing but the best chocolate candies, truffles, cookies, and caramels, a trip to The Candy Factory has become a staple to the locals.

• Sweet treats: It’s a paradise for those with a sweet tooth, and children can enjoy picking out their favorite treats.
• Unique gift shopping: Kids can pick out special treats to share with friends and family, making it a great place for gift shopping.
• Limited healthy options: A visit to The Candy Factory is all about indulging in sugary treats, which may not align with parents’ desire for healthy snacks. 
• Expense: High-quality candy can be pricey, and children may end up wanting more than their parents are willing to buy, leading to potential conflicts or overspending.

One of the best places to take kids in Columbia City is none other than The Candy Factory.

Find out why the locals keep coming back as you splurge from a collection of chocolate-covered goodies.

Try the shop’s delicious sea-salt caramels made with their secret caramel recipe.

Also purchase some chocolate-covered cookies and strawberries to keep you on a sugar high for the rest of the day.

The Candy Factory welcomes chocolate and candy-lovers of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Wingate by Wyndham Columbia

4. Francis Quadrangle

410 S 6th St Columbia, MO 65211 (573) 882-2121 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The towering columns in Francis Quadrangle are the notorious symbols of the University of Missouri-Columbia.

It was named after Missouri’s former governor, David R. Francis, who was crucial to building the university.

Not only is the historical landmark a great spot to take pictures, but also great for viewing the beautiful garden that surrounds it.

Children will love playing on the wide lawn while parents can enjoy a stroll through the garden.

Enjoy some cheap family-fun by bringing a leisure mat, frisbee, blankets, and some bubble solution.

Spend the rest of the afternoon just relaxing and admiring the beautiful surroundings while your kids play.

A visit to Francis Quadrangle is recommended for families with children of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites – Columbia

5. Shryocks Callaway Farms

2927 County Rd 253 Columbia, MO 65202 (573) 592-0192 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Farming in Northern Callaway since 1889, Shryocks Callaway Farms has been harvesting crops like soybeans, wheat, and corn.

In 2002, they opened their doors to the public and since then has been one of the most popular attractions for kids and their families in Columbia, MO.

If you’re looking for the perfect countryside getaway, look no further than Shryocks Callaway Farms.

As one of the best places for family activities in Columbia, the farm offers roaring campfires, huge pumpkins, and a life-size corn maze your kids will absolutely adore.

Enjoy bonding over good old campfires and hayrides with your kids.

Don’t forget to also take them to see the Big Red Barn and the three-story Gumball Coaster.

A visit to Shryocks Callaway Farms is advised for families with children of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Baymont by Wyndham Fulton

Also See: Things to Do in St. Louis for Kids Things for Kids to Do in Branson

6. Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area

Star School Rd Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 445-3882 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area is in Boone County at the southwest edge of Columbia, near McBaine.

The Missouri River and Perche Creek provide over 10 miles of stream frontage on Eagle Bluffs.

Get ready to see some migrating and wintering birds, wildlife, and breathtaking foliage.

Lined with bordering limestone bluffs, particularly in the fall, Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area is one of the stops in Columbia you wouldn’t want to miss.

Thinking of what to do in Columbia with kids?

Take them hiking at Katy Trail State Park.

The trail passes through Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area and gives visitors plenty of opportunities to appreciate the nature that surrounds them.

A trip to Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area is recommended to guests of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Inn & Suites Columbia Stadium Boulevard

7. Mizzou Arena

1 Champions Dr #200 Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 882-6501 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Mizzou Arena is an indoor stadium inside the campus of the University of Missouri in Columbia.

Opened in November 2004, it also serves as Columbia-Jefferson City Market’s well-known “stadium” performances such as the Eagles.

Outside the building, you’ll notice the arena’s beautifully arched roof.

Upon entering, you’ll see rows upon rows of seats; 15,061, to be exact.

Whether watching a sports game or a concert, this venue is perfect for giving you great open viewing and awesome food.

Got nothing to do today?

Catch a local game of basketball at the Mizzou Arena.

