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St. Louis Family Activities
The best St. Louis family activities and things to do with kids — free museums, the Zoo, City Museum, Magic House, Forest Park and more, picked by local parents.
St. Louis is one of the best cities in America for families — and most of the top attractions are free. From the world-famous St. Louis Zoo and the hands-on Science Center to the one-of-a-kind City Museum and the enchanting Magic House, there's no shortage of things to do with kids in the Gateway City. Explore Forest Park, catch a family-friendly festival, or discover hidden gem playgrounds and splash pads across STL neighborhoods. Our family activity guide covers free and affordable options so you can plan the perfect outing.
Always-free for families
Few American cities match St. Louis for free family fun: the Saint Louis Zoo, Saint Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum and Saint Louis Science Center all offer free general admission, every day. Add Forest Park’s playgrounds and trails, Citygarden’s splash-friendly sculptures downtown, and a calendar of free festivals most weekends, and a full family day can genuinely cost nothing.
Worth-the-ticket favorites
Some STL classics are worth planning (and paying) for: the City Museum’s tunnels and ten-story slides, the Magic House for hands-on play, the St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station, and Grant’s Farm — free admission with a small parking fee, including rides and the famous goat-feeding bus. Check hours before you go; a few of these run on seasonal or timed-entry schedules.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best free things to do with kids in St. Louis?
The Saint Louis Zoo and Saint Louis Science Center (both free, in Forest Park), the Art Museum and History Museum, Citygarden downtown, and free weekend festivals and markets across STL neighborhoods. Yell STL’s family guide rounds up free options every week.
Is the City Museum good for younger kids?
Yes — there are dedicated toddler areas alongside the famous tunnels and slides, so mixed-age families can stay together. Closed-toe shoes are a must and kneepads help for grown-ups crawling along.
What can families do on a rainy day in St. Louis?
The City Museum, Magic House, Saint Louis Science Center, St. Louis Aquarium, and any St. Louis Public or St. Louis County Library branch all make great indoor days — most are cheap or free, and the Science Center is free.