Before heading home, swing by the gift shop and pick up a cool souvenir.

Mizzou Arena opens its doors to individuals and families of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Staybridge Suites Columbia-Highway 63 & I-70, an IHG Hotel

Also See: Kids Activities: Kansas City Things to Do in Springfield with Kids

8. Activity and Recreation Center (ARC)

1701 W Ash St Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 874-7700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Located in Clary-Shy Park in Columbia, MO, ARC is Missouri’s popular sports and fitness center.

The 73,000 sq ft facility features an indoor leisure pool, indoor track, gymnasium, and more.

If you’re looking for fun and athletic kids activities in Columbia, MO, the ARC has got you covered.

Spend the whole day with the family shifting from different sports activities.

From swimming in the morning to playing pickleball in the afternoon, you’ll surely be in for a good time at the ARC.

Pack up your swimsuits and spend the day swimming in ARC’s indoor pool.

Children will love the pool’s interactive water play structure, triple-loop water slide, and lazy river.

The ARC is recommended for toddlers and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Columbia at the University of Missouri

9. Runge Nature Center

330 Commerce Dr Jefferson, MO 65109 (573) 526-5544 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Located in Jefferson, Runge Nature Center contains more than 3,000 square feet of exhibits featuring Missouri’s natural habitats.

The Nature Center also has five hiking trails, woodlands, prairies, glades, and a lot more for visitors to enjoy.

With all the beautiful landscapes that surround the city, one of the best things to do in Columbia with kids is to go hiking.

Runge Nature Center offers a lot of opportunities to fulfill this, so don’t pass up the opportunity to try the park’s Naturescape Trail.

Check out Runge Nature Center’s 3,580-gallon fish aquarium as well as live amphibians and reptiles.

There’s also an indoor wildlife viewing reception as well as a nature library.

Families with children of all ages are welcome at the Runge Nature Center.

10. Columbia Cosmopolitan Recreation Center

1615 Business Loop 70 W. Columbia, MO 65202 (573) 874-7460 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

More popularly known as Cosmo Park, this municipal park is the largest out of the two regional parks in the area.

The park hosts the annual Show-Me State Games and many other tournaments and events.

Bringing little ones with you to the trip?

One of the most popular things to do in Columbia with toddlers is taking them to Steinberg Playground.

It is the biggest playground in Columbia’s park system and is found in Cosmo Park.

If you haven’t got any plans for this weekend yet, visit Cosmo Park and go for a hike with your kids at Bear Creek Trail.

If you’ve got skaters with you, also check out Columbia Skate Park or go golfing at L. A. Nickell Golf Course, all located within Cosmo Park.

The park is recommended for all ages and its family-friendly facilities make it easy for parents with a baby or very small children to go around.

11. Shelter Gardens

1817 W Broadway Columbia, MO 65218 (573) 214-4595 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Shelter Gardens is a five-acre private estate owned by Shelter Insurance.

The award-winning park features 300 varieties of trees and shrubs as well as 15,000 annuals and perennials.

The garden is also a famous wedding destination and a favorite hangout for photographers.

Do gorgeous flowers, elegant trees, and lovely fish ponds excite you?

All of these and more can be found in Shelter Garden, all for the price of none.

Visiting Shelter Gardens is one of the most free kid-friendly things to do in Columbia.

If you’re visiting during the summer, don’t forget to catch the free family concerts held in the garden.

Shelter Gardens welcomes visitors of all ages to come and see their beautiful plants and flowers.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Columbia, MO

12. Finger Lakes State Park

1505 Peabody Rd Columbia, MO 65202 (573) 443-5315 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Finger Lakes State Park is a 1,128-acre public recreation area in Boone County near Columbia, MO.

It is one of Missouri’s state parks being used for off-road vehicles.

Are your kids adventurous?

If so, then they’ll love this park’s mountain bike trails, water trail, and ORV trail system.

Easily fun for teens, they’ll get to enjoy the adrenaline rush from treading up and down Kelly Branch trail’s wooded hills.

Browsing for fun things to do in Columbia with kids?

How about an exciting kayak or canoe ride on Peabody Lake?

Enjoy 4.3 miles of calm and quiet.

Listen to the sounds and enjoy the sight of nature as you paddle your way through Finger Lakes State Park’s waters.

A visit to Finger Lakes State Park is recommended for all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Candlewood Suites Columbia Hwy 63 & I-70, an IHG Hotel

13. America’s National Churchill Museum

501 Westminster Ave Fulton, MO 65251 (573) 592-5369 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The National Churchill Museum in Missouri is more than just a tribute to Sir Winston Churchill.

It’s a slice of history featuring the 17th-century London church, St. Mary Aldermanbury, designed by Christopher Wren.

Kids might find history boring, but not here at the National Churchill Museum.

It brings Churchill’s life to vivid reality with interactive exhibits, making it one of the most kid friendly things to do in Columbia and the nearby areas.

Imagine your child decoding secret messages or exploring wartime strategies.

Parents can appreciate the “Breakthrough” statue, crafted from pieces of the Berlin Wall.

Seasonal events and food concessions keep the visit fresh and engaging for everyone.

Check out the interactive exhibits that let kids step into Churchill’s shoes.

Don’t miss the “Breakthrough” statue outside.

It’s a great photo op and a lesson in democracy.

Keep an eye out for special events that make history come alive for young minds.

While the museum caters to all ages, it’s best suited for kids 8 and up who have a budding interest in history or politics.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Kingdom City, an IHG Hotel

14. Sky Zone Trampoline Park

1201 American Pkwy Columbia, MO 65202 (573) 309-9600 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

SkyZone is a trampoline park that’s a total blast for families.

With attractions ranging from a Ninja Warrior Course to a Toddler Zone, it’s designed to keep everyone entertained.

Kids can literally bounce off the walls here.

The Ninja Warrior Course tests agility, while the VR zone offers a digital escape.

Parents, you’re not left out.

Join in on ultimate dodgeball or take a breather while the kids explore.

Seasonal activities and food options add to the fun.

So, If you’re mapping out indoor kids activities, Columbia, Missouri offers you this adrenaline-pumping experience.

Let the kids loose in the Toddler Zone if they’re little, or challenge them to a game of ultimate dodgeball if they’re older.

Parents can join in or relax in the seating area.

SkyZone is fun for all ages, but the Toddler Zone is specifically designed for kids under 5.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express and Suites Columbia University Area, an IHG Hotel

15. Bonkers Columbia

3812 Buttonwood Dr Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 499-0366 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Bonkers is a play paradise on Buttonwood Drive featuring everything from a Wall Crawl to Mini Bowling.

Kids can climb, slide, and bowl while parents can join in or enjoy a meal.

The Play Maze is a labyrinth of fun, and the arcade offers a touch of nostalgia for adults.

Birthday packages make it a go-to for special occasions.

For those on the hunt for family-friendly things to do with kids, Columbia has this amusement center for kiddos to enjoy.

Explore the Play Maze together, or let the kids challenge you to a game of mini-bowling.

Don’t forget to check out the arcade.

Bonkers is perfect for kids aged 3 to 12, with a Toddler Town designed for the little ones.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Broadway Columbia – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

16. Tiger Bounce

3601 Buttonwood Dr Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 443-3695 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Tiger Bounce is an indoor play area for kids 13 and under situated on Buttonwood Drive.

Kids can jump, climb, and skate to their heart’s content, while you can join in or take advantage of parents’ night out.

It features inflatable bounce houses, a roller-skating floor, and even a parents’ night out.

Full concession options mean you can make a day of it.

This makes it one of the most fun things to do in Columbia for kids.

Let them explore the bounce houses or take them roller-skating.

Then, keep an eye on special events like youth nights.

Ideal for kids 13 and under, Tiger Bounce offers something for every age group.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbia

17. Level Up

2300 Bernadette Dr Suite 228 Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 615-0443 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Level Up is an entertainment hub offering a mix of classic and modern games.

If you are in Columbia and searching for “things to do with kids near me,” you’ll want to add this activity to your must-see list.

Kids can tackle the ropes course while parents try their hand at mini-golf.

The arcade is a hit with all ages, and the event space is perfect for parties.

From bowling and mini-golf to laser tag, it’s truly a family favorite.

Make sure it scores a spot on your list of must-try Columbia kids activities.

If you’re looking for a fun activity to do with your friends, consider challenging them to a game of laser tag. 

Running around and dodging laser beams is a great way to get some exercise and let off some steam. 

Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for something a little more relaxed, you could let your kids lead the way in a game of mini-golf.

Level Up is great for kids aged 5 and up, with activities that can be enjoyed by teens and adults alike.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Columbia

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

As I explored Columbia with my little ones, we embarked on a journey to discover the town’s hidden gems.

First on our list was Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, a nature lover’s paradise. 

We hiked the trails, and the air was filled with laughter as they spotted wildlife and played by the creeks. 

Next up was Stephens Lake Park, a delightful contrast to the wilderness of Rock Bridge. 

Here, my children reveled in the vibrant playgrounds and the sparkling lake. 

Finally, we visited The Candy Factory, a sweet treat haven. 

The kids’ eyes widened as they beheld the candy wonderland.

Comparing these attractions, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park offers a nature-centric adventure.

Stephens Lake Park caters to those seeking a balance between relaxation and play. 

The Candy Factory, on the other hand, satisfies the sweet cravings of all ages. 

Depending on your family’s interests, Columbia has something special for everyone.

How I Picked The Activities

In my experience, picking the right activities for a family trip is no small feat. 

As a resident of this state, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing these activities firsthand. 

I’ve spent countless hours researching and talking to other locals and travelers to ensure that these recommendations are not only fun but also enriching. 

My hands-on analysis has allowed me to understand what makes each activity unique and how it can create lasting memories for families.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these activities based on the following criteria: 

• Age Compatibility: I use this criterion to assess the ideal age range for each attraction. Is this activity suitable for toddlers, preschoolers, or young children? Will teenagers and tweens enjoy this attraction? I ask myself these questions whenever I assess age compatibility. 
• Educational Value: This is used to evaluate the educational benefits that the activity offers. Does the activity provide learning opportunities to children? Does it teach them lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating the activity’s educational value. 
• Fun Factor: This measures the level of excitement, engagement, and enjoyment that the activity offers. Is it engaging and enjoyable for kids? Will it create memorable and positive experiences for families? These questions are important whenever I rate the activity’s fun factor. 
• Accessibility: This measures how accessible the activity is for families. Is it wheelchair accessible? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have ample parking space? I consider these factors when evaluating the accessibility of every activity. 
• Affordability: This assesses the value of money provided by the activity. Are the admission fees reasonable? Does it offer deals or discounts for families? I use these questions to evaluate the affordability of every attraction. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular outdoor activities for kids in columbia.

Kids can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, picnicking at Cosmo Park, or playing at one of the city’s numerous playgrounds.

Are There Any Educational Attractions For Kids In Columbia?

Yes, the Columbia Public Library offers storytimes and educational programs, while the Museum of Art and Archaeology provides a cultural learning experience.

Are There Any Historical Sites In Columbia For Kids?

The Francis Quadrangle showcases local history and often hosts family-friendly exhibits and events, making it an educational and fun destination.

Fun Things to Do in Columbia with Kids: Reddit User Recommendations

Weekend activities for kids by u/hootywhowho in columbiamo

Conclusion 

After our explorations, it’s clear that Rock Bridge Memorial State Park is the prime pick for fun things to do in Columbia with kids. 

My little ones were transformed as we hiked through nature’s majesty, the caves and cliffs fueling their imagination. 

Although Stephens Lake and The Candy Factory brought merriment too, nothing compared to the peaceful connection we felt amidst nature at Rock Bridge. 

If you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure that’s educational and full of memory-making magic, I’d suggest starting your Columbia journey at this beautiful state park. 

You’ll bond as a family while surrounded by natural splendor.